Various county agencies are working to provide immediate emergency relief services as St. Joseph County’s economic situation continues to decline due to the coronavirus pandemic. We are updating in real time funds/resources that individuals, families, nonprofits and businesses can apply for and take advantage of at this time. Because the situation of this pandemic is evolving daily, this list is by no means comprehensive. If you have the means to support neighbors financially, we encourage you to do so in the safest way possible; donating to any of these funds is a good start. Please contact us if you are aware of any resources not listed and we will update accordingly.
ST. JOSEPH COUNTY HUMAN RESOURCES COMMISSION
Call the St. Joseph County Human Resources Commission at 211 or check out their MI Pandemic Guide and St. Joseph County Resources Guide to be directed to various food, health, and housing help. More details will be available on our website soon regarding food site locations and housing assistance. Be aware that not all services in the emergency image provided are in operation; call to confirm.
ST. JOSEPH COUNTY UNITED WAY
United Way has put together a Pandemic Food Fund for families and individuals struggling with food access at this time, and will be available in three ways:
- By phone to United Way. If you yourself or your family are struggling with particular food needs/access, call Director Kelly Hostetler directly for assistance at 269-467-9099. Volunteer help is discouraged at this time.
- Through grants to any food assistance program in the county within or outside of United Way’s network.
- Through kids’ food packs bought by the Food Bank of SW Michigan.
OTHER FUNDS AVAILABLE
The Sturgis Area Community Foundation, Three Rivers Area Community Foundation, and the St. Joseph County United Way are working together to provide financial assistance to community members affected by shutdowns and layoffs. Details are below; for more information or if you wish to donate, go to the Three Rivers Area Community Foundation website.
- GT Independence and the Sturgis Area Community Foundation are partnering together, offering a $100,000 fund to the Sturgis community.
- United Way’s Hardship Grant Application is available for individuals and families residing in the county who are struggling.
- White Pigeon and Constantine Area Community Foundations are offering $25,000 in emergency grants to the St. Joseph County United Way, to provide similar aid to residents of White Pigeon and Constantine.
- Three Rivers Area Community Foundation will also open an emergency fund, committing $10,000 to provide aid to residents of Three Rivers. Local businesses and individuals who would like to help are encouraged to contribute.
Stay tuned on our website for specific updates on how community organizations are responding to this crisis.
Image credits: SJC Human Resources Commission and The Three Rivers Area Community Foundation.