Lee County Commissioners approve another round of LeeCARES assistance funds

Many people in Lee County are thankful that County Commissioners approved another round of assistance funds to help families impacted by the coronavirus.

Kathy Fellows says she doesn’t usually like asking for help. “I don’t want to have to not to be able to provide for my kids, but sometimes you just have to do what you have to do to make especially in times like this,” Fellows said.

But this instance is different. “With the move, our mortgage almost tripled so it’s a lot more. Then almost losing $10 an hour it took a really big hit on us,” she added.

Fellows is one of more than 13,000 people who have applied for assistance through the LeeCares program.

Mainly because she doesn’t want to be behind on any payments. “We don’t want to struggle, we don’t want to be late on anything,” said Fellows.

But now, for families like Fellows and others, help is on the way. On Tuesday, Lee County Commissioners approved round two of LeeCARES funds. This time, families ar eligible for up to $3,000 for rent or mortgage and utilities. Childcare assistance doubled to $2500 in assistance.

“We want to try to get this money out in the hands of the people that need it as quickly as possible,” said Brian Hamman, one of the Lee County Commissioners.

Meanwhile, Fellows will be patiently waiting for these funds because she’s happy knowing help is on the way.

“Just takes the weight off my shoulders to know that they have that,” she said.

It’s not just a relief for her, but it helps the entire family. “We’re going to get through this. It will get better. Let’s hope it gets better soon,” Fellows said laughing.

LeeCares is still taking applications for the first wave of funds until 5 p.m. on Friday, August 7. Applications for round two open on August 17. Those previously approved in the first round are allowed to apply again.