COVID-19 Relief Funding Approved For Minnesota Towns, Counties

MINNESOTA — Gov. Tim Walz and Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan Thursday announced a plan to distribute $853 million in relief to communities across the state impacted by the coronavirus crisis. A total of $841 million will be distributed to Minnesota counties, cities, and towns to support local government coronavirus relief efforts.

The funding was authorized under the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.

"As we work to support the health and safety of all Minnesotans during the COVID-19 pandemic, we are also taking steps to build a stronger and more equitable economy," Walz said in a statement.

"This funding will bring much-needed relief to communities across the state as we continue to battle this pandemic together."

Approximately 300,000 Minnesotans have visited food shelves each month since the pandemic began, representing approximately a 30 percent increase over typical visits, according to a news release.

Food banks are distributing approximately 2.4 million pounds of food per week, representing a 20-40 percent increase since 2019. The state is allocating $12 million in emergency support for food shelves, food banks, and other emergency food efforts across the state.