The health of our communities has never been more important, particularly during the challenges presented by COVID-19. The Community Foundation of Central Illinois (CFCI) is proud to support area wellness initiatives through funding and program development.

CFCI’s Community Needs Grant enhances the vital work performed by our local nonprofit partners. In 2020, more than $160,000 was distributed to organizations making a positive impact through community wellness initiatives. Some of those programs include:

- The Center For Prevention of Abuse. CFPA provides a youth therapy program with services for children with trauma symptoms from domestic violence and sexual assault.

- Dream Center Peoria. Dream Center provides a 24/7 crisis shelter for people experiencing homelessness. Guests of the shelter receive free access to meals and other daily resources.

- Hult Center for Healthy Living. Hult’s “Making Connections” program provides no-cost mental health services to cancer patients, caregivers and survivors. One-on-one counseling sessions, support groups and caregiver counseling helps to enhance quality of life, improve coping skills and self-efficacy, and reduce anxiety to contribute to their healing process.

- Peoria Friendship House. The La Familia outreach program offers wrap-around services for Latino and low-income families, including citizenship assistance, education support, healthcare and workforce readiness.

- Peoria Public Schools Foundation. The PPS Foundation emergency fund is a resource for families who need assistance with rent, utilities, clothing, shoes and other urgent requests. 

In addition to these high-impact programs, CFCI continues to drive wellness through the Central Illinois Disaster Recovery Fund. More than 30 organizations received a combined $233,000 from 2020 grant-making efforts to support COVID-19 relief, including emergency food and basic supplies, interim housing, and primary healthcare services. 

“On behalf of CFCI’s dedicated staff, board and volunteers, I want to thank everyone who contributed to our many initiatives created to improve the health and wellness of our hometowns,” says Don Shafer, CFCI board chair. “Despite the many challenges we faced in 2020, our wonderful communities pulled together to help those in need and support sustainable programs that address current issues while also building a strong foundation for the future.”

While we take note of these successes, there is still much work to be done. Please consider making a gift to CFCI or reaching to our team for more information. As always, I thank you for your continued support and generosity. PM

Mark Roberts is chief executive officer for the Community Foundation of Central Illinois. For more information, call (309) 674-8730 or visit communityfoundationci.org.