Manatee Community Foundation Awards $70,000 in Grants from the Manatee County COVID19 Community Response Fund

November 30, 2020 – Manatee

In the month of November, Manatee Community Foundation awarded $70,000 in grants to support nonprofit organizations serving Manatee County residents as they continue adapting and serving clients during COVID19. Funds included:

• $15,000 to Easterseals Southwest Florida to provide transportation for students with disabilities to access services at the VIP Academy 
  
• $23,500 to St. Joseph’s Food Pantry to purchase an additional freezer for increased food distribution necessitated by the pandemic
  
• $25,000 to Gulf Coast Legal Services for financial legal services to Manatee County residents who are facing COVID19 related financial setbacks that may lead them to experiencing homelessness or other significant issues 
  
• $6,500 to Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida for health and safety adaptations to ensure that children can continue to access programs at Camp Honi Honta 

“As we move through the pandemic, the impacts of COVID19 to health and human service organizations and the people they serve are continuing to evolve,” said Susie Bowie, executive director of Manatee Community Foundation.

“These investments allow nonprofit organizations to continue making the lives of vulnerable people better—whether participating in enriching programming, accessing nutritious food, or receiving important legal services. Thanks to the generosity of donors, these dedicated organizations can receive the support they need for their emerging needs.”

The total awarded from the Manatee County COVID19 Community Response Fund is $689,840. Additionally, $173,185 in grants have been awarded from the Bradenton COVID19 Response Fund, supported by Manatee Community Foundation’s Knight Donor Advised Fund. 

Nonprofit organizations serving Manatee County that wish to apply for a grant and those who wish to make a tax-deductible gift to the fund may visit ManateeCF.org or call (941) 747-7765.