This week, my wife and I were fortunate enough to receive COVID-19 stimulus funds. We fully endorse the passage of the COVID-19 stimulus bill in Congress, and rapid distribution of funds to assist families deal with the economic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The COVID-19 crisis has been extremely hard on low-income families and low-earning individuals, who need assistance with basic living expenses: food, housing, and other fundamental needs. Most of the money will go straight into the economy, cycling back to pay wages for workers, housing, and the interconnected economic chains that supply food, transportation, and other essential services.
My wife and I have neither low income nor high income. We appreciate receiving the COVID-19 funds. We want to support our community, especially those in need. Our solution is simple: redistribute most of the funds we’ve received to three organizations focused on families in need:
— Catholic Community Services administers the CBJ rental assistance program.
— Family Progress offers a community-based approach to homeless families. The
— The Juneau Carbon Offset Fund of Renewable Juneau: Eligible low-income homeowners can get an air source heat pump to replace their oil burner, saving money and offsetting carbon at the same time.
We all know there are many other worthy organizations — The Glory Hall, Big Brothers and Big Sisters, St. Vincent de Paul. So help us in spreading extra stimulus around Juneau.
Bill Hanson and Kate Troll,
Douglas
Columns, My Turns and Letters to the Editor represent the view of the author, not the view of the Juneau Empire. Have something to say? Here’s how to submit an opinion piece.
