4/01/2020 Update: The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) went into effect today and continues through December 31, 2020. It requires certain public employers and private employers with fewer than 500 employees to provide their employees with paid sick leave or expanded family and medical leave for specified reasons related to COVID-19.

• Helpful H.R. guidelines courtesy of Nulty Insurance.
• Download Department of Labor Workplace Poster

The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA)  Each covered employer must post in a conspicuous place on its premises a notice of FFCRA requirements. These provisions will apply from April 1, 2020, through December 31, 2020.

3/30/2020 Update: Michigan restaurants allowed to sell food and pantry items to alleviate grocery demand through. Guidelines availabe from the Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association

3/28/2020 Update: President Trump has signed into law a bipartisan stimulus package designed to blunt the economic impact of COVID-19. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act is a $2 trillion dollar aid package that will provide grants and loans to consumers, businesses, and state and local governments.

3/23/20 Update: Today, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued a Shelter-in-Place order for the State of Michigan effective until April 13. All Michiganders are required to stay home, with the exception of essential service workers or critical lifeline companies.

3/20/20 Update: Berrien County has been approved for SBA disaster relief loans. Small businesses should begin the application process. Access the loan application here.

This list has been compiled to provide guidance and an index of currently available resources to face the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Chamber will update and enhance this list as the situation evolves.

Local

Berrien County Health Department – Daily updates and hotline (there are no confirmed cases in Berrien County at this time). Information and guidance for specific audiences: Healthcare professionals, Community events & gatherings, Travel recommendations, Faith-based organizations, Businesses & Employers, Colleges & Universities, Law Enforcement & 1st Responders, Childcare & Schools, Long-term care facilities

Berrien RESA -- Educational and support resources for parents, including childcare services for essential workers.

Buchanan Area Senior Center -- DAILY CHECK-IN CALLS: While the BASC is closed, Daily Check-In Calls are available for seniors who would like social contact that respects social distancing requirements. If you or a senior you know would like a regular check-in call, please call the BASC at 269-695-7119 to be added to our call list.

Buy Local Berrien – A Facebook campaign launched by the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber of Commerce to generate support for local businesses in Berrien County. Join the group and post your information.

City of Buchanan -- Their Facebook page provides information on Buchanan eateries that are open and offering to-go meals.

Cornerstone Alliance – A task force has been created to connect local businesses with resources that will be made available by the state and federal government. Cornerstone Alliance can help you access Federal, State and Local dollars to help sustain payroll and other operational needs. Cornerstone will contact you for assistance if you complete this brief survey to help them better understand your situation.

Business Updates

Honor Credit Union  -- Has put together a Financial Relief Package for individuals and businesses.

Nulty Insurance -- A pandemic checklist to help employers prepare their workplace and employees.

Redbud Hardware -- Redbud Hardware has been deemed an essential business and will remain open with reduced hours: 8-5 on weekdays, 8-3 on Saturday and closed on Sunday. For the protection of our customers and staff we are carefully following the CDC guidelines for sterilizing our store, and are asking our customers to also use safe practices. We will be happy to take phone orders and offer curbside pickups and limited delivery. Please call 269 695-6891.

Wesner Automotive-- Auto repair shops are considered an essential business so Gene Wesner Automotive, Inc. is open to service your automobile needs. We cannot sell cars at this time, but we can fix them! Call 269-695-3891.

State

211-- 24/7/365 resource to connect Michigan residents with help of all kinds, like housing support and financial assistance.

State of Michigan – Executive orders, directives and FAQs, and community mitigation strategies. Comprehensive list of resources for residents, business and specific audiences.

Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) – Small business relief programs, employer updates, and guidance on specific topics such as cash flow support, e-commerce, and human resources

• Small Business Relief Program

State of Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency – For information on filing a claim.

National

Centers for Disease Control (CDC) – Emergency preparedness, considerations for school closings, communication resources and print materials.

Small Business Administration (SBA) – Guidance for capital access, supply chain shortfalls, facility remediation/clean-up costs and more. SBA Disaster Relief loans are available for all Michigan businesses. See information on how to apply:

• SBA_Michigan Press Release.pdf

Tech Soup -- Resources for non-profit organizations.