Information & Resources Regarding COVID-19 in the Berkshires

Berkshire Resources

• Berkshire Health Systems Coronavirus Information Kiosk – This resource collects information from Berkshire Health Systems related to COVID-19.
• Emergency Food Access Map – This map displays locations and information about emergency food access sites throughout the Berkshires.

Commonwealth of Massachusetts Resources

• Mass.gov COVID-19 Updates and Information page (updated regularly).
• NEW Preparing for a COVID-19 Vaccine  Learn about the Commonwealth’s plan for distributing a COVID-19 vaccine, including when you will be able to get the vaccine.
• Governor Baker’s Emergency Order (3/15/20) – Limit gatherings to 25 individuals (subsequently reduced to 10), prohibit on-premises consumption of food/drink at bars/restaurants, beginning March 17.
  • As of May 18, 2020, the Department of Public Health has issued a Safer-At-Home Advisory. This advisory was modified to a Stay At Home advisory on 11/2/20. Beginning 11/6/20, all residents of the Commonwealth are advised to stay home between the hours of 10pm and 5am, leaving only for work or school, emergency medical care, the grocery store or pharmacy, picking up take-out food, or receiving deliveries. During this time, there should be no gatherings in your home with people who live outside your household.
  • As of 7/6/20, Massachusetts is in Phase III Step 1 of reopening, which allows indoor and outdoor dining in restaurants and in bars that also have seated service of food prepared on site. Bars that do not serve food are not permitted to reopen until Phase 4, which will occur at a later date depending on ongoing progress against key public health metrics; bars are not permitted to masquerade as restaurants per a clarification to the restaurant safety protocols issued 8/7/20. See our Reopening Guidance section for additional information.
  • Effective 11/6/20, the gatherings order has been updated. Indoor gatherings at private residences are limited to 10 people and outdoor gatherings at private residences are limited to 25 people. All gatherings must end and disperse by 9:30PM.
• Governor Baker’s May 1 Order (amended effective 11/6/20) requiring the wearing of masks or face coverings in public places, even where social distancing can be maintained. Read the order for additional directives. Directions are available from the Centers for Disease Control for construction of a cloth mask or face covering (including sewn and no-sew options).
  • Subsequently, the Commonwealth’s Department of Public Health has launched the Mask Up MA! initiative, further encouraging use of masks or face coverings in public to help slow the spread of COVID-19. Check out this page for information about and tips for the proper use of masks and face coverings.
• On August 11, 2020, the Commonwealth released the first map of average daily cases per 100,000 residents over the last two weeks, indicating community transmission risk levels for COVID-19. This map will continue to be updated on a weekly basis, and can be accessed as part of the COVID-19 Response Reporting page.
• COVID-19 Travel Order – All travelers to Massachusetts – including Massachusetts residents returning home – are instructed to self-quarantine for 14 days and complete a Massachusetts Travel Form, with exceptions for those who can provide proof of a negative test result for COVID-19 from a test administered on a sample no longer than 72 hours before they arrived in Massachusetts, and for those arriving from a COVID-19 lower-risk state. This list changes regularly in accordance with other states’ testing results. Consult the current list of lower-risk states for more information.
• MassGovernor on YouTube – this channel carries live and recorded streams of Governor Baker’s COVID-19 response press updates.
• Office of the Attorney General of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts
  • FrontlineMA.org, an initiative of the Office of the Attorney General, aggregates helpful information and links for frontline workers, including free or discounted meals, PPE access and guidance, self-care resources, and more.
  • Frequently Asked Questions about Electric, Gas, and Water Utilities during COVID-19, from the Office of the Attorney General. If you are are residential customer struggling to pay your utility to bills, take a look at this page to learn about your rights.
• Massachusetts Department of Public Health
  • COVID-19 Isolation and Quarantine Information – Learn about how to isolate and quarantine if you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or have been exposed to someone with COVID-19.
  • Stop The Spread Initiative – Learn about the Commonwealth’s free testing sites in regions across Massachusetts. Coming to the Berkshires December 2020.
  • Tips to Make Quarantine and Isolation Easier – Learn about the difference between quarantine and isolation, when you need to do one or the other, and a lot more from this helpful FAQ page.
• Mass.Gov Flu Facts
  • Learn about flu prevention and vaccination with FAQs.
  • Check out HealthMap’s Vaccinefinder.org to find out where you can receive vaccines nearby for the flu and other diseases.

Federal and International Resources

• Centers for Disease Control
  • CDC Information
  • CDC Business Pandemic Checklist 
  • CDC Guidance for Holidays 
  • Quarantine and Isolation
    • What is the Difference Between Quarantine and Isolation?
    • Tips to Make Isolation and Quarantine Easier
• World Health Organization information
• State Department Travel Advisories
• US Attorney and Homeland Security Investigations “Think Before You Click” poster

Newest Updates

• 4/27/21: Vaccination appointments are now widely available in the Berkshires. Click here to see availability at just Berkshire sites: https://tinyurl.com/BerkshireVaxClinics

• 4/19/21: As of today, all individuals over the age of 16 who live, work, or study in Massachusetts are eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. People under 18 must have permission from a legally-authorized representative (usually a parent or guardian) such as a completed consent form, but the representative does not need to accompany the person under 18 to the vaccine appointment.

• All individuals can now pre-register for a vaccination appointment at a mass vaccination location here. At this time, preregistration is only available for the mass vaccination sites and some regional collaboratives, with plans to add other collaboratives in the future.

Vaccine Eligibility (Updated 4/19/21)

• All individuals over the age of 16 who live, work, or study in Massachusetts.

Local Information

• Berkshire Vaccine Collaborative – Get Vaccinated Berkshires This website is a collaboration of Berkshire Health Systems, Berkshire County Boards of Health Association, and Community Health Programs, and public health nurses. It offers localized information about COVID-19 vaccines, the vaccination process, and a link to register for an appointment.
• Phase 1 and activated Phase 2 Vaccine Appointment Sign-up If you are part of Phase 1 or an activated priority group in Phase 2, use this link to register for a vaccine appointment. Vaccine clinics are being held in Great Barrington, North Adams, and Pittsfield.
• Berkshire County Board of Health Association

State and Federal Information

• Massachusetts Department of Public Health
  • COVID-19 Vaccine Finder – Click here to search for vaccine locations with available appointments near you.
  • COVID-19 Vaccination Program Report Stay up to date with the latest news related to the Massachusetts COVID-19 vaccination program.
  • COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Timeline: Phase Overview This overview shows a detailed, prioritized list of groups eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine under the state’s plan. Updated Tuesdays and Thursdays at 5pm.
  • When Can I Get The COVID-19 Vaccine? Learn about the Commonwealth’s timeline for the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines to individuals and determine in which phase you will be eligible.
  • COVID-19 Vaccine Locations of Individuals in Phase 1 If you are eligible for a vaccination in Phase 1 of the Commonwealth’s vaccination plan, this interactive map will help you find a vaccination location near you and find out how to book an appointment.
  • COVID-19 Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions Find the answers to questions such as “Will I have to pay for the vaccine?” (No), “Should people who have already had COVID-19 be vaccinated?” (Yes), and what you can expect at your vaccination appointment.

