Princeton University announced on Wednesday it has established a relief fund so it can directly support organizations that are helping to limit the impact of COVID-19 on the economy and workforce.
Princeton’s first commitment will be for $1 million and will be distributed to partner companies to provide grants, service and other forms of support to local organizations, businesses and families with a focus on the Princeton area. This is in addition to a number of other ways the university has been assisting the community since the pandemic hit, such as direct support to organizations fighting food insecurity, donating Personal Protective Equipment, hosting blood drives, providing perishable foods to local food kitchens, and other creative ideas such as utilizing dorm room refrigerators.
“Many local families, service organizations and businesses are struggling as a result of the pandemic. Princeton has been actively engaged in early efforts to alleviate pressing needs, and we believe there will be an opportunity to continue to do so over the long term as the response continues,” President Christopher L. Eisgruber said. “The University is proud to be a member of the local community. At this critical time, we want to find ways to support those who serve our closest neighbors.”
Princeton said it established a committee to make recommendations to Provost Prentice on how to disperse the funds, which will be administered through the Office of Community and Regional Affairs. Recommendations for two initial disbursements include:
- $400,000 to the Princeton Area Community Foundation COVID Relief Fund;
- $100,000 to the Princeton Children’s Fund Coronavirus Emergency Relief Fund.
The remaining $500,000 will be distributed as more opportunities emerge.
