As the commerce of our nation struggles to recover from the tight grip of the coronavirus pandemic, many are finding themselves suddenly unable to provide for themselves and their families. During times of uncertainty and crisis, people come together to support one another. With greater than 12% of our state’s workforce seeking unemployment and businesses continuing to close, paying for food, rent, and utilities has become difficult –if not impossible for many in our communities. In response to this unprecedented event, we established the DSST COVID Family Relief Fund to provide food and rent assistance to families impacted by the economic devastation caused by the pandemic.

In April, we partnered with the Denver Metro Emergency Food Network to provide safe, free, prepared meals delivered to DSST families in need.  To date, we have delivered meals to over 200 families since the launch of the program with meal deliveries continuing through the beginning of June.

While this was an important first step for the DSST COVID Family Relief Fund, we know many of our families are continuing to feel the financial pressures associated with the unforeseen crisis. Today, we are launching Phase 2 of the fund to assist our families with rent and/or utility payments. DSST has collaborated with Focus Points Family Resource Center to help coordinate rent and utility payments for our families in addition to connecting them to important resources to support them through this difficult time. 

While we have raised funds to support our families, our resources are limited which will require us to prioritize our support for those with the greatest need. For this reason, we are opening the application window starting Monday, May 18 and closing at 5pm on Friday, May 22. The DSST Relief Fund Committee will review all applications and notify recipients on Thursday, May 28. 

Families are encouraged to apply here. Use password DSSTfamilies.