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
  • Facts about COVID-19 Vaccines In-depth answers to specific questions that may help dispel some myths and misperceptions about the COVID-19 vaccines.
  • Understanding How COVID-19 Vaccines Work Learn about the ways that COVID-19 vaccines work with your body to protect you from infection with COVID-19.
  • Benefits of Getting a COVID-19 Vaccine Learn about the important benefits of receiving a COVID-19 vaccine.
• Health Action Alliance
  • Small Business Guide to COVID-19 Vaccines

• COVID-19 Vaccine Registration Assistance Hotline: For those 75 and older who need assistance scheduling a vaccine appointment. Dial 2-1-1 and select the prompt for “scheduling a vaccine appointment” to receive assistance from an operator.
• Homebound Vaccination Central Intake Line – 1-833-983-0485 (M-F, 9am-5pm)
• Text Alerts – Text COVIDMA to 888-777 to receive COVID-19 text message alerts straight to your phone and stay up to date with the latest news + updates from the Commonwealth. Para recibir alertas de mensajes de texto de la Mancomunidad de Massachusetts, envíe un mensaje de texto con COVIDMAESP al 888-777.
• MEMA’s Emergency Operations Center’s Private Sector Hotline: 508-820-2094  (M–F, 8AM – 4PM)
• Berkshire Medical Center toll-free hotline for questions/concerns: 855-BMC-LINK – or – 855-262-5465  (7 days/week, 7AM – 7PM)
• Massachusetts Department of Public Health: 617-983-6800  (24-hour emergency hotline)

• SBA – Coronavirus: Small Business Guidance & Loan Resources – Learn about the suite of programs and tools available to small businesses from the Small Business Administration.
• Coronavirus Relief Options – Learn about specific funding resources available through the Small Business Administration.

Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)

NOTE: The U.S. Small Business Administration is now offering only PPP loans originated by participating community financial institutions until May 31, or until funding is exhausted.  

NOTE: As of January 13, PPP “First Draw” and “Second Draw” loans are available from lenders. The Biden Administration recently announced several reforms to the current PPP round, focused on targeting the PPP to the smallest businesses and those left behind in previous relief efforts. View this fact sheet for more information.

NOTE: The PPP Extension Act of 2021, signed into law 3/30/21, extended the program two months to 5/31/21 and provide the SBA an additional 30-day period to process applications that are still pending. 

• The Paycheck Protection Program helps businesses keep their workforce employed during the COVID-19 outbreak by providing a low-interest loan that can be completely forgiven.
• Paycheck Protection Program Loan Forgiveness Application If you received a PPP loan and hope to have it forgiven, this is the form you should utilize. The form contains the instructions you will need to complete your application.
• Paycheck Protection Program Simple Loan Forgiveness Application If your PPP loan was $50,000 or less, you can use this streamlined loan forgiveness application.
• Frequently Asked Questions on Paycheck Protection Program Loan Forgiveness
• Paycheck Protection Program Frequently Asked Questions from the Small Business Administration.
• Small Business Paycheck Protection Act Tools from the Department of the Treasury.
• Find eligible lenders for PPP
• PPP Interim Final Rule provides an overview of the program and guidance about eligibility, calculating borrowing amounts, loan forgiveness, and a variety of other considerations.
• PPP For Lenders: Application Form, Information Sheet
• PPP-Related Resources (Non-SBA):
  • LISC Boston – Massachusetts Equitable PPP Access Initiative – A coalition formed to provide timely and equitable access to forgivable federal loans from the US Small Business Administration under the PPP for underbanked businesses and historically disadvantaged and underserved demographic groups, including businesses owned by women and people of color.
  • Federal Reserve Bank of Boston – Paycheck Protection Program Information for Small Businesses
  • National Development Council Webinar – Helping Entrepreneurs Complete Strong PPP Applications: An Overview of the PPP Application Requirements. (recording)

SBA Express Bridge Loan Pilot Program 

• Information about the SBA Express Bridge Loan
• SBA Express Bridge Loan Pilot Program Guide

Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL)

Note: SBA has increased the loan limit for COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loans to up to 24 months of economic injury with a maximum loan amount of $500,000.

Note: If you previously applied for a Targeted EIDL Advance but were denied, you can request a reevaluation of your application by sending an email to TargetedAdvanceReevaluation@sba.gov, using the subject line “Reevaluation Request for [your 10-digit application number]” and including identifying information for the business such as application number, business name, business address, business owner names, and phone number. Please include an explanation and any documentation that addresses the reason for the decline, if available. SBA will contact applicants if additional documentation is required to complete the review.

• FAQ Regarding COVID-19 EIDL 
• SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan Application – Updated for a faster and easier application experience.

SBA Debt Relief

• Learn more about relief the Small Business Administration is offering for businesses with SBA loans.

Shuttered Venue Operators Grants 

• Shuttered Venue Operators Grant – Part of the Economic Aid to Hard-Hit Small Businesses, Nonprofits, and Venues Act, this program provides grants equal to 45% of their gross earned revenue, up to $10 million. Applications are open to live venue operators or promoters; theatrical producers; live performing arts organization operators; relevant museum operators, zoos, and aquariums who meet specific criteria; motion picture theater operators; talent representatives; and each business entity owned by an eligible entity that also meets eligibility requirements. Now accepting applications.
  • Shuttered Venue Operators Grant FAQ.

Restaurant Revitalization Fund Grants

• Restaurant Revitalization Fund – Part of the recently-passed American Rescue Plan, the Restaurant Revitalization Fund will provide emergency assistance for eligible restaurants, bars, and other qualifying businesses (there is an extensive list) impacted by COVID-19. It will provide restaurants with funding equal to their pandemic-related revenue loss up to $10 million per business. Recipients are not required to repay the funding as long as funds are used for eligible uses, which include payroll, mortgage and rent payments, utilities, outdoor seating, food and beverage costs, and more. Now accepting applications.

• This updated guidance from the Massachusetts Department of Unemployment Assistance details information about implementation of unemployment programs in the CARES Act, including $600 Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (discontinued as of 7/25/20), Pandemic Unemployment Assistance for self-employed, independent, and gig economy workers, and 13 weeks of additional unemployment assistance provided by the Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation program.
• Applying for Unemployment Benefits / Solicitud de Beneficios de Desempleo
• Unemployment Insurance Benefits and Returning to Work: Guide for Workers – This FAQ covers a variety of questions about returning to work for those who are presently receiving unemployment compensation.
• Massachusetts Health Connector

Guidance for Employers

• Employer Unemployment FAQ: COVID-19
• Unemployment Insurance Benefits and Returning to Work: Guide for Employers
• Massachusetts WorkShare Program for Employers

Massachusetts Resources

• As of May 18th, 2020, the Commonwealth has unveiled Reopening Massachusetts, its four-phase plan to reopen the economy. Please see our Reopening Guidance section for updated, detailed information about the reopening process.
• Small Business Association Massachusetts Resource Guide
• COVID-19 Essential Services FAQ – An evolving resource from the MA Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development.
• EANE Q&A Regarding Essential and Non-Essential Businesses
• Manufacturing Emergency Response Team (M-ERT) – If your business is a manufacturer that believes it can pivot production to needed materials such as personal protective equipment (PPE), use this link to contact the M-ERT.
• AIM Covid 19 Voluntary Accrued Vacation Time & Essential Employee Model Documents
• Small Business Assistance – Info from Mass.gov
• MyLocalMA – If you own or work at a local business, you can help spread the word about the impact that local shops, restaurants, and attractions have on our way of life in Massachusetts. Download the toolkit to get started.

