NECAC doing survey on effects of virus

  The not-for-profit North East Community Action Corporation (NECAC) is doing a survey on the impact of the COVID-19 virus.

   NECAC and other Community Action Agencies around the nation will be eligible for additional program funding from $1 billion that recently was approved as part of the recently-signed Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act.

   “We need to know how this pandemic is affecting you and your community, not only today but how you think it will have impact going forward,” said NECAC County Services Program Director Linda Fritz. “The responses will allow us to decide how best to use any additional funding that’s awarded.”

   NECAC and other Community Action Agencies have not been told how much they may apply for or specifics about eligibility. The National Community Action Foundation, which represents agencies in lobbying Congress, has said funds will be for activities or programs that offer preparatory services or direct response to the coronavirus outbreak. The money is designed to boost the economy by aiding disadvantaged families and helping people to become more self-sufficient. Needs in areas such as housing, education, employment, nutrition and emergency services can be addressed.

   The survey features eight questions or requests for answers. It is available at www.necac.org and on the 12 NECAC County Service Center Facebook pages.  People can also gain access via their cellphones. Paper copies are not available. The deadline to respond is April 17.

   “We’re hoping to get as many responses as possible,” Fritz said. “We want to get ideas on how we can get things as close to normal as we can once the pandemic is over.”

   More information is available by calling Fritz at 573-324-6633 or the NECAC Lewis County Service Center, 408 S. Fourth in Canton, at 573-288-3969.