The town of Dolores is offering grants of up to $5,000 to businesses and nonprofits affected financially by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Dolores Cares Coronavirus Relief Program has $40,000 available from CARES Act funding for the local aid program. The grants do not have to be repaid.
The financial aid can be applied for by organizations within Dolores Town limits. Cortez, Mancos and Montezuma County have similar programs.
Businesses can be reimbursed for anything related to the pandemic, such as costs of hand sanitizer, masks, face shields, gloves, signs, deep cleaners, plastic glass separations, and for new outside seating areas that comply with state restrictions. Receipts are required to show pandemic-related expenses.
“Those costs can really add up, and this program helps to offset them as a way to support local businesses through this difficult time,” said program organizer Susan Lisak, director of the Dolores Chamber of Commerce. “So find those receipts and apply!”
Revenue losses because of COVID-19 business restrictions or closures could also qualify for reimbursement, she said. Profit-loss statements are needed to document revenue losses from a business closing, or being reduced, because of the pandemic or state restrictions.
Utility bills and rent paid when a business was forced to close are also eligible for reimbursement.
“Future costs stemming from the pandemic can be covered as well,” Lisak said.
For example, businesses that plan adjustments because of pandemic restrictions could receive funding for new outdoor patios, heaters and lighting. Estimates of costs need to be included in the application.
Nonprofit organizations also could apply for losses incurred from the pandemic, Lisak said.
For example, the if an event was canceled, the contract salary of an event organizer could get refunded. Or if the event was held, the extra costs of COVID prevention measures could get reimbursed.
Each Dolores business that receives funding through the program also would receive a one-year membership to the Dolores Chamber of Commerce, a $100 value.
Dolores received $80,000 in federal pandemic relief. The town is using half to offset expenses such as improved meeting infrastructure. The other half is available to assist local businesses.
The application deadline is Nov. 30, or until all the money is disbursed. The grant program is a first-come, first-served basis. So far, only one business has applied, Lisak said.
For more information and to apply online, go to www.visitdolores.com. For questions, contact Susan Lisak at (970) 426-9902.
jmimiaga@the-journal.com