County offering economic relief grants

ELLIS COUNTY – As COVID-19 has ravaged not only people’s lives but businesses as well, Ellis County has announced it will be offering Economic Relief Grants to qualifying healthcare agencies, nonprofits/social service agencies, and local small businesses.

“We are living in extraordinary times,” said Ellis County Judge Todd Little. “The COVID-19 response has caused organizations across the county to act swiftly and expand their capacity of services while only receiving a limited supply of funding.”

Last week, Ellis County launched the relief grant established as a partnership between county government and the qualifying businesses highlighted above in hopes of assisting in the fight against the effects of COVID-19. 

The grant is intended to further stimulate local economic recovery, reduce unemployment, and assist qualifying groups by providing additional financial resources to entities across Ellis County. 

“This community truly is one to be celebrated,” Little added. 

“Since the beginning of this battle against COVID-19, we have seen neighbors working hand in hand to ensure the future success of our home.” 

On June 30, The Ellis County Commissioners’ Court approved the authorization for Little to sign the certification form of the Coronavirus Relief Fund under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security act in the amount of $3,460,930.

This funding has supported Ellis County and associated jurisdictions in COVID-19 mitigation efforts.

To reduce the burdens on Ellis County citizens and kickstart immediate economic recovery, the Commissioners’ Court approved the formation of a citizen comprised committee on Sept. 22 to review and allocate $1 million of relief funds in the form of grants to these three qualifying groups throughout Ellis County. 

ERG is now accepting applications through Jan. 8, 2021.

For additional resources and information visit https://co.ellis.tx.us/1008/Economic-Relief-Grant-ERG.