When AZ Big Media decided to postpone its Real Estate Development (RED) Awards in the wake of the coronavirus crisis, the company donated more than 400 meals that were scheduled to be served at the event to Valley nonprofits. That’s just one example of how Arizona businesses have stepped up to help others get through the hardships being created by the COVID-19 crisis.

Here are some of the others:

BOK Financial Arizona donates $50,000 to FSL COVID-19 relief efforts

FSL (Foundation for Senior Living) is pleased to announce BOK Financial Arizona has donated $50,000 to the nonprofit’s COVID-19 relief efforts. Once the stay-at-home order went into effect, FSL shifted many programs to serve seniors and adults with disabilities at home instead of at a senior center or Adult Day Health Center. Their expenses went up by at least 25 percent to meet the demand. 

“When we heard the need for FSL’s programs had dramatically increased, we wanted to step in and help,” said Dave Ralston, Arizona Market CEO. “They have seen a 56 percent increase in meals delivered to Arizona homebound seniors. We’re proud to partner with FSL to help seniors get access to food and necessities.” 

In addition to home-delivered meals, FSL has delivered 188 bags of groceries to 71 households in need.  They are offering this program to anyone over the age of 60 or with a disability or chronic health condition. 

Ms. Merritt, a senior in Phoenix had been looking for help for weeks. She spent most of her week calling countless agencies, companies and nonprofits looking for assistance, only to find out no one could help. She was discouraged and stressed when she found FSL. After one call to FSL, she received four boxes loaded with food and toiletry supplies the very next day. She was so appreciative and shared that FSL was only the second face she had seen in weeks.  

While their senior centers in Peoria and Wickenburg remain closed, staff is still preparing more than 600 meals each day.  The meals are packaged for curbside pick-up or home delivery to seniors in need.  This program is seeing a 23 percent increase in demand during the pandemic. 

“We are so appreciative of community partners like BOK Financial,” said Tom Egan, president and CEO of FSL. “They are providing much needed funding to ensure seniors who are highly vulnerable to contracting the virus can stay safe at home.” 

To learn more about FSL’s programs or to donate, visit: www.fsl.org. FSL has a dedicated page for updates and support on COVID-19 at https://www.fsl.org/covid19/

Walmart associates receive bonus in paychecks

There are two important developments from Walmart today showing how the company is supporting its associates and their local communities. 

First, Walmart associates in Arizona received a bonus in their paychecks today adding up to $3.6 million statewide. In all, Walmart gave associates $180 million in bonuses nationwide today. When combined with the $365 million announced earlier this month, the company has committed close to $550 million in bonus payouts to its men and women serving on the front lines of these unprecedented times. 

Second, Walmart announced today it reached its goal of hiring an additional 200,000 associates nationwide. Not only has the company helped provide work for almost a quarter million people impacted by COVID-19, they did so in less than six weeks.

Details of both initiatives are here. 

The bonuses and new jobs add to the many ways Walmart is ensuring its associates have the support they need while serving customers with the food, medicine and other essential items they need during this time. 

The latest information on how Walmart is responding to COVID-19 can be found here.

BOK Financial to donate $1 million to COVID-19 relief

BOK Financial Corporation will contribute $1 million as part of its efforts in support of COVID-19 relief. The company will direct donations to programs addressing food insecurity and re-employment of laid off and furloughed workers.

The contribution is the centerpiece of the company’s COVID-19 response which also includes assistance for its clients and employees. “The amount of need is unprecedented during this crisis, and we are proud to support local nonprofit organizations that are on the front lines delivering services to our communities’ most vulnerable citizens,” said Steve Bradshaw, president and CEO of BOK Financial Corporation.

Half of the funds will be distributed to nonprofits in Tulsa, where BOKF is headquartered. The remaining $500,000 will be distributed to programs providing support for food insecurity and re-employment of service industry workers in BOKF markets across eight states.

In Arizona, BOK Financial has supported COVID-19 relief efforts through a number of avenues including $50,000 to the Foundation for Senior Living and $15,000 to the Valley of the Sun United Way COVID-19 Relief Fund.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has created thousands of new homebound seniors who are incredibly vulnerable to the virus. The closing of senior centers and senior care facilities has created unexpected food insecurity for seniors throughout the Valley. Keeping our most vulnerable healthy and fed is of high priority,” said Dave Ralston, Arizona Market CEO. “Our major gift of $50,000 is going to fund the Foundation for Senior Living. This organization has hired 70 furloughed workers and has partnered with numerous local restaurants to deliver much needed home-delivered meals and groceries to low-income seniors and adults with disabilities.”

