Michigan relief grant for workers at restaurants, other venues affected by COVID-19 -- what to know

Gov. Whitmer announces employee assistance grants

A restaurant closed during the pandemic. (Photo by Richard Bord/Getty Images) (Richard Bord, 2020 Richard Bord)

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan has announced the release of employee assistance grants for restaurant employees and entertainment and recreational venue workers who have been financially hurt by COVID-19.

READ: 13 takeaways from Gov. Whitmer’s COVID update Wednesday (Jan. 13)

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Who is eligible?

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said the program includes specific types of workers whose employment was negatively affected by COVID-19.

Employees at entertainment and recreational venues, as well as restaurant workers, are included, she said.

“This grant program puts dollars in the pockets of Michiganders who work in hospitality and entertainment, recreation, accommodation and food service sectors, as well as the gyms and fitness centers,” Whitmer said.

Specifically, workers who were furloughed, laid off or lost their jobs are eligible, as are workers whose hours were reduced because of the virus.

Why is are these grants being offered?

These employee assistance grants are designed to help offset some of the financial loss for people struggling due to COVID-19.

“These Michiganders have made great sacrifices and continue to make great sacrifices as we fight COVID-19,” Whitmer said.

Grant details

Whitmer said this is a one-time grant for anyone eligible.

The payment will be up to $1,650.

How to apply

Anyone who wants to apply for an employee assistant grant must do so in the 10-day window between Jan. 15 through Jan. 25.

“Please don’t wait to apply for the grant program, which opens up Friday,” Whitmer said.

Click here to view more details about how to apply for the grants.

Timeline

Applications will be processed through February, Whitmer said.

Payments will be issued to eligible recipients in March.


About the Author:

Derick is the Lead Digital Editor for ClickOnDetroit and has been with Local 4 News since April 2013. Derick specializes in breaking news, crime and local sports.