Child Care Operational Relief Grant Program Launches

Governor Scott and the Department for Children and Families on Friday announced the launch of the Operational Relief Grant Program, funded with $12 million from the federal CARES Act, to help child care programs offset pandemic-related expenses and losses. The application is open now through August 26th and award notices are anticipated by September 11th. Eligible applicants include child care and after school programs, summer day camps, parent child centers and agencies that serve as fiscal agents for local Children’s Integrated Services.

Local Government Expense Reimbursement Grant Program Opens

Governor Scott and the Agency of Administration announced Friday that the Local Government Expense Reimbursement Grant Program for Vermont municipalities is now open. Eligible expenses to cover some costs incurred due to COVID-19 include, but are not limited to:

• Hazard pay
• Supplies and equipment
• Sanitation
• Facility alterations
• Overtime compensation
• Redirection of staff for first-response need

Economic Recovery Grants Program Expansion

Eligibility for the Economic Recovery Grants administered by ACCD and the Department of Taxes for Vermont businesses negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic has been expanded to include businesses with at least one W-2 employee – including those who are an owner. This change refers to S corps, C corps, and LLCs. Businesses who have experienced a 50% or greater drop in total revenue in any one-month period from March 1, 2020 through July 31, 2020, when compared with the same month in 2019, are encouraged to apply.

Forest Economy Stabilization Grants Available

The Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation (FPR) has opened the application for the Forest Economy Stabilization Grant program. Qualifying businesses must meet eligibility criteria and grant award calculations will be based on actual demonstrated economic harm during the pandemic. A recording of an informational webinar for applicants will be posted on FPR’s website and FAQs are available.

Open Farm Week is Next Week

The 6th annual Open Farm Week is August 10 - 16. This year's offerings will focus on events appropriate for the current pandemic-related guidelines: tours, picnics, farm trails, virtual/online events (workshops, guided tastings, etc.), social media posts/stories, and perhaps some other creative ideas. Vermonters can support local farmers at dozens of events scheduled across the state.

Business Impact

ACCD wants to hear from all Vermont businesses impacted by the response to the COVID-19 virus. Please share these impacts via the ACCD Business Impact Form, which will help us assess the full impact as we work toward solutions.