“We’re proud to support these programs that are supporting the community and helping service industry workers earn a wage and keep food on their families’ tables during this time of crisis,” said Bradshaw. “With these additional community support dollars, we expect to be able to bring our planned 2020 donations to nearly $7 million to benefit outstanding organizations serving our communities.”

Desert Financial Credit Union donates $500,000 to support relief efforts

Desert Financial Credit Union will donate $500,000 in emergency funds to five Valley non-profits supporting critical community needs in the wake of COVID-19. United Food Bank and St. Mary’s Food Bank will each receive $150,000 from the credit union, while Midwest and Desert Mission Food Banks will each receive $50,000. Valley of the Sun United Way will receive an additional $100,000.

“We are making this donation immediately in order to support these vital non-profits with distributing essential resources,” said Jeff Meshey, President & CEO of Desert Financial. “We are a local credit union with an 80-year history in the Valley, and we are committed to helping this community – our community – through this unprecedented challenge.”

More than 650,000 Maricopa County households were struggling to meet basic needs as recently as last month, according to some sources. With the arrival and resulting fallout of COVID-19, that number has already increased exponentially. 

St. Mary’s Food bank reported that the demand for their emergency food boxes doubled overnight. The United Food Bank was expecting to serve three times as many individuals in the coming week.

“Seeing a huge surge of families in need while simultaneously losing much of our grocery rescue donations has made for a challenging time at St. Mary’s,” President and CEO Tom Kertis said. “And this could be only the beginning. But we have great friends and partners in our community. This incredible gift from Desert Financial will help ease the strain and allow us to continue to say ‘Yes’ to every family that needs help during this pandemic. We will be here for them because companies like Desert Financial are here for us.” 

Desert Financial’s food bank donations are strategically placed to reach communities across the state, helping make more resources available to more of those in need.

“In United Food Banks’ 35-year history, we’ve never seen so much food leave from our warehouse in one week,” said Dave Richins, CEO of United Food Bank. “A donation like this from Desert Financial is needed right now more than ever to help us deliver nutritious meals to Arizaonas in need during this crisis.”

The Valley of the Sun United Way donation will go to a COVID-19 response fund addressing critical needs as they arise.

The credit union’s Random Acts of Kindness program is also continuing, with new restrictions in place following CDC and state health guidelines for social distancing. Members of the public are able to submit their ideas for Random Acts of Kindness here.

AvAir gives employees a bonus to spend at local businesses

Nearly half of Arizona’s private workforce is employed by small business owners, and one East Valley CEO is helping his employees do their part to support those companies in their communities.

Mike Bianco, CEO of Chandler-based AvAir, a global leader in the aftermarket aviation industry, has given each of his employees worldwide $500 and encouraged them to spend that money at small and local businesses in their communities. 

A majority of AvAir’s employees have fully transitioned to working from home to prevent the spread of COVID-19, and to keep the team connected it is hosting four virtual trainer-led workout classes for staff on a weekly basis as well as semi-regular webinars about healthy habits and weekly guided meditations via Zoom. 

AvAir’s warehouse staff and 24/7 AOG team are still supplying emergency parts for aircraft around the clock, and the company is seeking opportunities to grow its inventory and its team. AvAir is currently hiring at its Arizona headquarters and its employees in Dublin, Ireland. Available positions include roles in the warehouse, sales and administration. To apply, email Nina.Boyd@avair.aero or visit www.AvAir.Aero.

OneAZ Credit Union donates 40,000 N95 respirator masks to Banner Desert Medical Center ICU

When OneAZ Credit Union assessed its inventory of N95 respirator masks to protect front line associates, the credit union realized it had more than needed and immediately looked for an opportunity to help the medical community. 

Like many businesses, OneAZ Credit Union had built a large supply of N95 masks in 2009 in preparation for the H1N1 “Bird Flu” pandemic. After confirming with 3M that the properly stored masks do not expire and are still effective, OneAZ Credit Union reached out to Banner Desert Medical Center’s ICU unit designated to receive COVID-19 patients. Importantly, the 40,000 masks donated were identified as being above and beyond the credit union’s current and projected needs.

