Situation
Pursuant to section 501(d) of the Robert T Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, 42 U.S.C. 5121-5207, the President made an emergency declaration on March 13, 2020 due to the ongoing Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic. This declaration provides state, territorial, tribal and local government entities such as cities, towns, counties, and authorities, as well as certain non-profit organizations, Public Assistance (PA) funding to help defray the costs associated with the response to COVID-19.
Non profits in communities across the nation are the safety net of society. But what happens when that safety net becomes strained? Well, to put it mildly, COVID-19 has put tremendous strain on non profits in our community who are serving those struggling from COVID-19. We want you to know that you are not alone. You focus on serving the community. Put the CRG team to work for you so that you can rest easy knowing an experienced team is working hard to ensure you get every penny you qualify for.
After all, we’re in this together.
Eligible Costs
In general, potentially eligible costs include those found under the FEMA Category B, Emergency Protective Measures expense category. In general, up to 75% of the costs associated with preparing for, responding to, or recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic are covered. Contact the CRG team for an evaluation of your needs and a review of potentially reimbursable costs.
- Costs your organization would not normally incur during normal operations.
- Costs for contractors who are performing emergency protective work
- Labor and supply costs associated with your response to COVID-19
- Steps you have taken to protect staff and the community
- Overtime paid to employees preparing for and responding to COVID-19
- Cost of PPE associated with COVID-19
Immediate Action, Cost Capture
To ensure future aide and reimbursement it is essential to immediately establish Cost Capture protocols to ensure all COVID-19 expenses are designated and coded properly for every COVID-19 related expense. It is essential to note that preparing for, not just responding to, COVID-19 needs is also reimbursable.
- Identify expenses incurred that are not part of your normal operations
- Identify supplies, equipment and materials that were purchased as a direct response to COVID-19
- Contact the CRG team and we will guide you through each step
Are Consultant Fees a Qualifying Expense?
Simply put, yes. Because of the strain COVID-19 has put on non profit organizations and the complexity of federal disaster reimbursement guidelines, applicants such as non profits are encouraged to contract with experienced consultants like CRG. We will provide oversight and advocacy on your behalf through the PA application and reimbursement process.
Procurement Regulations
Due to the pressing nature of a disaster, Federal procurement regulations allow you to enter into emergency contracts. Following the issuance of a temporary emergency contract, your normal procurement process must be followed. This is most often accomplished through an RFP, RFQ or ITN process. The contract is required to meet federal procurement directives.