The Blue Cross of Idaho Foundation for Health is donating an initial $100,000 to the COVID-19 Response Fund for Idaho, a new charitable fund that will provide support for low-income, vulnerable Idahoans, and families affected by the COVID-19 virus.

The COVID-19 Response Fund for Idaho was established this week by three Idaho nonprofits — Idaho Community Foundation, Idaho Nonprofit Center and United Way of Treasure Valley. Donations to this fund will be dispersed statewide through organizations who work with people affected by the virus, including those enduring economic hardship as a result of lost work. Economically vulnerable people affected by closures of services on which they rely also will benefit from donations to the fund.

“Blue Cross of Idaho is proud to be an Idaho-based company, serving our friends, family and neighbors,” said Charlene Maher, President and CEO of Blue Cross of Idaho. “We believe that people matter most and are proud to contribute to the response fund. I encourage other state and community leaders to join us in supporting our fellow Idahoans.”

Donations to the COVID-19 Response Fund for Idaho can be made online at www.idahocf.org/covid19. Donations will fund grants that are meant to fill gaps not covered by efforts being put in place by public institutions, including cities, the state or federal government.