Sentry foundation donates $200K to United Way of Portage County for COVID relief
For the City Times
STEVENS POINT – The Sentry Insurance Foundation announced on May 6 that it is donating $200,000 to United Way of Portage County, as part of a $1.07 million commitment to organizations across the country for COVID relief support.
The mutual insurer said that its efforts are focused on making a direct impact at the community level, with donations to local United Way organizations across the country, as well as making contributions in honor of customers who have adjusted their operations in response to the changing needs of the country.
“At Sentry, we’re committed to helping those we serve get through this very difficult time,” said Pete McPartland, chairman of the board, president, and CEO of Sentry, and chairman of the Sentry Foundation. “We also understand help is needed at the heart of our communities. By partnering with local organizations – from United Way to other community groups – we hope to lift up our communities and work together to overcome the obstacles we face.”
The foundation’s donation to United Way of Portage County is one of 15 donations to local United Way organizations where Sentry employees live and work, as well Maui, the home of the Sentry Tournament of Champions. An additional matching program encourages employees to join the company in supporting their communities.
Last year, Sentry and its employees raised $1.215 million for the United Way of Portage County, a campaign in which more than 90 percent of associated participated.
In the past few weeks, across the country the United Way has seen a more than 200 percent increase in calls from people looking for food, financial assistance, and housing.
“We’re grateful for Sentry’s continued support as the community faces this extraordinary hardship,” said Sue Wilcox, United Way of Portage County executive director. “Their donation will assist individuals and families disproportionately impacted by the physical and financial consequences of COVID-19. This is a gift that will change lives at a time when it is needed most.”