UW Health quickly responded to the needs of the community through financial support as the COVID pandemic spread across southern Wisconsin. Their priorities ensured the contributions would:
Benefit the most vulnerable in the community 
Support organizations trusted by members of these populations
Go to organizations able to effectively distribute resources
Prioritize organizations with access to the fewest resources
As ramifications from COVID-19 spread, there was an exponential increase in the demand for resources. The financial support provided by UW Health allowed partners to rapidly respond. 
Through this support, organizations could meet critical needs of the community such as distributing grocery store gift cards, paying cell phone bills so people could maintain their access to loved ones and the internet, and delivering formula and diapers to families in need. These organizations were well-trusted in the community and could reach people facing crises without access to other support.
Other partners adapted their traditional services to follow social distancing and “Safer at Home” orders. Some delivered food to seniors at home. Others offered culturally specific behavioral health resources over the phone as rates of depression and anxiety skyrocketed. Other organizations worked to provide safe spaces for people experiencing homelessness.
These proactive contributions were extremely appreciated. One executive director wrote, “My heart is bursting...You have no idea how much it means to receive this appreciation and support!” This financial support allowed non-profit partners to meet the growing demands across the community and innovate to continue reaching people in need during these extremely challenging circumstances.