During this time of uncertainty caused by COVID-19, we know that many are faced with difficulty. Please see below for assistance within the Toledo area.
Business/Nonprofit
In response to the COVID-19 outbreak, there are financial resources available to small businesses and nonprofits. The Small Business Administration (SBA) Economic Injury Disaster Loan Process has been established through the local Business Development Services at the Toledo Chamber of Commerce. Small businesses are considered organizations with 500 or fewer employees. This program provides low-interest loans to help businesses and nonprofits overcome the temporary loss of revenue. Bill Wersell, from the SBDC, said that this is not a quick solution, and will require documentation. The SBDC is also suggesting that business owners start reaching out to lenders, suppliers, landlords, etc. to defer payments. The SBDC will help businesses as they can. Here is the link. If you have questions, or need assistance with this program, at the bottom of the web page is a place to leave a reply. Put your information in and someone from the SBDC will contact you. You do not have to be a member of the Chamber to access these services.
https://www.toledochamber.com/blog/sba-economic-injury-disaster-loan-process
Workforce Development Needs
Although the OhioMeansJobs Lucas County building is closed to the public, businesses and workers can still receive assistance from staff by phone, email or online.
Companies needing aid are still able to receive help in recruiting workers, managing potential reductions in force, and planning for the weeks ahead. Staff will continue to reach out to employers in an effort to determine their needs, to follow up with on-going projects and provide assistance to companies that may qualify for small business support from the State of Ohio. Employers needing help can call 419-213-3300 or email tforeman@co.lucas.oh.us with a brief explanation of the needed assistance.
Individuals can still receive help by phone from OhioMeansJobs staff or online by visiting www.OhioMeansJobs.com where they can search and apply for jobs, create a resume and explore the various services available. Unfortunately, until the COVID-19 crisis has abated, face-to-face meetings with staff are on hold although individuals needing to drop off paperwork can call their case managers to make suitable arrangements.
Unemployment Benefits
On Sunday, Governor DeWine announced changes to the Ohio Unemployment Benefits will be made. The order from Governor DeWine broadens state policy to clarify that individuals who are quarantined are considered to be unemployed. This also applies to businesses that determine they need to temporarily shut down. The order also waves the one-week waiting period normally required before receipt of benefits. The State does not want to penalize employers by increasing their future taxes. The costs of the benefits will be mutualized over time and they will be waiving penalties for late filing and payments for the duration of the emergency.
Ohioans can file online 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at unemployment.ohio.gov. We encourage people to file online, if possible. However, they also may file by phone at (877) OHIO-JOB (1-877-644-6562) or TTY at (888) 642-8203, Monday through Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m..
Artist Benefits
Local artists in need of support, The Arts Commission has a list of emergency support and funding for artists.
Greater Toledo Community Foundation
The Foundation has established the COVID-19 Response Fund to aid local nonprofits negatively affected by the coronavirus. Details about the grant process can be found at www.toledocf.org. Those who wish to contribute to the fund may do so here: https://toledocf.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/list