Wilco Forward Program To Support Local Food Banks

WILLIAMSON COUNTY, TX — The Williamson County Commissioners Court unanimously approved allocating $500,000 to support local food banks through the Wilco Forward Program, officials announced.

The allocation was funded by CARES Act funds on Tuesday. Organizations that work as a 501(c)(3) non-profit and provide food and other services to community members can apply to be reimbursed for their increased expenses and receipts accrued due to the COVID-19 pandemic, officials explained. The non-profits eligible will receive a one-time check of up to $50,000, depending on the need of the entity. Applications have been distributed to area food banks who have until Friday, Dec. 11, to apply.

The commissioners court also approved an additional $406,000 to support the YMCA with its financial assistance for families, virtual learning program, and staffing for childcare, among other needs. Since Tuesday, the Wilco Forward Program has assisted several entities by providing reimbursement checks.

• Under Phase II, a total of nearly $1.1 million has been given to city governments, and more than $85,300 to Emergency Services Districts.
• Under Phase III, more than $1.6 million has gone towards community assistance payments provided by The Caring Place, the Round Rock Area Serving Center and the Salvation Army. The program has helped 1,624 families.
• Under Phase IV, a total of more than $9 million has been provided between the independent school districts, charter, and private schools.

For more information on the Wilco Forward Program visit the Williamson County website.