Greenwood Encourages Business Owners, Workers Displaced by COVID-19 to Seek Government Assistance

EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. – In response to the COVID-19 outbreak which has forced small businesses, restaurants, bars and other establishments to temporarily close their doors to the public, state Rep. LaToya Greenwood, D-East St. Louis, is highlighting resources available to help businesses and workers secure financial assistance.

“Small and locally owned and operated businesses are the backbone of our communities,” Greenwood said. “Now more than ever, businesses and workers are counting on us to lead during these challenging times to offer assistance to those displaced by the COVID-19 pandemic.” 

Greenwood is encouraging small businesses impacted by COVID-19 to submit information to the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), which is working in consultation with the U.S. Small Business Administration to offer financial assistance during this unprecedented public health crisis.

Greenwood is also highlighting Illinois Treasurer Michael Frerichs’ Small Business COVID-19 Relief Program. The initiative is intended to serve as a loan program which is designed to provide $250 million to Illinois banks and other financial institutions to help individuals impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are working around the clock with our partners at the state and federal level to ensure all options are on the table for workers that are trying to withstand this public health crisis,” said Greenwood. “I am confident that the people of Illinois will come out on top once this situation finally passes. In the meantime, it is critical that we adhere to the guidance of public health experts and other officials to flatten the curve.”

For more information or access to additional resources, please contact Rep. Greenwood’s district office at (618) 646-9557 or email staterepgreenwood@gmail.com.