(KMZA)--An emergency relief program has been created in Nemaha County to help small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Nemaha County Commission, during a special meeting December 2, approved creation of the grant program utilizing leftover funds from the SPARK funding.

The program would compensate employers $1,500 for each full-time employee that had to be absent from work due to COVID-19 and $750 for every part-time employee that had to be off.

The Commission also approved the creation of a program that would reimburse employers for expenses related to the COVID-19 pandemic such as cleaning supplies, personal protective equipment and hand sanitizer.

Applications for the new programs will be taken beginning December 9.

Awards will be made on a first-come first-serve basis until funds are exhausted or until December 20, whichever comes first.

Information on how to apply is available with this story at mscnews.net.

Beginning December 9 applications will be available online at www.Seneca-Kansas.com/NMSparkGrant or one can be sent to you by emailing nemaha.spark.grant@gmail.com. More information can be found by emailing the above address or contacting Kylee Bergstrom (785-336-1313)