DENVER – A statewide relief fund for those in need because of the coronavirus pandemic has been taken offline after raising nearly $23 million since March.
The Colorado COVID Relief Fund website indicates contributions aren’t currently being accepted, and a statement on the site says “over 12,000 generous Coloradans have stepped up to support our neighbors at times of greatest need.” The website provides an email address for those who want to continue contributing to relief efforts.
Elizabeth Kosar, a spokeswoman for Gov. Jared Polis, wrote in an email to The Denver Post that a seventh round of grants was recently distributed.
“Conversations are underway with the philanthropic community and the Legislature about the best way to sustain support for Coloradans for the recovery phase of the pandemic in a more permanent infrastructure, so this will likely be our last round,” she said.
The fund was started in March with $2.8 million. At the time, the governor said the money would be spent on medical supplies, volunteer services, nursing home and homeless shelter staffing, cleaning supplies and helping struggling workers, families and small businesses to help “weather the storm” of coronavirus.
Colorado lawmakers approved 10 bills and more than $300 million in spending for COVID-19 relief during a special session in December.