2020 has been anything but normal and as local businesses continue to operate and navigate COVID-19 restrictions and regulations, the Haxtun Chamber of Commerce hopes to help.

The Haxtun Chamber of Commerce has created a fund to help small Haxtun businesses recover costs associated with re-opening or remaining open through the current pandemic.

According to Chamber Director Jenn Oberle, those costs may include implementing new health safety measures, cleaning protocols, personal protective equipment for employees and other expenses incurred in order to re-opened to COVID-19 requirements.

The funds used to extend help to small, local businesses were received through the Colorado COVID relief funds and the GAP fund.

“We decided to offer financial support to those that may need it but were unable to apply for other grant opportunities that the State or Federal level offered,” Oberle said.

Several months ago, community members, along with Oberle, established a Help Haxtun fund, which gifted funds to businesses and employees who suffered most at the onset of COVID-19 and the shutdown that followed. During that time, Oberle said she learned of many others who could use help as well.

“Maybe paying a portion of their town bill or sending out a set number of funds to individuals,” Oberle said of things the Chamber of Commerce hopes to be able to help with.

To apply for COVID relief funds from the Haxtun Chamber of Commerce, visit bit.ly/HaxtunCOVIDFund and complete the simple, seven question application. Applications are due by 8 a.m. on Nov. 30. Hopes are to award funds before Christmas.

For more information about the process or applying for COVID-19 relief help through the local Chamber of Commerce, contact Oberle at (970) 467-0194.