Federal and International Resources

• Small Business Owners’s Guide to the CARES Act – Learn about the CARES Act and the programs and initiatives that will soon be available to small businesses through the SBA.
• Department of Labor – Families First Coronavirus Response Act: Employer Paid Leave Requirements. This page from the DOL explains the new requirements around employer paid leave in the FFCRA. For additional information, check out the Department of Labor’s FFCRA Questions and Answers page.
• OSHA COVID-19 Standards for Workplaces
• Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employers from CDC
• COVID-19 Federal Resource Guide
• National Endowment for the Arts – Resources to Help Ensure Accessibility of Your Virtual Events for People with Disabilities

• Initial Analysis of the CARES Act – National Council of Nonprofits
• Coronavirus Emergency Loans Small Business Guide & Checklist
• Mass Cultural Council
  • Recover, Rebuild, Renew Webinar Series – These webinars represent the most critical areas of need to help plan a post-COVID operating environment for cultural nonprofits and creative workers.
• Covid-19 Relief Effort for Cultural Organizations – Learn about existing and upcoming resources for Cultural Investment Portfolio organizations as well as all cultural nonprofits.
• Commonwealth of Massachusetts – COVID-19 Resources Available to Immigrants and Refugees 
• MASS MoCA’s Assets for Artists program helps artists in all disciplines strengthen their financial and business capacity to sustain a lifetime of creative excellence. Generally, workshops are open to artists currently living in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut, and space it limited so registration is not guaranteed. Upcoming webinars:
  • Decolonizing Your Creative Practice Retreat: Perfectionism (two-part webinar series) – Participants will unravel and heal from perfectionism and will be invited to slow down, listen, and transform. Sat 4/17 and Sat 5/1, 9:00AM.
  • Making a Plan in a Time of Uncertainty (two-part webinar series) – Participants will develop the building blocks for a strategic plan for their creative career. Wed 4/28 and Wed 5/5, 2:00PM.
  • The Nuts & Bolts of Being a Performing Artist (multi-part series) – This highly-interactive series will cover a broad range of business and financial topics related to the performing arts. Each 2.5-hour gathering will focus on a different theme, including financial health and safety nets, values-aligned goal setting, budgeting and taxes, and interrogating historically-outdated business models.  Mon & Thurs, 5/3-5/20 5:00PM.
  • Crowdfunding for Artist Projects – Learn tips and tricks to help crowdfund your art project, including preparing and running a campaign, setting funding targets, identifying potential backers, sharing your campaign, and post-campaign strategies. Thu, May 13.
  • Navigating Housing & Studio Spaces for Artists: Know Your Rights and Resources (three-part series) – Each week will focus on a different topic.
    • Renting and Evictions Wed, 5/19 6:00PM.
    • Alternative Artist’s Living (different housing models artists are building for themselves and others) Wed 6/23 6:00PM.
    • First-Time Home Buying for Creatives Wed 7/21 6:00PM.
  • Making a Plan in a Time of Uncertainty (two-part webinar) – Develop building blocks for a strategic plan for your creative career. Thu 5/20 and 5/27, 2:00PM.
  • Online Sales and e-Commerce for Craft Artists – Learn how to sell on your own site of through a third-party host, how to engage customers and bring sales year round, while running a business that reflects your politics and values. Wed 5/26, 6:00PM.
  • The Business of Writing: How to Successfully Research and Submit to Literary Journals, Publishers, and Agents – Learn the basics of writing convincing and persuasive pitches as well as submission etiquette and best practices for presenting writing to decision makers in your field. Wed 6/2, 2:00PM.
  • Financial Strategies for Artists – Learn the financial building blocks necessary for surviving a career as a freelancer, including personal finance topics such as debt management, emergency funds, private and governmental safety nets, tax issues, and negotiating with lenders. Thu 6/3 2:00PM.
  • Elevating Online Sales (two-part webinar) – Learn strategies to best market and engage your audienc with an eye toward direct online sales. This workshop will focus on multiple tools and methods of engagement, including photography, the website, the email list, and social media. Thu 6/10 & 6/17, 6:00PM.
  • Creative Practice Within Virtual Communities – This workshop will draw on the tools and knowledge to which participants already have access in order to address the question “how can community-engaged artists extend their work into virtual spaces?” Tue 6/9 2:00PM.
  • Creative Practice Within Virtual Communities – This workshop will draw on the tools and knowledge to which participants already have access in order to address the question “how can community-engaged artists extend their work into virtual spaces?” Tue 7/7 2:00PM.
  • The Basics of Building a Grant (three-part webinar) – The three parts of this workshop will cover project development, the building blocks of a proposal, and the project’s monetary and non-monetary needs and how to build a corresponding budget.
    • Part I: Project Development & Where to Find Grants Thu 7/8 2:00PM.
    • Part II: Getting Your Materials Ready & Writing Thu 7/15 2:00PM.
    • Part III: Building a Project Budget & Addressing Financial Trauma Thu 7/22 2:00PM.
  • Staying Authentic While Marketing Your Work – Participants will learn some of the strategies and apply practical knowhow to promote themselves and their services with excellence and authenticity in both in-person and online spaces. Wed 7/14 6:00PM.
  • The Essentials of Digital Marketing – Participants will gain the tools to build an online audience, evaluate what digital platforms are best for their work, use analytics to determine future decision making, and put together a marketing plan that covers multiple platforms. Tue 7/27 2:00PM.

Municipalities:

• Adams
• Alford
• Becket
• Cheshire
• Clarksburg
• Dalton
• Egremont
• Florida
• Great Barrington
• Hancock
• Hinsdale
• Lanesborough
• Lee
• Lenox
• Monterey
• Mount Washington
• New Ashford
• New Marlborough
• North Adams
• Otis
• Peru
• Pittsfield
• Richmond
• Sandisfield
• Sheffield
• Stockbridge
• Tyringham
• Washington
• West Stockbridge
• Williamstown

Chambers of Commerce:

• Downtown Pittsfield, Inc.
• Lee Chamber of Commerce
• #LenoxLove Connection Hub
• North Adams Chamber of Commerce
• Southern Berkshire Chamber of Commerce
• Stockbridge Chamber of Commerce
• Williamstown Chamber of Commerce

• WesternMass List of Upcoming Webinars for Businesses – A Google doc of webinars
• A briefing on the CARES Act –  Ben Lamb, 1Berkshire’s Director of Economic Development, and Deborah Gallant, Executive Director of EforAll Berkshire County, interpret the recently-passed CARES Act. (recording)
• AIM Webinar – AIM Experts Answer Employer Question on COVID-19, focusing on topics like the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, paid employee leave, essential status, and more. (recording)

Key orders from the Baker Administration are listed below. For a full list, visit this page.

“The Gathering Order”(Governor’s COVID-19 Order #63) established gathering limits of 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors.

“The Travel Advisory” Effective Monday March 22, 2021. Replaces the Travel Order. Visitors to the Commonwealth and Massachusetts residents returning home are advised to quarantine for ten days, with exceptions for:

• Those who have tested negative for COVID-19 within the most recent 72 hours (or tests negative during their 10-day quarantine)
• Anyone entering Massachusetts for fewer than 24 hours
• Anyone returning to Massachusetts after being out of state for fewer than 24 hours
• Workers entering Massachusetts to perform critical infrastructure functions
• Travelers who are fully vaccinated (i.e., those who have received two doses of Pfizer or Moderna vaccine or one dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, no fewer than 14 days ago).

