In its largest allocation to date, Pierce County has directed $5 million of CARES Act funding to provide Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for K-12 schools in the county.
“School may be out for the summer, but we are already thinking about the next school year,” said County Executive Bruce Dammeier. “These resources will help local schools provide our kids a quality education in a safe environment, which is critically important to all of us.”
This week’s allocations also include $2 million for expanding the PPE distribution effort for small and medium-sized businesses. The County has already held 12 distribution events throughout the region, with plans to extend the initiative.
“Getting PPE into the hands of our small and medium-sized businesses will help them as they work to recover from the impact of the pandemic,” said Council Chair Doug Richardson. “While the economy has a long road ahead, it is important to help smooth that path with safe practices that protect residents and employees.”
Nearly $9.7 million was allocated this week, including:
Public Health Emergency Response
- COVID-19 Staff Response: $1,819,255
- Initial Investigations Training and Hiring for Surge: $138,000
- Contact Tracing/Investigations Facility Lease: $500,000
- Personal Protective Equipment for Pierce County Schools: $5,000,000
- Personal Protective Equipment Storage Space: $112,000
Economic Stabilization and Recovery
- Personal Protective Equipment: $2,000,000
Essential Government Services
- Countywide Equipment: $103,000
A complete listing of CARES Act funds allocations by category may be viewed here.