Fort Worth suburb approves COVID emergency relief up to $5,000 for businesses

Businesses in Benbrook recently received a financial boost from their local government. The city council has approved an emergency grant program, allowing local businesses to receive up to $5,000 in assistance toward mortgage or lease payments.

The Disaster Relief Grant Program was created to assist Benbrook businesses that have been financially impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. Retail, service, and office businesses that are within Benbrook city limits and employ fewer than 100 employees are eligible to apply.

The council action was taken in response to a recommendation from the Benbrook Economic Development Corporation (BEDC) board of directors, which had proposed repurposing the BEDC’s current Storefront Improvement Grant funds for disaster relief.

“The Disaster Relief Grant Program reflects the hometown focus of our city council and EDC board. Benbrook city officials have always been committed to the success of our local businesses, and these grants align with our ongoing efforts to support and retain those businesses,” said Cathy Morris, City of Benbrook Director of Economic Development and Marketing.

The grants do not require a financial match, and are available on a first-come, first-served basis until Sept. 30, or until funds are depleted. The city council approved a corresponding budget adjustment to fund the disaster grant program at $500,000.

“It is our hope that this program will help offset some of the negative impact the COVID-19 pandemic has had on both our business family and our community as a whole,” Morris said. “And while we know many people are struggling now, we are confident we will get through this together.”

This story was originally published May 25, 2020 at 6:00 AM.