Very Basics Fund seeks donations, volunteers, mask-makers to help with crisis
The United Way of Tri-Valley area is coordinated a number of initiatives to help residents of Frankliin County, Livermore and Livemore falls during the COVID-19 crisis.
The organization is seeking donations to The Very Basics Fund. Donations will help area front-line nonprofits provide basic needs such as fuel, food, and shelter to those significantly affected by COVID-19. Donations may be made at uwtva.org/give or United Way, PO Box 126, Farmington, ME 04938. To donate by text, text United to 207-828-6622.
Nonprofits, including food pantries, schools, health care institutions, and municipalities are encouraged to apply to The Very Basics Fund at www.uwtva.org/what-we-do/funding/very-basics-fund. Every effort is being made to get money back into the community to help those affected sooner rather than later.
For those looking for additional ways to help, United Way of the Tri-Valley Area has a critical volunteer opportunity. It allows for continued social distancing and provides a much-needed resource in the community. Staff are coordinating the distribution of hand-made masks for use in the community. Those who have are symptom-free, have the material, the skills and the time, may make some. The tighter the weave on the fabric the better. There is a tote outside the UWTVA office at 218 Fairbanks Raod to drop off masks.
These masks are not a substitute for the N-95 respirators recommended by the CDC, but may reduce the risk of airborne droplet spread in the absence of approved Personal Protective Equipment, which is in short supply.
Email director@uwtva.org or call the office at 207-778-5048 with questions.
