The MidAmerican Energy Foundation has donated $30,000 to Fort Dodge organizations helping people who are reeling from the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The utility provider’s foundation announced that it has donated $25,000 to the new Disaster Response Fund established last month by the Fort Dodge Community Foundation and United Way.

It has also donated $2,500 to The Lord’s Cupboard.

”The pandemic has put strains on our customers, businesses and nonprofits everywhere,” Kathryn Kunert, the company’s vice president of economic connections and integration, said in a statement announcing the donations.

”We live in the communities we serve and are proud to not only provide the reliable electric and gas service that people need now more than ever, but to support the organizations that are on the frontline meeting other essential needs, such as food security and emotional well-being.”

The Disaster Response Fund was established to enable the Community Foundation and United Way to respond quickly to family needs during the pandemic.

”We anticipate there could be a lot of people trying and struggling to meet their daily needs,” said Randy Kuhlman, the organization’s chief executive officer. ”We need to be prepared for that.”

The organization pledged to provide 50 cents for every dollar donated, up to $80,000. Raising $120,000 was the initial goal.

Donations can be made by sending a check payable to Fort Dodge Community Foundation and United Way/Disaster Response Fund, 24 N. Ninth St., Fort Dodge, IA 50501.