COVID-19 Updates and Resources

***THIS PAGE IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE. VISIT OFTEN FOR UPDATES ***

UPDATE: 3.27.2020: House passes historic $2 trillion stimulus despite objections from GOP lawmaker

The Paycheck Protection Program is an SBA loan that helps businesses keep their workforce employed during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis.

Overview of Paycheck Protection Program

Note: we will add a link to the PPP application when it becomes available.

Message from  Senator Bob Mensch: We received additional clarification from the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) regarding businesses who are waiting for their waivers to be approved. If your business has submitted a waiver and has not received a response, please DO NOT resubmit a waiver. DCED is working quickly to process 25,000 waivers at this time and will respond to your waiver as soon as possible.  If your business receives conflicting information from DCED on whether or not your business is essential, please contact my office at 215-541-2388, or your local Senator if your business resides outside of District 24.

The deadline for Pennsylvania to comply with the federal government’s REAL ID identification standards has been extended by one year to October 1, 2021.

UPDATE: 3.25.2020:  Montco PA Press Briefing

UPDATE 3.23.2020:  Governor Wolf Issues Stay-At-Home Order in local counties beginning Monday, March 23, 2020 at 8PM
Governor Wolf’s Order 
Secretary of Health’s Order
Stay at Home Guidance

 

March 21, 2020: Gov. Wolf, Updates “non-life sustaining” buisnesses – Industry Operations Guidance

 

March 20, 2020: PA Chamber, The Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia and Greater Pittsburgh Chamber of Commerce Joint Statement on Wolf Administration’s Modification of COVID-19 Emergency Order to Close “Non-Life-Sustaining” Businesses 

UPDATE 3.20.2020: The administration’s modified guidelines can be found here. 

 

UPDATE: 03/20/20:   The announcement of the closure of “non-life sustaining” businesses has created a further escalation of concerns across the region. I wanted to pass along what I can thanks to the resourcefulness of my colleagues in the region in running this info down. While there does not appear to be a formal announcement as yet about the clarification and exemption process, best information at present is the businesses requesting such should email the following –

– Clarifications: ra-dcedcs@pa.gov
– Waivers – RA-dcexemption@pa.gov

 

TAXES:
Federal Tax Day Deadline Will Move to July 15, Treasury Secretary Says
click here to read full story

Pennsylvania Department of Revenue extends personal tax filing deadline to July 15th. Click here for additional extensions

Berkheimer PA – The new due date for 2019 FINAL RETURNS and 1st quarter 2020 Estimated payments is JULY 15TH, 2020.

 

Gov. Wolf: Economic Injury Disaster Loans Available to Small Businesses and Non-Profits Facing Losses Related to COVID-19

 

Important Message for Business Owners:

We have been asked by the Montgomery County Department of Commerce to share Southeast PA Regional Business Impacts of COVID-19 Survey with our members. Please complete the survey to the best of your ability to describe the impact of COVID-19 on your business. Use projections or estimates if you are unsure,or indicate “N/A”. Thank you for taking the time to complete this survey and work with us — Southeast Pennsylvania’s Economic Development Community

Montgomery County COVID-19 Data Hub
Here you can find information, maps, FAQ’s and resources about the coronavirus outbreak

Montgomery County Drive Through Testing Site at Temple Ambler Campus – Opens 3/21

BUSINESS RESOURCES FOR COVID-19 – PA CHAMBER

Update 3.20.2020:  Life sustaining business FAQ

COVID-19 Data Hub info for Employers

COVID-19 Data HUB info for Workforce (includes Unemployment Compensation Information)

FMLA and COVID-19:  Families First Coronavirus Response Act: Employee Paid Leave Rights

Information for Pennsylvania Employees Impacted by COVID-19

Montgomery County Commerce Department Business Assistance Request Form

UBS has put together a summary of COVID-19 Relief Resources for US business owners 

Maillie LLP has put together this summary of the provisions in the CARES Act

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR BUSINESSES: 

CARES ACT Information and Resources:
US Chamber’s Small Business Guide and Checklist for Coronavirus Emergency Loans  takes a small business step-by-step through the process of preparing to file for a loan.

The Paycheck Protection Program is an SBA loan that helps businesses keep their workforce employed during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis.

Note: we will add a link to the PPP application when it becomes available.

