The Carbon County COVID-19 Relief Fund
The Red Lodge Area Community Foundation is taking actions to take care of our staff, our nonprofits and our community. In response to the COVID-19 outbreak, the Foundation is now accepting donations for the Carbon County COVID-19 Relief Fund. These funds will be available to support:
- Area nonprofits’ individual response efforts
- Local agencies and individuals
- Emergent community needs
Currently, our first priority and focus is on providing funds to nonprofit organizations providing disaster relief efforts and individuals negatively affected by COVID-19 impacts, who are in need of assistance. While the purpose of the fund is to focus on helping individuals and nonprofit organizations, assistance to the business community may be considered in the future when we know what other forms of assistance may be available to businesses and the longer term effects of the pandemic. In a declared disaster situation, it is possible for the Foundation to make grants to businesses for long term recovery for things not covered by other means such as insurance or government aid. Since the government is considering legislation which will specifically address business needs with loans and grants to help businesses weather this situation, for now, we will leave business assistance to the government.
The Foundation has a long history in efficiently managing and providing quick turnaround to get the funds to where they are needed most. The Foundation is committed to being nimble, adaptive and transparent in all of these efforts.
To make a donation to the fund, click here or click the button below:
Please note, before applying to the Carbon County COVID 19 Relief Fund, we ask you to apply, if eligible, to the Montana Coronavirus Relief Funds: https://www.covidreliefmt.org/submit
To apply for the funds, please click one of the links below. There is, generally, a funding cap of $750 per month for individual applicants.
We have begun evaluating completed applications for funding. We will review and evaluate applications once a day. We know that time is of the essence. Within 24 hours, we will evaluate your application to determine if it is an emergency need or a need for coordinated assistance. Approved Emergency needs will be funded within 24 hours. Approved Coordinated assistance will begin within 24 hours. Coordinated assistance could include connecting to additional resource providers outside of this fund in an effort to meet the fully requested need.
Want to Get Involved?
Carbon County Disaster & Emergency Services is coordinating volunteer efforts to help our community. Click the link below to fill out the form and add your name to a list of volunteers willing to help.
Disaster Volunteer Registration Form
Year-Round Community Foundation Resources
The Red Lodge Area Community Foundation connects you to many other year-round resources to help in times of need. Please follow the link below to go directly to our applications for the Early Childhood Fund, Senior Ark, Firewood, and Salvation Army, or to connect with a Navigator, or Carbon County Connect (local resource directory website).
Connect to Year-Round Resources
Other Resources
For your convenience, here are some links to local and national resources to help you find assistance and to stay informed about the COVID-19 outbreak. Click on a title below to expand the menu for more detailed information.
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Agricultural businesses are now eligible for SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) and EIDL Advance programs. SBA’s EIDL portal will reopen today (5/4/2020) as a result of funding authorized by Congress through the Paycheck Protection Program and Healthcare Enhancement Act. The legislation, signed into law by the President one week ago, provided additional funding for farmers and ranchers and certain other agricultural businesses affected by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
“For more than 30 years, SBA has been prohibited by law from providing disaster assistance to agricultural businesses; however, as a result of the unprecedented legislation enacted by President Trump, American farmers, ranchers, and other agricultural businesses will now have access to emergency working capital,” said U.S. Small Business Administration Administrator Jovita Carranza. “These low-interest, long-term loans will help keep agricultural businesses viable while bringing stability to the nation’s vitally important food supply chains.”
Agricultural businesses include businesses engaged in the legal production of food and fiber, ranching, and raising of livestock, aquaculture, and all other farming and agricultural related industries (as defined by section 18(b) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 647(b)). Eligible agricultural businesses must have 500 or fewer employees.
The SBA will begin accepting new EIDL applications on a limited basis only, in order to provide unprecedented relief to U.S. agricultural businesses. For agricultural businesses that submitted an EIDL loan application through the streamlined application portal prior to the legislative change, SBA will move forward and process these applications without the need for re-applying. All other EIDL loan applications that were submitted before the portal stopped accepting new applications on April 15 will be processed on a first-in, first-out basis.
