COVID-19 Member Resources

The Sarasota-Manatee Originals are working to collect information and links to resources that will help members, their employees and their families navigate the COVID-19 Emergency. If you have information to share with the membership, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

This page is for informational purposes only. This page does not imply endorsement of any particularly program/organization/advice by the Sarasota-Manatee Originals. We will update the information often, but because the situation is quickly evolving, some of this information may have changed. Please check back frequently for updates.

*Please join the Originals Private Facebook Group, which is another platform to share resources and support. Click here to join.

For COVID-19 text updates from Sarasota County Government, text SRQCOVID19 to 888777. Text ManateeReady to 888777 for updates from Manatee County Government.

To receive daily COVID-19 updates from the National Restaurant Association, subscribe here.

Resources for Reopening

Reopening Guidance from the National Restaurant Association

Executive Order 20-112 (Phase 1: Safe. Smart. Step by Step.) & FAQs Answered by FRLA

Recorded 1 hour Webinar - Business Continuity for Operators (Solutions, Outlook & Suggestions)

Rethinking, Re-imagining and Reopening Your Restaurant (E-book by Fred LeFranc)

What Do Consumers Want to See to Feel Safe Dining In Your Restaurant (Article from Restaurant Business)

Streamlined Approval for Outdoor Dining and Retail Display

CDC Guidelines for Cleaning & Disinfecting Your Business

Streetsense Pandemic Relaunch Toolkit for Restaurants & Bars

Safety First (Serving Food & Protecting People) by the James Beard Foundation

NEW* Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation - Mandatory Measures for Restaurants (As of May 15th)

NEW* James Beard Foundation Industry Support Webinars

NEW* Recover Manatee - A collection of helpful resources & guidance to assist businesses

NEW* ServSafe Free Training Video: Reopening Guidance

NEW* Covid-19 Battle Plan, How to Survive the Crisis

Special Offers for Originals Members

Door Dash is offering delivery support to the Sarasota-Manatee Originals. Please click here to read the specifics of their offer.

Think Donson is providing a special rate (for Originals members only) to create an online ordering platform for your restaurant. View the details of this offer here.

ALSCO is offering Pay As You Go services for Originals members. Click here. ALSCO is also offering a 10% discount on services for FRLA members on cleaning products etc. (every Original member has a complimentary FRLA membership) Click here to learn more about this discount.

Palm Printing is offering highly discounted pricing for disposable menus during the COVID-1 Pandemic and it’s aftermath. View their offer here.

Gorilla Kleen is offering an Originals discount and priority service on their "Fogging" sanitizing method, which can help you get your restaurant ready for reopening. Learn more about Fogging and their offer here.

Southwest Chemicals has bulk quantities of hand sanitizer and disinfectant spray available. Click here to learn more.

RCS Training is offering FRLA’s SafeStaff Sanitation & Safety Training Course FREE to FRLA members (every Original member has a complimentary FRLA membership). Contact Christy Crump at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to schedule.

Sun Coast Media Group has developed a low-cost solution for our restaurant customers to produce their menus in a disposable, recyclable format. View their offers here.

C.A.R.E.S. Act

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES) contains a number of provisions specific to restaurants, foodservice establishments and their employees. Below are resources to help you determine how the act may help your restaurant.

As this situation is fluid, updates and additional resources will be available continuously. The Originals Board of Directors is working with the SBA to clarify and streamline this process. Applications will be accepted after April 3.

C.A.R.E.S. Act - The entire CARES Act is linked here (full text verison, summary and amendments are available for viewing.)
FRLA Small Business Owner's Guide to the CARES Act - This guide provides information about the major programs and initiatives that will soon be available from the Small Business Administration (SBA) as well as some additional tax provisions that are outside the scope of SBA.
U.S. Chamber of Commerce CARES Act Guidelines & Check List - The administration soon will release more details including the list of lenders offering loans under the program. In the meantime, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce has issued this guide to help small businesses and self-employed individuals prepare to file for a loan.
National Restaurant Association CARES Act Provisions - What's In It for Restaurants? The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES) contains a number of provisions specific to restaurants, foodservice establishments and their employees. Here’s a summary of some of what you can expect.
U.S. Chamber Q&A for CARES Act during the Town Hall For Small Businesses - Find out what the federal government's coronavirus stimulus programs mean to your small business in this presentation from Inc. in partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
EDC of Sarasota County has partnered with S-One to create this video as a resource to help navigate the Cares Act. This video breaks down the loan and grant programs available to businesses, employees, and sole proprietors.

