$429.5 Million in CARES Act in Ohio

The state of Ohio is providing $429.5 million in Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act funds. This COVID relief fund will be available to individuals, families, small businesses, restaurants and bars, hospitals, institutions of higher education, artistic organizations, and non-profit organizations seeking monetary assistance during these unprecedented times.

“Providing financial support to small businesses, the arts, and non-profits will help them keep the doors open and Ohioans employed. For Ohioans in need, this assistance will help them stay in their homes, which can make all the difference,” said Ohio Governor, Mike DeWine.

The governor created a breakdown to inform Ohioans of the dispersal of funds.

Home Relief Grant

$50 million of the CARES Act funds will be for individuals and families who’ve been significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. If you’re behind or are having trouble paying rent, mortgage, water, sewer, or utility bills you may be eligible for the Home Relief Grant. Individuals whose income is below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines may be eligible to apply as well. Assistance will be provided until December 30, 2020. The state of Ohio and Community Action Agencies will also include back pay from April 1, 2020. Ohioans are encouraged to apply through their local Community Action Agency.

Grant for Small Businesses

Small businesses with under 25 people will receive $125 million in business relief. To help small businesses in Ohio, grants of $10,000 will be provided to create resilience during the era of COVID-19. This funding will only be provided to businesses in need, on a first-come and first-served basis. If eligible, small businesses will be able to compensate employees or contractors, pay rent/mortgage, and take care of other expenses.

“I know from my discussions with small businesses around the state that the package we are announcing today will absolutely save businesses and jobs,” said Lieutenant Governor Husted.

There are 88 counties in Ohio and $44 million will be set aside to ensure availability and eligibility for funding, according to Lt. Gov. Jon Husted.

The Bar and Restaurant Assistance Fund

Restaurants and bars will receive 37.5 million to remain financially stable amid the global pandemic. Through the CARES Act, the Bar and Restaurant Assistance Fund will provide $2,500 assistance payments to people holding an on-premise liquor permit. In addition to bars and restaurants, breweries, distilleries, wineries, casinos, and private clubs may also apply for this relief funding. Businesses are not required to be open to receive monetary assistance, but they are required to have an active liquor license or permit if they are attempting to be funded by the CARES Act.

Non-Profit Reimbursing Relief Grant

Non-profit organizations became more of a necessity for kids, families, and seniors in need during the pandemic. With this Non-Profit Reimbursing Relief Grant, non-profits will be provided with $25 million to help cater to low-income Ohioans that have been greatly affected by the COVID-19 outbreak. To apply, non-profits must explain why they need the funds as well as how they will be using it.

Hospital Funding

The COVID-19 pandemic is impacting rural communities significantly. There has been a record-breaking amount of hospitalizations in Ohio, according to Governor Dewine. To help respond to the ongoing coronavirus crisis and the effect on hospitals, $62 million in CARES Act funding will be provided for children’s hospitals, rural hospitals, and specialty cancer hospitals. This additional assistance will help maintain safety measures and produce more equipment for first responders who are treating COVID-19 patients. “This additional funding will go a long way towards protecting not only those who are recovering throughout our hospitals but also the healthcare workers themselves, resulting in a safer experience for the entire community.” said attorney Charles E. Boyk of Charles E. Boyk Law Offices, LLC.  The finances and resources provided will support the relief for hospitals as well as beneficiaries.

Funding for Higher Education and The Arts

$100 million will be used to support Ohio’s colleges and universities. Mental health care and testing costs for students, faculty, and staff will be expanded to aid with services related to COVID-19 on campuses.

Additionally, $20 million will be used for museums and artists. Other businesses involved in arts are also eligible to receive funds from the CARES Act.

How To Apply

The state of Ohio is dedicated to easing the burden on families and making them succeed during these difficult times. Ohioans can visit BusinessHelp.Ohio.Gov to reach the online application. All funding will be approved by the Ohio Controlling Board.