During these difficult times, you have the power to make a difference.

As we move into social distancing and self-quarantine, it’s natural to feel isolated. Staying away from other people, though necessary, doesn’t fulfill our need to take action, to do something in the face of this crisis.

Fortunately, even in isolation, you can help the most vulnerable among us. Because we are never truly alone in our human community.

DONATE TO THE GREATER PORTLAND COVID-19 COMMUNITY RELIEF FUND

Your gift will support our most vulnerable neighbors. This includes those currently or those at risk of becoming homeless and those who could suffer devastating financial and health impacts due to the coronavirus. Reductions in work schedules, school closures, and challenges accessing health care disproportionately affect low-income individuals and families.

Donations to the Greater Portland COVID-19 Community Relief Fund help ensure people receive the support they need without falling into homelessness or financial crisis.

Thanks to the underwriting support of the following lead supporters, 100% of donations will go directly into the community.

Thanks to other leading funders: Bangor Savings Bank; Central Maine Power; Community Health Options Fund; Gorham Savings Bank; Horizon Foundation; KeyBank; Phineas W. Sprague Memorial Foundation; People's United Community Foundation; Poland Spring, part of the Nestle Wanters Family; Sun Life, Disability RMS, and FullscopeRMS; Unitil; Verrill; and WEX.

Frequently Asked Questions: Greater Portland COVID-19 Community Relief Fund

Checks can be sent to: 

United Way of Greater Portland 
Greater Portland COVID-19 Community Relief Fund
One Canal Plaza, Suite 300
Portland, ME 04101 

Here are three additional ways that you can support the Greater Portland community in the fallout of COVID-19:

1. Direct people to 211. 211 Maine is working on the front lines of the pandemic. Expert 211 specialists provide real-time information on social services and other resources to those in need. If you know someone who is struggling, or just looking for a source of reliable information, tell them to dial 211 (or 1-866-811-5695), text their zip code to 898-211, or email info@211maine.org. They can also find information by visiting www.maine.gov/dhhs/coronavirus.
2. Call your friends and family. Loneliness has a longterm negative impact. Even during isolation, modern technology allows us to stay connected. Checking in on friends and family is more than polite right now, it’s essential. And don’t forget elderly neighbors or others living alone. Also, see Tips for Parents and Caregivers: Interacting with Children about COVID-19.
3. Take care of your mental health. If you’re stuck at home, keep busy with hobbies, try out arts and crafts, pick up an old musical instrument, organize family game nights, and step outside for fresh air and exercise. You can’t take care of others unless you take care of yourself. COVID-19 Resources and Social Distancing Support.

Even in these uncertain times, no one is powerless to make a difference. Small acts, taken together across the country, can change the course of the pandemic, bolster those facing economic challenges, and protect the most vulnerable.