Relief fund set up to help Maine businesses affected by Dec. 18 storm
Photo / Peter Van Allen
Severe flooding, road washouts and prolonged power outages during the Dec. 18 storm resulted in substantial losses for retailers, grocers, restaurants and other small enterprises.
Severe flooding, road washouts and prolonged power outages during the Dec. 18 storm resulted in substantial losses for retailers, grocers, restaurants and other small enterprises.
Now businesses that were affected can tap into the Maine Business Relief Fund, launched by the Retail Association of Maine and the Maine Grocers and Food Producers Association.
“Maine’s retailers and small businesses have been through a lot for a few years now, but a storm like this during the final week of holiday sales was an incredible blow to many of our small businesses,” said Curtis Picard, president and CEO of the Retail Association of Maine. “It is our hope that the Maine Business Relief Fund will help provide some necessary support to help clean up, replenish lost inventory and help get them back on track in 2024.”
The fund offers grants from $2,500 to $10,000 to cover expenses such as equipment replacement, operating expenses, supplies and assistance with cleanup. The goal is to help meet immediate needs until further support is available.
The application period will open Jan. 4, at 10 a.m., and extend through Jan. 31.
The associations received a commitment of $250,000 in matching funds from an anonymous private donor. Major contributors include Hancock Lumber, Marden's, Old Port Candy Co. and Old Port Card Works.
The associations are inviting businesses and individuals to make tax-deductible contributions, payable to the Maine Business Relief Fund and mailed to 45 Melville St., Augusta, ME 04330.
“A number of Maine’s independent grocers lost perishable food, and equipment due to flooding, or prolonged power outages as a result of the Dec. 18 storm,” said Christine Cummings, executive director of Maine Grocers and Food Producers Association. “Grocers operate on very small margins, so providing them a little help will go a long way for these critical businesses in Maine’s rural communities.”
The fund was established under the Maine Business Education Partnership, a 501(c)(3) organization, in partnership with the Maine Tourism Association, Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce, Mid-Maine Area Chamber of Commerce, Forks Chamber of Commerce, Bethel Area Chamber of Commerce, Maine Development Foundation and others.
The fund was inspired by relief efforts in Vermont, which raised $800,000 and distributed grants of up to $10,000 to businesses following a similar catastrophe.
“The severe storm and flooding was devastating for so many, including many businesses that suffered significant losses at the worst possible time — right before the holiday,” said Gov. Janet Mills.
To learn more, click here.
Most Recent
Most Recent
0 Comments