Orange County to aid nonprofits with CARES Act funding

Certain Orange County nonprofit organizations that have taken a hit from the COVID-19 pandemic may be eligible for funding through the county's portion of the federal CARES Act.

According to county officials, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners has approved $2.8 million to be available through the county's Social-Service Nonprofit Fund program, with Heart of Florida United Way managing fund disbursement.

"They are a trusted fiscal agent and community collaborator that has longstanding relationships with many nonprofits in our community," said Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings. "Nonprofits in our community have provided unprecedented support to our residents in this challenging time, and we want to ensure their outreach efforts continue."

The county program launched Sept. 28 and will run through Oct. 19. Eligible nonprofits include private, nonprofit social services/health and human services organizations. These organizations must be physically located in Orange County, operational and providing services to county residents as of Jan. 1, 2020.

Political organizations and organizations not providing health and human services to Orange County residents are not eligible.

County officials said reimbursement amounts will be based on direct COVID-19 related expenses that were made on or after March 1, and that were unexpected costs not already budgeted by the organization. This includes personal protective equipment, computer equipment and software, and cell phones and cell service.

Organizations must submit documentation and receipts demonstrating the eligible expenses that are directly related to COVID-19. To apply, click here. Questions can be emailed to Heart of Florida United Way by clicking here.