The Columbia Bank Foundation recently announced a special program to support non-profit organizations affected by COVID-19. With an original pledge of $300,000 the Foundation nearly doubled its support to $600,000 due to the overwhelming need. A special carve out of $200,000 was designated to local hospitals in order to support the outstanding efforts of front-line health care workers.
“Columbia Bank has been a long-time partner to many of these local organizations,” said Thomas J. Kemly, President and CEO of Columbia Bank. “With one of the largest private foundations in the state of New Jersey, we felt compelled to help those providing critical support to our communities. Funds will be distributed to organizations who are directly impacted by or are serving those with COVID 19.”
Grants will offer support to a variety of organizations and causes such as school supply and healthy snack kits for children, support for abuse victims and the purchase of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). A grant to RENEW Life Center will equip struggling single mothers with necessary supplies such as diapers, toiletries, cleaning supplies and laundry detergent. Grants to organizations like CUMAC, Community Food Bank of NJ and Eva’s Village will ensure plentiful food supplies to those in need.
In addition, hospitals across the state like Chilton Memorial Hospital Foundation, Hackensack Meridian Health, Holy Name Medical Center, Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, St. Joseph’s Health Care System, Virtua Voorhees Hospital and more will receive funds to assist with COVID-19 operations. In total, nearly 60 non-profit organizations and 15 hospitals will receive funding.
The Columbia Bank Foundation was created to serve the needs of local communities, and provide grants and contributions to organizations recognized as tax-exempt under Section 501 (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The Columbia Bank Foundation actively seeks to provide support in six major areas: affordable housing programs, community investment and economic development opportunities, financial literacy and educational opportunities, health and human services, food pantries, and the arts. Special consideration is always given to programs that provide a measurable community impact.
For more information regarding the Columbia Bank Foundation and grant eligibility requirements, please visit www.columbiabankonline.com/foundation.
