Nonprofit redirecting grant funds to relief

A Langley nonprofit dedicated to economic and community development has decided to direct its funds towards providing relief during COVID-19.

The Goosefoot Community Fund’s annual grant program has been canceled, with an emergency grants program taking its place.

Last year, Goosefoot’s grant program awarded $101,000 to 21 non-profit organizations serving the South Whidbey community.

Goosefoot’s board of directors have voted this year to select recipients dealing directly with the COVID-19 crisis.

“Goosefoot’s initial focus is on providing food security to the children, elderly and families in need in our community,” Executive Director Sandy Whiting said in an email.

Good Cheer and Island Senior Resources are the first two organizations to receive these emergency grants from Goosefoot. Good Cheer Food Bank was awarded $25,000, and Island Senior Resources $20,000.

Whiting added, “They both rely on the income from their thrift stores, and these stores are now closed.”

Goosefoot’s emergency fund program has a total of $125,000.