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GiveMN, the Minneapolis nonprofit behind Give to the Max Day, has launched a special week of fundraising this week titled #GiveAtHomeMN.

The effort aims to raise funds online for nonprofits and schools at a time when many are seeing an increased need for services but fewer opportunities for fundraising.

As of Tuesday afternoon, the giving platform had raised over $2.3 million through 16,425 donations. The effort continues through Friday.

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz in a Facebook post supporting the initiative said Minnesotans have been known for being generous in their giving.

“During this time of COVID-19 pandemic, it’s more important than ever that we support our nonprofits, those that are out there supporting our communities in so many ways,” Walz said.

People interested in giving can go to givemn.org and search for local charities they wish to support. There are numerous charities from Freeborn County on the site, including the Freeborn County Historical Museum, LIFE Center of Freeborn County, Freeborn County Humane Society, United Way of Freeborn County, Senior Resources of Freeborn County and the Albert Lea Family Y, among others.

Donors making gifts this week will have the chance to have their donations boosted with $68,000 in bonus grants through the Bush Foundation and U.S. Bank.

GiveMN will award 200 $250 grants to randomly chosen organizations every hour through May 8, and donors are encouraged to give often to increase their chances of winning the random drawing for their organizations.

The numerous nonprofit organizations in the community help fill many gaps, and we hope this week can only be the beginning of continued support for them in the months to come.