For more information, please visit: www.sba.gov/Disaster.
- NorthWestern Energy 888-467-2669: (http://www.northwesternenergy.com/) has announced it is suspending all service disconnections during the COVID-19 outbreak. Click on the links for more information.
- Montana-Dakota Utilities Co 406-896-4250: (https://www.montana-dakota.com/) has also implemented a moratorium on service disconnects for non-payments due to hardships incurred from COVID-19
- Free Firewood: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/custergallatin/news-events/?cid=FSEPRD716967
- Beartooth Electric: 406-446-2310 – Residential Home Energy Assistance: https://www.beartoothelectric.com/account-billing/low-income-assistance/
- Salvation Army Utility Assistance: call 855-768-7977: due to a high call volume, you may need to keep calling or leave a message after hours. Be prepared to answer questions regarding your hardship due to COVID 19.
- Best Beginnings Scholarships: Families who are laid off or become unemployed may be eligible for a reduced co-payment and a 90-day grace period. Contact your Best Beginnings Scholarship case manager for additional information. Website: https://hrdc7.org/how-we-help/child-care/
- Trouble Paying your Mortgage or Rent: if you do not have enough money in savings to cover your mortgage or rent, contact your lender or landlord immediately. Do not wait until you are behind on payments. Lenders may work with you to waive late fees, set up a repayment plan or offer loan forbearance. Contact your landlord immediately and try to work out an agreement. If you are in need of rental assistance, you can also contact a housing counseling agency toll free (800) 569-4287 or here: HUD Approved Housing Counseling Agencies
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau: https://www.consumerfinance.gov/ask-cfpb/if-i-cant-pay-my-mortgage-loan-what-are-my-options-en-268/
- Montana Housing Guidance on COVID-19: https://housing.mt.gov/News/montant-housing-guidance-on-covid-19
- US Department of Housing and Urban Development: https://www.hud.gov/gopics/rental%20assistance
- EMERGENCY HOUSING ASSISTANCE PROGRAM: https://housing.mt.gov/Rental-Housing/CovidHousingAssist
- SALVATION ARMY RENT ASSISTANCE: call 855-768-7977: due to a high call volume, you may need to keep calling or leave a message after hours. Be prepared to answer questions regarding your hardship due to COVID 19.
Congress approved a six-month interest-free deferment for all on March 27th. This legislation provides the following relief for student loan borrowers:
- Student Loan deferment ( a pause to repayment) without interest or penalties for six months, lasting through September 30, 2020
- Zero-interest on federal student loans through the end of September (after temporarily waiving interest earlier)
- Suspension of wage garnishment, tax refund offset, or other collection attempts on defaulted student loans (extending a current two-month halt).
- Allowing borrowers to count this six-month period of forbearance as part of any loan forgiveness you’re working toward, including Public Service Loan Forgiveness
- A tax incentive for companies to contribute tax-free to employees’ student loan repayment.
** Note that this deferment doesn’t appear to be automatic, so you may need to contact your loan servicer to receive the benefit.
- If you have seen a reduction in pay due to COVID-19 and are struggling to make your credit card or loan payments, contact your lender right away. Explain your situation and ask about hardship programs that may be available. Regulatory agencies have encouraged financial institutions to work with customers impacted by the coronavirus. Credit card companies and lenders may be able to offer you a number of options to help you. This could include waiving certain fees like ATM, overpayments, and late fees, as well as allowing you to delay, adjust or skip some payments.
