NEW YORK – The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America (GOARCH) announced the distribution of more than $250,000 from the Archdiocese COVID-19 Relief Fund on behalf of those affected by the global pandemic in the United States. The Fund is active, and the number of donors, especially small amount donors, continues to rise daily.

Created under the direction of His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros, the Relief Fund is an important part of the Archdiocese’s efforts to support those around the country impacted by the Coronavirus and facing extreme financial hardship. Although the Fund had the initial capacity to distribute up to $500,000, upon the request of Archbishop Elpidophoros, an additional $137,000 has been raised in small donations. The GOARCH COVID19 fundraising campaign is in full swing.

As of June 16, 2020, the Relief Fund Committee has approved 136 applications of the 254 received. An additional 24 applications are approved, pending documentation, while 30 applications are pending review. There are 58 incomplete applications (awaiting more information) and six were denied. The maximum assistance per applicant is generally up to $2,500, and payments are made directly to the biller as grants are given for overdue bills including mortgage, rent, medical, gas, electric, food, childcare, funeral, or other pressing needs. A special committee continues to review all applications, contacting individuals for additional information or clarification as needed and all applications are strictly confidential.

The privately funded Relief Fund remains open and continues to receive donations from individuals, parishes of the Archdiocese, and organizations worldwide.

His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros urges those in need to apply for assistance, saying, “the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese, through the support of many generous donors, is determined to spare no effort in this time of desperate need. We are committed to you, the faithful, and to anyone in the USA who needs financial assistance. To those who need assistance, I invite you to visit www.goarch.org/covid19relief and apply. To our faithful, I issue a challenge – this is your church; this is our time; this is our ministry. Join your sisters and brothers by donating any amount, no matter how small or large.”

Those who wish to contribute to the Fund may do so at www.goarch.org/covid19/donate.