|
FOR
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Carolyn
Marinan, Communications, 612-348-5969
$2 million to support food security
The board allocated $2 million of CARES Act funding to support expenses for food security for Hennepin County residents impacted by COVID-19.
The economic hardships as a result of COVID-19 have created ever-increasing and sustained demands on organizations providing perishable and non-perishable food items, and culturally appropriate food.
Food banks, churches, mosques, non-profit organizations and community organizations would be eligible to apply. Awards range from $7,000 to $50,000 depending on the size of the community served, specific food needs, etc.
$3 million to reduce backlog at service centers
The board allocated $3 million of CARES Act funding to help reduce the backlog at county licensing service centers caused by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Funding will be used to:
- Modify spaces consistent with safety plans at Brookdale, North Minneapolis Hub and Ridgedale, and potentially an additional satellite location
- Hire additional limited duration staff and provide those staff with appropriate PPE and cleaning supplies
- Provide additional technology including an online payment system, electronic locker system, and chat/instant messaging functionality for the county’s website
Library reopening plan
The board approved a COVID-19 library reopening plan for 32 of Hennepin County’s 41 libraries in 2020.
Libraries will continue the reintroduction of limited in-person services that meet the county’s standards for safe, sustainable service. Upcoming phases include expanded curbside pickup, expanded book returns, computer use by appointment, and grab-and-go services that accommodate short duration visits.
Additional small business relief
The board allocated $900,000 of CARES Act funding to support multiple small business relief strategies.
Funding will provide:
- Administrative support to process applications received for Hennepin County small business assistance as quickly as possible
- Culturally specific outreach and navigation assistance to ensure more equitable access to funds
- Assistance to business districts to support marketing, provide equipment and supplies, and help create public spaces that adhere to physical distancing guidelines
- Support for the Business Advisory Council
With this round of funding, Hennepin County has now designated a total of $25.9 million of CARES Act funding for small businesses.
Supporting youth impacted by COVID-19
Educational services and support
The board allocated $2.5 million of CARES Act funding to recruit staff that will work with youth involved in county systems, such as child welfare and corrections, to:
- Provide education planning, monitoring, and coaching support tailored to individual developmental needs
- Coordinate with school district staff, child welfare, Department of Community Corrections and Rehabilitation, Be@School staff, and related professionals
- Arrange for other needed services
- Build problem-solving and self-advocacy skills
- Recognize and develop available support networks and be a resource for parents/caregivers
- Provide individualized online tutoring services
Summer programs and sports
The board allocated $2 million of CARES Act funding to support organizations that provide summer youth programs and organized youth sports. Funding will be used for facility adaptations, signage, equipment, technology, supplies, cleaning, and personal protective equipment to help comply with public health measures.
The board designated $1 million to support summer youth programs on June 11.
Updated board meeting calendar
View the updated 2020 board meeting calendar, as amended during Tuesday’s board meeting.
Current and archival board meetings, agendas and minutes are available at hennepin.us/boardmeetings.
Look for more news on the Hennepin County website at hennepin.us/news.
Discover how we're making a difference in our communities at hennepin.us/stories.
|
