Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch and the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs announced Monday that 40 Indiana Main Street programs, including Seymour’s, will receive grants of $5,000 each through the Taking Care of Main Street program.

This is a new program providing operational support for Indiana Main Street organizations impacted by COVID-19, according to a news release from the state.

Seymour Main Street will use the funding toward Executive Director Bri Roll’s salary and other operational expenses.

“Seymour Main Street is so thankful for the assistance from Lt. Gov. Crouch and Indiana OCRA,” Roll said. “Due to COVID-19, our fundraising has been significantly impacted due to the cancellation of our largest events: CityJam, Dancing with the Seymour Stars and Ghouls and Goblets.”

Roll said the Taking Care of Main Street grant will help cover some of the deficit in Seymour Main Street’s operational budget, which is fully funded through donations and event income.

“Main Street organizations are a lifeline for small businesses who are doing their best to survive the effects of this pandemic,” Crouch said. “Ensuring small businesses are able to survive requires a comprehensive approach. This funding can help bridge the gap.”

The goal of the program is to support Indiana Main Street organizations that provide leadership and services to the businesses and members using the Main Street Approach with special attention to organizations that have been significantly impacted by COVID-19.

“As we saw from these applications, most Main Street organizations are dealing with loss of funding from a variety of reasons related to COVID-19,” said Matt Crouch, interim executive director of OCRA. “Since their leadership and guidance is a valuable tool for economic recovery, OCRA is grateful to provide this state assistance.”

Eligible expenses could include salaries, administrative fees, space/equipment rental or staff development and training. For information, visit in.gov/ocra/3016.htm.

The application process started Aug. 3 and were awarded on a first-come, first-serve based on completion of application and alignment with eligibility requirements and expectations. Payment is expected this fall.

Roll said Seymour Main Street is encouraging continued support from the community. For information, visit seymourmainstreet.org and click on the join tab.