The Illinois Prairie Community Foundation partnered with a fund-holder within the organization, coupled with funding from the State of Illinois, to provide support for local non-profits during the coronavirus outbreak.

According to Grants and Communications Manager with IPCF, Michele Evans, they sought out non-profits in their four-county area to provide relief during a time when they could not fundraise. 

Groups from Community Action to The DeWitt County Friendship Center and Big Brothers Big Sisters were among those that were able to secure grants through the Illinois Prairie Community Foundation.

In total, over $530,000 was donated to groups in DeWitt, Logan, McLean, and Livingston Counties. Evans indicates the need is great as they received over 60 applications from groups and organizations. She explains groups needed funding for personal protective equipment while others needed help filling the gaps left from losses in revenue because fundraising events had to be canceled.