“Our first priority is the safety of our associates. Once we confirmed that supply, our focus shifted to the medical community – where we have been looking at every way possible to make a positive impact during these uncertain times. We believe Arizona will come through this stronger if we all work together for the greater good,” said Kim Reedy, CEO for OneAZ Credit Union.  

OneAZ Credit Union’s COVID-19 efforts include modified business practices, a committed $200,000 in emergency COVID-19 Community Impact Grants for the nonprofit community and now this donation of N95 masks.

“We are so thankful to OneAZ Credit Union for this generous donation of N95 respirator masks for our health care workers on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic. In these difficult times, support from local businesses and our community is helping Banner Health in so many ways as we work to keep our patients and our health care workforce safe. We applaud and thank OneAZ Credit Union for being such a generous partner,” said Andy Kramer Petersen, President & CEO, Banner Health Foundation. 

The Banner Health Foundation is gratefully accepting donations of medical supplies and Personal Protective Equipment from businesses and/or community members who have supplies that they do not currently need. Donations can be dropped off at Project C.U.R.E., 2100 W. 14th St., Building T3 Tempe, AZ 85281, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. 

“We encourage the local business community to take the time to inventory their true needs and then donate anything they can spare to help protect our medical community and slow the spread of COVID-19,” said Reedy.

APS contributes $250,000 to the Arizona Coronavirus Relief Fund

Governor Doug Ducey today announced the contribution of $250,000 by Arizona Public Service (APS) to the AZ Coronavirus Relief Fund, supporting organizations working to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 in the state.

“Community organizations across the state are working tirelessly to support Arizonans in need during the COVID-19 outbreak,” said Governor Ducey. “These dollars will help secure medical supplies for our doctors and nurses and provide assistance to Arizonans facing the loss of their jobs or income. My thanks to APS for their generous contribution and all our private-sector and nonprofit partners for working together to support Arizonans.”

The AZ Coronavirus Relief Fund, established by Governor Ducey as part of the Arizona Together initiative last week, will provide financial support to organizations working to support Arizonans during the COVID-19 outbreak. Initially, the fund will focus on fulfilling immediate needs, such as:

• Funding of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for frontline medical personnel;

• Supporting non-profit organizations that help vulnerable Arizonans through food banks, homeless shelters, domestic violence facilities, and other services;

• And expanding technology access for low-income students to help them transition to online learning.

JPMorgan Chase makes $50 million investment to address impact of COVID-19

JPMorgan Chase today announced a $50 million global philanthropic commitment to address the immediate public health and long-term economic challenges from the COVID-19 global pandemic.

Funds will support communities and people hit hardest by this public health crisis through an initial $15 million commitment, including:

• $5 million to provide immediate healthcare, food and other humanitarian relief globally;

• $2 million to existing nonprofit partners around the world that are responding to the COVID-19 crisis in their communities;

• $8 million to assist small businesses vulnerable to significant economic hardships in the U.S., China and Europe.

The remaining $35 million will be deployed over time to help the most vulnerable communities and people recover from the crisis and have an opportunity to benefit from future economic growth.  The firm will lean into its core areas of expertise including financial health, jobs and skills, small business growth and neighborhood development and apply lessons learned from initiatives like AdvancingCities.

“We are mobilizing the firm’s resources to support customers, employees and communities – especially the most vulnerable – in this time of crisis,” said Peter Scher, Head of Corporate Responsibility and Chairman of the Mid-Atlantic region. “We are making immediate investments to help those most affected by humanitarian challenges and looking into sustainable and innovative solutions to help small businesses and underserved communities recover when the crisis subsides.”

Law firm answers coronavirus questions

Phoenix employment law firm HKM is offering a free advice hotline to employees in Arizona with legal questions regarding COVID-19.

Anyone with questions can call  480-660-4377 or email phoenixcoronavirus@hkm.com to get answers, which will be posted on the law firm’s website. 

Ak-Chin Tribal Council extends payroll, benefits for Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino

The Ak-Chin Indian Community Tribal Council approved funding that will extend payroll to Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino’s employees for an additional two weeks.  In addition, the Tribe’s approved funding will cover health insurance benefits for those employees currently enrolled in Caesars’ benefit plans throughout the temporary closure.

