CFA, Fundraisers Announce First Service Worker Relief Fund Distributions
Local families and individuals working in the service industry have received a helping hand, thanks to financial assistance provided through local, grassroots generosity.
On Monday, Community Foundation for the Alleghenies (CFA) and fundraisers from Cambria and Somerset counties awarded the first round of distributions to local service workers impacted by the pandemic. A total of $2,250 was distributed to six individuals who applied for help from the Greater Johnstown Service Industry Relief Fund and the Somerset County Worker Relief Fund. Additional applications are currently under review. The Help Save Our Bedford County Restaurants and Workers Fund, which Bedford County commissioners initiated, is also available to help workers in Bedford County and distributions will begin soon.
Applications are still being accepted for all three funds at cfalleghenies.org/cfa-relief-funds. Applicants should apply to the fund in the county where their employer is located, even if they reside in a different county.
“Restrictions have been eased but not lifted for local restaurants, and we know service industry workers continue to face difficulties,” CFA President Mike Kane said. “Our community members have demonstrated that they care and want to help. Through the generosity of many people in our region, these funds are available to local individuals and families. We’re honored to help make this happen and grateful for every, single donor—and we encourage those working in the service industry to consider applying.”
Donations for these efforts ranged from $5 to $2,000, with 86 gifts from individuals and businesses across the region.
Fundraising for all three funds continues, and online donations can be made on the same page where application links are available: cfalleghenies.org/cfa-relief-funds
Gifts have and will continue to make a difference for local families, Somerset County Economic Development Council Executive Director Joshua Boland said.
“I have seen firsthand how our service industry workers have been affected by the Covid-19 pandemic,” he said. “This fund is a way to directly help those who are facing difficult financial decisions. By continuing to donate to the fund, you’re helping those who need it most.”
