Dislocated Workers Assistance
Are you recently dislocated as result of the COVID-19 outreak? Here’s what you need to know: https://dwd.wisconsin.gov/dislocatedworker/
Apply for Benefits Online
https://my.unemployment.wisconsin.gov/
Have This Information Ready To Apply:
- A username and password for filing online*
- A valid email or mobile number
- Your social security number *
- Your Wisconsin driver license or identification number
- Your work history for the last 18 months:
- Employers' business names
- Employers' addresses (including zip code)
- Employers' phone number
- First and last dates of work with each employer
- Reason no longer working with each employer
Unemployment Insurance (UI) FAQ:
https://dwd.wisconsin.gov/covid19/public/ui.htm
Business Information and Resources
Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employers
Below is the interim guidance and recommended strategies for employers based on what is currently known about the coronavirus disease by The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and a copy of the Department of Labor's (DOL) Guidance on Preparing Workplaces for COVID-19.
CDC
DOL
Small Business Loans
Small Business 20/20 will provide grants of up to $20,000 to targeted businesses with no more than 20 employees to cover rent and to meet payroll expenses, including paid leave (including sick, family and other leave related to COVID-19).
https://wedc.org/programs-and-resources/small-business-2020/
US Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Assistance
The SBA will soon be providing Wisconsin small business assistance through their disaster loan program. Governor Evers has already submitted the declaration request, and we expect approval very soon. Our office will be sharing the news once the declaration is approved via Facebook and Twitter.
- To begin preparing your application, small businesses will need:
- Tax Information Authorization (IRS Form 4506T) for the applicant, principals, and affiliates
- Complete copies of the most recent Federal Income Tax Return.
- Schedule of Liabilities (SBA Form 2202)
- Personal Financial Statement (SBA Form 413)
- Profit and loss statements
- Monthly sales figures (SBA Form 1368)
For more on SBA programs for the coronavirus, please visit www.sba.gov/coronavirus
KIVA Loans
Downtown businesses in our communities that are women-, minority- and/or veteran-owned are also eligible for a 50% match from WEDC to expedite their loan. Encourage your businesses to apply, and/or sign up to be a lender yourself here. Effective immediately, U.S. applicants for a Kiva loan will have access to the following:
1. Expanded eligibility: More businesses in the US will be eligible for a Kiva loan than ever.
2. Larger loans: The maximum loan on the Kiva platform will increase from $10,000 to $15,000.
3. Grace period: New borrowers may access a grace period of up to 6 months for greater financial flexibility. If you have questions and would like to contact a local Kiva rep, contact Amy via e-mail: Milwaukee@local.kiva.org or text - 414-220-0177(Added 3/19/2020)
Restaurant Carry Out Zone Program
In an effort to slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus, on March 16 Governor Tony Evers restricted restaurant service to delivery and carry-out only. To assist restaurants that currently do not have a "Loading Zone" adjacent to their business, the City of Milwaukee has implemented a temporary program to provide "Restaurant Carryout Zones" (click link and scroll down to the section for information and online application).
Compensation Guidelines During the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic
https://www.mranet.org/resource/compensation-guidelines-during-coronavirus-covid-19-pandemic
Other Resource Links
Milwaukee Downtown Business Improvement District (BID 21) - BID 21 has compiled a comprehensive list for businesses and community members.
Visit https://www.milwaukeedowntown.com/bid-events/covid-19
Community Resources During the COVID-19 Crisis
Local Food Pantries
https://milwaukeenns.org/2020/03/17/covid-19-where-to-find-food-and-how-you-can-help/?mc_cid=0a6191f055&mc_eid=adb87afa15&fbclid=IwAR2r0BdR7LErGhbR0jbDCuLzBzx7_RqDbaT0FQ-vG-wiHrogE_k505p0oT0
MPS Lunch Sites
https://mps.milwaukee.k12.wi.us/en/District/About-MPS/District-News/Covid-19-Updates/03-13-20-MPS-to-Provide-Free-Meals-to-Students.htm
Manage Your Finances
https://fyi.extension.wisc.edu/toughtimes/
Helpful Numbers
We know this is a stressful time for you. If you are in crisis and need immediate assistance, please call
- Milwaukee County Crisis Services: 414-257-7222
- Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- IMPACT 211--Housing, shelter, mental health, and other support resources: 211
- Sojourner Family Peace Center--Shelter & resources for victims of domestic abuse: 414-933-2722
Toolkits
Freelance/Artist Resources