“It is important to the Ak-Chin Tribal Council that we do what we can to support the employees that work for Harrah’s,” said Robert Miguel, chairman of the Ak-Chin Tribal Council. “This is a challenging time for all of us and we are glad that we have the ability to support these employees.” 

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino temporarily closed its resort and casino on March 19.  

“As the management partner for Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, we are so grateful to have the full support of the Ak-Chin Indian Community as we look for ways to continue to support our valuable employees,” said Robert Livingston, general manager.  “This additional funding for payroll and benefits is great news for our entire team.”

Goettl gifts more than $1.5 million to ensure health of employees

CEO Ken Goodrich of Goettl Air Conditioning and Plumbing, a leading provider of HVAC and plumbing services in the Southwest United States, today announced he is spending $1.5 million to install Ultra Violet (UV) germicidal lights in the homes of more than 600 employees.

Deemed an essential business during an unprecedented time in our nation, Goettl’s HVAC and plumbing technicians have continued to work tirelessly to ensure their community is receiving essential life systems and services throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. To show appreciation for their hard work and dedication, Goodrich is giving each Goettl employee a new UV germicidal light that will be installed into their personal HVAC system. 

“Our technicians are putting their own well-being and safety second to serve their communities,” said Goodrich. “I want them to know how much we appreciate their unwavering dedication and bravery by giving them a product that will hopefully provide their own families with invaluable peace of mind during these uncertain times.”

The UV germicidal light, which mimics natural sunlight, uses ultraviolet radiation to drastically decrease indoor germs such as mold, fungi and bacteria. Additionally, the UV radiation destroys the nuclei of each contaminant preventing it from reproducing. Proven to kill viruses of many strains, this type of UV light is also used in hospitals and food processing plants nationwide. 

The safety and well-being of Goettl employees is top priority for Goodrich and his executive team. As technicians are a critical resource for essential home services, Goodrich is committed to doing as much as possible to help ensure they stay safe and healthy during this public health crisis. 

“At Goettl, we believe in doing things the right way, not the easy way and what’s right is keeping our employees safe and as healthy as possible so that they may continue to serve their beloved communities,” Goodrich continued.

Plexus Worldwide, a leading direct-selling health and wellness company based in Scottsdale, made a sizable donation to St. Mary’s Food Bank to help meet the increased demand from the coronavirus.

Plexus donates to St. Mary’s Food Bank

Plexus Worldwide, a leading direct-selling health and wellness company based in Scottsdale, made a sizable donation to St. Mary’s Food Bank to help meet the increased demand from the coronavirus.

On March 26, Plexus delivered more than 4,000 bags of its popular Lean Meal Replacement Shakes to the Phoenix nonprofit, enough to fill 11-pallets. Each bag of Plexus Pumpkin Spice Lean and Plexus Lean Vegetarian contains 14-servings, which will provide more than 57,000 meals to Arizona families in need.

“Plexus is dedicated to fighting food insecurity in our local community and around the world, so it was important to support our local community partner during this crisis that has left so many people unable to put food on their table,” said Tarl Robinson, Founder and CEO of Plexus.

“Plexus has been a great partner in the battle against hunger, and we are thankful to Tarl and everyone on his team for this generous donation, and for all the contributions they have provided for our families,” said Tom Kertis, President and CEO of St. Mary’s Food Bank.

Throughout the year, Plexus’ Philanthropy Department works closely with the food bank to provide donations and volunteers. Last year, employees volunteered more than 800-hours packing emergency food boxes in the Knight Distribution Center during two service weeks. All of it was covered by the Plexus Volunteer Time Off Program, which provides paid hours for charitable work.

“As a health and happiness company, we are so proud of all the efforts our employees have contributed to help those less fortunate,” said Alec Clark, Founder and President. “That’s why we partner with amazing organizations like St. Mary’s Food Bank to fight food insecurity on a global scale.”

Diamondbacks Foundation donates an additional $500,000 for relief efforts

The Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation announced the donation of an additional $500,000 to immediately assist in helping those most vulnerable during the current national emergency, bringing the franchise’s current total to more than $1 million. 

“The needs in our community continue to grow, particularly in the healthcare industry and we feel it’s important to continue to give back to those heroes,” said D-backs Managing General Partner Ken Kendrick. “We can’t help but be inspired by those who are sacrificing so much right now to keep us all safe and we want to continue to inspire others during these unprecedented times.” 

