South Hennepin News

The Minnesota Senate has allocated grant funds to be distributed to day service providers, employment service providers and other similar organizations to help them stay open despite the hardship COVID-19 closures caused.

Many of these businesses lost money because clients were not allowed to congregate as usual in their spaces.

The bill will provide nearly $20 million in grants, giving two-thirds of one month's revenue to providers across the state. This may not put providers back in the black but it will help provide some stability.

“Over the last few months providers in our district have asked for help to stay open as they have had little income throughout COVID-19,” Sen. Bruce Anderson told Minnesota Senate Republican Caucus. “These grants will make a substantial difference to many people in Minnesota who rely on providers for excellent quality of life and opportunities to contribute to their communities. I admire the mission of day service and employment providers and will continue to ensure they receive the support they need to continue their valuable work.”