Big Idea

• Applications for both Businesses and Individuals are now available July 19, 2021 – August 20, 2021 
• Prescott Cares program can provide up to $5000 to local businesses
• Prescott Cares program can provide up to $3000 for rent, mortgage and utility payments
• This program was made possible by an emergency grant from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development
• Read more…

Funds will Help Eligible Prescott Residents with Rent, Mortgage and Utility Payments and Support Struggling Businesses

Prescott, AZ. – The COVID-19 pandemic has brought economic uncertainty to many individuals, families and businesses, both locally and around the world. Beginning July 19th to August 20th, 2021, Prescott residents and businesses can apply for emergency funds through the Prescott CARES program. The program was created to help individuals and families maintain stable housing and keep businesses viable within the community.

“The first round of funding helped 18 individuals and businesses with more than $80,000 distributed. We will continue the programming until all funds have been given to support those who need it. The program was developed to help people and businesses who have struggled financially due to the pandemic,” said Heiney. “We want to be sure people can afford housing and we want to support the recovery of businesses that are the lifeblood of our community.”

Heiney emphasized that this emergency funding is available on a first come, first served basis. “We encourage individuals and businesses to apply as quickly as possible,” said Heiney.

Prescott CARES funding was made possible by an emergency grant from the U.S. Department of  Housing & Urban Development. The funding will be distributed via contract with the Prescott Chamber of Commerce Foundation. The contract was applied for competitively and secured by Sheri Heiney, CEO of the Prescott Chamber of Commerce Foundation.

Eligible Individuals

The Prescott CARES program can provide up to $3,000 in rent, mortgage and utility payments to eligible residents. To qualify, individuals must: 1) have been residents of Prescott, AZ since 3/1/2020 2) have lost income directly as a result of the pandemic (proof of loss required) 3) have not received a federal housing subsidy in the past 12 months; and 4) qualify based on their income. The maximum income to receive this funding is: $36,200 for a family of one and that rate increases with the size of the family. 

Eligible Businesses

The Prescott Cares program can provide up to $5,000 to a business that has been impacted financially by the COVID-19 pandemic. Some of the requirements to be eligible for a business are: 1) be physically located in the City of Prescott with customers primarily based in Prescott; and 2) have been in operation for at least six months prior to the COVID-19 pandemic (Sept 16, 2019) 3) provide evidence of potential job loss as a result of COVID-19, 5) provide evidence of being able to retain jobs for at least 6 months after grant.

“We look forward to continuing to help those residents and business owners who are in need. There is an application form available at prescott.org, and we can also help with any questions by calling 928.445.2000,” stated Michelle Chavez, CDBG and Community Development Coordinator with the City of Prescott.  

To apply for Prescott CARES funding, visit Prescott.org and click on the Prescott Cares tab. For more information, call (928) 445-2000 Ext. 115.