The Williamson County Commissioners Court unanimously approved allocating $500,000 to support local food banks through the Wilco Forward Program, funded by CARES Act Funds, Tuesday, November 17, during the Williamson County Commissioners Court meeting.  

Organizations that work as a 501(c)(3) non-profit and provide food and other services to community members can apply to be reimbursed for their increased expenses and receipts accrued due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The non-profits eligible will receive a one-time check of up to $50,000, depending on the need of the entity. Applications have been distributed to area food banks who have until Friday, December 11, to apply.  

The Commissioners Court also approved an additional $406,000 to support the YMCA with its financial assistance for families, virtual learning program, and staffing for childcare, among other needs. 

Since Tuesday, November 17, the Wilco Forward Program has assisted several different entities by providing reimbursement checks.   

·        Under Phase II, a total of nearly $1.1 million has been given to city governments, and more than $85,300 to Emergency Services Districts (ESD). 

·        Under Phase III, more than $1.6 million has gone towards community assistance payments provided by The Caring Place, the Round Rock Area Serving Center, and the Salvation Army. The program has helped 1,624 families.  

·        Under Phase IV, a total of more than $9 million has been provided between the independent school districts, charter, and private schools.  

For more information on the Wilco Forward Program visit https://www.wilco.org/forward.