“We are fortunate to not only be in a position to continue to give back, but to be in touch regularly with those in the medical field who can help distribute these funds in a meaningful way,“ said D-backs President & CEO Derrick Hall. “Whether it is personal protective equipment, critical resources to support healthcare personnel or technology to provide virtual visits for those currently receiving care, we believe this money can make an immediate impact.” 

The Foundation’s initial donation of $550,000 last week was spread among numerous non-profit organizations that focus on emergency food supply and distribution as well as support for children of working healthcare professionals. This current donation will address that growing need in addition to benefitting those in the medical/healthcare fields. 

The Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation and team will continue to monitor the situation in the event additional assistance can be made available, if necessary.

Russ Lyon Charitable Foundation donates $10,000 to food banks

The Russ Lyon Charitable Foundation, a subsidiary of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, will be donating $10,000 to nine food banks across Arizona in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak. The various offices will be donating the funds to the following food banks:

• Camelback Tower and Pinnacle Peak (Corporate Office) will be donating $2,000 to the Vista del Camino Food Bank, managed by Scottsdale Community Partners

• Carefree will be donating $1,000 to the Foothills Food Bank

• West Valley will be donating $1,000 to the St. Mary’s Food Bank

• Southeast Valley will be donating $1,000 to AZCEND

• Flagstaff will be donating $1,000 to the Flagstaff Family Food Center

• Prescott will be donating $1,000 to the Yavapai County Food Bank

• Sedona will be donating $1,000 to the Sedona Community Food Bank

• Tucson will be donating $1,000 to the Tucson Community Food Bank (Punch Woods Brach), a branch of the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona

• Tubac will be donating $1,000 to the Amado Food Bank, a branch of the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona

The rippling effects of the coronavirus pandemic are not only affecting businesses, restaurants and bars, but local food banks as well. Food banks across the state are continuing to provide resources to people in need within their communities. However, with more families experiencing lapses in income, food and necessities brought on by the coronavirus, supplies and volunteers at food banks are starting to decrease. On March 19th, Arizona Governor Doug Ducey activated the National Guard to help grocery stores and food banks in response to the growing need.

“The Russ Lyon Charitable Foundation strives to improve lives and communities of those in need while spreading compassion and kindness within our state,” said Todd Gillenwater, CEO of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty and Founder of Russ Lyon Charitable Foundation. “During these unprecedented times, we are very grateful to be in a position to give back and have the ability to assist organizations that provide essential resources to communities and individuals in dire need.”

Fiesta Bowl Charities donate $1 million for emergency relief

With the severe demands in Arizona due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Fiesta Bowl Charities is helping communities across the state meet their incredible needs. The Fiesta Bowl is providing $1 million to fill gaps for food services and youth programming that are nonprofits’ biggest shortfalls. 

Fiesta Bowl Charities is extending direct funding to 18 nonprofit organizations on the front lines struggling to match the emergent needs. These organizations serve throughout the state – in the Phoenix metro, plus Tucson, Nogales, southern Arizona, Casa Grande, Prescott, Flagstaff, Navajo Nation.

The $1 million will be utilized by those in food services (A New Leaf, Amanda Hope Rainbow Angels, Children’s Cancer Network, Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona, Desert Mission Food Bank, Maggie’s Place, Matthew’s Crossing, Homeward Bound, St. Mary’s Food Bank, St. Vincent de Paul and UMOM) and youth programming (Boys and Girls Clubs of the Valley, Casa Grande, Flagstaff, Prescott and Tucson; Child Crisis Arizona and YMCA Valley of the Sun).

100 Club offering mental health apps to help first responders during COVID-19 crisis

The 100 Club of Arizona is offering two mobile apps, sponsored by the Bob and Renee Parsons Foundation, to help first responders find mental health resources from a distance, as they cope with the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.

The Bulletproof app for all sworn officers, non-sworn/professional staff and family members is available now, free of charge, for any iPhone or Android device.

Fireproof, an app for all sworn firefighters, non-sworn fire department staff and family members, will be available via the App Store or Google Play next month.

“Recent studies have found we’re losing more first responders to suicide than in the line of duty,” says Angela Harrolle, 100 Club of Arizona CEO. “In Arizona, we lost 12 first responders to suicide in 12 months beginning in 2019. That’s why getting easy access to resources into the hands of first responders is so important to us at the 100 Club.”

