OHIO, USA — Editor's note: The video above is from Gov. Mike DeWine's Oct. 28, 2020 press briefing.
As the state of Ohio continues it's fight against the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic, small businesses, restaurants and bars have been gravely impacted by preventative health measures.
In an effort to help Ohioans cope with the economic impacts of COVID-19, Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Gov. Jon Husted announced, in a press briefing Wednesday, that three additional relief programs have been approved through the funding of the CARES Act.
“At Development, we are focused on supporting businesses, communities, and Ohio families through this crisis,” said Lydia Mihalik, Director of the Development Services Agency. “Small businesses are an important part of the fabric of life in Ohio, and we want them to be with us in the years to come. We also want to ease the burdens of Ohio families. When our communities are strong and healthy, all Ohioans can succeed.”
The applications for the relief program will be accepted beginning Monday, November 2 at 10 a.m.
The Small Business Relief Grant will allocate $125 million to small business with 25 or less employees. The funding will be used to cover a variety of expenses including mortgage or rent payments; utility payments; salaries, wages, or compensation for employees and contractors; business supplies or equipment; and other costs. The funds will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
To ensure funding is evenly distributed throughout the state, $500,000 will be set aside for businesses in each of the state's 88 Counties. Once depleted, businesses will have the opportunity to apply for grants from the general pool of funds.
Relief efforts for bars and restaurants, that have been unable to fully utilize heir liquor permit, is also being addressed with the allocation of $38.7 million.
“Bars, restaurants, and other locations where people go to gather have been substantially impacted by this pandemic,” said Sherry Maxfield, Director of the Department of Commerce “This assistance fund gives them an opportunity to pay their rent, buy important supplies, or take care of other business-related expenses with minimal strings attached.”
The Development Services Agency also will allocate $50 million to 47 Community Action Agencies to provide rent, mortgage, and water and/or sewer assistance to Ohioans in need. The Home Relief Grant will help eligible Ohioans pay outstanding rent, mortgage, and water and/or sewer utilities to avoid shutoff, foreclosure, or eviction.
Ohio households behind on their bills with an annual income at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines will be eligible for assistance.
For more information on each program, click here.