As part of the City of Tucson’s CARES Act funds, Mayor and Council approved $3 million to be distributed to workers and families negatively impacted by COVID-19.
Through the We Are One | Somos Uno Resiliency Fund, the grant program will prioritize individuals and families who have not yet received any state or federal COVID-19 relief money and those whose income does not reach the self-sufficiency standard for Pima County. The announcement of newly available financial assistance for workers and families comes days after the expansion of federal unemployment benefits expired.
The Women’s Foundation of Southern Arizona (WFSA) will administer the grant program and begin accepting applications Wednesday, August 19 at 10 a.m., through Wednesday, September 9 at 5 p.m. “The pandemic has affected Tucsonans in many different ways, and while a large number of people have been able to receive federal aid - such as stimulus checks - others are struggling to meet basic needs because they do not qualify for current aid programs,” said Mayor Regina Romero.
“Offering the workers and families grant is another way Mayor and Council are supporting those who have fallen through the cracks and are most vulnerable.” The Workers and Families Grant Program will provide emergency assistance to individuals and families impacted by the COVID-19 public health emergency. Relief money is intended to provide short-term emergency aid to prevent eviction and homelessness, assist with rent or mortgage payments, help with subsidies for utility payments to preserve essential services, and other needs arising out of the economic impacts of the pandemic, such as groceries, gas, and childcare costs.
“The impact of COVID-19 on individuals and families – particularly folks who are often left in the margins – cannot be understated,” said Dr. Amalia Luxardo, CEO of WFSA. “We want to help ensure every member of our community is seen and supported during these incredibly challenging times.”
The one-time grant will provide up to $700 per individual and $1,200 per family for those who live in the limits of the City Tucson or South Tucson. Individuals living in eligible zip codes who are over 18 years old as of August 19, 2020, and have experienced financial hardship due to COVID-19, can apply for funding at womengiving.org starting August 19, 2020 at 10 a.m. PST.
Applications will close September 9, 2020 at 5 p.m. to begin processing. Priority will be given to those individuals and families whose income does not reach self-sufficiency standard for Pima County and who have not yet received any other COVID-19 relief money from the state or federal government.