“Mask Order” (Governor’s COVID-19 Order #55) All persons are required to wear face coverings in all public places, even where they are able to maintain six feet of distance from others. there is an exception for residents who cannot wear face coverings due to a medical or disabling condition, but allows employers to require employees to provide proof of such a condition. Allows schools to require that students participating in in-person learning provide proof of such a medical or disabling condition.

Reopening Massachusetts – The Baker-Polito Administration’s comprehensive plan to safely reopen the Massachusetts economy, get people back to work, and ease social restrictions while minimizing the health impacts of COVID-19.

• Reopening Massachusetts – the official website of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ reopening plan.
• Reopening Massachusetts Report – View and download the Commonwealth’s report on reopening the economy.
• Reopening Massachusetts – Overview of the Four-Phase Approach – Visit this link for additional information about the four phases of reopening the Massachusetts economy.
• Reopening: When Can My Business Open? – Visit this link to learn more from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts about the different phases of reopening, and which types of businesses can reopen during each phase. This resource will be updated from time to time as the situation allows.
• Reopening: General Business Guidance Documents and Translations – Visit this link to access Commonwealth resources required for self-certification as part of businesses reopening. Businesses must comply with these mandatory safety standards, and you can find direct links to the individual items below, translated into Arabic, Chinese (simplified and traditional), Gujarati, Haitian Creole, Khmer, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, and Vietnamese.
  • COVID-19 Control Plan Template
  • Compliance Attestation Poster
  • Employer Reopening Poster
  • Worker Reopening Poster
• Purchasing Hygienic or Protective Supplies for the Workplace – This guide from the Commonwealth details supplies your business and employees need to have and contains guidance for masks and face coverings, and a spreadsheet of vendors of hygienic and protective supplies.
• Submit Questions and Comments About Reopening Massachusetts – Use this form to ask question or provide feedback to the Commonwealth regarding the Reopening Massachusetts effort.
• Guidance for industries on the reopening plan – Download this PDF for additional information on businesses and activities summarized in the Reopening Massachusetts report.
• Child and Youth Serving Programs Reopen Approach
  • Minimum Requirements for Health and Safety
  • Early Education and Care Reopen Approach Frequently Asked Questions
• Outdoor Recreational Activities: Guidance and directives related to the reopening of outdoor recreational activities and businesses in the Commonwealth.
• Reopening Health and Human Services in Massachusetts: Guidelines for hospitals and health care providers related to some non-emergency procedures or deferred care that may now need attention.

Federal Guidance

• Centers for Disease Control Workplace Decision Tool – This online resource helps employers make reopening decisions during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• US Food and Drug Administration – Best Practices for Re-opening Retail Food Establishments During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Additional Resources

• MA Small Biz Reopening Guide – This online resource from the Mass Growth Capital Corp. and Massachusetts Association of Community Development Corps helps businesses navigate available guidance and tools that will help them reopen safely and successfully.

Phase II, Step Two – Effective Monday, June 22

On Friday, June 19, Governor Baker announced that Phase II, Step Two would begin on Monday, June 22. Below is a summary of businesses permitted to reopen and operational modifications already-open businesses will be permitted to make. The Commonwealth entered Step One of Phase III on Monday, July 6, 2020.

• Restaurants
  • Indoor table service permitted as of June 22. See the Safety Standards and Checklist for Restaurants for implementation guidance.
  • As of 11/6, restaurants must cease alcohol sales and in-person dining as of 9:30pm, but may continue take-out and delivery service.
• Close Contact Personal Services
  • In addition to barber shops and hair salons (which were permitted to reopen in Phase 2, Step 1), close contact personal services are now permitted to reopen in accordance with state guidance. Close contact personal services are defined as any personal service delivered through close physical contact with the customer, including but not limited to the following: hair removal services; massage and body treatments; nail care services; skin care services; other hair services; makeup salons and makeup application services; personal trainers (by appointment only, with only one customer allowed in the facility at a time); and tanning salons.  See the Workplace Safety Standards guidance and summary checklist for additional information about the standards with which Close Contact Personal services must comply in order to reopen.
  • As of 11/6, close contact personal services are required to close at 9:30pm.
• Offices
  • May resume occupancy of up to 50% (previously 25% as of June 8), but employers are still encouraged to allow employees to work from home. See Office Space Safety Standards.
• Retail
  • Dressing rooms are permitted to reopen by appointment. See Retail Safety Standards.
  • Note: As of 9/28,  self-serve beverage stations are permitted, as long as appropriate guidelines are followed. See the retail safety standards page for details. Other communal serving areas (such as salad bars) must remain closed.

Phase 2, Step 1 – Restaurants, Lodging, and Retail

• Restaurants
  • Restaurants MA Safety Standards: These workplace safety standards for restaurants are posted in advance of the Governor’s initiation of Phase 2 to allow restaurants time to prepare to operate in compliance with these mandatory health and safety standards.
  • Restaurants MA COVID-19 Checklist
  • As of Monday 9/28, restaurants are permitted to seat up to 10 people at one table, and restaurants with bars are permitted to use them for seated food service, provided that other social distancing protocols are followed. Specific details are outlined in the checklist and safety standard documents.
• Lodging
  • Operators of Lodgings MA Safety Standards: These workplace safety standards for lodging are posted in advance to the Governor’s initiation of Phase 2 to allow operators of lodging time to prepare for reopening in compliance with these mandatory standards.
  • Operators of Lodgings MA COVID-19 Checklist
• Retail Businesses
  • Retail Businesses Safety Standards: These workplace safety standards for retail businesses are posted in advance of the Governor’s initiation of Phase 2 to allow businesses time to prepare to operate in compliance with these mandatory health and safety standards.
  • Retail Businesses MA COVID-19 Checklist

Phase III, Step Two – Beginning Monday, March 1

Below are links to sector-specific guidance. Where changes have been made, the date of these updates will denote these changes.

As of March 1, 2021, indoor venues such as concert halls, theaters, and other indoor performance spaces may be open at 50% capacity with 500-person max. Indoor recreational activities with greater potential for contact, including laser tag, roller skating, trampolines, and obstacles courses may be open at 50% capacity.

The following industries will increase to 50% capacity. Employees will be exempt from capacity restrictions in all categories:

• • Arcades & Other Indoor and Outdoor Recreation Businesses
  • Close Contact Personal Services
  • Driving and Flight Schools
  • Fitness Centers and Health Clubs
  • Golf Facilities (indoor)
  • Libraries
  • Operators of Lodging (common spaces)
  • Museums, Cultural & Historic Facilities, Guided Tours
  • Office Spaces
  • Places of Worship
  • Sectors not Otherwise Addressed
  • Theaters and Performance Venues
  • Relevant EEA Industries – Youth sports spectators etc.
  • The following industries remain unaffected by capacity limits:
    • Drive in movie theaters
    • Construction
    • Laboratories
    • Manufacturing

Phase III Step Two also offers additional guidance changes:

• Restaurants
  • Musical performances allowed in restaurants (with appropriate distancing)
  • 90 minute time limit on tables remains in place.
  • No more than six people per table remains in place.
  • Food courts remain closed.
• Retail Businesses
  • Fitting rooms may open in all retail businesses.

