During the COVID-19 crisis, many East Texas businesses have been hard-hit financially.

In order to help meet the short-term needs of businesses that have been impacted by COVID-19, Better Business Bureau Serving Central East Texas (BBB) has set up the Community Relief Fund and is urging all East Texas residents to donate.

BBB is collaborating with Austin Bank and Your Philanthropy to provide an efficient funding stream and application evaluation process to get much needed funds to local businesses.

BBB accredited businesses that have experienced a 50% or greater reduction in revenue for March and who are located within the 19 counties BBB serves, which includes Wood County, are eligible to apply.

“Our business community is a huge part of what makes East Texas great, and we want to do what we can to keep it that way,” said Mechele Agbayani Mills, president and CEO of BBB. “This is a chance for us to pitch in to help our neighbors in need.”

To donate, text bbb2020 to 243725 before April 30 or online at www.bbbhelps.us. Donations can also be made to the Community Relief Fund at any Austin Bank location. 

“Our business community needs us now more than ever,” Mills said. “No amount is too small. A $5, $10, $20 or $100 contribution can make a positive impact,”

If a business is interested in applying for the grant, send an email to relief@easttexas.bbb.org.

All applications must be received by April 30.