Chester County Nonprofits Can Apply Now For CARES Act Grants

CHESTER COUNTY, PA — Chester County nonprofits can apply immediately for a part of $3.5 million approved for organizations helping in recovery from the impact of COVID-19.

The Chester County Commissioners approved the allocation of $3.5 million to help Chester County nonprofits recover from the impact of COVID-19, they announced Friday, stating the county recognizes "the importance of the nonprofit sector to the high quality of life throughout the region."

The Restore Chester County: Nonprofit Innovation and Resiliency Fund will be administered by the Chester County Community Foundation, with input from regional funders, the United Way, and Chester County government departments.

This funding is made possible by the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable organizations operating within Chester County since at least 2017 are encouraged to apply for funding.

This is a competitive, time-sensitive grants process, commissioners explained. Grant decisions will be made weekly by the Community Foundation, on an ongoing basis.

"Our Commissioners understand the role of nonprofits in a vital community, and they have the sophistication to obtain CARES Act funding before it is depleted. We are extremely fortunate here in Chester County to have such dedicated and savvy public servants," said Community Foundation President and CEO Karen Simmons.

County Commissioners Chair Marian Moskowitz explained the type of nonprofits that may be eligible for funds.

"This fund helps nonprofits deal with COVID-19 impacts on so many levels. Nonprofits serving heightened basic needs such as food, clothing and shelter can get more support. Nonprofits serving seniors and youths can get help reshaping programs. Environmental nonprofits experiencing higher outdoor usage levels as a result of COVID-19 can benefit."

Moskowitz added, "This will help arts, culture and historic preservation nonprofits figure out how to get up and running again, to safely bring back audiences, attract tourism, and engage and inspire all of us."

High priority will be given to nonprofits that:

• provide clear evidence of how they aim to/are reshaping their programs, services, and administration in order to safely provide services and thrive in light of COVID-19 impacts;
• have substantial costs to comply with COVID-19 public health requirements and
• serve a diverse constituency, and are governed and managed by diverse leadership.

Chester County Community Foundation's website provides grant guidelines, and is the means for submitting applications. Email questions and applications to: grants@chescocf.org.