Westland CARES, a series of three grant programs designed to provide relief to those impacted negatively by the COVID-19 pandemic, began accepting applications last week. Funding for these programs was provided through special CDBG-CV funding authorized by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.
The Department of Community Development will manage two grant funds, established by the program:
Westland Rent/Mortgage Relief Fund - a program to assist low to moderate income families whose income has been negatively affected by COVID-19.
The city will provide up to 3 months of emergency rent or mortgage payments for households whose income has been significantly affected by COVID-19 due to job loss or medical costs for COVID-19 care.
Westland PPE Fund - a program to provide personal protection equipment (PPE) (masks, gloves, sanitizer) to vulnerable Westland residents and organizations that demonstrate the inability to secure the needed item(s). Priority will be based on the most vulnerable: elderly, people with disabilities, people experiencing homelessness, employers of essential activities (i.e., less than 10 employees, non-profit organizations), caregivers for someone with COVID-19.
Applications for both of these programs will be reviewed on a first-come, first-serve basis and will be accepted indefinitely, until funds are exhausted. For questions or assistance, call (734)793-9390.
The third fund will be managed by the Department of Economic Development:
Westland Small Business Relief Fund - a program designed to minimize and avoid job loss caused by business closures related to COVID-19 and social distancing. The fund will provide short-term working capital assistance (grants) to small businesses to enable retention of jobs held by low and moderate income persons.
Applications for this program will be accepted through June 17. Grants will be awarded by a merit based system, with no determinations being made until the initial submission window is closed.
For questions or assistance, email aberman@cityofwestland .com.
“We know individuals and business owners are struggling and our team has worked very hard to get these programs up and running quickly to provide relief quickly,” commented Mayor William R. Wild. “The establishment of these programs will allow us to reach a diverse makeup of individuals in need, while maximizing the overall economic impact for the community.”
Applications for all programs are available at www.cityofwestland.com
Inquiries can also be sent to westlandcares@cityofwestland.com.
