CharlotteCARES deadline approaching for families and small businesses in need

Halloween marks the last day that for families in need to take advantage of the CharlotteCARES program.

WINK News Reporter Erika Jackson spoke to one business owner who says CharlotteCARES money is benefitting them greatly.

Business at TnD Gluten Free Bakery sometimes looks on the rise. “We catch up and then I’m thinking we’re right there,” said the bakery’s co-owner Debbi Rompre.

But other days, sales are going south. “We’re kind of sort of back in the same spot we were,” said Rompre.

WINK introduced you to Debbi and her husband, Chris, in August. TnD Bakery is one of 250 Charlotte County businesses that are staying afloat thanks to the $700,000 in grants.

Rompre said, “We thought that maybe the business would pick up as well but it did not.” Many business owners felt that way after initially losing business when the pandemic hit.

Now, Rompre has applied for another grant from CharlotteCARES Program. Luckily, help is still available for these small businesses and families.

“The long-lasting effects will be financial and economic for our community,” said Carrie Walsh, who is the Human Services Director for Charlotte County.

The economic effects of the pandemic have been long-lasting, but the deadline to apply for CharlotteCARES funds is approaching quickly. The deadline for families to apply is October 31. For small businesses, the deadline to submit applications is December 15.

“Our objective is to get as much money out into the community as quickly and effectively and efficiently as possible,” said Walsh.

The intent is to give those in Charlotte County one less thing to worry about.

“If you need it, they are there for you, and I really suggest strongly that you try,” Rompre said.

The county has received more than 3,000 applications from families since March and has distributed about $4 million. But, people are still in need. The county also says it received 40 applications on Tuesday.