The Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce (GSCC) has created the Chamber Business Relief Fund to provide timely and meaningful financial resources to businesses significantly impacted by the COVID-19 crisis. GSCC has seeded the fund with $15,000, and members of its board of directors have contributed more than $10,000 in less than 24 hours to establish an initial fund of over $25,000.

Businesses can apply for funding beginning Friday, March 20 at www.gscc.org. The intent of the funding is to act as a bridge, a lifeline to assist with the long-term sustainability of the businesses applying for and receiving funding.  The Greater Springfield Chamber Foundation will administer the Fund.

Businesses, organizations and community members who are able can make tax-deductible contributions to the Chamber Business Relief Fund immediately by clicking the “Donate Now” button on www.gscc.org.  You can also text “RELIEF” to 8666125378, or mail a check payable to The Greater Springfield Chamber Foundation.  Every dollar donated will go directly to the Fund as The Chamber will absorb all administrative fees.  AlertsMadeEasy.com provided the “text to donate option” free of charge.   The Chamber’s goal is to raise $50,000 or more in donations.

“Businesses are the lifeblood of our community.  They provide jobs, purchase goods and services and make philanthropic contributions to organizations that make our community a better place to live and work.  Today, in these difficult times, I encourage all who are able to support these businesses that support our community,” said GSCC president and CEO Chris Hembrough.

The Foundation Board of Directors will review and approve requests on a first-come, first served basis no later than the week of April 6.  Disbursements will be made immediately upon approval.  Applications received after April 6 will be considered based on the availability of funding.