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau: https://www.consumerfinance.gov/ask-cfpb/what-should-i-do-if-i-cant-pay-my-credit-card-bills-en-1697/
- Apply for Medicaid: https://apply.mt.gov/
- Apply for Marketplace insurance due to job loss: https://www.healthcare.gov/
- The Montana State Auditor’s Office has resources and information available for consumers who have insurance-related questions: https://csimt.gov/
- Montana Commissioner of Securities and Insurance information: https://csimt.gov/news/montana-health-insurers-expanding-telehealth-coverage-to-fight-covid-19/
- COBRA health insurance: https://www.healthcare.gov/unemployed/cobra-coverage/
- Beartooth Billings Clinic Financial Assistance application: https://www.beartoothbillingsclinic.org/for-patients/billing-and-insurance/
- Billings Clinic: https://www.billingsclinic.com/patients-visitors/billing-insurance-financial-options/
- Apply for unemployment at https://montanaworks.gov/
- Temporary Emergency UI rules: http://uid.dli.mt.gov/Portals/55/Documents/news/24-11-355adp-emerg.pdf?ver=2020-03-18-112334-213
- Modest Needs: Another national nonprofit organization that provides assistance in the form of grants for a one-time emergency expense. People have to apply and, if approved, the nonprofit posts the grant request on its public website and allows donors to review and support the grant requests that matter most to them. When the organization funds a grant request, they remit payment directly to the vendor shown in the applicant’s documentation. Most requests get met within two weeks. https://www.modestneeds.org/
- Carbon County Virtual Tip Jar: Locals can give a virtual tip to those servers now out of work: Sign up as an out of work server
- IRS Stimulus checks: https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/congress/irs-releases-more-info-how-get-coronavirus-stimulus-checks-asap-n1172676
- UPDATED: 4/3/2020: https://www.businessinsider.com/irs-begin-sending-coronavirus-stimulus-payments-april-2020-4
- Stimulus Check Calculator: https://www.washingtonpost.com/graphics/business/coronavirus-stimulus-check-calculator/
- Stimulus Check Information UPDATED 4/14/2020: https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/economic-impact-payment-information-center
- Red Lodge Area Community Foundation COVID19 Relief Fund: https://www.rlacf.org/response-to-covid-19/
- Short Term and Emergency Loans: consider your options before taking out a high cost, short term loan. Talk with your creditors to negotiate more time to pay bills, borrow from friends or family, or explore low-interest loans offered by local banks and credit unions.
- USBG Foundation offers help to bartenders who have been put out of work due to COVID19: https://www.usbgfoundation.org/
- Support workers in crisis: https://ofwemergencyfund.org/help
- Support for workers who need help now: https://www.theworkerslab.com/the-workers-fund?hsCtaTracking=b6d87ad8-300a-4aae-8eb3-9f607111ea89%7C88ca7d55-2489-4127-a2cf-8cddbe960720
- TANF cash assistance for needy families: https://apply.mt.gov/
- FEMA: https://www.fema.gov/fema-regional-contacts
For help with rent, utilities, childcare, etc.
Filling out HRDC forms online: so you can more easily complete HRDC online applications, first, download Adobe Fill & Sign. It’s a free app found in your app store. It will allow you to enter text and a signature on a PDF application. Then go to https://hrdc7.org/ and click on the program application link. It will ask you what app on your phone you want to open our application with. Find Adobe Fill and Sign in the options that pop up. Fill out the form and email it to info@hrdc7.org
Energy and Weatherization: Energy services has been directed to temporarily suspend all weatherization work until further notice. LIEAP and Energy Share programs continue to operate, as usual, via customer drop off and processing.
Everything you need to know about the Paycheck Protection Loan and the SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan programs.</>
CARES Act Small Business Guide
- Highlights of the CARES act: https://www.forbes.com/sites/leonlabrecque/2020/03/29/the-cares-act-has-passed-here-are-the-highlights/#60c75f0668cd
- How to apply for Nonprofit Relief Funds: https://independentsector.org/resource/caresact/
- Loans available for Nonprofits in the CARES Act: https://www.councilofnonprofits.org/sites/default/files/documents/cares-act-loan-options-for-nonprofits.pdf
- UPDATED CARES ACT information and how to apply (4/3/2020): https://www.vox.com/2020/4/3/21196191/cares-act-apply-small-business-loans-grants-ppp-eidl
- CARES Act for Self-Employed workers: https://cerfplus.org/covid-19-steps-you-can-take
The CARES Act gives eligible nonprofits choices for securing cash needed to maintain staff and operations. The National Council of Nonprofits has developed a chart to help nonprofit leaders decide which loan is right for their organization. Leaders are encouraged to check the chart often as it will be updated in the days and weeks to come as SBA and other Departments provide additional guidance, links, and processes to help nonprofits secure the funds they need. Be sure to hit “refresh” after following the link to ensure you have the latest updates.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has also offered guidance on small business loans offered through the CARES Act. Access a helpful Small Business Emergency Loans Guide and Checklist HERE.
