Sustain Summit Fund to Provide Emergency Grants
Submitted by Amy Cairns
In response to economic challenges facing local small businesses in Summit that are impacted by the COVID-19 Coronavirus outbreak, Mayor Nora Radest in partnership with The Summit Foundation and Summit Downtown Inc. (SDI) has established the Sustain Summit Fund, an emergency assistance grant program.
The fund will provide grants to small businesses adversely impacted by COVID-19 containment measures through donations from individuals and area corporations. All contributions are tax deductible and can be made by accessing a GoFundMe link.
“Our small business owners are facing an unprecedented economic challenge,” explains Mayor Radest. “While I fully support how important the current restrictions on social gathering and commerce are, my heart breaks for our local businesses that are severely and disproportionately affected. I hope that you will support the Sustain Summit Fund and help our local small businesses to weather this storm.”
Independent business owners with a physical retail address in Summit that have been negatively impacted by the restrictions placed on commerce starting in March 2020 are invited to apply. Applications will be reviewed by a committee made up of residents and representatives from Summit Downtown Inc. and The Summit Foundation. Applications will be evaluated promptly to ensure relief funds are distributed as quickly as possible.
To make a tax-deductible contribution, go to the Sustain Summit Fund’s GoFundMe page.
The Summit Foundation fosters philanthropy by identifying local needs and offering donors flexible ways to make a difference in the lives of their neighbors. Last year, The Summit Foundation granted nearly $600,000 to 38 local nonprofit agencies.
Summit Downtown Inc. is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that represents all retailers and businesses in the Central Retail Business District to encourage the development and growth of business in the downtown.
