Disaster Relief Fund continues to address needs

     The Jones County Community Foundation (JCCF) is leading efforts to unite the county in these uncertain times.

     “Working together to find solutions that help the most vulnerable people in our community is top of mind,” said Community Foundation Board Chair Doug Edel. “In the wake of a global pandemic, low-income families and seniors on fixed incomes are experiencing struggles like food insecurity and housing, childcare, and transportation costs. When we unite, we have tremendous strength to respond to these needs.”

     Generous donors have contributed nearly $20,000 to the Community Foundation’s Jones County Disaster Relief Fund. Two grants from the fund have been made to organizations providing essential services to Jones County residents:

     The Olin Food Pantry received a grant to create a “pop-up” pantry outside of regularly scheduled pantry hours. The grant covered staples like meat, milk, eggs, butter, bread, vegetables, toothbrushes, and toilet paper for over 50 families.

     “This grant was matched by the Ministerial Association, showing that when we work together we can help those who need it most,” said Edel.

     Little Lions Daycare in Olin, which also received a grant, is working hard to continue providing childcare for parents in this small community. The center is serving far fewer children due to COVID-19, and is making every effort to avoid shutdown because of lost revenue. The grant helps the daycare to pay necessary bills.

     “The grant from the JCCF is greatly appreciated by all families attending the Little Lions Learning Center,” said one parent. “Our hearts are comforted knowing the staff who watch over our loved ones will be taken care of and their jobs are safe.”

     As our community and its most vulnerable populations face the effects of COVID-19, the Jones County Disaster Relief Fund provides an opportunity for the public to give with the reassurance their donations will be used to quickly deploy resources where they are most urgently needed, particularly toward needs not being met by existing non-profits, local, state, and federal programs.

     “We believe that we are just starting to see the tip of the iceberg as it is related to community needs,” said Sherri Hunt, JCCF coordinator. “We recognize that needs are not going away any time soon and we still anticipate large needs to surface over the summer months and into the fall. Families in need and non-profits serving them need our support.”

     The Foundation board is working with a grant committee of:

     • Board Chair Doug Edel, Fidelity Bank & Trust

     • Jenna Lovaas, Jones County Public Health

     • Rachel VonBehren, Jones Regional Medical Center

     • Patty Manuel, Maquoketa Valley Electric Coop

     • Rev. Wade Reddy, Wayne Zion Lutheran Church

     • Sherri Hunt, JCCF Coordinator

     This group reviews grant applications and makes awards that first address the economic and health impacts of COVID-19 on vulnerable populations.

     To give online to the fund, visit dbqfoundation.org/jonesrelief.

     In addition, checks can be made out to Jones County Disaster Relief Fund and dropped off at any of the banks or credit unions in Jones County, or mailed to the Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque, 700 Locust St., Dubuque, IA 52001 on behalf of the JCCF.

     Questions can be directed to Sherri Hunt, JCCF coordinator, at jccf@dbqfoundation.org or by calling 319-557-3402.