Phase III also offers revisions to the governor’s Gatherings Order:

• Indoor gatherings are limited to a maximum of 10 people.
• Outdoor gatherings are limited to a maximum of 25 people.

The Commonwealth entered Phase IV, Step One on Monday, March 22, 2021.

Gatherings Limit

• Event venues and public settings will see gathering limits rise to 100 indoors and 150 outdoors.
• Private settings (such as residences) will remain limited to 10 people indoors and 25 outdoors.

Indoor and Outdoor Stadiums, Arenas, and Ballparks

• Defined as large venues, with a capacity of 5,000 or more.
• May open with a 12% capacity limit.
• Are required to submit a safety plan to the Department of Public Health.
• Venues with capacities under 5,000 are subject to the Indoor and Outdoor Performance Venue guidance.

Exhibition and Convention Halls

• May reopen, subject to gathering limits and event rules.

Dance Floors

• May reopen at weddings and events only.

Overnight Camps

• May open for Summer 2021.

Remaining Phase IV Industries

The following industries will not be able to reopen until a future reopening step.

• Road races, street festivals, parades and fairs.
• Amusement parks, theme parks, and outdoor water parks.
• Indoor water parks and indoor/outdoor ball pits.
• Saunas, hot tubs, steam rooms at fitness centers, health clubs, and other facilities.
• Beer gardens, breweries, wineries, distilleries.
• Bars, dance clubs, and night clubs – venues offering entertainment, beverages, or dancing and not providing seated food.

Travel Order (Effective 3/27/21)

• Will be replaced with a Travel Advisory.
• All persons entering Massachusetts, including returning residents, are urged to quarantine for 10 days upon arrival if they have been out of the state for 24 hours or more. Exceptions include:
  • Anyone returning to Massachusetts after an absence of fewer than 24 hours.
  • Travelers who have a negative COVID-19 test result administered no more than 72 hours prior to their arrival in Massachusetts.
  • Workers entering Massachusetts to perform critical infrastructure functions while they are commuting to or from or while at work.
  • Travelers who have been fully vaccinated (those who have received two doses of the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine or one dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, 14 days ago and who do not have symptoms).

• Upcoming Webinars:

• Recorded Webinars:
  • MassMEP – The ABCs of Returning Safely to Work – Navigating the Alphabet Soup of Regulations As We Get Back To Work (recording). Tune in to learn about areas of your business where you will need to make changes and considerations for new rules, new equipment, new processes and adapt the factors you consider in decision making.
  • MassMEP – The ABCs of Returning Safely to Work – Who Will Be Your COVID-19 Safety & Health Coordinator? (recording) Tune in to learn about what you need to consider in establishing a staff member or team to manage COVID-19 best practices in your workplace.
  • MassMEP – The ABCs of Returning Safely to Work – New Rules. New Procedures. Which Ones Should I Apply To My Business? (recording) Tune in to learn about new practices and procedures you can apply to improve safety in your business, including signage and communications, updating sick policies, PPE implementation, and more.
  • MassMEP – The ABCs of Returning Safely to Work – Two OSHA Documents You Already Have to Help with COVID-19 Requirements (recording). Tune in to learn about two key OSHA documents you will need to update, as well as steps your organization should take to prepare for emergencies in the workplace.
  • MassMEP – The ABCs of Returning Safely to Work – I Didn’t Know I Needed To Do All That To Disinfect and Clean Safely! (recording).Tune in to learn the answers to some common questions about what you can to do to keep your workplace clean and disinfected.
  • The Brookings Institution – Reopening Schools in the Fall Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic
  • 1Berkshire Virtual Town Hall – Reopening the Berkshire Economy This panel conversation and Q&A-style town hall featured Senator Adam Hinds, Ben Sosne (Executive Director, Berkshire Innovation Center), and Jennifer Trainer Thompson (Executive Director, Hancock Shaker Village). The panel discussed the numbers that matter, budgetary impacts, and tactics and approaches needed to ensure a safe and sustainable reopening of the economic cornerstones of the region.
  • 1Berkshire Virtual Town Hall – Reopening the Economy – Phase 3 This panel conversation and Q&A-style town hall features Senator Adam Hinds, John Lewis (Chief Executive Storyteller, SP3AK EASY Studio), Eric Kerns (Partner, TOURISTS), Jennifer Trainer Thompson (President and CEO, Hancock Shaker Village) discussing the steps, logistics, and potential impacts of Phase 3 reopening here in the Berkshires.
  • Associated Industries of Massachusetts – The Road to Immunity Join Dr. Michael Collins (UMass Medical School), Kevin Cranston (Mass. Department of Public Health), and Maura McLaughlin (Brown & Joy) for a discussion about the COVID-19 vaccines and what they mean to employers.

• US Small Business Administration’s Ascent – This free learning platform for women entrepreneurs is designed to help users master concepts like economic recovery, strategic marketing, personnel, financial strategy, and access to capital to support their growing businesses.
• Small Business Strong – This public-private partnership was established to help women- and minority-owned small businesses in Massachusetts navigate the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. It offers an online portal with curated resources, access to generalized business advisors, and referrals to functional specialists who can assist with specific support and deliverables.
• Grow with Google – Tips for working, managing, teaching, and learning remotely.
• Initiative for a Competitive Inner City (ICIC) Small Business Resource Center features links to national resources for small businesses, and to Massachusetts resources as well.
• Nonprofit Center of the Berkshires – COVID-19 Resources for Berkshire Nonprofits
• Resource Guide – Running A Food Business in the Face of COVID-19 (CommonWealth Kitchen)
• AIM COVID-19 Resource Page for Employers
• List of Arts Resources During the COVID-19 Outbreak from Creative Capital
• Capacity Interactive Podcast: How Arts Organizations Can Survive a Pandemic
• Seated’s Restaurant Support Hotline connects restaurants to legal experts to help get your questions answered – for free.
• A Guide to Reopening Restaurants from Nation’s Restaurant News.

Webinars

• Upcoming Webinars
  • 1Berkshire – Virtual Town Hall: Outdoor Recreation in the Berkshires Fri, 5/14 10:00AM.
  • EforAll Berkshire County – Deep Dive: Funding Sources for Your Small Business Mon 5/17 4:00PM.
  • Entrepreneur – 5 Ways to Hustle and Achieve Success Wed 5/19 3:00PM.
  • 1Berkshire – Virtual Town Hall: The 2021 Summer Experience in the Berkshires Fri 5/21 10:00AM. 
  • 1Berkshire and BRIGADE – Business Boost Series: Branding for the Millennial Market. Join us and the team from BRIGADE, a premier branding agency in Western Massachusetts, for a conversation and presentation on ways to reach the rapidly-growing and increasingly-wealthy market of Millennials, both locally and through a visitor market lens. Mon 5/24 12:00PM.
  • 1Berkshire – Business Boost Series: How New Regional Trends Can Impact Your Business. Join Ben Lamb of 1Berkshire as we get an inside look at some of the obvious and emergent themes that are impacting the Berkshire economy, and gain perspective on how that could play into your own business opportunities going forward. Tue 6/1 12:00PM.
  • EforAll Berkshire County – Deep Dive: B Corp/S Corp/LLC/DBA/Nonprofit: What’s the Right Corporate Entity for Me? Mon 6/21 4:00PM.
  • EforAll Berkshire County – Deep Dive: Striving For Equity In Your Small Business Mon 7/19 4:00PM.
  • EforAll Berkshire County – Deep Dive: Scaling Your Business: How Can I Grow This Thing? Mon 8/16 4:00PM.

