Over 500 people apply for emergency relief fund

KEARNEY - More than 500 people have applied for the Kearney Area Employee Emergency Relief Fund in just under a week.

The Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce and Kearney Area Community Foundation set up the relief fund after a $100,000 anonymous donation. It's for employees of Buffalo County businesses who are struggling amid the pandemic.

Volunteers with the Chamber of Commerce have sorted through almost half the applicants. So far they've paid out more than $27,000.

"There is a definite need in our community with employees," said Derek Rusher, president/CEO of the Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce. "We've had some self-employed people, they've applied as well. They can't file for unemployment. There are a lot of unknowns. They have no foot traffic in their business."

The Chamber has also raised an additional $10,000 for the relief fund. Rusher said they'll need to keep up that momentum in order to sustain it.

To qualify, you need to work and live in Buffalo County; demonstrate hardship and financial need; and be able to verify your employment and business status.