$4 million in COVID-19 grants distributed to Wayne County nonprofits

More than $4 million in COVID-19 relief grants has been disbursed to 144 nonprofits throughout Wayne County.

Wayne County Executive Warren Evans

Each one-time grant provides funding of up to $49,999.

Nonprofits have stepped up as country residents face financial hardships and other losses during the coronavirus pandemic, according to County Executive Warren Evans.

"These organizations play an important role in communities but are increasingly stretched thin as they provide essential goods, services, and resources," Evans said. "We need to have their back just as they've had ours to ensure they can continue the great work they are doing."

Wayne County's Nonprofit COVID-19 Relief Fund was started in October with funding from the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act.

The county has awarded more than $90 million in relief funding that includes direct aid for service workers, tenants owing back rent, homeless veterans, and small businesses trying to maintain payroll and operate safely.