We are sharing a new COVID-19 Resource Guidance Document that includes information, guidance and recommendations for leaders of congregations within the North/West Lower Michigan (NWLM) Synod as they manage resources and ministries during the on-going COVID-19 pandemic. This information should be reviewed in partnership with legal and financial experts so that the specific scenarios within each congregation are appropriately considered. The information provided in the document is based on information that has been published as of April 4, 2020 and is subject to change.
Items covered include the following:
- Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) – including:
- Applying for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan
- Applying for Small Business Administration (SBA) loans and grants related to COVID-19
- Note that both are time-sensitive decisions for congregations and other synod organizations as funding is based on a first come – first serve basis
- Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA)
- Michigan’s Executive Order 2020-21 (“Stay at Home”)
- Information related to expanded unemployment benefits due to COVID-19
- Links to helpful references from the ELCA Churchwide Organization