Mattoon, IL – On July 23rd, staff and board members from the Community Foundation of East Central Illinois (CFECI) traveled to Coles County to deliver emergency relief grants totaling $18,000 to four local nonprofits and one business-serving organization actively responding to the Mattoon Lake water crisis. These grants supported nonprofits that were actively involved in the distribution of food, water, and economic relief efforts in one of the hardest-hit areas in Coles County.
The Salvation Army of Mattoon – $8,000
The CFECI team’s first stop was The Salvation Army, where they presented an $8,000 grant to support the organization’s food pantry and assistance program. Longtime leader at The Salvation Army and Coles County resident Cari Shepard shared demand reached record highs, and pantry shelves were running dangerously low.
“This support will help serve around 800 families,” said Envoy Shepard. “It will also allow us to purchase shelf-stable milk, something we haven’t been able to distribute for over six months.”
Mattoon Chamber of Commerce – $6,000
At the Mattoon Chamber of Commerce, CFECI awarded a $6,000 grant to complement a $27,000 contribution from the Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation. These funds allowed the Chamber to assist 30 local businesses, including 22 restaurants impacted by the water crisis.
“The generosity we’ve seen from business owners has been incredible,” said Executive Director Ed Dowd. “Some even passed up their grant so others in greater need could receive support. Others donated funds to help their peers.”
Dowd encouraged residents to dine locally:
“Our restaurants are open, ready, and grateful for your support.”
Lytle Park – $2,000
The CFECI team also stopped at Lytle Park, a central hub for water relief efforts during the crisis. Though the pool was closed, the Park District staff—led by Executive Director Jacob Fryman—quickly mobilized to serve as a water distribution point.
For six days straight, they served thousands of families—up to 3,000 vehicles in a single day.
“Their response was nothing short of heroic,” said CFECI Board Member Jacob Dickey. “They lost count of how many people waited in line most days, but they never lost their commitment to the community.”
Sarah Bush Lincoln Memorial Hospital / Peace Meals – $2,000
CFECI’s final stop was at the Sarah Bush Lincoln Memorial Hospital to present a $2,000 grant supporting the Peace Meals program. This vital service not only delivers meals to seniors across the region but also provides clean drinking water to homebound residents during the crisis.
“For many recipients, Peace Meals is their only daily human interaction,” said Kimberly Lockhart, who accepted this gift on behalf of Peace Meals. “It’s not just a meal—it’s a lifeline. We’re honored to help keep that lifeline strong.”
Collective Impact & Community Gratitude
With CFECI’s $18,000 in contributions added to the Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation’s $27,000 grant, a total of $45,000 was allocated directly to local organizations serving Mattoon residents during this water crisis.
“Coles County has shown incredible resilience and compassion,” said Caitlyn Kurtz, Director of the Center for Nonprofit Excellence. “These grants are a reflection of our belief in the power of local people and local solutions.”
“We’re proud to support the boots-on-the-ground organizations making a real difference,” added Allison Winter, CFECI President & CEO.
CFECI extends deep thanks to everyone who donated, shared, volunteered, or simply paid attention during this time of need. This support made the Foundation’s swift response possible.
To learn more about the Community Foundation’s emergency response efforts or to contribute to continued recovery, visit www.cfeci.org.