• 1Berkshire Virtual Town Hall Archive
  • 1Berkshire Virtual Town Hall: The Visitor Economy This panel conversation and Q&A-style town hall featured Adam Davis (Managing Director, Shakespeare & Co.), Babara Vacarr (CEO, Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health), Joe Thompson (Director, MASS MoCA) and Sarah Eustis (CEO, Main Street Hospitality). Panelists discussed the current state of affairs, the outlook, and the actionable opportunities their organizations are taking in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic event. (recorded 4/17/10)
  • 1Berkshire Virtual Town Hall : Banking During Covid-19 This panel conversation and Q&A-style town hall featured Bob Fraser (President and CEO, MountainOne), Jodi Rathbun-Briggs (Senior Vice President & Chief Lending Officer, Greylock Federal Credit Union), Gary Moynihan (Managing Director, Adelson & Company PC), Dennis Egan, Partner, Cohen Kinne Valicenti & Cook). Panelists discussed available resources and steps that businesses should be taking to successfully navigate the COVID-19 pandemic. (recorded 5/1/20)
  • 1Berkshire Virtual Town Hall: Food and Agriculture in the Era of COVID-19 This panel conversation and Q&A-style town hall featured Orion Howard (Co-founder and Owner, Bright Ideas Brewing), Nick Martinelli (Founder and Owner of Marty’s Local), Cynthia Pansing (Executive Director, Berkshire Agricultural Ventures), and Jessica Vecchia (Co-Director, Roots Rising). Panelist discussed the local food system is operating during COVID-19, how they have pivoted to meet the needs of the moment, and what the future of food might look like in a post-COVID economy. (recorded 5/8/20)
  • 1Berkshire Virtual Town Hall: Reopening the Berkshire Economy This panel conversation and Q&A-style town hall featured Senator Adam Hinds, Ben Sosne (Executive Director, Berkshire Innovation Center), and Jennifer Trainer Thompson (Executive Director, Hancock Shaker Village). The panel discussed the numbers that matter, budgetary impacts, and tactics and approaches needed to ensure a safe and sustainable reopening of the economic cornerstones of the region. (recorded 5/15/20)
  • 1Berkshire Virtual Town Hall: Higher Education During COVID-19 This panel conversation and Q&A-style town hall featured Dr. Jamie Birge (President, Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts), Dr. Ellen Kennedy (President, Berkshire Community College), Dr. Maud Mandel (President of Williams College), and Dr. John Weinstein (Provost-Elect, Bard College at Simon’s Rock). The panel discussed the decisions their institutions are making, the challenges they are facing, and the landscape they face going forward. (recorded 5/22/20)
  • 1Berkshire Virtual Town Hall: Summer in the Berkshires – Happening! But How? This panel conversation and Q&A-style town hall featured Brian Cruey (Director of Southern Berkshires, The Trustees of Reservations), Laurie Norton Moffat (Director & CEO, Norman Rockwell Museum), Mindi Morin (Managing Director, Canyon Ranch Lenox), and Lindsey Schmid (Vice President of Tourism and Marketing, 1Berkshire). (recorded 5/29/20)
  • 1Berkshire Virtual Town Hall: The Deeper Strains on Community This panel conversation and Q&A-style town hall featured Janis Broderick (Executive Director of the Elizabeth Freeman Center), Dr. Barbara Malkas (Superintendent of North Adams Public Schools), Kelly Marion (CEO of the Gladys Allen Brigham Community Center), and Candace Winkler (President and CEO of Berkshire United Way). The panel discussed impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on organizations the address food insecurity, early childhood care, domestic violence, and K-12 education, and on the populations they serve. (recorded 6/5/20)
  • 1Berkshire Virtual Town Hall: New Updates to Paid Family Medical Leave This panel conversation and Q&A-style town hall featured William Alpine (Director, Massachusetts Department of Family and Medical Leave), Kevin Kinne (Partner, Cohen Kinne, Valicenti and Cook), and Michele Morin (Vice President of Human Resources and Workforce Development, Hillcrest Educational Centers). The panel discussed changes to the Paid Family Medical Leave Act and how it could impact businesses in the Berkshires as the Act goes into effect. (recorded 6/19/20)
  • 1Berkshire Virtual Town Hall: Census 2020 This panel conversation and Q&A-style town hall featured State Representative Paul Mark (Second Berkshire District), Michelle Lopez (Executive Director, Berkshire Immigrant Center), Mark Maloy (GIS, Data, and IT Manager, Berkshire Regional Planning Commission), Erica Girgenti (Director, Adams Council on Aging), and Mark Sebastino (Partnership Specialist, U.S. Census Bureau). The panel discussed why the 2020 Census is conducted, why counting every person is critical for the Berkshires, and how viewers can get involved in ensuring a complete count. (recorded 7/1/20)
  • 1Berkshire Virtual Town Hall – Reopening the Economy – Phase 3 This panel conversation and Q&A-style town hall featured Senator Adam Hinds, John Lewis (Chief Executive Storyteller, SP3AK EASY Studio), Eric Kerns (Partner, TOURISTS), Jennifer Trainer Thompson (President and CEO, Hancock Shaker Village) discussing the steps, logistics, and potential impacts of Phase 3 reopening here in the Berkshires. (recorded 7/10/20)
  • 1Berkshire Virtual Town Hall – Reopening  Higher Education This panel conversation and Q&A-style town hall featured Gina Puc (Dean of Enrollment Management and Community Relations, Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts), Matthew Sheehy (Associate Vice President for Finance and Administration, Williams College), Adam Klepetar (Interim Provost, Berkshire Community College), and John B. Weinstein (Provost and Vice President, Bard College at Simon’s Rock) discussing the logistics, outlook, and peripheral impacts of the reopening plan for higher education institutions.

