Here’s how you might help during the coronavirus outbreak

At Stanislaus Community Foundation we know that community and individual resiliency in a time of crisis can be actively supported by generous local donors. Now, more than ever, it’s time to give to local organizations.

Stanislaus Community Foundation has been closely monitoring the rapidly changing COVID-19 situation. We know that nonprofits in Modesto and throughout the county will be hit hard by both public health crises and a potential economic downturn. Based on our 2019 nonprofit survey report, 28% of local organizations have less than two months of cash on hand and 43% do not have reserves designated for emergencies.

We also recognize that the economic hardship will be even more harmful to at-risk clients of local nonprofits: those without health insurance, without paid sick leave, with limited English proficiency and limited healthcare, and gig economy workers, hospitality, restaurant and entertainment workers, as well as communities of color.

Last week, we surveyed local nonprofits to understand the impact of coronavirus on their operations and their client populations over the short and long term. We’ve captured the issues real-time to encourage donors now, more than ever, to donate to local nonprofits.

Here are some common themes:

• Loss of revenue — 50% of respondents canceled their major fundraising events scheduled for the spring. For others, their fee-for-service model will be disrupted if community activities come to a stop.
  
  
• Workforce and volunteer shortage — 90% anticipate dramatic reductions in staffing as employees or immediate family members get sick. Nonprofits that rely on volunteers are reporting an immediate decrease in volunteer supply.
  
  
• Access to technology — Organizations are testing their ability to work remotely but many do not have additional laptops for staff, and lack virtual meeting technology and training.
  
  
• Extended Paid Leave — 95% of respondents expressed concern for the financial well-being of their employees. Not all have paid leave benefits, and if they do, they might be limited, which will create a financial burden on their families.
  
  
• Unanticipated cost — Staff are working overtime to create contingency plans. Some organizations require additional sanitation, and safety and medical supplies.
  
  

• Program disruption — Organizations are prioritizing essential services, and some programs will be suspended because they can’t be offered remotely. Some organizations will have to halt services for youth until the crisis is over, including camps, after-school programs and mental health support.
  
  

• Specific client needs — Extended paid leave, childcare because of closed schools, food, medical supplies, cash assistance and gasoline cards.
  
  

Some needs for organizations that provide shelter services:

• Keeping the doors open because of the workforce shortage. Additional volunteers and on-call staffing will be necessary.
• Alternative space, to separate sick clients from healthy ones. The homeless population is particularly vulnerable and local shelters must take precautionary measures to minimize exposure.
• Supplies for hygiene and protective safety gear.

Providing flexible dollars is crucial to help organizations on the front lines keep their doors open. Please consider making a donation to a local nonprofit today.

Please donate directly to local organizations. If you’d like more information first, download our Charitable Giving Guide at stanislauscf.org or visit Guidestar.org for a geographic search.

It is natural for us to feel deep concern for ourselves, our families and neighbors during this confusing time. But we cannot let fear prevent us from taking action to help Stanislaus County and those in our community who lack a reliable and consistent safety net.