The North Country Chamber of Commerce recently received $30,000 in financial support from Excellus BlueCross BlueShield to support the organization in its response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The North Country Chamber used the funding from Excellus BCBS to provide small business grants of up to $250 for reimbursement for expenses related to PPE, masks, sanitizer, plexiglass barriers, special signs and other costs they had incurred in preparing their business sites for safe re-opening after the COVID-19 shutdown. In total, 119 grants were awarded to local businesses.
“The challenge confronting small businesses in the North Country has never been greater, requiring information, guidance, training, problem-solving and direct assistance,” said Garry Douglas, president and CEO of the North Country Chamber of Commerce. “We can’t thank our friends and partners at Excellus BlueCross BlueShield enough for directly joining in the effort by working with us to help cover the expenses of dozens of small businesses related to re-opening requirements such as sanitizer, masks, plexiglass barriers and other needs. Every bit of assistance helps, and Excellus’ generosity and support have helped to make a difference. Excellus is a committed member of the North Country team as we all continue to work our way through this pandemic.”
As part of its community response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Excellus BCBS is providing this financial support to chambers across upstate New York to help businesses offset the costs of reopening.
“Local businesses are the backbone of our communities. As a local health care organization, it’s vital that we support them as they reopen and get back on their feet,” said Excellus BlueCross BlueShield Regional President Eve Van de Wal. “Keeping our community healthy is our mission. We’re pleased to support the Rome Area Chamber of Commerce and our local businesses.”