Fairfield County’s Community Foundation Announces New COVID-19 Resiliency Fund

Fairfield County’s Community Foundation Announces New COVID-19 Resiliency Fund

The Fairfield County COVID-19 Resiliency Fund has been established by Fairfield County’s Community Foundation with the support of generous seed funding from a cross-section of individuals, private foundations, corporations and other concerned entities. The Community Foundation is pleased to share that more than $500,000 has already been pledged by these Founding Fund Partners who have each contributed at least $25,000 at launch.

The new Fund is now accepting donations from the public. Donations of any amount are encouraged and welcomed. Learn more and donate http://www.FCCFoundation.org/COVID19ResiliencyFund.

“In response to this unprecedented time in our lives, we have launched The Fairfield County COVID-19 Resiliency Fund with the intent of quickly raising contributions from the entire Fairfield County community to support our most vulnerable residents. Our deepest gratitude goes to our founding Resiliency Fund Partners who immediately answered our requests to initiate the Fund. Fairfield County’s Community Foundation is fortunate to be part of a caring, generous, and resilient community and we are confident with your help we can meet this goal,” states Juanita James, President and CEO, Fairfield County’s Community Foundation.

She continues, “In addition to urging you to support The Fairfield County COVID-19 Resiliency Fund, we encourage you to continue to support local nonprofit organizations that work with the people and families who are most vulnerable in our community. Community health centers, homeless shelters, pre-school and afterschool programs, food pantries and others, which are already dealing with reductions in state and federal funding, will be further stressed. In times like this, philanthropy can shine.”

The new Fund will rapidly deploy resources to trusted, frontline community organizations that meet the basic needs of local residents in Fairfield County. The Fund’s purpose is to help alleviate the social and economic consequences of this global pandemic and to prevent the widening of disparities in education, employment, housing, and health. The fund’s resources will be directed to organizations serving high need, vulnerable populations, including low-income individuals and residents without health insurance and/or access to sick days; immigrants; persons with disabilities; and communities of color, among others.

Founding Fairfield County COVID-19 Resiliency Fund Partners have contributed a minimum of $25,000 to the Fund. Those Founding Fund Partners include, to date: Anne S. Leonhardt Fund, Anonymous Fundholders, Buckeye Fund, Dan Levinson, Don Kendall, Fairfield County’s Community Foundation, Fairfield County’s Community Foundation Board of Directors, Herbert and Nell Singer Foundation, and Social Venture Partners Connecticut.

In addition, an anonymous donor has offered to contribute an additional $100,000 challenge grant, which will be activated upon the Fund raising $100,000 in gifts from other contributors.

The Fairfield County COVID-19 Resiliency Fund is designed to be flexible in its focus, nimble in its action, and to complement other resources and responses at the national, state and local levels.

Fairfield County’s Community Foundation will administer responsive grants from the Fund through its Community Impact Team, which will identify potential grant recipients and accept open inquiries for funding. Given the dynamic nature of this moment, grant funding will be considered and released on a rolling basis. The Community Foundation will begin distributing grants as soon as possible.

Consideration for grants from The Fairfield County COVID-19 Resiliency Fund is limited to 501c3 nonprofit organizations, groups fiscally sponsored by a 501c3 nonprofit organization, or other charitable organizations able to receive tax-deductible contributions, such as schools, faith-based organizations serving community needs, and other public entities based in or primarily serving Fairfield County communities and residents. Consideration will also be given to 501c4 social welfare organizations.

Individuals and organizations can donate and find additional information about The Fairfield County

COVID-19 Resiliency Fund at http://www.FCCFoundation.org/COVID19ResiliencyFund. To inquire about grant opportunities, please contact your program officer or send inquiries to [email protected].

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About Fairfield County’s Community Foundation

Fairfield County’s Community Foundation promotes philanthropy as a means to create change in Fairfield County, focusing on innovative and collaborative solutions to critical issues impacting the community. Individuals, families, corporations and organizations can establish charitable funds or contribute to existing funds. The Community Foundation is in compliance with the Council on Foundations’ national standards and has awarded over $316 million in grants to nonprofits in Fairfield County and beyond. As a trusted nonprofit partner and thought leader, Fairfield County’s Community Foundation brings together community organizers, business experts and philanthropists to close the opportunity gap. Our goal is to create a vital and inclusive community, where every individual has the opportunity to thrive. Learn more at fccfoundation.org and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIN. Listen to Fairfield County Thrives at https://www.FCCFoundation.org/podcasts/. To learn more visit http://www.FCCFoundation.org

Harbor Yard Amphitheater in Bridgeport Postpones Opening Until 2021

Harbor Yard Amphitheater in Bridgeport Postpones Opening Until 2021

Harbor Yard Amphitheater in Bridgeport was slated to open Summer 2020. Deadlines were met. Construction was on schedule. Unfortunately, our structural supply chain is being impacted by the Coronavirus. Manufacturing has ground to a halt in Milan, Italy where our lighting is being produced. We were also notified of delays with our roof fabrication from France. Shipping is also taking a hit as well as international construction personnel will not be traveling to the US due to the virus.