• Recorded Webinars 
  • Kindful – Turning Your Canceled Event into a Successful Virtual Fundraising Opportunity (recording)
  • AIM HR Solutions – Suddenly Remote: Distance Leadership (recording)
  • EANE – Furloughs, Layoffs, & Workshare – Oh My! (recording)
  • Entrepreneur Crisis Management Series – How to Adapt Your Messaging to the Sudden Change in the Marketplace (recording)
  • ICIC Webinar: Commercial Leases and Negotiating Rent During COVID-19 (recording)
  • Entrepreneur Crisis Management Series – Take the First Step: Creating a Great Name is Your Starting Point  (recording)
  • Entrepreneur Crisis Management Series – Overcoming A Setback: Come Back Stronger (recording)
  • EforAll Berkshire County – Resilience, Optimism & Leadership (recording)
  • EforAll Berkshire County – Sales and Marketing Right Now (recording)
  • EforAll Berkshire County, 1Berkshire, Berkshire Community College – How We’re Coping In The Berkshires Panel Discussion (recording)
  • Entrepreneur Crisis Management Series – How Businesses Can Create Their Crisis Communication Plan (recording)
  • TechSoup – Nonprofit Workforce Transition and Planning in Response to COVID-19 (recording)
  • Entrepreneur Crisis Management Series – How A Business Can Optimize Cash Flow During A Crisis (recording)
  • Entrepreneur – Understanding The Small Business Relief Package (recording)
  • Entrepreneur Crisis Management Series – How Entrepreneur & ESNP Host Jay Williams Envisions Tomorrow’s Normal for Business, Sports and Beyond (recording)
  • Entrepreneur Crisis Management Series – Managing People in a Distributed Workforce (recording)
  • Entrepreneur Crisis Management Series – Leading With Integrity During Times of Crisis (recording)
  • Initiative for a Competitive Inner City – Innovating Through Crisis: Strategies for Small Businesses to Survive and Thrive (recording)
  • AIM – Thirty on Thursday: Reimagining Your Business (recording)
  • Kindful – Nonprofit Fundraising Trends During COVID-19 (recording)
  • Restaurants Rise – The Power of Partnerships
  • Restaurants Rise – Three Ways to Meet New Customer Demands in Food Service
  • Restaurants Rise – How to Reach Guests the Right Way in a Changed World
  • Restaurants Rise – The Meat of the Matter: Revealing Value Beyond Price 
  • Restaurants Rise – Restaurant Strategies to Create Consumer Confidence for Restaurant Re-Opens
  • Restaurants Rise – How to Enable Touch-Free Guest Experiences in Restaurants
  • Restaurants Rise – Rethinking & Readjusting Human Capital Management for COVID-19
  • Restaurants Rise – With Caution and Care: Meeting Customers’ New Needs
  • TribalVision – Marketing in the Post-COVID Economy 
  • ICIC – Cash Resilience Webinar: 25 Ways to Find, Preserve, and Improve Your Cash to Get to the Other Side
  • Entrepreneur – How to Market a New Business
  • Entrepreneur – How to Adapt Your Brick and Mortar Business to Thrive and Make Money
  • Restaurants Rise – How to Build a Flexible Workforce 
  • US Small Business Administration – PPP Loan Forgiveness Webinar

• Federal Communications Commission Emergency Broadband Benefit Program – This program provides a temporary discount on monthly broadband bills for qualifying low-income households. If your household is eligible, you could receive up to $50/month discount on broadband service and equipment rentals (or $75/month if your household is on qualifying tribal lands), and a one-time discount of up to $100 on a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer (with a co-pay of at least $10 but less than $50).
• The Massachusetts Broadband Institute and KCST have launched public hotspots in several Massachusetts towns still waiting on completion of broadband networks to provide free access to students, teachers, entrepreneurs, and others. Towns in the Berkshires with these hotspots, or with municipally-launched hotspots are: Becket, Egremont, Florida, Monterey, New Marlborough, Sandisfield, Savoy, Washington, and Windsor.
• Mass Internet Connect – The Massachusetts Broadband Institute has launched a program to support internet connectivity for Massachusetts residents working with MassHire and actively seeking a job. Unemployed job seekers that satisfy program requirements may be eligible for subsidized internet service through June 30, 2021, access to a computer, and access to digital literacy training resources.
• The Support Network’s Virtual Support Group for Parents: Schedule & Referral Form
• Pandemic EBT (P-EBT) – Provides food supports to help families with children who were receiving free and reduced-price school meals pay for food. See additional information here and here.
  • More P-EBT benefits were added in September 2020 to cover the days that school buildings are closed due to delayed start and/or students that are at home learning remotely for at least five days in a row. Click here to learn about September P-EBT.
• Berkshire Regional Transit Authority is resuming full bus service beginning 8/31/20. Read the press release here, and view the BRTA schedules here.
• buoy Symptom Checker. Massachusetts residents can use this tool to get advice from an online health assistant safely at home, for free.
• 413cares.org is an innovative community portal providing online access for residents of Western Massachusetts to available resources like housing, healthcare, early education, and more. If you need help and aren’t sure where to start, type in your zip code and take a look.
• Elizabeth Freeman Center – free and confidential counseling, shelter, legal advocacy, safety planning, teen dating violence prevention education, a 24/7 hotline, and much more
• Massachusetts Health Connector
• Neighbor-to-Neighbor Grant from Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation
• Mobile Worker Toolkit 
• Resources for Freelance Artists
• Assets For Artists Webinars for a Post-COVID World – Assets for Artists has redesigned its business and financial education programming to provide artists with new, crisis-focused, distance learning opportunities.
• Coronavirus Tips: Frequently Asked Questions and Advice – easy to read and full of useful info and tips.

• Webinars
  • MassHire Berkshire Career Center Weekly webinars. Click here for the calendar, then register for specific events from there.
    • Online Job Search Strategies. Learn online job search strategies and how to apply for jobs online. Pre-registration is required. Mondays, 11:00AM.
    • Job Club. Job Club expands your network of contacts and serves as a support group throughout your job search process Pre-registration is required. Mondays 1:00PM.
    • WIOA Orientation. Orientation for Job Seekers seeking training, Career Counselor, or individualized services. MUST attend a Career Center Seminar prior to orientation. Tuesdays, 10:00AM.
    • Career Center Seminar. An overview of services, resources, and options available at the Career Center. You must attend a seminar to be assigned to an Employment Specialist. Pre-registration is required. Wednesdays, 1:00PM.
    • Creating Your Resume. Learn to create the perfect marketing tool to use in your job search- your resume. From formatting to using action words to showcase your skills and abilities, you will have the tools necessary to put together this important document. References and cover letters are also discussed. Thursdays, 10:00AM.
    • Interview More Effectively. Present a positive first impression, know what to expect, and be prepared for each stage of the interview. Plan answers for potential interview questions and develop self confidence in the process. Thursdays, 11:30AM.
  • Entrepreneur Crisis Management Series – Staying Calm and Being Productive While Working From Home (recorded)

For Individuals:

• Artist Resources
  • MASS MoCA’s Assets for Artists program helps artists in all disciplines strengthen their financial and business capacity to sustain a lifetime of creative excellence.
  • Creative Capital – List of Arts Resources During the COVID-19 Outbreak
  • WBUR – Grants and Resources for Artists and Nonprofits
  • COVID-19 Freelance Artist Resource
  • Foundation For Contemporary Arts – Emergency Grants
  • BridgeSong Fund – Emergency Relief for Western MA Women, Nobinary, and Genderqueer Artists of Color
  • New England Musicians Relief Fund
  • Awesome Foundation Grants monthly $1,000 microgrants to people and groups working on “awesome” projects.

• Food Security
  • Pandemic EBT (P-EBT) – Provides food supports to help families with children who were receiving free and reduced-price school meals pay for food. See additional information here and here.
  • Greylock Glass – Emergency Food Access Map

• Health Insurance
  • Massachusetts Health Connector

• Housing and Utility Assistance
  • Berkshire Community Action Council’s Fuel Assistance applications open 11/1/20. Call 413-445-4503 for assistance.
  • Berkshire County Regional Housing Authority is available to help those looking for housing and those struggling with past-due rent or mortgage payments. Call 413-443-7138 for assistance.
  • The Commonwealth’s Resources for Renters, Homeowners, and Landlords page.

• Unemployment Assistance – This updated guidance from the Massachusetts Department of Unemployment Assistance details information about implementation of unemployment programs in the CARES Act and subsequent legislation.
  • Applying for Unemployment Benefits / Solicitud de Beneficios de Desempleo
  • Unemployment Insurance Benefits and Returning to Work: Guide for Workers – This FAQ covers a variety of questions about returning to work for those who are presently receiving unemployment compensation.

