The past 10 days has placed Baltimore in the national spotlight and has begun discussions on what actions are needed to address the issues raised by the demonstrations. While it is still early to know how to address the needs of our inner cities there are a couple of actions that are being spearheaded by the Central Maryland United Way which are directed at providing some immediate resources. Here are two ways to respond from information provided by the United Way.
"United Way of Central
Maryland’s fund, Maryland Unites, has raised more than $300,000 to date
through both corporate donations and more than 600 individuals via its mobile
and digital giving platforms. Partners CareFirst, Comcast, CVS, University of
Maryland Medical System and Johns Hopkins Medicine are among those generous United
Way donors committed to restoring the neighborhoods affected in last week’s
unrest. “The outpouring of concern and commitment to our city has been
overwhelming and we are so grateful for the support we have witnessed in such a
short period of time” said Mark Furst, president & chief executive officer,
United Way of Central Maryland. “Every day, we are on the ground working with
our partners to ensure everyone has access to a quality education, financial
stability and good health. We have made tremendous progress, but it is evident
that there is still much work to be done. And we can’t do it without the
support of our donors.”
United Way of Central
Maryland has established the emergency fund as a vehicle to get
resources quickly to
neighborhoods in need. Working closely with volunteer leaders from United Way’s
Baltimore City partnership board and influential community members, the
organization has convened a steering committee to assess both short- and
long-term needs in the communities and develop a formal process for nonprofits
and churches to apply for funds in an expedited manner. No fees are being taken
from the funds raised.
Due to the destruction
of local convenience stores as a result of last week’s unrest, United Way of
Central Maryland also has partnered with UPS in a campaign named Delivering
Hope, to
collect needed items from companies across central Maryland for delivery to
community centers and faith-based organizations throughout the city. Items
needed include non-perishable foods, baby formula, Ensure, toiletries, laundry
soap and cleaning supplies. A full list of items can be found here. Interested companies
can sign up to contribute by registering here. UPS has arranged for two pick up days to
collect and deliver items, including this Friday, May 8 and a second pick up on
Monday, May 18.
“United Way of Central Maryland was a logical partner for us as
we look to help the communities we serve
every day,” said Joy Howard, UPS Chesapeake District South Package Operations
Manager. “We know Baltimore’s neighborhoods inside and out, and are happy that we
are able to serve them in their time of need and always.”
“We recognize that the
issues that exist in our communities cannot be solely defined by what occurred
last week. United Way of Central Maryland is committed, now more than ever, to changing
the odds for families and communities,” said Furst. “We continue to press
forward with our work to improve community conditions together with our many
partners - ensuring that everyone has access to healthy food and healthcare, a
safe affordable home and a qualityeducation that leads to a good job and
self-sufficiency.”
Visit www.uwcm.org/MDUnites, or text keyword
MDUnites to 71777 to contribute to the United
Way of Central
Maryland’s Maryland Unites Fund.
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