WESTPORT — A $2,000 COVID-relief grant and 6,500 KN-95 masks were presented to the town Monday, thanks to the generosity of the United Way of Coastal Fairfield County.

The grant money –the third contribution the organization has given to the town since the pandemic began — aims to give emergency assistance for food, rent, utilities and other essential needs to Westport families facing challenges.

“Westport is so grateful for the United Way’s continued partnership and support of programs that meet the needs of our most vulnerable residents,” First Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker said.

According to the UW of CFC, prior to the pandemic, one in every five Westport families were struggling to make ends meet, with the health crisis making things worse. Requests for help are up almost 400% since the pandemic began.

“The grant’s timing couldn’t have been better,” said Elaine Daignault, director of the Department of Human Services, noting that the COVID resurgence has caused further setbacks.

Previously the UW of CFC contributed a number of electronic gift cards to the town to help residents in need, as well as giving grant money to Homes with Hope.

“Our neighbors need our help,” said Tom Green, a UW of CFC board member who lives in Westport, “and many of them are seeking help for the first time in their lives.

“We’re honored to work with the town of Westport — my hometown — to bring help and hope to those who are struggling,” he said.

The United Way of Coastal Fairfield County serves 12 towns in the region, and has provided over $300,00 in funds directly to help people in need since the pandemic began.

“We will overcome this crisis and keep building more equitable and resilient communities, where all our neighbors have the opportunity to thrive,” said Jeff Kimball, CEO of the UW of CFC.

For more information on how to help, visit the United Way of Coastal Fairfield County here.

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