Wayne County will give a $500 "bonus" to 8,000 eligible workers laid off this month in the restaurant, hospitality fitness and entertainment industries.
It's a response to the state ban through Dec. 20 on restaurant and bar service, as well as to recreation business shutdowns.
"The public health orders were a difficult but necessary step to keep our communities healthy," says County Executive Warren Evans. "It's critical we help to ease the financial burden for those affected."
(Photo: Michael Lucido)
The "Wayne County Cares" initiative run by the Economic Development Department will distribute $4 million in cash cards to qualified applicants who file here by midnight Tuesday (Dec. 15). Payments come from the local government's share of federal CARES Act grants, a national Covid relief program for families and businesses.
Applicants must live in Wayne County and work in food service, a fitness business or entertainment venue, such as a bowling alley, arena, theater or water park. They can't have earned more than $76,265 in 2019.
"The pandemic has been a challenge unlike anything we've experienced in our lifetime," the county executive says in a media release and a two-minute video below. "By using cash cards, we can deliver much-needed relief to workers without logistical barriers or unnecessary overhead. Our goal is to deliver as much support as possible as quickly as possible."
In addition to personal and work information, the digital application asks for two uploaded document scans or photos:
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Last pay stub or 2019 W-2 tax form
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Wayne County residency proof
Accepted documents for the second item are a driver's license, state ID, dated utility bill or insurance document with name and address. "Applications that are missing key documentation that determines eligibility will be automatically disqualified," the county advises.
If more than 8,000 people are eligible, which is expected, recipients will be picked by a randomized selection process.
Other details:
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The county doesn't request or considerimmigration status.
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Cash cards will be mailed, so no bank account is needed.
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Applicants aren't asked to give Social Security Numbers over the phone. (Beware of scammers.)
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Application period ends at midnight Dec. 15.
► Email questions to smallbusiness@waynecounty.com
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