How to Help During the COVID-19 Pandemic

April 02, 2020

In the time when they are needed most, New York nonprofits are facing grave uncertainty from the impact of COVID-19. Many of our Columbia Community Service (CCS) Grantees are on the front lines of providing aid to the most vulnerable in Morningside Heights and Harlem. The revenue streams from fundraising events, classes, and ticket sales have dried up while the demand for services escalates. Here are two ways to make a difference:

Donate

You can assist immediately by visiting the CCS website and donating a gift to the Columbia Community Service 73rd Annual Appeal. Your donation ensures crucial support for grants to help our group of community partners continue their critical work.

Because of the legislative and mandated precautions related to COVID-19, many of our grantees that interact directly with the community, such as the Harlem School of the Arts and The Harlem Chamber Players are forced to cancel spring programs. CCS grantees that provide enrichment and wellness programs to children and the elderly will need assistance with their attempts to do so on various virtual platforms.

Volunteer

The CCS grantees that provide food services are experiencing an unusually high demand. Organizations such the NY Common Pantry,Broadway CommunityCathedral Community Cares, and West Side Campaign Against Hunger are serving thousands of the neediest of our neighbors every day. These organizations are already expecting a serious short-fall in resources to meet growing need over the next several months. If you are in a position to lend a hand by volunteering, please contact the organizations listed above directly as their needs change frequently.

The CCS staff is available to answer your questions: Joan Griffith-Lee- [email protected](646) 256-7772 or Christa Hill - [email protected] (413) 221-7695.

Thank you for your support.