Small businesses such as restaurants, bars, fitness centers, stores, and service businesses, especially those without any investor backing, require immediate assistance during the COVID-19 crisis to survive. The situation is dire and many will close for good if the Orange County supervisors and Mayors of cities do not come forward with a tangible plan for financial help. Rents in Orange County are some of the highest in the country and those along other fixed expenses have to be paid while there is no revenue coming in. It is a critical situation and barely salvageable for a very brief period for the businesses (most with less than 10/20 employees). As predicted this situation can continue for months leaving only chain operations and large companies standing while the small/ family owned businesses  will cease to exist. Those employed in these businesses, the suppliers, producers will all be left without a source of income and dependent on public assistance.

We as communities need to rally behind our small operators who are a hallmark of our communities.  Some of us have been a part of the  community for three decades or more and are feeling hopeless.  Please step forward to help without tying it up in bureaucratic red tape as there is not enough time. Loans of $75,000 with 0% interest are being provided to small businesses in New York. Similar loans and assistance with rent abatement will allow many small operators to stay afloat.  Due to valid health concerns, many agencies are closed and some local Chambers of Commerce or City Officials are passing the buck, directing us to official websites.

Many families will run out of funds within a week or two and will be unable to pay for rents, mortgages, medical insurance, medication expenses, utilities, and food. We want to keep operating to serve the community once the situation normalizes and provide jobs and earn a dignified living.

Monetary assistance is needed NOW.