Lenawee sees second phase of United Way COVID-19 relief

News release from United Way of Monroe/Lenawee Counties

The United Way of Monroe/Lenawee Counties recently delivered a second phase of COVID-19 emergency relief aid to area emergency food organizations.  Through corporation donations from Meijer and Consumers Energy, another $19,000 was distributed to local food pantries providing emergency relief and assistance to Lenawee County residents with food insecurities related to COVID-19.  Recipient organizations include 19 countywide food pantries.

The United Way previously distributed $34,000 to area agencies for rent/mortgage, utilities, food and shelter assistance for pandemic related needs.  In addition, over 1,000 bulk distribution items have been distributed to three area shelters since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.  Weekly distributions of paper products (toilet paper, paper towels, Kleenex) have taken place.  Additional cleaning products, hand sanitizer, bleach and dish soap have also been delivered to Catherine Cobb Safe House, Neighbors of Hope and Share the Warmth. 

“We’re happy to support our local agency partners to meet the COVID-19 related needs in Lenawee County.  In coordination with all community partners, we continue to monitor the short-term and long-term pandemic related needs.” reported Connie Carroll, executive director of the United Way of Monroe/Lenawee Counties.

The United Way of Monroe/Lenawee Counties is accepting financial donations towards a local COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund to assist those in need due to the COVID-19 crisis.  Any donated funds will be used to assist with rent/mortgage payments and other COVID-19 related needs in Lenawee County. Please note that any funds collected and designated for the COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund will be funneled to one of our local partner agencies to distribute based on their established guidelines. The United Way of Monroe/Lenawee Counties will not be distributing funds directly to individuals.

The United Way also funds the local Central Michigan 2-1-1 Center based in Jackson. Needed especially now, the 2-1-1 system and their 24-hour service is available for referral sourcing for individuals and families with needs during this national emergency. Lenawee County residents can call 2-1-1 (or 866-561-2500) for updated COVID-19 referral information from certified information specialists.  The 2-1-1 system is also fully integrated into the statewide Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) MI-Bridges online portal system. 

Annually the United Way funds 12 local Lenawee County agency programs and serves as a donor designation vehicle for 30+ additional agencies.  They also sponsor countywide 2-1-1 services, and coordinate Project Ramp, 2 annual Health Check events, the Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP), and Day of Action programs and services.  All funds raised in Lenawee County stay in Lenawee County.  For details, call 517-264-6821, email lpipis@unitedwaymlc.org, visit at 136 E. Maumee St., Suite 15, Adrian, Michigan, 49221 or see the website at www.unitedwayMLC.org.