CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Three Carmichael businesses are recipients of micro-grants from the Carmichael Improvement District. The program aims to help merchants suffering as the COVID situation impacts local commerce.

Owners of Papa Murphy’s Pizza, Urban Flex Fitness and Lily’s Nails last week received checks for $1000 each. “It’s not a huge amount of money,” said CID Executive Director Rachael Taylor. “Our hope is that some quick cash will help businesses as they pivot and change the way they operate in unusual times.” The funds come from assessments on enterprises within the Property Business Improvement District (PBID) boundaries.

After the CID’s announcement of this program last month, 20 companies applied for assistance. A CID committee selected applicants based on how they were affected by the pandemic and how they hoped to use the cash injection. Papa Murphy’s owner Rana Cheema plans to repair store equipment and pay bonuses to loyal staff.  Jim Huynh says the cash will help cover rent and utility bills for Lily’s Nails. Urban Flex Fitness entrepreneur Bean Harrah recently began gym courses for kids unable to attend PE classes during school closures. The grant will pay for lighter training equipment.

The CID plans to make similar micro grants an annual assistance program. Learn about the organization at www.discovercarmichael.com