Pixabay
Pixabay
The United Way of Story County has teamed up with a number of organizations to start a COVID-19 emergency fund for immigrants.
“We know from national stats that immigrants are disproportionately affected by this pandemic,” Anneke Mundel, community impact director for United Way of Story County, told Ames Tribune. “On top of that there are some immigrants who don’t have access to state benefits who have taken a financial hit due to this current pandemic.”
The COVID-19 Emergency Fund will provide immigrants, including those that are undocumented, with assistance for rent, utilities, gas and other necessities. Eligible individuals must be a Story County resident and have an immediate expense that is past-due, due now or due within the next week.
Among the partners that are working with United Way are Ames Interfaith Refugee Alliance, AMOS-Ames, Good Neighbor Emergency Assistance, St. Cecilia Catholic Church and St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church.
“It certainly isn’t the case that immigrants are the only people out of work and unable to pay bills, but with many immigrants involved in those sectors hardest hit — the hospitality industry, service business, for example — the immigrant community is definitely suffering,” AMOS volunteer Rick Exner said.
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