As we approach the end of December, we look forward to the new year with a mixture of optimism and concern – optimism about spreading vaccines and concerns about the serious challenges that will unfortunately follow us into the first months of 2021. Covid-19 cases are on the rise and we feel it in our hospitals, our homes and in the local economy. Schools remain closed across most of Washington state, and despite the heroic work of educators, research tells us that distance learning can't replace in-person instruction. This is creating a troubling learning loss. While these challenges are daunting, every day at Microsoft we see successes around the world that give us hope. We believe that our region can and should continue to pull together, support our neighbors and pursue a path that restarts the activities that fuel our economy, develop our children and enrich our daily lives.

As our community heads into the 10th month of Covid-related shutdowns and restrictions, we must move swiftly to reignite the local economy and ensure the safety of those who are key to the region's recovery. As part of Microsoft's continued commitment to the community that we call home, we recently announced an additional commitment of more than $110 million towards our region's recovery and, when the current Covid surge is under control, the safe reopening of its schools. To read more about what Microsoft is pledging, visit Microsoft on the Issues.

Visit Microsoft on The Issues for a front-row seat to see how Microsoft is thinking about the future of sustainability, accessibility, cybersecurity and more. Check back regularly to watch videos, and read blogs and feature stories to see how Microsoft is approaching the issues that matter most. Subscribe for the latest at Microsoft on the Issues.

Every October since 1983 Microsoft employees have participated in a month of giving ­– a chance to contribute to the community – in the Puget Sound region that Microsoft calls home, and in several of the countries where Microsoft has an office.

In 2019, 77% of U.S. employees participated in what is called the Giving Campaign, by giving their time and by providing cash donations matched by the company. To read three stories of the individuals and organizations involved, and the impact the program has on the community, visit Microsoft on the Issues.

Nearly two years into Microsoft's Affordable Housing Initiative, it has become apparent that in order to close the affordable housing gap there needs to be fresh, innovative approaches to housing finance – in Washington and nationwide. Despite continued rapid growth in greater Seattle, the community is not providing enough housing that is affordable for people who live here – particularly low- and middle-income households. For example, between 2011 and 2019 jobs grew 24% while housing only grew 12%, and, while median household income increased by 34% median, housing prices increased by 78%. This challenge is compounded by the deep economic crisis of Covid-19, and the historical inequity faced by communities of color.

Microsoft announced a set of investments totaling $65 million (of the company's overall $750 million commitment) to help support the creation of more than 1,000 new affordable housing units for greater Seattle. To read more about the investments, visit Microsoft On The Issues.

Visit Microsoft on The Issues for a front-row seat to see how Microsoft is thinking about the future of sustainability, accessibility, cybersecurity and more. Check back regularly to watch videos, and read blogs and feature stories to see how Microsoft is approaching the issues that matter most. Subscribe for the latest at Microsoft on the Issues.