The United Way of Central Iowa has announced that it recently invested more than $518,000 in 44 nonprofit partners across Polk, Dallas and Warren counties that have been negatively affected by the coronavirus pandemic. According to a news release, it’s the first distribution from $1.1 million planned for coronavirus relief this year. It’s also included in the total investment of $21.5 million United Way of Central Iowa plans to distribute to the community for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2021. According to the news release, a survey conducted by United Way of Central Iowa showed that 24% of programs administered by its nonprofit partners are operating over 100% capacity, 74% are operating with modifications, and 55% have ongoing unmet needs as a result of the pandemic. The $518,000 investment will help support the needs of United Way partners in the areas of return-to-learn; essential needs such as housing, food and legal services; mental health; safety and health; and technology. “Nonprofit organizations have responded to increased community needs by modifying programs, shifting to focus on needs that are more immediate and urgent, and sometimes developing entirely different service delivery models to creatively reach those who are most vulnerable in our community,” Renee Miller, chief community impact officer, said in the release.