OKLAHOMA CITY – The E.L. and Thelma Gaylord Foundation, a charitable foundation committed to improving the lives of Oklahomans, donated $100,000 to United Way of Central Oklahoma to assist in the COVID-19 response. The donation to the organization’s COVID-19 Response Fund will benefit partner agencies of United Way of Central Oklahoma, United Way of Logan County and United Way of Canadian County to help meet increased community needs due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The E.L. and Thelma Gaylord Foundation has been a longtime supporter of United Way of Central Oklahoma and the Oklahoma City nonprofit community,” Debby Hampton, United Way of Central Oklahoma President and CEO said. “We are grateful for their additional generosity during this significant time of need for our partner agencies.”

Donations to the United Way of Central Oklahoma COVID-19 Response Fund directly support partner agencies through emergency grants for client services including assistance with rent and utilities, mental telehealth and counseling, outreach to homeless populations and providing food, personal hygiene items and cleaning supplies. In addition, the fund will help ensure nonprofit agencies have the capacity to serve more individuals and families seeking assistance during this time of crisis.

“Our founders, Ed and Thelma Gaylord, cared deeply about Oklahoma and the well-being of its citizens,” said Christy Gaylord Everest, Foundation Trustee. “We are pleased to carry out their legacy of compassion and generosity at a time when it is most needed.”

To make a donation to the United Way of Central Oklahoma COVID-19 Response Fund text COVIDOKC to 41444, visit www.unitedwayokc.org or mail to United Way of Central Oklahoma, P.O. Box 248947, Oklahoma City, OK  73124-8947.

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About United Way of Central Oklahoma
United Way of Central Oklahoma researches human needs within the communities of central Oklahoma and directs resources to accountable health and human services agencies to meet those needs by improving the health, safety, education and economic well-being of its most vulnerable citizens. For more information about United Way of Central Oklahoma, please visit www.unitedwayokc.org or call (405) 236-8441.