A new sense of purpose
For many donors, the COVID-19 crisis has added new clarity to their charitable giving.
“My wife Carolyn and I have always focused on being very efficient with donations, but with today’s urgent need we’ve relaxed our process,” said donor Andrew Chatham. “To help organizations working to mitigate the economic consequences, we immediately gave to the local food pantry, along with Tipping Point Community and GiveDirectly, both of which focus on supporting those in poverty.”
But Andrew and Carolyn also wanted to support medical efforts. They were thrilled to learn about Assist International’s Step Up in Crisis program and its mission to deliver medical supplies and equipment to hard-hit areas in the U.S. They recommended a grant to help the organization acquire personal protective equipment (PPE) for front-line hospital workers—without driving up prices.
Corporate donors have also leapt in to help. NRG Energy has already surpassed its goal to grant $2 million through its DAF to front-line relief efforts. The Princeton, N.J.-based company has recommended grants to 55 unique organizations, with a focus on supporting first responders, educators, and small businesses. They’ve also distributed $450,000 to a fund at the Emergency Assistance Foundation to help support any of their own employees affected by the crisis.
“Our front-line efforts are aimed at providing support at the local level in the places we work, so that our grants can have the greatest community impact,” the organization reported.
