A grant program to help businesses and non-profit organizations adversely affected by the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic was unveiled today by the Potter County Board of Commissioners.
Federal funds provided by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act will be used to cushion the blow of the ongoing public health crisis.
Primary purpose of the program is to provide immediate relief so that small businesses and non-profit organizations can retain employees, continue operations, and remain sustainable. Commissioners Nancy Grupp, Barry Hayman and Paul Heimel recognize the need to inject the money into the local economy as quickly as possible.
“Because these are federal dollars that have been allotted to the county, we’ve been working hard to meet all of the administrative requirements,” said Grupp, board chair. “It is our goal to make this process less cumbersome for the businesses and organizations who need the help now.”
Local applicants could qualify for up to $25,000. Funds can be used for payroll (preference will be given to those applicants that did not receive Paycheck Protection Program or Economic Injury Disaster Loan Funds); rent/mortgage payments; personal protective equipment or other COVID-19 related supplies; and operating expenses.
An online submission process is being put in place to expedite the processing of applications, which will be accepted from 10 a.m. Aug. 3 through 4:30 p.m. Aug. 17. Applications may be submitted by visiting https://arcg.is/1HTmCC. Written applications will also be accepted. For details, contact Potter County Community Development Director Ellen Russell at (814) 274-8290 extension 209. Questions about the program can also be directed to her by phone or by email at erussell@pottercountypa.net.
Detailed program eligibility requirements, including information about the application process, can be found on the county website, pottercountypa.net. Click on “Help for Local Businesses” located in the top right hand corner.
