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From food and medical access to housing and utility assistance, nonprofits throughout the state are stepping up to help meet the needs of North Carolinians amidst the COVID-19 crisis.

Supporting those nonprofits locally, Beaufort County United Way has established a special fund specifically to help Beaufort County 501(c)3 organizations offer much-needed help for area residents.

“No money has come through yet, but I have been notified that we have some on the way,” said Beaufort County United Way Executive Director Sally Love. “United Way worldwide also has a fund, and some money has been given there for us.”

When visiting the Beaufort County United Way website at unitedwaybc.net, a popup message explains the organization’s efforts to provide grants to local nonprofits. Clicking on a link entitled “UWHELPSNC COVID-19” redirects users to the United Way of North Carolina website, where donors can make contributions directly to the local organization. Be sure to select “Beaufort County UW” from the dropdown menu on that page, and 100% of your local donation will go to support Beaufort County residents in need.

“That money is going to go to the local nonprofits that apply for it, and will cover food, shelter, rent and utility assistance and medical access,” Love said. “We’ve only had one (nonprofit apply so far).”

Nonprofits can download an application for grant funding through the popup message on the Beaufort County United Way website, or via a link on the online version of this article.

In the wake of previous disasters, such as Hurricane Florence, the county has worked with nonprofits to establish a countywide hotline for resident needs. While no hotline has been established at the county level for COVID-19, NC 211 is connecting North Carolinians with the services they need.

The NC 211 service is an additional service provided by United Way of North Carolina to facilitate access to important information about resources and help available for state residents.

Anyone in need can call 211 to speak with a representative who can connect them with local resources to assist with rent payments, utilities and food. The service is available at all hours, and additional information is available at 211.org. North Carolinians can also text COVIDNC to 898211 to receive updates on COVID-19.