The Montana Division of Banking and Financial Institutions has developed a list of financial resources for Montana consumers impacted by the Coronavirus. The Division will add to this list as more resources become available.
This is a form to request free breakfasts and lunches for students ages 5-18 during the school closures. The form must be filled out completely for each day you need meals. https://forms.gle/1phoyyQZt7JrPxUm8 Thank you.
You may contact your building Secretary at the following numbers:
- High School: 446-1903
- Roosevelt: 446-2110
- Mountain View: 446-1804
- You can contact your local county or tribal health departments by finding their contact information through the online map HERE.
- The coronavirus Task Force has launched an informational phone line at 1-888-333-0461 and Montanans can also email questions to covid19info@mt.gov.
- A website has also been set up to keep Montanans apprised of Task Force actions at COVID19.mt.gov.
- US Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
- Montana Department of Public Health & Human Services (DPHHS)
- World Health Organization
- Yellowstone County United Way is offering services to Carbon County as well: Visit www.211.org for help with bills, childcare, food, other necessities. You can also call 211 on your phone, or the Yellowstone number 406-268-1337 to request an application.
- Arts Now: COVID-19 Resources for Gig/Creative Entrepreneurs/Contract Employees
- USBG Foundation is offering help to bartenders who have been put out of work: https://www.usbgfoundation.org/covid-19-response
- State by state resource guide for Music professionals affected by Covid-19: Resources for musicians out of work due to Covid-19
- Artist Relief Tree: for artists now out of work or affected by Covid-19
- Artist & Activist Relief Fund: https://www.wearesoze.com/relief-fund
- Artist Relief – https://www.artistrelief.org will distribute $5,000 grants to artists facing dire financial emergencies due to COVID-19; serve as an ongoing informational resource; and co-launch the COVID-19 Impact Survey for Artists and Creative Workers, designed by Americans for the Arts, to better identify and address the needs of artists About the Fund: To support artists during the COVID-19 crisis, a coalition of national arts grantmakers have come together to create an emergency initiative to offer financial and informational resources to artists across the United States.
Farmers to Families Food Boxes are being delivered to Red Lodge, and now, Bridger weekly. This is a program through the CARES Act. The boxes contain fresh produce, meat, cheese, and other grocery items.
Thank you to The Boys & Girls Club for organizing this opportunity in our community. The Boys and Girls Club posts on their FaceBook page the day before where and when the distribution will take place. Check the page on Wednesday afternoon for the update each week. https://www.facebook.com/bgcofcarboncounty
Deadline to file has been extended to July 15, 2020
- Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA) is temporarily suspended as they try to determine the most effective way to provide this service. They strongly encourage community members to utilize https://www.myfreetaxes.com/, a site free for anyone to use regardless of income. There are step by step instructions and a chat option available for additional help.
- HRDC VITA tax preparer can be emailed at info@hrdc.org or call (406) 206-2717
- If you owe money: you now have a 120 day grace period in which to file. You will not accrue any interest or penalties during this time. Complete the bottom portion of page 1 of your return and mail to: Internal Revenue Service, PO Box 802503 Cincinnati, OH 45280-2503. If NO PAYMENT is INCLUDED, mail to Department of the Treasury, Internal Revenue Service Center, Ogden, UT 84201-0045.