• Other
  • Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation – Neighbor-to-Neighbor Grant Neighbor-to-Neighbor makes small grants (up to $1,000 during the response to COVID-19) to help those with overdue utilities, medical bills, short-term housing costs and transportation problems.
  • One Fair Wage – Tipped & Service Workers Support Fund Providing cash assistance to restaurant workers, car service drivers, delivery workers, personal service workers and more who need the money they aren’t getting to survive.
  • Southern Smoke Emergency Relief Program – Emergency funding to those employed by or owning restaurants or bars, or employed by a restaurant or bar supplier facing unforeseen expenses that cannot or will not be covered by insurance.
  • The Awesome Foundation – Monthly grants of $1,000 available.

For Businesses and Organizations:

• Arts/Cultural Organization Resources
  • Massachusetts Cultural Council
    • COVID-19 Relief Effort for Organizations
  • WBUR – Grants and Resources for Artists and Nonprofits
  • New England Foundation for the Arts (NEFA)

• General Business Support
  • City of Pittsfield
    • COVID-19 Small Business Fund – Small businesses within the City of Pittsfield may be eligible for funds to cover wages, rent, loss of inventory, and other fixed costs, up to $10,000 per business. Priority will be given to minority and women-owned businesses, as well as businesses with fewer than 10 employees.
  • Commonwealth of Massachusetts
    • Community One Stop for Growth – A single application portal and collaborative review process of grant programs that make targeted investments based on a Development Continuum. Ten state programs will use this portal, including the Executive Office of Housing and Economic Developments’ Massworks, Urban Agenda, and 43D Expedited Permitting programs, the Department of Housing and Community Development’s Housing Choice Community Capital Grants, Massachusetts Downtown Initiative, Community Planning Grants, and Rural Development Fund, and MassDevelopment’s Brownfields, Site Readiness, and Underutilized Properties program.
    • Massachusetts Vacant Storefronts Program  – The purpose of the program is to help municipalities of the Commonwealth in their efforts to revitalize their downtowns and commercial areas.  Municipalities may apply to the Economic Assistance Coordinating Council (EACC) for certification to designate a defined downtown or other commercial area, as a Certified Vacant Storefront District.  After achieving such a designation, and achieving a commitment of local matching funds, businesses or individuals may apply to the EACC for refundable EDIP tax credits for leasing and occupying a vacant storefront in that district.
  • Kindful – 2021 Funding & Grant Resources for Women’s Empowerment Organizations
  • Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) LISC Small Business Relief Grants – Grants of $5,000, $7,000, $10,000, and $20,000 for small businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic to keep them functioning and remaining vital facets of their local economies. Priority will be given to entrepreneurs of color, women- and veteran-owned businesses and other enterprises in historically under-served places. Applications are presently closed. Stay tuned for the next round of applications.
  • Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) Rural Relief Small Business Grants – Grants support for-profit businesses across the country in communities of 50,000 or less. Applications presently closed. Stay tuned for the next round of applications.

• Innovation Challenges/RFPs

• Restaurants
  • City of Pittsfield Restaurant Rapid Response Program – Restaurants in the City of Pittsfield may apply for up to $5,000 each to help with rent, mortgage, utilities, payroll, supplies, and inventory.

• U.S. Small Business Administration 
  • Debt Relief – Learn more about relief the Small Business Administration is offering for businesses with SBA loans.
  • Shuttered Venus Operators Grants Program –  Eligible applicants may qualify for SVO Grants equal to 45% of their gross earned revenue, with the maximum amount available for a single grant award of $10 million.$2 billion is reserved for eligible applications with up to 50 full-time employees. Check out this informational webinar on YouTube.
  • Information about the Economic Injury Disaster Loan and EIDL Emergency Advance
  • SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan Application – Updated for a faster and easier application experience.
  • Restaurant Revitalization Fund – Part of the recently-passed American Rescue Plan, the Restaurant Revitalization Fund will provide emergency assistance for eligible restaurants, bars, and other qualifying businesses (there is an extensive list) impacted by COVID-19. It will provide restaurants with funding equal to their pandemic-related revenue loss up to $10 million per business. Recipients are not required to repay the funding as long as funds are used for eligible uses, which include payroll, mortgage and rent payments, utilities, outdoor seating, food and beverage costs, and more. Now accepting applications.

• WorkShare
  • • Massachusetts WorkShare for Employers
• Other

• MyLocalMA – Our Main Streets need our love, more than ever. Now is the time to find your local.
• Emergency Childcare by 18 Degrees
• Heart of the Berkshires Digital Gift Card – Support the Berkshires and Downtown Pittsfield by purchasing a gift card.
• Mass.gov – Online portal for PPE & volunteers to support COVID-19 response
• Massachusetts Disaster Volunteers – designed to connect unaffiliated volunteers to agencies in need.
• Doorstep Deliverers – Request a volunteer delivery of an order at a local business. Currently serving housebound community members across Berkshire County and Columbia County, MA.
• Elizabeth Freeman Center Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Services
• How to Support Restaurants and Their Workers Right Now – Article from bon appetit
• The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Berkshire County’s Warm Line: (413) 445-1136 – – Call to talk to either a NAMI BC staff or a community trained volunteer having lived experience with mental health issues, trauma, and/or to assist individuals through a difficult time, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Clinical & Support Options’ Great Barrington Family Resource Center at 141 West Avenue in Great Barrington, offering multi-cultural parenting resources, support groups, early childhood services, information, and other education and referral programs for families whose children range in age from birth to 18, free and available to any child or family.
• Emergency Food Access Map courtesy of The Greylock Glass.
• List of Food Pantries and Sites in Berkshire County Compiled by Janie Pellish, Community Volunteer/Member of the Food Pantry Collaborative. (updated April 19, 2021)
• Free masks are available through the Northern Berkshire Community Coalition (413-663-7588) and Berkshire Helping Hands for children, youth, and adults.
• The utility shutoff moratorium will end July 1. If you are struggling to pay your utility bills, don’t wait- seek assistance as soon as possible. Check out this flyer from the Attorney General’s office and reach out to Berkshire Community Action Council (BCAC) for assistance connecting to fuel assistance and support programs.

Grants and Relief Funds

• Artist Relief – Apply for a grant of $5,000. Available to practicing artists experiencing dire financial emergencies due to COVID-19 who have lived and worked in the United States for the last two years.
• Tipped & Service Workers Support Fund
• Southern Smoke Emergency Relief Program – Emergency funding to those employed by or owning restaurants or bars, or employed by a restaurant or bar supplier facing unforeseen expenses that cannot or will not be covered by insurance.

• Webinar: Zen and Tea: The Art of Tea Mindfulness in the Era of COVID Thu 1/28 5:00PM.
• 1Berkshire Homebound Fun & Cabin Fever Survival – Check out this regularly-updated webpage that collects fun and interesting links gathered by our staff to keep you and yours entertained while you practice social distancing.
• Virtual Berkshires – Digitally visit our dynamic region.
• Berkshire BINGO
• 1Berkshire Zoom Backgrounds
• Free Activities for Children During School Closings
• Berkshire Artists Coloring Book, Volume 1 (PDF)
• EANE tips for self care and combating stress
• Kindful – Zoom Fatigue: What It Is, Why You’re Feeling It, and How You Can Fight It 
• Entrepreneur Crisis Management Webinar Series – How to Manage Your Mental Stress (recording).
• American Psychological Association – Coping in the Era of Coronavirus: A Webinar for Students (recording)