We are in the midst of an unprecedented public health and economic crisis. It is no secret that workers, especially in the service industry, will be disproportionately impacted, and that collective action is the greatest tool we have at our disposal to get through this. To that end, we’ve compiled a variety of resources to help workers in New Orleans and Louisiana at large:
Information about the CARES Act and unemployment benefits
The CARES Act, a $2 trillion emergency relief bill passed by Congress and signed into law at the end of March, contains some provisions for workers. Here are some answers to major questions regarding the bill.
COVID-19 Rental Assistance Program
The City of New Orleans (in partnership with Total Community Action) is offering assistance to renters impacted by the pandemic, beginning April 1, 2020. More information can be found on the city’s website.
Apply for rental assistance here.
New Orleans Business Alliance Relief Fund
The New Orleans Business Alliance (NOLABA) is standing up a relief fund to meet the needs of gig economy workers who have been directly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic via loss of income. As of April 4, over $500,000 has been raised to provide direct grants to gig economy workers.
If you can prove the following:
- You reside in Orleans Parish
- Your income is generated via “gig work” (e.g. 1099 contract income)
- You have a demonstrated loss of income as a result of the pandemic
You may be eligible for a $500 grant. To determine your eligibility and apply, visit this website.
Another Round, Another Rally Emergency Fund
This relief fund, created by Another Round, Another Rally, is set up for anyone in the hospitality industry, such as dishwashers, bartenders, servers, cooks, and more. Funds will be distributed via payment apps such as Venmo, CashApp, and PayPal (check and gift card options available for those without a bank account or access to a payments app).
Apply for a $500 relief grant here.
Bartender Emergency Assistance Program
The USBG National Charity Foundation has put together a COVID-19 relief fund for bar workers. To qualify for assistance, you must be a bartender or the spouse/child of a bartender, and you must be able to demonstrate emergency hardship. Read the requirements in detail here.
To apply for aid, fill out this application.
Restaurant Employee Relief Fund
Through the Restaurant Employee Relief Fund, the National Restaurant Association will provide grants to restaurant industry employees who have been adversely impacted by COVID-19 financially, whether through a decrease in wages or loss of employment that results in a lack of resources to pay for essential expenses. Learn more and apply for a $500 grant here.