Round Rock City Council voted unanimously June 11 to direct $397,375 from a Community Development Block Grant earmarked for COVID relief to the nonprofit. RRASC will have the discretion to distribute the funds for housing and utility payment assistance to residents affected by the coronavirus crisis.
The funds are retroactive to March 13, said Joe Brehm, Round Rock’s community development administrator. Recipients can receive up to three months of funding for both housing and utility payments, he said.
“The serving center does a wonderful job of assisting families in need,” Brehm said.
Since mid-March, millions of Texans have filed for unemployment, and the demand for RRASC services is on the rise, RRASC Executive Director Lori Scott said. RRASC manages a food pantry and provides financial assistance to residents who need help paying for rent, utilities, prescriptions, transportation and temporary lodging.
“Thank you for your confidence in the serving center,” Scott said to council. “Please know that [our families] are so grateful.”
Due to COVID-19-related restrictions, RRASC is currently offering a no-contact, drive-thru food pantry distribution model through June 27. Distribution takes place at 1099 E. Main St., Round Rock, on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. and on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-noon.
Staff is processing requests for financial assistance through online applications and over the phone at this time. Those in need are encouraged to visit www.rrasc.org.
