County accepting applications for relief grants

Covers 2 months of rent or mortgage for affected small businesses

The Yuma County Board of Supervisors has authorized a grant program to distribute $200,000 to small businesses located in the unincorporated areas of Yuma County that were forced to close during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Yuma County Small Business Rent and Mortgage Relief Grant Fund will provide up to two months of rent or mortgage payments by small businesses that were directly affected by Gov. Doug Ducey’s Executive Order 2020-43.

“The Board of Supervisors is committed to helping these businesses that provide so much for Yuma County,” Chairman Tony Reyes said. “This funding will go a long way to provide relief to small businesses and families.”

Modeled after a similar statewide program, the Yuma County fund offers aid to gyms, fitness centers and studios, bars, water parks and movie theaters forced to pause operations by Ducey’s order.

Grants will cover rent and mortgage payments up to a maximum award of $25,000. Priority will be given to businesses with fewer than 50 current employees that are most in need of the funding to meet their rent or mortgage obligations.

The nonprofit organization Local First Arizona is administering the program. Applications can be submitted online at the Local First Arizona portal: https://www.localfirstaz. com/yuma-small-biz-rent. Or for Spanish: https:// www. localfirstaz. com/ subvenciones-hipoteca-para-pequeas-empresas.

An online tool to determine whether a business falls outside incorporated areas is available on the webpage, along with additional information and frequently asked questions. Applications will be accepted through Friday, Oct. 16, but interested businesses are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

A Small Business Relief link can also be found on the Yuma County COVID-19 Update page: https://tinyurl.com/y7jkd9u6.