Can our church or ministry center benefit from the CARES ACT?

Our church and synodical leaders with expertise have reviewed the $2 Trillion Federal law approved by Congress last Friday known as the CARES Act. What follows are some helpful summaries which may benefit you and your ministry site.

Summary Document of the CARES Act prepared by the ELCA. (Click here)

This document includes information as it relates to such topics as

· Unemployment Benefits

· Student Loan Relief

· Retirement Plan Changes

· Stabilization Loans

Because Unemployment Insurance is managed by your State government, we encourage you to contact your state office that manages Unemployment.

Stabilization Loans and Payroll Protection for Churches

It may be possible for your congregation to secure a loan to help cover costs related to payroll, utilities, mortgage payments. Please read this document for how one of our congregations approached this matter. It’s clearly best for congregations to speak to their local bank where they already do business. (Click here)

Health Insurance & Retirement Benefits

If your congregation or you personally, have questions regarding the Portico Benefits Services, we strongly encourage you to be in touch with Portico. There are several provisions in the new CARES Act which should be considered when making financial decisions. Congregations are encouraged to continue making their payments to Portico to ensure the stability of this shared risk Health Plan. (Click Here)

Mission Investment Fund

The Mission Investment Fund of the ELCA has resources including persons to assist, as well as loans to congregations and or individuals. (Click Here).

The ELCA also has a general website on Covid19 resources. (Click here)

If you or your congregation need assistance with any of these matters, including legal or financial advice, please contact Bishop Hazelwood at bishop@nesynod.org He will then connect you with the appropriate resource person.

[Follow-Up April 6 - The SBA (Small Business Association) issued a ruling over the weekend clarifying that indeed Faith-Based Organizations are eligible. Click Here for details]

In addition, click here for a brief summary of all this information. provided by the ELCA Office of the Secretary

Sincerely

Bishop James Hazelwood