After one week, a charitable fundraising effort championed by Mayor-elect Jerry Dyer reached half of its $500,000 goal.

“I can’t thank enough the hundreds of people who have given much-needed resources to these hardworking organizations during this crisis,” Dyer said.

The Give Help Now fund has raised more than $150,000 in direct contributions and additional pledges of more than $100,000 from community members, according to a news release.

Through Thursday, the average donation to Give Help Now was $372.

“To see the community step up to the plate and ensure that the neediest in our community are served is truly awe-inspiring,” said Terra Brusseau, who is in charge of philanthropy for Valley Future, the nonprofit that is administering the donations.

Helping Nonprofits

Dyer announced the fundraising effort to help those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The money raised will go to four main nonprofits — The Central California Food Bank, Poverello House, Fresno Rescue Mission, and the Marjaree Mason Center. However, any nonprofit that provides emergency food and shelter is eligible for funding.

Funds raised will be matched up to $500,000. Five anonymous donors contributed the seed money.

“Even while we are apart, sheltered in our homes, our community is closer together than ever. But we’re not done yet and we need to keep pushing forward!” Dyer said.

The campaign concludes May 2, with the money to be distributed shortly thereafter.

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