Harvest Evangelical Church of San Diego

Harvest Evangelical Church of San Diego informed members on how to create an impact on the world despite the pandemic.

According to the church announcement, congregations could donate blood, give out letters, or call elderly people who are alone. Also, they could contribute to local food banks, volunteer organizations, or foster care groups.

With this, they asked those interested in checking out some resources and volunteering work on the San Diego Community Resources, especially during this pandemic.

Financial Assitance

On the said resources, they noted that one of the organizations that gave financial help during this crisis was the United Way. They are giving emergency assistance to low-wage workers affected by layoffs related to the pandemic.

The United Way website revealed that they launched the San Diego Worker Assistance Initiative (in March 2020. This program is a part of the more excellent San Diego COVID-19 Community Response Fund. They give adjustable resources to people affected by layoffs and lessen working time implemented by employers.

The website added that the organization’s goal is to complement the work of public health officials. They do this to avoid the need to enter the social service system of care to prevent homelessness.

For Low-wage Workers

Within two weeks of initiating the project, the website revealed that over 8,400 applications were submitted to United Way of San Diego (UWSD). They received a request for $12 million worth of help.

The website also noted that the said initiative is for low-wage workers who need assistance for a limited but indefinite period. The money would go to their utilities and rent or mortgage payments.

As the pandemic continues and the community's needs vary, UWSD had to recreate the recipients of the grants, as added on the website. They stated that they learned that residents of San Diego who did not acquire financial aid would need the most help. They realized this when the CARES Act passed with guidance from the leading supporter.

Working with Other Organizations

With this, UWSD has worked with regional organizations. So they could distribute relief quickly to people and families suffering economic hardship because of COVID-19. These groups have a background of being trusted community leaders.

Also, they serve many people who do not file IRS 1040s and are not part of CARES Act funding. The website also highlighted that these organizations could quickly deliver aid to the most in need.

The website reported that the said organization had delivered $667,830 from its San Diego Worker Assistance Initiative to seven local community organizations all over the region.

The website noted that they had chosen seven groups for this grant. Those groups have extensive initiatives amidst COVID-19 and geographic reach. Some of the selected organizations are MAAC, North County Lifeline, Partnership for the Advancement of New Americans (PANA), and the San Diego Community College District. Also, they included San Diego LGBT Community Center, South Bay Community Services, and United Domestic Workers as part of the grant.

Meanwhile, UWSD is thankful for the help of The San Diego Foundation. They thank SDG&E also for being their lead investors in the said initiative, the website posted.