SW Dallas News

The City of DeSoto has introduced two new programs to give relief to residents and businesses that have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

"The DeSoto Residential Assistance Grant Program will provide more than $1.5 million in grants to residents who qualify based on income and allowable expenses (and) are able to document specific financial impact due to COVID-19," the city said in a city press release. "Participating residents will be able to qualify for a capped total of up to $8,000 in combined expenses over a period of three months including up to $6,000 for living expenses such as rent, mortgage and utilities and up to $3,600 for childcare costs for those looking for or returning to work."

Funds will go to landlords and utility companies to help cover residents' bills. The city is providing a survey for residents to take to determine if they are eligible for a grant. 

The second program, the DeSoto Business Assistance Grant Program, will let businesses apply up to $20,000 for three months.

"To qualify, businesses will need to be located in DeSoto, employ less than 100 workers, have less than $10 million in annual revenues and be able to document a 25% reduction in sales or revenues since March 15, 2020, due to the Coronavirus Pandemic or certify that their business was subject to at least a 2‐week mandatory closure,'' the city said in the press release. "DeSoto has also added a grant provision allowing qualifying home businesses to receive up to $2,500 in grant funding."

Much like the residential program, the funding will go right to landlords and utility companies to cover the bills. The city also has a survey for businesses to determine if they are eligible to apply.