Local briefs: Western Native Voice announces $100k in COVID relief aid
In response to the sharp increase and tragic spike in COVID related deaths among Montana’s Native communities, Western Native Voice (WNV) and We Are Montana (WAM) have announced an additional $100k in funding, to be quickly dispersed through direct aid to families and COVID safety trainings. Aid will be dispersed across all Montana Tribal Nations and communities.
Since launching in May, WNV and WAM have run COVID response trainings for over 60 Tribal health officials and leaders; facilitated the distribution of $100k in COVID relief; supported the #bachchiikiitalaa mask-wearing campaign, and helped deliver 5000 masks, 300 face shields, 200 protective suits, food aid, greenhouses, water heaters to the elderly, and temporary tent housing for the homeless.
Families and communities can apply for support at https://tinyurl.com/y5ddqkrx.
LCCDC lands rural business grant
Lake County Community Development Corporation (LCCDC) has received a $28,600 Rural Business Development Grant to fund targeted technical assistance, training and numerous other activities that lead to the development and/or expansion of rural businesses in Lake, Mineral and Sanders counties.
The funds will be used over the course of 40 workshops hosted by LCCDC over the next year. In addition to direct assistance, LCCDC plans to fund four entrepreneurs to participate in their Leadership Flathead Reservation workshop that was recently developed.
Montana USDA Rural Development staff will host an online RBDG workshop via Zoom from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, Oct.21. The webinar will dive into the RBDG program, eligible projects, application process and requirements. Those interested can register at https://tinyurl.com/y3a77hee. The Zoom password is westrd.
Free Excel workshops available
Lake County Community Development Corporation is offering a free introduction to Excel workshop from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 21 at the LCCDC office, 407 Main St. SW in Ronan.
The workshop is limited to 12 attendees. The first six to sign up will be attending in person with social distancing. An additional six slots are available remotely via Zoom. Register at https://lccdc.ecenterdirect.com/events/623.
A second session will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 22 at the State Building, 2504 Tradewinds Way, Thompson Falls. The Oct. 22 session will have room for eight socially-distanced in-person attendees with four spots to attend via Zoom. Register at https://lccdc.ecenterdirect.com/events/624.