March 11, 2020

How to Prepare for COVID-19

The only thing we know for certain about COVID-19 is that there is more uncertainty for our businesses with each new day. I wanted you to know that Evergreen will be here to help you and your business regardless of what happens in the coming weeks. Staff and I have made arrangements to work remotely if necessary so we are available to continue to assist you and the other local businesses. We’ll be able to access files, answer calls and do most everything we need to do to make sure that you can get hold of us when you need us. I am hopeful that our services will appear seamless to you and our other business clients.

As you may have heard, Mayor Bill de Blasio announced initiatives to provide small businesses affected by the virus some relief including a low-interest loan and a small grant program. These are still in development—if history is our guide (Superstorm Sandy! 9/11!) it will take a while for these to roll out AND they will only be applicable to a narrow range of firms. However, I wanted to share this information with you as it is being developed. If you have any questions about it you can contact Karen or Natalie for more information. You can learn more about the programs below. I hope all is well with you, your partners and employees and your family. As ever, if there is any way we can be of assistance, please let me know.

Leah Archibald

As the cases of COVID-19 in New York grow, some businesses have started to feel the impact of the coronavirus. Recently Mayor Bill de Blasio announced initiatives to provide small businesses affected by the virus some relief.

Businesses with fewer than 100 employees, seeing a decrease in sales up to 25% or more will be eligible for zero-interest loans up to $75,000 to help mitigate losses in profit.
The City is also offering small businesses with fewer than 5 employees a grant to cover 40% of payroll costs for two months (an average of $6,000) to help retain employees.

Eligible owners who would like to learn more about these programs should call 311 for assistance.

Here is some information to help your business combat the spread of germs and tips to address changing behavior.

Business Continuity Planning Checklist

Business Planning Checklist for Pandemics

Posters for your business and your employees:
Travel Poster
Stay Healthy Poster
Cover Your Cough
Wash Your Hands Poster for Adults

Click here to find more health information and posters in different languages.