At its January 17 regularly scheduled meeting, the Henry County Board of Commissioners approved a resolution authorizing the re-allocation of $779,489 in federal Coronavirus relief funding towards local nonprofits.

The federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was signed into law on March 27, 2020. The bill provided for $2.2 trillion in economic stimulus, which included dedicated funding for municipalities across the country. Henry County received $8,457,973 to assist the government, small businesses, and local nonprofits.

The application period for CARES Act grants originally opened on August 19, 2020, and the County has been both directly and indirectly providing relief through this program ever since. As part of the close out process in September of last year, the County identified a fund balance of $779,489 in unspent funding.

Monique Franklin, Grants Administrator with the Department of Financial Services, presented at the January 17 Board of Commissioners meeting. The Department asked that this balance be dedicated to nonprofits that have demonstrated exceptional capacity in assisting residents of Henry County over the previous two years.

Under the provisions of the legislation, a Notice of Funding Opportunity will go out to let local nonprofits know that they can apply. Applicants must be registered in Henry County, be registered with the Secretary of State, hold 501(c)3 status, have previous experience, be able to demonstrate financial stability, and must present a sustainability plan. Per an amendment made by County Chair Carlotta Harrell, they must also show that they are current on their 990 tax forms.

For more information, or to apply, visit www.co.henry.ga.us to learn more.