The demand for support through the Cambridge COVID-19 Emergency Fund has exceeded our available funds. We are no longer accepting new applications to individuals and families.

For those looking for financial assistance:

If you would like to support the continued work of the Cambridge COVID-19 Emergency Fund, please donate here. 

The Fund’s impact by the numbers:

$0
awarded to individuals, families, and nonprofits
0
individuals and families assisted by grants
0
nonprofits supported by grants

Photo by Kyle Klein Photography

Background

In March 2020, the Foundation seeded $50,000 into the Cambridge COVID-19 Emergency Fund and since then hundreds of people, organizations, and local businesses have contributed to the fund with gifts ranging from $100,000 to $20.  

While the generosity of our community has been overwhelming, the need for support among the most vulnerable has been tremendous. We received 100 to 150 applications weekly and we reached a point where applications outweighed available funds. 

Thanks to the power of collective giving in our community, we awarded grants to more than 1,200 Cambridge residents, workers, and small businesses experiencing financial crisis. We supported hundreds more people in partnership with 27 nonprofits. The fund provided one-time direct cash grants ranging from $200 to $1,000 for individuals and families and grants of $2,500 to $10,000 to nonprofits who were able to make cash transfers to their constituents.  

We welcome those still interested in supporting their neighbors to donate here. While our first phase of funding individuals’ emergency applications is now closed, the Fund is still accepting contributions to help us fund a second phase of recovery work, supporting relief efforts led by nonprofit partners.

We’re so thankful for the generosity of our donors, who have underscored that Cambridge is a community that comes together and supports one another.    

Frequently Asked Questions

Hover over boxes to view answers.

Q:

How can residents, families, and workers affected by COVID-19 access these funds?

A:

You do not have to be a 501C3 organization to apply. Individual and families can apply to the fund based on their needs.

Q:

My organization would like to apply for funding. Are there any criteria we should be aware of?

A:

Please see criteria above.

Q:

When will funds become available?

A:

We are looking to deploy this money immediately to offer relief to those in desperate need. Grants will be provided on a rolling basis, with the first allocations expected to be made as soon as possible. 

Q:

How much money is available?

A:

We’re giving grants of up to $1,000 based on individuals’ and organizations’ needs. There are also a limited amount of grants available for nonprofit organizations with 501c3 status that work directly with low-income families in Cambridge. Our goal is to help as many as we can who are hurting in these uncertain times. 

Q:

What is the selection process?

A:

Consistent with the Cambridge Community Foundation’s community grant review process, we will invite community reviewers to help Foundation staff review the applications and make recommendations. Each application will be reviewed by one external reviewer and one Foundation staff person. As the fiduciary agent responsible for the use of these funds, the Cambridge Community Foundation will have the final decision on all grants. 

Q:

How does this fund differ from the Mayor’s Emergency Relief Fund?

A:

The City of Cambridge and the Cambridge Community Foundation have a long-standing tradition of working together.  These funds are complementary, allowing us to deepen our reach and enabling many more people to be part of collective giving with the aim of supporting as many people as we can who need help. We can support people who make their livelihood Cambridge who may not necessarily live here. We can also support nonprofits and faith-based organizations that have deep reach into the community.