More than $150,000 donated during “Unite Quad Cities for COVID-19 Recovery”
Quad Citizens raised more than $150,000 during the “Unite Quad Cities for COVID-19 Recovery” giving event spearheaded by KWQC TV6, The Quad-City Times, United Way of the Quad Cities, and the Quad Cities Community Foundation.
All contributions supported the Quad Cities Disaster Recovery Fund at the Quad Cities Community Foundation.
The first $150,000 donated was matched dollar-for-dollar thanks to a challenge from First Midwest Bank, Sears Seating, Modern Woodmen of America, MidAmerican Energy, and Mike and Monique Gorsline.
The giving day event brought the total donated or pledged by individuals, families, businesses and nonprofit funders to nearly $1 million. This includes lead gifts from the United Way of the Quad Cities, Quad Cities Community Foundation, and Regional Development Authority.
“This was an absolutely incredible, inspiring day for generosity in the Quad Cities,” said Sherry Ristau, president and CEO of the Quad Cities Community Foundation. “Quad Citizens take care of other Quad Citizens, and yesterday proved that yet again. There is tremendous need right now in our region as we support organizations providing critical services to vulnerable people during this pandemic. The money raised yesterday will move swiftly back into the community to provide hope during these tough times.”
Donations will continue to be accepted online at the Community Foundation by clicking here. United Way of the Quad Cities is continuing to offer the text to give option through Friday at midnight by texting “UNITEQC” (use all caps) to 41444.
Since the fund was activated, organizations and schools have requested more than $2.5 million in grants. The Community Foundation granted an initial $350,402 to organizations providing critical support to children, youth, seniors, healthcare services, emergency housing and other needs of the most vulnerable and affected by this COVID-19 pandemic in early April. A second round of grants was announced mid-April.