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PACF issues another round of grants for pandemic aid

WEST UNION — The third round of COVID-19 funding from the Parkersburg Area Community Foundation and Regional Affiliates was announced Wednesday and will largely benefit food pantries and offer financial assistance during the pandemic.

The amount for the third round is $38,150 with a total of $115,026 for the initiative to date, according to a press release from PACF.

Nine different organizations received grants with a majority of the funds designated for food pantries and to provide some financial assistance to those struggling to make rent or mortgage payments.

“As the pandemic continues and unemployment increases, we continue to work to help area agencies that are providing critical direct relief services to those impacted by COVID-19,” said Marian Clowes, PACF’s associate director for community leadership. “Support for our Hunger and Safety Net Funds has enabled the PACF to respond quickly to provide assistance to these agencies, who are on the front line every day helping members of our communities.”

The Doddridge County Community Resources Inc. received $1,000 for their food bank and is utilizing those funds to help community members and a local business.

Kathy Herndon, community service specialist, placed an order with the local IGA for popular kid’s food items. Those items will be delivered to the food pantry.

“For a local grocery store to deliver food to a food pantry is quite amazing,” Herndon said.

Several opportunities for food are available in Doddridge County. They just served around 200 families in partnership with the Mountaineer Food Bank.

Herndon said the need is there but they expect that need to increase in June because families won’t be getting as many food stamp benefits since their income may be increased due to the extra unemployment income coming in.

“They won’t get as much food stamps which will increase their need for food,” Herndon said.

Although they have extra income, some may have large outstanding utility bills. Herndon said providing so many opportunities for food will keep families from having to choose between paying for food or a utility bill.

Community Resources Inc. overall received $16,300 to “support the collaborative Individual Emergency Aid Program to provide rent and mortgage assistance to individuals impacted by COVID-19,” the release said.

Along with providing the extra assistance, the income guidelines to receive services from Community Resources increased, which will allow families to make up to $500 more per month and qualify for services.

PACF is encouraging organizations to assess their needs regarding COVID-19 so they can find ways to meet those needs.

Agencies seeking assistance can call 304- 428-4438 or email Marian Clowes at marina.clowes@pacfwv.com.

Other recipients include:

* Norman Historial Community Center: $1,000

* Community Resources Inc, Roane County: $1,000

* Wirt County Ministerial Alliance: $2,000

* Consumer Credit Counseling Services: $1,000

* Mid-Ohio Valley Fellowship Home: $10,000

* Parkersburg YMCA: $4,250

* Ritchie County Family Resource Network: $600

* The Gathering: $1,000

Candice Black can be reached at cblack@newsandsentinel.com.

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