When Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson needed a trusted partner to administer the state’s recently launched Covid-19 Relief Fund, he knew exactly where to turn -- the Arkansas Community Foundation.

The choice of the statewide community foundation as Arkansas’ philanthropic partner marks the latest in a growing trend among government agencies that are looking for knowledgable partners for managing relief funds and ensuring the money collected is going to vetted nonprofits.

Several other states -- including Massachusetts -- are also setting up similar partnerships with community foundations.

Arkansas’ fund addresses both short-term and long-term recovery efforts in the state, with a focus on community needs such as food, health, housing and education. Since its establishment on March 18, it has already raised $2 million from local entities and has awarded 175 grants to local nonprofits focused on COVID-19 relief efforts to disproportionately affected communities. 

“This is why we exist -- to help Arkansas communities,” said Heather Larkin, President and CEO of the Arkansas Community Foundation. “This fund is an efficient way to bring together donors with Arkansas nonprofits. We know that even during difficult times, Arkansans are still generous.”

Learn more about the Arkansas Community Foundation COVID-19 Relief Fund here.