Paycheck Protection Program is  an SBA loan that helps businesses keep their workforce employed during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis.This program gives small businesses access to short-term cash flow assistance. These loans are made by approved lenders, certified by the SBA (Small Business Administration) and are guaranteed by the federal government of the United States.
Note: we will add a link to the PPP application when it becomes available.
Overview of Paycheck Protection Program

Sample PPP Application

Guide to the Employee Retention Tax Credit for COVIC-19 Impacted Employers

 

SBA’s COVID-19 Disaster Relief Loan Program
EIDL Program – SBA is aware the site is overwhelmed and users may experience their session timing out before forms are completed. Businesses are encouraged to print and complete the forms ahead of time, save them to file that can then be quickly uploaded to the site when completing the application. To prepare for the online application, businesses are also encouraged to review and complete the SBA Disaster Business Loan Application forms

 

COVID-19 Working Capital Access Program (PIDA)

The COVID-19 Working Capital Access Program will feature a low interest rate, no application fees, and payments and interest waived during the first year of the loan.  Loans of up to $100,000 will be available for small businesses with 100 or fewer full-time employees to use as working capital. Click on link above for program details, credit criteria for approval, eligible uses and more.  

Short-term Working Capital Available for Small Businesses – B2B business experiencing tight cash flow and delays in customer payments? Interface Financial Group may be able to provide working capital to cover the shortfall. https://www.interfacefinancial.com/team/clark/how-it-works/ or email: BClark@interfacefinancial.com

 

Members can access information about the CARE Act on Univest Webiste:

PPP Loan:  https://www.univest.net/paycheck-protection-program

EIDL Loan:  https://www.univest.net/sba-economic-injury-disaster-loans

 

PA Department of Community & Economic Development COVID-19 Resource Page
FAQ, financial assistance being offered to businesses impacted by COVID-19 through the Department of Community and Economic Development.

 

HEALTH & WELLNESS:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Overview of virus along with links for what you should know, situation updates and other information from CDC

Phoenixville Hospital – Tower Health 

Pennsylvania Department of Health

PA 2-1-1
PA 2-1-1 is part of the national 2-1-1 Call Centers initiative that provides an easy-to-remember telephone number and web resource for anyone seeking health and human services information – for everyday needs and during crisis situations.
 

EMPLOYMENT: 

CareerLink Services – call (610) 270-3429 – for life-sustaining businesses that need additional workers.  Recruitment and online job posting assistance is available. Funds are still available for on-the-job training and Incumbent Worker Training.

e-FMLA and e-psl Questions:
PVCC Member, Ann K. Angelucci, Premier Payroll Services, would like business owners  to know that you can contact Premier Payroll Services (regardless if you are a client or not)  for answers to your questions about EMLA and PSL. We are here to help. Together we will prevail.   C: 215-756-2266

 

TECHNOLOGY: 

Technology Solutions: Plus 1 Technology  has resources to help companies achieve a level of mobility that maximizes their efficiency, productivity, and security. Solutions include remote access, VOIP , laptops, video conferencing, and data security. Contact Marc Umstead at mumstead@plus1technology.com or 610-792-5660

Every Weekday Now – April 3, 2020 @ Noon – 1:30PM
SBA Disaster Relief Loan Training Webinars

The webinar answers questions to SBA EIDL loans (not CARES Act or PPP)

https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USSBA/bulletins/282c5f7

UPDATE:  3.24.2020:

PHOENIXVILLE HOSPITAL NEEDS SUPPLIES DURING CORONA VIRUS OUTBREAK
Phoenixville Hospital has an immediate need for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for their staff including surgical masks, gowns and eyewear.  Read more here. 

Message to Retail/Non-Essential Businesses that are currently closed due to the Governor’s directive:
In a way to provide immediate support to our local small businesses that have modified their operations we would like to compile a list of retail businesses where members can purchase gift cards to be used at a later date.  These will include hair salons, spas, specialty stores or service-related businesses. Send details to renee@pvchamber.net or call the Chamber office at 610-489-6660.

Share your SUCCESS STORIES with us! As we continue to navigate uncharted territory, we would like to share positive stories with our members and community. Email details to renee@pvchamber.net or call 610-489-6660 with details.

Because we are committed to doing everything we can to prevent any spread, our staff is working remotely and our office will remain closed to the public until further notice. You can reach us by phone at 610-489-6660 and by email at  renee@pvchamber.net

Follow us on FaceBook

Visit PV Chamber website

Sign up for Enews Updates – send email to info@pvchamber.net
You can view recent announcements here.

Share YOUR Upcoming Events on PV Chamber Community Calendar

More helpful links: 

Collegeville Economic Development Corp (CEDC) Facebook Page

Collegeville Borough Office of Emergency Management

Many of our member restaurants & catering companies are providing alternatives, such as online ordering and delivery services.  Please visit the Chamber Directory for a  list of restaurants., grocery stores, and wholesale clubs.  Remember to call ahead to ensure services and hours of operation. Find special offers under The Bright Side heading on this page.

Let’s support our local restaurants and catering facilities now, so they are still in business when the lockdown ends!

Pizza Stop – Curbside Pickup and Delivery within 3 mile radius of Collegeville Shopping Center. Call (610) 489-6225

The Trappe Tavern – Carry-out orders for food and 6 packs to go! Daily specials. Call (610)489-8686

S&B Events Concepts & Catering – Offering home-cooked meal ready for pickup. Call 267-263-2616 for details.