- SNAP Benefits: https://apply.mt.gov/
- BareTooth Cupboards 17th E 11th street, Red Lodge, MT 406-446-1255
Due to the Corona Virus, the food bank is now a call-in system only. No customers will be allowed in the store. Volunteers will be on hand during regular store hours to bring your food out to the bench in front of the pantry.
Hours: Monday and Wednesday from 11 am to 1 pm
Tuesday and Thursday from 3 pm to 5 pm
Saturday 9am – 1pm - Joliet Food Pantry: (406) 962-3589
- Bridger Community Food Bank: 206 N D street, Bridger, MT: 406-662-1060. Open 2nd and 4th Wednesday each month from 9:30 am to 11:30 am.
- It’s in the Bag! Weekend Meal Program: provides free, easy to prepare, nutritious meals to Red Lodge Students K-8 who may miss meals over the weekend. Each bag contains six meals: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners, and they always contain fresh fruits and vegetables. One bag per child in the family. It can be picked up on Fridays at the Boy’s and Girl’s Club during their meal distribution time or contact Therese at 406-425-1343 (theresepicasso@gmail.com) if you would like to receive a weekly bag.
- Grocery Shopping Service: Limited grocery shopping and delivery service for people who fit into one or more of the following categories: 65 or older, have significant medical conditions that place them at risk for COVID-19, or those who have tested positive for COVID-19. Please call 406-445-7258, leave your name and a phone number in the message. You will be contacted by the shopping and delivery coordinator within 24 hours. Deliveries will be made on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.
- Church of the Rockies: no longer meets for “Common Ground”, but if you would like a box delivered to your door, call Jon Milligan at 406-425-4390.
- Harvest Hope School Food Pantry is delivering weekly food boxes to families of our students. If you would like a weekly grocery box please leave a message on the high school phone (446-1903) or email cindy_luoma@redlodge.k12.mt.us.
- The International Disability Alliance has launched COVID-19 and the disability movement (http://www.internationaldisabilityalliance.org/content/covid-19-and-disability-movement)
- Credible information in accessible formats is vital to flattening the curve: visit the Montana Disability and Health Program (http://mtdh.ruralinstitute.umt.edu/?p=7763) to find accessible resources about COVID19
- Billings Clinic Virtual Care: https://www.billingsclinic.com/services-specialties/virtual-care/
- Beartooth Billings Clinic: https://www.beartoothbillingsclinic.org/for-patients/coronavirus-covid-19-live-updates/
- Suicide Prevention Hotline: 800-273-TALK (8255)
- Mental Health and Crisis Resource: 1-877-688-3377 8 AM-9 PM Mon-Fri and Sat-Sun 12 PM-9 PM
- DSVS Help Line: 406-425-2222
- Red Lodge Drug: special hours reserved for Seniors and high-risk patrons 9 AM-10 AM. Call 406-446-1017 for more information.
- NEW VIRTUAL CLINIC NOW OPEN IN MONTANA! Right now you can start medication-assisted treatment over video chat – no need to leave home. Talk to a provider today and be back in control of your life tomorrow. We’re open for virtual walk-ins NOW or schedule an appointment for later. There’s no better time to start your recovery. https://my.idealoption.org/virtualclinic/
Roadside Assistance: https://calstate.aaa.com/lp/news/free-ers?ajs_uid=a909c359ee4621ab44bc5c179b7bb70d
AAA is now offering free roadside assistance to those heroes on the frontlines of helping fight the COVID-19 pandemic, whether they’re a AAA member or not.
All first responders and healthcare workers—including those that may not be AAA Members—can call 1-800-AAA-HELP (1-800-222-4357) if and when they need roadside service. Simply identify yourself as such, and answer the brief health pre-screener questions, so that our service can roll out to help.
AAA Roadside Assistance operates as an essential service during shelter-in-place orders and is available 24/7.
Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act:
https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/266?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22HR+266%22%5D%7D&s=1&r=1: Provides additional funding for small business loans, health care providers, and COVID-19 testing.