This browser does not support the Video element.
Gov. Murphy says NJ awarding $15M in CARES fund to small business
Joyce Evans reports
HADDON HEIGHTS, N.J. - New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy says $15 million in federal funding has been made available to small businesses struggling from the coronavirus outbreak.
Murphy said Tuesday the funds stem from the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act and is in addition to more than $100 million in aid administered by the state’s Economic Development Authority.
So far, nearly 11,000 businesses have been approved for grants, according to the governor.
Murphy said the program is not currently accepting more applicants, he added.
“It’s been four months. It’s been a long four months,” John Pilarz, Co-Owner of Anthony’s, stated.
Anthony’s, along Station Avenue in Haddon Heights, is doing all they can to keep their kitchen open and serving customers, a struggle even after already receiving funding through the New Jersey CARES Act.
“As the summer came in, it got a little bit more difficult. With the take-out and we’re allowed to be open for outside dining, but when it’s 100 degrees, people don’t really want to sit outside,” Pilarz explained.
“Our small businesses are the backbone of our economy. More New Jerseyians work for a small business than anywhere else. Seeing both businesses and employees emerge from this pandemic strong and ready for the times ahead is critical to the success of our overall restart and recovery,” Gov. Murphy stated in a press conference.
“Yes, we’ll definitely apply again,” Pilarz added.
“I think it’s good. Every little bit helps,” Joe Fermano, Co-owner of Ralph’s Pizza said.
Fermano says business in the shop along the main drag for 40 years has been okay.
He says take out has taken off and even though business is off by 20 to 25 percent, they still won’t apply for money that may help another small business.
“We just feel if we can do what we can do with our own, we’re gonna do that,” Fermano stated.
___
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
___
For the latest local news, sports and weather, download the FOX 29 News app.
DOWNLOAD: FOX 29 NEWS APP