Message to the Public

The rapidly changing economic environment is causing everyone to rethink how best to continue to provide for our deserving community. All of Central Florida has been hurt by the economy; we are all in this together.

The Edyth Bush Charitable Foundation Directors and Staff recognize the many needs facing citizens of Central Florida in this challenging economic environment. The Foundation remains steadfast in our commitment to honor over $3.5 million of current payment obligations from grants approved in previous years to 20 nonprofit agencies.

In addition, we have responded by directing over $670,000 of new funding since September 1, 2008, to organizations which are strategically focused on food, clothing, shelter, employment, and other critical areas of need.

As is our 35 year tradition of “philanthropy beyond check writing”, we are communicating our knowledge, experience, and in-kind resources with nonprofit executives and community leaders to assist them in their work. Foundation Staff is contacting all current grantees to ask how they are doing and what we can do to help.

Although we are not accepting new grant requests at this time, we can:

1. Be a champion and advocate of your work with other funders.

2. Help with independent advice, experience, and in-kind resources.

3. Invite people and organizations to come together to help solve a common problem or concern.

Our Central Florida community has weathered citrus freezes, hurricanes, and economic uncertainty before and we will get through this economic challenge together, stronger, and better.

We encourage nonprofits to contact David Odahowski, President or Deborah Hessler, Corporate Secretary and Program Officer for ways in which the Foundation can help.