Resources for Local Businesses & More during COVID-19

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has led to major changes to protect our community’s health and safety. Governor Hogan has enacted emergency executive orders, including closing of non-essential businesses, issuing a stay-at-home directive and more in an effort to flatten the curve. The City's Department of Planning, Community & Economic Development wants to keep you informed about what’s happening in College Park - what these changes mean, and what to do if you need help. Businesses that are considered essential or are exempted from the Governor’s order remain open. Essential and exempted businesses include auto repair shops, banks, cleaners, convenience stores, daycares that provide for essential workers, grocery stores, liquor stores, pharmacies, and restaurants for carry-out, delivery, and drive-thru. For more information about which businesses are considered essential, please visit https://businessexpress.maryland.gov/coronavirus. While in-store and curbside access to non-essential businesses is restricted by the order, many retailers are still operating through online sales and delivery. A list of College Park businesses that are still operating can be found at www.collegeparkmd.gov/covid19#openbusinesses. This is a hard time for so many people, their families, and their communities. It’s important to stay safe and support one another, including local businesses. Resources for businesses affected by the outbreak can be found here, including information about financial assistance programs, the federal CARES Act, employer assistance, and more. The Small Business Administration recently announced guidance and loan resources available for businesses affected by COVID-19. For more information visit www.sba.gov/page/coronavirus-covid-19-small-business-guidance-loan-resources. Residents that have been laid off due to COVID-19 may be eligible for unemployment benefits. More information about eligibility and how to apply can be found on the Department of Labor’s COVID-19 resource page.