Friend,
COVID-19 has done tremendous damage to New York City, and I mourn the losses of all who were taken and the pain that always ripples outward.
In addition, as a great city of culture, we have also lost much of our vibrant restaurant and arts community.
So many talented creatives and hard working waitstaff have had their careers cut short as the institutions that sustain them struggle for financial stability.
Restaurants with high rent were suddenly forced to survive without alcohol sales and often rely on apps that charge exorbitant fees.
As we safely re-open, I want to let the restaurant and arts community know that I stand with them and am doing everything in my power as a Congressman to help New York City get back on our feet.
When the GOP tried to cut funding or block it altogether, I refused to back down and fought for every last penny.
I’m thrilled that the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Restaurant Revitalization Fund application portal is now open. This program “provides emergency assistance for eligible restaurants, bars, and other qualifying businesses impacted by COVID-19.”
We also fought hard to include support for theaters and other live entertainment venues, and I encourage all qualifying businesses to learn more about the
SBA’s Shuttered Venue Operators Grant.
The American Rescue Plan is a huge economic lift for businesses and individuals recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic and I was proud to support it.
During these hard times, we all need to come together as a city to preserve the arts and restaurant communities that make us special.
Onward,
Jerry
