SALISBURY — Rowan County United Way Executive Director Jenny Lee says the state’s entrance into Phase 1 of “reopening the state” doesn’t eliminate the needs many local families are facing.

“Even through we are in the process of reopening business, there will still be many that cannot return to work or work limited hours,” Lee said. “Generating additional funds will aid us in supporting agencies for the coming months as they provide services to those in compromised situations.”

Lee and the United Way are raising money for the agency’s COVID-19 Relief Fund, which is accepting applications from local 501(c)(3)s that will use money to help locals with food insecurity, medical expenses and housing needs as well as disruptions in business for the nonprofits.

Her encouragement for more continued donations comes as the agency saw just $1,055 raised since the most recent update on Thursday and as the agency says it plans to announce its next round of grantees on Tuesday.

To date, the COVID-19 Relief Fund has raised $135,627. On top of that, the Rowan County United Way, has reallocated up to $120,000 in its own internal funding for COVID-19 relief-related grants. In its first round of grant announcements, five nonprofits received about $40,000. The next round includes five more applicants who have not yet received funding.

Nonprofits can obtain more information about applying by visiting rowanunitedway.org or calling the office at 704-633-1802.

Anyone interested in making a donation can do so at rowanunitedway.org, text the word “RELIEF” to 704-286-1011 or mail a contribution to the United Way at 131 West Innes St., Suite 201, Salisbury, N.C. 28144. Those mailing donations should address them to the attention of the COVID-19 Relief Fund. Those making a donation online should include a note in the comment section saying it’s for the COVID-19 Relief Fund.

The most recent donations include:

• John Doherty, $25

• Anonymous, $180

• Ann Sides, $50

• Darryel and SeLana Scism, $100

• Rowan Committee Colonial Dames, $500

• Annie Kepley, $50

• Timothy and Lisa Kluttz, $50

• Perry and Lori Bernhardt, $100

• Harold Buchanan, $100

• Lyn Wilson, $100

• Anonymous, $150