An anonymous Midlander has offered to match all donations to Helping Hands of Midland up to $100,000 to assist the agency in serving those affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

Mary Hardin, executive director of the nonprofit, said they had “virtually no money coming in” after they were forced to temporarily close their thrift store because of the pandemic. She said the store supplied most of the funds for operating expenses and financial assistance.

Hardin received a phone call from a long-time supporter of the charity who is offering to match donations dollar for dollar, she said. She said the donor, who wants to remain anonymous, offered to match up to $100,000.

Hardin said any donations they receive will go toward helping those affected in any way by the coronavirus, with a focus on the unemployed, sick and elderly.  She said the funds could be used to help those in the restaurant and oil industries with rent and utilities, or those who become ill with medical expenses.

Midland is expected to be the hardest-hit city nationwide by a coronavirus recession, according to a report from the Brookings Institute.

Hardin said they have received about $30,000 in donations so far, with $20,000 coming from Excellence in Giving and $10,000 in donors.

To read this press release in its entirety, go to:

 https://www.mrt.com/lifestyles/article/Anonymous-Midlander-will-match-all-donations-to-15152177.php