“It is with a heavy heart and out of an abundance of caution we are going to postpone the opening of the Amp until Spring 2021,” said Howard Saffan, Principal of the Harbor Yard Amphitheater. “We hate to disappoint our already loyal fan base. We have been humbled by the outpouring of support for the Amp but this is out of our control. We are looking forward to seeing you all in 2021.”

“The worldwide Coronavirus is having a negative impact on our factories in France,” said Javier Rattia, Principal of Dunn. “At this point I cannot confirm a date for the shipment of the Tensile membrane roof.”

Jim Koplik, President of Live Nation CT “Although I am disappointed that we cannot provide concert fans a 2020 season, I am excited that our 2021 will be a full summer season with great shows.”

Mayor Ganim stated, “While we are disappointed that the Amphitheater will have a postponed opening, we understand the reasons for the delay and need to take precautions at this time when there are so many unknown factors due to the spread of Coronavirus. We appreciate what Howard Saffan and Jim Koplik are going through at this time and will continue to support them as we look forward to 2021.”

The three shows that were on sale and/or announced have all been rescheduled to other venues and their original dates are the same:

Blackberry Smoke w/ Allman Betts Band has moved to Mohegan Sun Arena on Tuesday, July 28

Steve Miller Band has moved to Toyota Oakdale Theatre on Saturday, August 15

Deftones has moved to Mohegan Sun Arena on Monday, August 24

Ticket holders for Deftones and Steve Miller Band will be refunded for their tickets at Harbor Yard Amphitheater shows and offered an opportunity to buy tickets to the new rescheduled shows via a presale. Additional ticket information for these three shows to follow at a later date

About Live Nation

Live Nation Entertainment (NYSE:LYV) is the world’s leading live entertainment company comprised of global market leaders: Ticketmaster, Live Nation Concerts and Live Nation Sponsorship. For additional information, visit www.livenationentertainment.com.

Local restaurants still offering delivery & takeout

Local restaurants still offering delivery & takeout

Local restaurants are still offering delivery and takeout services. To help support these local businesses, feel free to patronize them by ordering takeout or purchasing gift cards.

Here’s a list with local restaurants still open for delivery and takeout.

Branford

Bridgeport

Darien

Derby

Fairfield

Greenwich

Guilford

Madison

New Haven

North Branford

Norwalk

Stamford

Trumbull

Westport

iStock / Getty Images Plus / twinsterphoto

The Anna & Raven Show: Importance of Social Distancing

The Anna & Raven Show: Importance of Social Distancing

Anna & Raven are wide awake this morning! If you missed any of today’s show, catch up with Anna & Raven OnDemand now!

He didn’t know what the Coronavirus was?: 0:00

Actor Jared Leto just found out about the coronavirus pandemic after he came back in contact with the rest of the world following 12 days in silent meditation in the middle of the desert, Anna & Raven both thing Jared Leto is the kind of guy who would spend 12 days in a desert alone.

Coronavirus effect on children: 3:04

If you’ve been wondering how isolation works with children, Anna & Raven asked Dr. Elizabeth Murray about what parents should be looking for while their children are home.

Great, easy meals with Chef Plum: 6:37

Anna’s family is already getting tired of the meals they’ve had for dinner while stuck at home. So Chef Plum of the Food Network called in to give her some great tips.

What got cancelled?  10:19

Coronavirus has put a halt on everyone’s plans, whether it was a wedding or a big trip with the family. What were you looking forward to that got cancelled because of the coronavirus pandemic?

Cuomo Bros: 13:51

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo and CNN host Chris Cuomo got into a bit of siblings arguing when the governor was on talking about the coronavirus and its impact on the state.

Social Distancing with Lenny Bernstein of the Washington Post: 16:48

Anna & Raven had so many questions about social distancing, especially with people across the country not taking it seriously. Lenny Bernstein, health and medicine reporter from the Washington Post, gives them the important details everyone should know.

OneWestport

OneWestport

The sharp decline in sales resulting from responsible “social distancing” has been catastrophic for Westport’s small, local businesses.

OneWestport is a campaign to encourage Westport residents, and others, to purchase gift cards now for use later once normal commerce resumes.

At OneWestport, there is a comprehensive list of local retailers, fitness studios, salons, spas and restaurants all with links to purchase gift cards online (or via phone or email.)

Click here for more information and to purchase.

The Anna & Raven Show: Coronavirus Impact

The Anna & Raven Show: Coronavirus Impact

Anna & Raven are wide awake this morning! If you missed any of today’s show, catch up with Anna & Raven OnDemand now!

