Concerned about the unprecedented job loss and growing poverty, United Way of the Columbia-Willamette, in alliance with Oregon Food Bank and Community Action Programs spearheaded the new Community Relief Fund.
United Way distributed $1.1 million to programs that helped individuals and families cover rent, food and utilities. The Community Spirit Award recognizes the partnership between the organizations as well as the wider impact United Way’s intervention has had on the lives of people struggling in the recession.
Through the Community Relief Fund nearly 700 households avoided eviction, almost 300 families were able to keep their lights on and over 36,000 individuals received food assistance.
