Pinellas County’s new program provides up to a $10K grant based on annual revenue for businesses hit hardest by COVID-19: generally, those required to close or whose customers were required to stop doing business. Awards are based on a sliding scale for businesses making up to $3 million annually. This new program has been broadened to allow home-based businesses, artists, and companies in target industries to apply. Businesses that have already applied for or received funding from local City or County grant programs are still eligible for this program. Businesses can visit www.pced.org/cares to see if they qualify and to apply.

Largo's Business Continuity Program is still available for businesses that have experienced economic injury resulting from the Governor's Executive Orders and Pinellas County's order mandating a closure or partial closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Commercial mortgage and rent assistance is available in the amount of $1,000 grants.

As of August 28, a total of $79,000 has been disbursed to 79 Largo businesses for recovery from the program's budget from the General Revenue Fund. A total of $16,000 has been disbursed to 16 businesses within the West Bay Drive (WBD) Community Redevelopment District from the WBD Tax Increment Fund. Businesses are encouraged to apply by visiting Largo.com/Renew and selecting the Business Resources link. The program and application portal will close on September 30 and applications will not be accepted after the closing date.

The Recreation, Parks and Arts Department was awarded a $6,000 grant for the Highland Preschool Program from the Pinellas County Cares Act. The Southwest Before and After School Program was awarded $10,000 and the Highland Before and After School Program was also awarded $10,000. These grants will assist the programs in recovering from closures during COVID and the purchasing of supplies for safety and sanitation.

Need to request a Mail Ballot? Any registered voter may vote by mail. All requests for ballots to be mailed must be received no later than 5pm on the 10th day prior to an election. Return your ballot by mail or use one of the convenient ballot drop-off locations available during designated dates and times throughout the county. Learn more at VotePinellas.com.

The Fall edition of Play magazine is now available! Find information on adult, aquatic, athletic, fitness, nature, preschool, senior, special events, teen and youth programs, classes, leagues and events offered both in-person and virtually. Download the magazine and register for programs online.