CENTREVILLE – The St. Joseph County Commission has approved an application to receive money to help with COVID-19 expenses.

During their meeting Tuesday, the Commissioners held a public hearing on an application for a Community Development Block Grant CARES Grant.

County Grant Writer James Hissong says this funding is an allocation and works on an allocation basis. It will be used to prevent, prepare and respond to COVID-19 related expenditures.

Newly elected Florence Township Supervisor Tim Carls asked where this money is coming from. Hissong explains that it comes from the CARES Act which is Federal money, but it is being administered by the State of Michigan. Some communities received the money directly from the CARES Act. But because of St. Joseph County's size, Hissong says they will get the allocation through the State.

The Commissioners unanimously approved the grant application. Hissong says he will send it on to the appropriate agency.