Troubles End Brewing – Carry-out and special offers. Call (484) 902-8076

Speck’s Chicken –  Call (610) 489-2110.  And we are now on GrubHub!

Pink Moose Ice Cream & Cafe – Take-out lunch, ice-cream and desserts.(484) 938-7125

Sip’s Bistro – Curbside pickup. Call (484) 924-9721

Dairy Queen Trappe – Drive Up Window

Main Street Nutrition – Curbside pickup. Text  610.203.8437

Clean Juice Collegeville – (484) 854-6974

Take Out Deals 
Troubles End Brewing: As a thank you to everyone we will be giving out $5 Gift Certificates for orders under $50 and $10 Gift Certificates for orders over $50, they will be redeemable as soon as our dining room is able to open, Gift Certificates do not expire. Check us out on FaceBook for latest growler list.

Gift Vouchers – Buy today for a better future!
Our small businesses are what make our community special. Purchasing a gift voucher today, to use when mandates are lifted, will help these businesses survive. Many small businesses are offering GREAT DEALS on gift certificates! 

RAZRBAR – We’ve had several people reach out to us asking how they can support our team. This makes us feel unbelievably GRATEFUL for our Community…So, we are providing this platform to help facilitate the process to support our team. If you so desire and are in a position to help, we invite you to participate in Campaign HOPE – Have Only Positive Expections!  Purchases gift vouchers for services or pay forward a tip. Learn more about  Campaign HOPE details here. 

Escape Trappe
All gift vouchers are 20% off and never expire.  Use  discount code “lockdown20”
(Coming soon…”Among Thieves”, Escape Trappe’s 4th room!)

DaVinci’s Restaurant & Pub – We are closed until further notice, but you can purchase gift cards here.

 

FUN ACTIVITES AT HOME & SPECIAL OFFERS

Need a little pampering? Giselle Knobach, Rodan + Fields, is offering FREE Self- Care Packets to anyone that may be interested. I’ll be happy to mail them out to any member. In addition to FREE enrollment fee ($19.95) for all PVCC members I’ll also offer an additional 10% cash rebate for any order $80 or greater. I can be reached at gk585284@gmail.com or 610-716-7823.

Send someone flowers!  Risher Van Horn Florist is allowed to make safe, no-contact delivery of orders received on their website. That includes our locally grown, in Collegeville, pansies, herbs and vegetable plants.  Please call the shop (610-489-4421) or email (rishervanhorn@comcast.net) for vegetable plant and herb availability. Thanks!!!

Pinot’s Palette introduces At Home Art Kits!  Delivery available. Kits include everything you need to paint a canvas.  Click here for details.

The Learning Express -Collegeville

5% off and FREE SHIPPING! One of our favorite vendors will ship directly to you (and don’t worry, they’ll reward us too!). Until we are allowed to legally/safely work in our store and deliver toys, this is a great option!

Remote control cars, outdoor fun, science and more!
—->https://go.referralcandy.com/share/3J626LH

And, here is a link where customers can purchase gift cards:  https://learningexpresscollegeville.square.site/

Silver Linings – Let’s spread happiness!
More than ever, during times of crisis, communities rally to support one another. Please pass along the positive things you are seeing in the PV region: 
(Share your stories about good deeds happening in our community. Send details to renee@pvchamber.net for posting)

 

March 26, 2020: Posted by PVSD – Shout out to Perkiomen Valley High School Mr. Andrew Colvin and his willingness to help local medical professionals by printing masks. Thanks also @Drneilgulati and @karthikganesh #sogoodtogiveback #PVempowers

March 24, 2020:  Read this heartwarming story from Denise MacMurtrie, Peace Restored Organizing. She looked for and found the silver lining during this storm!

March 20, 2020 – Ciro Nuzzolese owner of Forno Antico on East Main in Collegeville has offered to feed school children who need meals. If you know of anyone in need, please contact the restaurant at 610-454-1130 or email forno.anticopizza@gmail.com

March 18, 2020:  “Orangetheory at Home” workouts. These are created by the very same team that creates the in-studio workouts, with the difference being that we know you may not have weights or a treadmill, and you may not be able to go outside. Stay active, healthy and safe. Watch the first workout here

March 16, 2020: Zenon Jaicki and the Community Club of Collegeville collected and delivered 120 pounds of not only food but cleaning and sanitizing products for families at The Daily Bread Community Food Pantry! 

 

Just for fun – laughable moments to share with family and friends…

We have permission to share this funny video produced by Nick Savino, PSU Grad and made entirely with healthcare products!
“U Can’t Touch This” COVID 19 Edition – Made Entirely With Healthcare Products

We continue to closely evaluate information as we receive it and will share with you moving forward. Please check our events page for the latest updates.