Des Plaines offers CARES Act assistance to residents, businesses

With increased financial burdens caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the city of Des Plaines has secured funding via the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act).

The city of Des Plaines has partnered with the Center of Concern to process applications and distribute financial assistance to residents with low and moderate incomes, as well as small businesses with 20 or fewer full-time employees that have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

"With unprecedented requests for services as a result of the pandemic, we are truly grateful for strong community partnerships such as the city of Des Plaines, which allows us to address unmet resident needs and increased hardships. With so many businesses adversely impacted by the pandemic, we are grateful to partner together to help businesses return to pre-pandemic operations," said Center of Concern Executive Director John McNabola.

The Center of Concern will facilitate assessments to determine program eligibility for residents who live within incorporated Des Plaines. Residents may qualify for up to six months of rent or mortgage debt and utility assistance.

Additionally, the Center of Concern will provide information for qualifying individuals and families with continued case management and connections to other community resources.

Each small business can receive up to $15,000. Funds can cover expenses such as employee wages, rent/mortgage/utility subsistence payments, workspace and/or equipment modifications due to social distancing, and expenses tied to personal protective equipment (PPE).

Additionally, funds may be used to reimburse the costs of business interruption caused by required closures and/or limited operations due to the pandemic.

To apply for assistance, or to learn more about available programs and services, visit centerofconcern.org or call Community Support Specialist Schoen Aldrich at (847) 701-4705.