The Community Foundation has announced $1,197 in grants to 68 area nonprofits impacted by COVID-19. In October, the Foundation opened Phase Three of its COVID Response and Relief grant cycle. The grants, which were awarded this week, were made in two categories: $654,000 to 35 organizations for programs and services to meet critical needs related to the COVID-19 crisis and $543,000 to 33 organizations for operation support to help nonprofits bridge the impacts of the crisis.

“The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the already thin safety net in the Greater Birmingham region and across the country, straining our nonprofit organizations and disproportionately affecting communities of color. Through these grants, we will be able to work together   to help some of the most vulnerable areas of our community,” said Gus Heard-Hughes, Vice President of Programs at the Community Foundation. “It has been   a struggle for nearly all nonprofits in one way or another but they, along with our donors, have stepped up to meet the needs of our community.”

Foundation’s survey results and other data emphasized critical needs for communities disproportionately impacted by the pandemic.  In response, the Foundation implemented a strategy to focus on smaller organizations and organizations led by people of color, which provide essential services but have faced challenges in securing funding. The Foundation has awarded 218 grants to area nonprofits totaling more than $4.5 million, focusing on COVID relief, response and recovery.

Click here to see a complete list of Phase 3 Grants