Help is on the way for Rush County organizations impacted by the COVID-19 crisis. The Rush County Community Foundation (RCCF) has established the Rush to Help COVID-19 Rapid Relief Fund to assist local organizations addressing immediate needs as well as short- and long-term effects of the outbreak and recovery from the pandemic. (Download the application. For more info email: info@rushcountyfoundation.org)

The RCCF board of directors has approved the use of $25,000 in unrestricted funds to offer support to our local community. Individuals and businesses are also encouraged to donate.

“Amidst a time of uncertainty in our community and throughout the world, the Rush County Community Foundation’s devotion to enriching and enhancing the quality of life in our community remains constant. The RCCF is pleased to establish a fund that provides our community with an opportunity to support each other through one of the most challenging times we’ve faced in recent history,” noted Alisa Winters, RCCF’s executive director.

100% of these gifts will support the Rush County community. Here’s how to help. Donations are being accepted now:

• • Online: DONATE NOW
  • By mail: Rush County Community Foundation, 117 N. Main St., Rushville, IN 46173 (Please write COVID-19 Relief in the memo.)

To meet these needs, please consider these donor advantages from the CARES Act (Corornavirus Aid, Recovery and Economic Security):

• A new “above the line” charitable deduction of up to $300.
• For 2020, the income limit for cash contributions to charity rises to 100% of AGI (from the current 60% AGI limit).
• The repeal of required minimum distributions (RMD) for 2020.
• The tax filing deadline has been moved to July 15, 2020.

Organizations are facing even more challenges than usual as demands for services increase and resources decrease. To ensure dollars reach organizations quickly, a simplified grant application process has been set-up. This will allow RCCF the greatest flexibility in responding to the ever-changing needs of the community during this evolving situation.

“With every challenge comes opportunity, and we recognize that the COVID-19 brings both. Now is our time to come together as a community to help when it is needed most,” Alisa said.

Rush County has united time and again to overcome great challenges. We have no doubt that we will once more and continue to make life better for all.