As one of the small business owners that has been completely shut down by the COVID 19 crisis, I wanted to share some information that I have found to help other small businesses. The Small Business Administration and the Dept. of the Treasury both have links and information on applying for disaster relief due to the pandemic.
I applied for both the small business administration (SBA) loan and the paycheck protection program, although one of the websites I visited said that you cannot apply until April 10, 2020 if you are self-employed, I will apply twice if I must. I am already in the hole due to my customers having to stay at home, therefore they have no need for me to service their equipment or to provide any of my services. Even if someone was to call me right now, I wouldn’t go and here is why. We need to listen to the folks that give us good information on the virus. Ultimately, the virus seems as easy to spread as the common cold. On a good note, my garage is clean, bathrooms, cloths, kids are fine etc. So we should all take advantage of this pause in life and getter done.
To all of you out there, please heed the warnings and do your best to STAY HOME! Wash your hands frequently and use good judgment. Please do not hoard, the stores are still open if you need things, just use caution when you go.
Links:
Department of the Treasury information PDF
With good thoughts that they will come up with a cure or vaccine soon.
Regards,
Patrick Competelli, Fire Chief (ret.)
Fire Chief Competelli
Tampa Bay Safety