Coronavirus latest with Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont: 0:00

Governor Ned Lamont returns to give Anna & Raven the latest information and updates on the coronavirus cases in the state and the plans going forward. (0:00)

Three things you Need to know: 5:28

There’s so much news swirling around, Anna & Raven get the top three things everyone needs to know from Producer Aaron Johnson (5:28)

Arnold and his pets: 8:18

Actor and former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger posted a video to remind everyone the importance of washing your hands and social distancing, but he had two special guests stars  (8:18)

Coronavirus Small Business Impact: 12:04

As small businesses take a major hit from the effects of the coronavirus, Anna & Raven want to know what business owners can do continue forward. Small Business Strategist Liz Dederer has some tips for those that are struggling! (12:04)

Tom and Rita’s Infinite Playlist: 16:23

Before being released from the hospital, Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson released a playlist of music they jammed out to while being treated. Anna & Raven definitely approve of the tunes! (16:23)

I Spent 30 days in Quarantine: 18:36

Juanita Ingram is an attorney and host of “Where in the World is Juanita Ingram. She was quarantined in Taiwan for 30 days! She tells Anna & Raven what it was like! (18:36)

Parents turned Homeschool Teachers: 23:12

While the schools are closed with the coronavirus pandemic, many parents are finding themselves in the role of teacher! Anna is one of those parents! Look out long division! (23:12)

Lizzie McGuire isn’t having none of the Sass: 27:11

Hilary Duff thinks millennials that are still out partying are continuing to perpetuate the spread of the coronavirus. But Anna has a different opinion!

The Anna & Raven Show: Coronavirus Shutdown

The Anna & Raven Show: Coronavirus Shutdown

Anna & Raven are wide awake this morning! If you missed any of today’s show, catch up with Anna & Raven OnDemand now!

Coronavirus Closings: 0:00

After New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio announced to close city public schools, Anna & Raven take a look around at all the other things that have been told to close their doors until further notice due to the coronavirus.

Hand Sanitizer Guy: 2:32

Hand Sanitizer is already a high demand product, but this guy went out and bought 18,000 bottles to try and sell. But he can’t sell any of them! Do you feel bad for him?

Italian Singing Flash Mob: 5:57

Although the country is in lockdown, several videos of Italians singing and playing music from their balconies went viral over the weekend. Anna & Raven loved every second of it, what was your favorite Italian House Party/Concert video?

Anna’s friend in Italy: 8:20

Anna has plenty of friends and family that are living in lockdown in Italy. Her family friend Mateo lets us know what it is like to be living in a shutdown.

Psychologist Joe Schippa: 11:34

Anna & Raven know you have a ton of questions about how to handle the coronavirus, from talking to your children about it to handling your own anxiety about everything that has happened, Psychologist Joe Schippa is here to answer all those questions and more!

Bill the Grocer: 17:50

Bill has worked in the grocery store business for decades and he still can’t believe how insane everything has been since the coronavirus outbreak. Anna & Raven talk to him about what he is seeing in the aisles.

Colorado Nurse with Coronavirus: 22:40

It seems like although many people are contracting the coronavirus, not too many people are coming out and speaking about their experiences. A nurse in Colorado, who had the virus, was one of the first to come out and talk about what it was like for her.

Dr. Vinaya Sampath with a Coronavirus Update: 25:22

Dr. Vinaya Sampath, assistant professor for the Biomedical Sciences Department at Long Island University, returns to discuss the latest developments of the coronavirus with Anna & Raven. She answers some of the major questions.

60 Seconds Behind the Scenes

60 Seconds Behind the Scenes

We’re still here and we’re working hard! But there are some things we definitely miss, Anna misses her eyelash appointments and Raven wants his pedicures. What’s your first world problem?
The Dolly Drama

The Dolly Drama

Anna & Raven are up early so you know they’re chatty!

All I Need to Know: 0:00

If you’ve been tested for coronavirus and you don’t have the test results yet, but still get on a plane to Florida, that’s all I need to know about you!

Dolly Drama: 3:11

A father told his young daughter that her dolly “died” because she wasn’t washing her hands. He wanted to use it as a learning tool because she was being resistant to cleaning her hands. Was this innovative parenting or a horrible method that could do more harm than good in the long run?

Dr. Dean Hart on Coronavirus: 13:14

Anna & Raven speak with Dr. Dean Hart to get the latest information on the coronavirus and the potential spread throughout the country.

Forehead Temperature: 17:36

A fever is one of the main symptoms of the coronavirus, so Anna brought in forehead thermometer! She’s not playing and wants to know how everyone in the studio is feeling.

Raven’s Report Card: 20:49

It’s her favorite time of the week, when Anna calls Raven’s wife Alicia to see how he behaved as a husband! What do you think his grade will be on her birthday week?

Facebook Theatre: 24:25

People are reacting to the coronavirus in several different ways. Anna & Raven go to Facebook to get some comments and they act it out for you! It’s almost better than Broadway….almost!

Couples Court: 28:23

Our listeners sided with Eric over his wife, Angela after she wanted him to sleep in a separate room in case he contracted the coronavirus while working in the hospital. But take a listen and you decide whose side you’re on?

Can’t Beat Raven: 34:28:

Every morning at eight try and beat Raven on today’s biggest celebrity stories! If you can do better than him, you win a $100 gift card to Dunkin’! Good luck!

Say it ain’t so Mickey, Say it ain’t so: 38:42

Anna & Raven understand that several locations and events have closed with the coronavirus spread, but Disney has always been the stalwart! Say it ain’t so Mickey, say it ain’t so!

60 Seconds Behind the Scenes

60 Seconds Behind the Scenes

One of the major symptoms of the coronavirus is a fever, so Anna brought in an electric thermometer to check Raven’s temperature!