A recent study by the Ruderman Family Foundation found that the rate of post-traumatic stress and depression can be up to five times higher for police officers and firefighters than for the general public.

The Bulletproof and Fireproof apps provide comprehensive information, resources and referrals to help users with their mental health, physical goals, relationships and long-term financial stability. There is a Telehealth option for those who prefer to speak to a provider remotely – this option is especially needed for those who work odd hours, live in rural locations or who are currently quarantined. The private, confidential apps are available to users 24/7.

“The Bulletproof app from the 100 Club of Arizona goes over and above in the number and types of resources provided,” says Jerald Monahan, chief of police at the Yavapai College Police Department. “This app was built with the understanding of how hard it is for first responders who are always going to the rescue to acknowledge when they need rescued.”

Arizona is the first, and currently only, state where the resources included in the apps are being offered to first responders statewide free of charge.

OneAZ announces $200,000 in emergency grants

OneAZ Credit Union and OneAZ Community Foundation have pledged to award $200,000 in emergency COVID-19 Community Impact Grants as part of their commitment to helping Arizona communities. 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations impacted by COVID-19 may submit applications online beginning today.

OneAZ Credit Union and OneAZ Community Foundation are committed to supporting the local economy through several initiatives. In the last four years OneAZ has given over $397,000 to nonprofits statewide that make a difference in the quality of life for those who live and work in Arizona.

“We recognize that COVID-19 is impacting us all in unprecedented ways, and we’re eager to help nonprofit organizations sustain their operations during these uncertain times,” said Kim Reedy, CEO for OneAZ Credit Union.

The goal is to provide emergency funding for nonprofit organizations that serve one or more of OneAZ’s five key community focus areas, including (1) children’s health, (2) food banks, (3) financial literacy, (4) military, veterans’ and first responders’ interests, and (5) local youth programs. Applications by nonprofits with operations outside these five pillars will also be considered.

Nonprofits are encouraged to apply online, include a summary of how COVID-19 has impacted their operations and how the emergency grant funds will be used. Grants will be awarded in $2,000 increments with applications reviewed on a weekly basis until all $200,000 is awarded or May 1, 2020, whichever comes first. Prior grant recipients are eligible to apply for an emergency COVID-19 Community Impact Grant.

For full details and to apply for an emergency COVID-19 Community Impact Grant, visit  https://www.oneazcu.com/about/foundation/covid-19-arizona-grant/.

Gila River Hotels & Casinos donates $60,000 worth of food and supplies

On Wednesday, March 18, Gila River Gaming Enterprises, Inc. temporarily closed Gila River Hotels & Casinos – Wild Horse Pass, Lone Butte and Vee Quiva due to the rapidly spreading Coronavirus (COVID-19). The decision came after heightened concerns for the health and safety of its team members and guests during the pandemic. The closure of all three properties will be in effect until the end of the month.

The day before the temporary closure, Gila River Hotels & Casinos received a delivery of $60,000 worth of perishable food items and made the decision to donate them to Gila River Indian Community (GRIC) elders and families. The Gila team worked around the clock on logistics to quickly expedite the deliveries.

The deliveries were executed in two phases: a dropoff of 20 pallets of water and 98 cases of toilet paper to GRIC’s office of emergency management, followed by a donation of $60,000 worth of perishable food items to members of the Gila River Indian Community residing within and outside of the community.

“I am so proud of our team members for providing help to our community during this difficult time,” said Kenneth Manuel, CEO of Gila River Hotels & Casinos. “It has been an honor to watch everyone come together, support one another and most importantly, serve those in need.”

Wells Fargo donates $100,000 to Greater Phoenix COVID-19 response

The Wells Fargo Foundation is making two $50,000 donations to Arizona Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley and FSL (Foundation for Senior Living) to support their community response to COVID-19 in the greater Phoenix area. The funding will help deliver critical relief to two high impact communities – workforce families with no childcare support and homebound elderly.  

The Arizona Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley plan to increase services to the local community in light of the hardships happening among the workforce who may not have childcare support, including (especially) healthcare workers’ children.   Select Clubs will operate (7am – 6pm) to provide support for working families and youth who need access to breakfast and lunch that their school provides daily.  

