cthompson@messengernews.net
Millions of dollars in Paycheck Protection Program funds have been handed out by the federal government to companies and organizations in Webster County that have been adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
In Fort Dodge alone, the COVID bailout subtotal was $55.52 million. The average bailout for the 824 organizations was $67,384.
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was signed into law by President Donald Trump on March 27. The Paycheck Protection Program was established through the CARES Act.
According to the U.S. Department of The Treasury, the Paycheck Protection Program is designed to support small businesses.