The City of Hoquiam has distributed $57,200 in grants to businesses impacted by COVID-19.

The money for the grants came from the city’s $384,200 in federal CARES Act coronavirus assistance funds and was distributed to 26 local businesses, the city announced Tuesday. Funds can be used to cover costs including rent, utilities, supplies, inventory, and other operating expenses.

The grant application period was brief, announced Nov. 23 and due Nov. 25. The city partnerned with Greater Grays Harbor Inc. for the application process.

“It was a real push to get these applications processed and grants issued and I want to personally thank Hoquiam Finance Director Corri Schmid, City Administrator Brian Shay and Greater Grays Harbor CEO Lynnette Buffington and her team for putting in the time on the weekends and after hours to make it happen,” said Mayor Ben Winkelman. “It may not seem like a lot for some businesses facing tough times, but every dollar counts.”

“With every round of relief we assist in administering our appreciation for the local establishment of Grays Harbor County continues to grow,” said Buffington. “We at Greater Grays Harbor Inc. will continue to advocate for the health of the local economy because we believe in the value of small business.”

Winkelman continued, “I am urging our citizens to shop local and keep your dollars invested in our community. It means so much to the future of small businesses in Hoquiam and all across the country. Support the local businesses who employ your family, friends and neighbors and who are usually there to provide services and support to community events when times are better. We all need each other.”

The next round of state small business relief grant applications was due to open Dec. 1. More information on this grant can be found at this link via the Washington State Department of Commerce website, http://startup.choosewashingtonstate.com/working-washington-round-3/.