Community Foundation of Elko County Grant Awards Totaled $24,000

The Community Foundation of Elko County (CFEC) has distributed its largest-ever round of grants, focusing on organizations providing COVID-19 relief and recovery services across the county. This year's $24,000 distribution marks dramatic growth from the Community Foundation's first $1,000 grant cycle four years ago. "The growing annual grants are made possible by generous contributors to the CFEC, in particular, an anonymous donor and the CFEC Builders' Club, a group of businesses and families who have contributed to the endowment fund," said Teri Gage, Chair of the CFEC Advisory Committee. Though the CFEC will not hold its annual public grant ceremony, the Board is no less proud and excited to be aiding such worthy nonprofits in our area.

The Boys and Girls Club of Elko received $5,000 to boost its technology capacity for distance learning programs. "COVID-19 has dramatically increased equipment costs necessary to operate during this pandemic," said CEO Rusty Bahr. The Committee Against Domestic Violence was awarded $4,000 to support victim advocacy and upgrade appliances at Harbor House shelter, where clients typically stay for 30 days. "It is important that we provide a full kitchen and laundry to our clients in the shelter so they can begin rebuilding their lives," said Executive Director Marianne McKown.

Communities in Schools will use its $2,000 grant for art supplies and COVID safety kits, while Nevada Health Centers received $4,000 to help low-income families access prescribed medications at no cost. "More Elko County patients are facing hardship due to job loss or loss of insurance coverage," noted Development Officer Leslie Maple.

Northeastern Nevada Special Advocates for the Elderly (SAFE) was awarded $4,000 to train court advocates for guardianship cases, particularly crucial during pandemic restrictions. The Northeastern Nevada Regional Hospital Auxiliary Volunteers received $3,000 to provide reusable masks for hospital visitors, and the Wells Family Resource Center was granted $3,000 to support online storytimes and curbside book pickup through their Building Blocks Through Literacy program.

The Community Foundation of Elko County serves as a permanent charitable resource for local communities through its endowment fund. To learn more about the Foundation's activities or the Builders' Club, visit nevadafund.org/cfelkocounty.