The harsh impact of pandemic restrictions on businesses and their workers has been eased a bit by a Yachats church’s relief fund, but more money is needed to get through the winter.
Last month, an anonymous donation of $50,000 spurred the Yachats Community Presbyterian Church to resume its COVID relief fund, the third such effort since the pandemic struck last spring. An additional $10,000 gave the church $60,000 to distribute.
“The first round of distribution totaled $35,800,” Pastor Bob Barrett said Thursday, the money going to 16 Yachats businesses, and 60 individuals who either lived and/or worked in Yachats.
Thanks to donations that have kept coming in, the church still has approximately $40,000 to distribute.
“That will get us through another month if no more donations come in and demand stays the same,” said Barrett.
The church’s funding guidelines allot up to $300 per month for individuals, and up to $1,500 monthly for businesses, but those numbers can change depending on each applicant’s situation.
This time around, the church has been asking applicants to share how they’re affected by pandemic shutdown restrictions.
“I’ve been amazed at the number of people — bussers and servers in restaurants, hotel/motel workers — who are living out of their cars right now, or the people living five or six occupants to one small apartment,” Barrett said.
The conditions for some business owners haven’t been much better.
“I’ve talked to business owners who haven’t taken a paycheck since March,” Barrett said. “They’re really concerned that if this (pandemic) goes on much longer, they’re not going to survive.”
How to apply or donate
To apply for help, go to this page on the church’s website.
To donate to worker and business relief, go to this page on the church’s website.
Donations can also be dropped off at the church, 360 W. Seventh St., or mailed to YCPC, P.O. Box 285, Yachats, Ore. 97498.
