The Marion Chamber of Commerce announced Monday November 9th, at this year’s annual meeting, a new grant program available for Marion businesses and residents. This grant was created through the Marion Chamber Foundation Disaster Recovery Fund, which began receiving donations from across the country following the Derecho storm on August 10th.
“The Fund was established immediately following the storm to assist with fulfilling basic human needs and recovery,” said Jill Ackerman, Marion Chamber president. “Through donations and generosity of others, this grant program will help Marion residents and businesses still working to recover from the devastation.”
Marion residential applicants are eligible for a grant up to $500 and Marion small business applicants are eligible for a grant up to $1,500. The grant program is designed to aid the most severely impacted residents and businesses. Funds may be used for emergency housing needs, insurance deductibles that the grantee cannot afford, help with clean up, tree and debris removal, tree replacement and/or property repairs that were caused by the disaster and not covered by insurance.
An application review board will be reviewing applications starting with the first round due November 27, and awarding monthly until the fund is depleted. More information, eligibility requirements, and the full application can be found at marioncc.org/disaster-recovery-grant.
In addition to the grant program, The Marion Chamber Foundation presented a $10,000 check to the Churches of Marion Food Pantry to further assist with food needs, and $10,000 has been donated to Trees Forever to establish a tree replacement program for Marion.
“We are exactly 3 months to the date of Derecho impacting our community and there is still incredible need out there,” Ackerman added. “We are pleased to award funds to these organizations who’s work will positively impact the Marion community.”