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County offers $600 to qualified residents hurt by COVID-19 pandemic

On Monday, Oct. 26, Cook County officials announced the launch of the $2.1 million Cook County COVID-19 Recovery Resident Cash Assistance Program to help suburban residents experiencing financial insecurity due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Many families are having a hard time making ends meet due to job loss during the pandemic,” Preckwinkle said.

“With the unemployment numbers rising and many workers furloughed, it’s becoming impossible to live check by check. This program will offer relief to more than 3,000 residents who are experiencing financial hardship and provide some assistance for those who are struggling to pay bills or take care of essential needs.”

The program is funded by the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act, the program is available to eligible suburban Cook County residents experiencing financial hardship due to the pandemic. It will provide one-time payments in the amount of $600 to approximately 3,000 households to support residents whose income is at or below 250 percent of the federal poverty level prior to March 1.

“The Family Independence Initiative is incredibly proud to partner with Cook County to provide much needed cash to families across suburban Cook County via our UpTogether platform,” stated Ebony Scott, Partnership Director, Midwest and Rocky Mountain Region.

“As infection rates rise in the suburbs, it is more important than ever to ensure that families have the cash they need to keep their families safe and stable. This effort began because of the advocacy and leadership of Commissioner Donna Miller and President Preckwinkle and should serve as an example to leaders across the country who are looking for innovative ways to demonstrate trust in their communities and offer resources in an efficient and cost-effective way.”

To qualify for the Cash Assistance Program, applicants must be a resident of suburban Cook County and provide the following documents:

  • One form of government issued identification that includes your current residential address or two alternative forms of identification.
  • Proof of your COVID-19 hardship due to unpaid leave, care for vulnerable or infected relatives, or loss of wages due to business or school closures.
  • Proof of household income meeting eligibility requirements.
  • Bank information including account and routing number if you choose to direct deposit. You can typically find this on a check.

Documentation will be requested at time of application. The application opened Monday and closes at 11:59 p.m. on Nov. 6.

For more information and to apply for the program, visit www.cookcountyil.gov/recovery.

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