The COVID-19 Community Response Fund is just one of a number of resources that civic and philanthropic organizations are creating to support the needs of individuals, nonprofits and other organizations in Billings and the Greater Yellowstone Valley Region of Montana.
Please review the answers below here to better understand the Fund’s purpose and expected grantmaking scope.
My organization is interested in resources from this Fund. How can we be considered?
The Billings Community Foundation and the United Way of Yellowstone County announced the process for requesting funding from the Fund on Wednesday, April 1st. However, it should be noted that this fund is designed to make grants only to 501(c)3 non-profit organizations, and groups fiscally sponsored by a 501(c)3 organizations.
I am an individual affected by a current emergency situation. Can I apply for assistance from this Fund?
The Fund partners understand the current emergency situation is having and will continue to have a significant impact on individuals and families in Billings and the Greater Yellowstone Valley Region of Montana. On behalf of the Fund partners, the Billings Community Foundation and the United Way of Yellowstone County will work to move resources as quickly as possible to community-based organizations that are directly supporting vulnerable populations that are affected.
We cannot offer direct funds to individuals at this time.
May I target my donation to a specific organization?
To ensure that we can coordinate and share resources as quickly as possible, donors may not restrict their grants to an individual grantee. If you have a specific organization you would like to support, we encourage you to give directly to that organization.
Should I give to this Fund instead of making other donations?
No. This Fund is not intended to be the only vehicle to give funds to nonprofits working at the frontlines of the current emergency. You are encouraged to give directly to organizations you may have supported in the past or nonprofits you know are addressing needs in your community. This fund is another vehicle through which those needs will be addressed.
Is there a geographic focus for this fund?
The Fund will prioritize funding for organizations in Yellowstone County and the surrounding counties in the Billings Community Foundation’s designated service region.
When will you announce funding decisions?
Grants from this Fund will be made on a rolling basis, beginning on Friday, April 10th. We will publish the names of grantees and more information on a regular basis.
Why is there a $25 minimum on credit card donations?
Our resources for processing smaller donations are limited, so we require a $25 minimum on credit card donations. To give smaller amounts, you may donate by check or we encourage you to directly donate to community nonprofits of your choice.