Foundation for Senior Living plans to continue to serve the most vulnerable and seniors with compromised immune systems during this uncertain time with COVID-19. The donation will fund food supplies and transportation costs to ensure home-bound seniors have the meals they need and deploy emergency staffing to ensure medically necessary services are delivered uninterrupted.

“Wells Fargo has truly stepped up for our community by making swift investments in protecting those who are most vulnerable, youth and seniors.  Every day we are serving families who need quality care for their children while they go to work during this global crisis.  We’re focused on families working in essential functions. Our Club staff have made the commitment to serve so those workers can keep us safe and healthy,” said Marcia Mintz, CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley. 

“I am so moved by this incredible donation,” said Tom Egan, CEO of FSL. “We reached out to our community partners and told them that seniors are isolated, they are scared and they need food, supplies and they need to know that the community cares.  Wells Fargo has been a long time supporter of FSL and today they showed our community they care about our seniors.  Our team is working quickly to bring meals and food boxes to those that need it most”. 

“It’s important in times of community need that we work together, we are all in this together” said Lead Region President Don Pearson. “We’re grateful for the leadership of organizations like Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley and FSL for its ability to act quickly in caring for our local residents and to support the business personnel that are on the frontlines during this critical time. We hope our support provides a measure of relief as we stand with the community during this challenging situation.” 

This $100,000 donation is part of the $6.25 million in aid Wells Fargo announced earlier this month to support the domestic and global COVID-19 response.

“The Arizona Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley and FSL are delivering critical relief to two high impact communities. We stand together with these organizations in this time of crisis,” said Neal Crapo, Southwest Division Executive for Wells Fargo Commercial Banking and Board Member of the AZ Boys & Girls Clubs.

Bank of America helps clients experiencing coronavirus hardship

Bank of America today announced additional support for its 66 million Consumer and Small Business clients in response to the unprecedented challenges of the coronavirus. The company is offering assistance to clients through its Customer Assistance Program and continuing to provide access to the important financial services on which these clients rely. 

“Our clients rely on us every day and for every aspect of their financial lives,” said Dean Athanasia, president of Consumer and Small Business at Bank of America. “We’re going to continue to provide convenient access to the important services they count on, and the additional assistance and support they need during this difficult period. Our priorities are taking care of our team and each other, and continuing to fulfill our fundamental role serving our clients.” 

Working on a case-by-case basis, as we’ve done in many other situations including the government shutdown and natural disasters, Bank of America’s additional assistance for clients impacted by the coronavirus includes: 

• Consumer and Small Business deposit accounts: clients can request refunds including overdraft fees, non-sufficient funds fees, and monthly maintenance fees.

• Consumer and Small Business credit cards: clients can request to defer payments, refunds on late fees.

• Small business loans: clients can request to defer payments, refunds on late fees.

• Auto loans: clients can request to defer payments, with payments added to the end of the loan.

• Mortgages and home equity: clients can request to defer payments, with payments added to the end of the loan.

• In all of these instances, there will be no negative credit bureau reporting for up-to-date clients.

• We have also paused foreclosure sales, evictions and repossessions. 

All Bank of America teammates who work with clients are trained to identify and assist impacted clients and provide the right support to address their unique needs. Clients facing financial hardships related to the coronavirus are encouraged to visit the company’s Client Resources website and contact the client services team for assistance.

Bank of America understands the critical role financial services plays in the daily lives of individuals and small businesses, and is dedicated to maintaining reliable access to all of our capabilities, whether clients choose to manage their finances digitally, over the phone or in person. 

• Bank of America’s full range of banking solutions is also available through Online Banking and the company’s mobile app. These channels offer convenient and secure ways to check account status, pay bills, transfer/send money and deposit checks at any time and from almost anywhere. Within the mobile app, Erica, the company’s virtual financial assistant, is there to help.

• All of Bank of America’s 4,300 financial centers across the country have an external ATM with 24-hour access; approximately 3,000 (70 percent) have drive-up ATMs; and approximately 400 have drive-up client service representatives available to serve clients. Clients can use Bank of America’s interactive Financial Center and ATM Locator to sort and filter nearby financial centers to match their needs – whether that’s the closest drive-up ATM or financial centers open on Saturdays. Clients can also schedule an appointment to connect in person with one of our specialists.  

• For clients who prefer or need to visit a financial center, the company is taking proactive steps to protect clients and teammates, including enhanced cleaning procedures throughout each day and other measures to limit the risk of exposure, based on recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).