Additional Resources:

Loan Forgiveness:

Articles:

What's Keeping PPP Funds From Flowing into SMB Bank Accounts

24 Advisors/Pharus Funding is available as a resource to help you through the application process.

Pharus Funding webinar

State of Florida Resources

The Florida Department of Health rolled out a new COVID-19 data and surveillance dashboard with real time information about number of cases and tests issued. As a reminder, the Department of Health's 24-hour COVID-19 hotline is 866-779-6122.

According to the US Department of Labor, effective April 1, 2020, all businesses need to display a newly required informational poster where all employees can see it. Click here for a printable copy.

A current list of Executive Orders from the Governor can be found here.

Sarasota County Small Business Resiliency Loan - NO LONGER ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

Sarasota County recognizes the unprecedented strain that the COVID-19 Pandemic has put on our local businesses. The Small Business Resiliency Loan program was created to provide Sarasota County businesses with immediate, short-term relief now. Click here to view a list of documents required to apply.

State of Florida Bridge Loan Program - NO LONGER ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

This bridge loan program, managed by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO), will provide loans to small businesses that experienced economic injury from COVID-19. The application period runs through May 8, 2020. Loans will be interest-free for the loan term (1 year). The Interest rate will be 12% per annum on the unpaid balance thereafter, until the loan balance is repaid in full. Loan default is subject to a normal commercial collection process. Up to $50,000 is available per eligible small business.

Economic Injury Disaster Loans

Substantial economic injury means the business is unable to meet its obligations and to pay its ordinary and necessary operating expenses. EIDLs provide the necessary working capital to help small businesses survive until normal operations resume after a disaster. The SBA can provide up to $2 million to help meet financial obligations and operating expenses that could have been met had the disaster not occurred. Your loan amount will be based on your actual economic injury and your company's financial needs, regardless of whether the business suffered any property damage. Click here to view a helpful guide to the EIDL before applying.

Florida’s Business Damage Assessment/Survey

Providing information through this survey helps the state to determine damage related to disaster impacts in Florida. After filling out the survey, federal, state or local agencies may reach out to you through the contact information provided if you indicate your interest.

Families First Coronavirus Response Act

This bill responds to the coronavirus outbreak by providing paid sick leave and free coronavirus testing, expanding food assistance and unemployment benefits. More information about this Act can be found here. An overview document from the NRA about the Families First Act can be found here.

Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation FAQ for Restaurants

Attached is a compilation of Frequently Asked Questions related to Restaurants, Bar and Nightclubs persuant to Executive Order 20-68 (issued on March 17.)

Coronavirus Tax Relief

The IRS has established a special section focused on steps to help taxpayers, businesses and others affected by the coronavirus.

Guide to the Employee Retention Tax Credit

The CARES Act created a new employee tax credit for employers who are closed, partially closed, or experiencing significant revenue losses due to COVID-19.

Relief Programs & Grants

Save Small Business Fund - NO LONGER ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

The Save Small Business Fund is a grantmaking initiative offering short-term relief for small employers in the United States. Funded by corporate and philanthropic partners, the Save Small Business Fund is a collective effort to provide $5,000 grants to as many small employers as possible.

National Restaurant Association Employee Relief Fund - NO LONGER ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

Through the Restaurant Employee Relief Fund, the NRA will provide grants to restaurant industry employees who have been adversely impacted by COVID-19, financially, whether through a decrease in wages or loss of employment. Apply for a grant starting Thursday, April 2, 2020. Each approved grant is $500, one per person only.

Bartender Emergency Assistance Program

The USBG is offering a grant program to provide financial assistance to those suffering lost revenue due to COVID-19. This grant is meant only for individuals (not businesses) and servers may apply if your place of work holds a full liquor license and you serve alcoholic beverages as part of your job. Grants are typically awarded in 4 to 6 weeks. Applications can be submitted online (only) and can be found at the link above.

Southern Smoke

Southern Smoke Foundation provides funding to individuals in the food and beverage industry who are in crisis. Southern Smoke is accepting grant applications from restaurant owners and service industry workers who are dealing with closed businesses or significant declines in revenue due to COVID-19.

One Fair Wage Emergency Fund

OFW is providing assistance to restaurant workers, delivery drivers and other tipped workers and service workers — who are seeing their income decline during this disaster, or aren’t able to work because of quarantines or other health concerns. Upon completing the online form, an organizer from One Fair Wage will reach out to you within 7-10 days.

Golden Rule Charity - NO LONGER ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

Golden Rule Charity offers grants to hospitality industry workers (employed at least part time.) To qualify for a grant, you must be employed in a restaurant/hospitality establishment for 6 months. You must apply no later than 6 months after onset of need.

Facebook Small Business Grants Program

Facebook is offering $100M in cash grants and ad credits for up to 30,000 eligible small businesses in over 30 countries where we operate. All eligible cities in the United States are now able to submit their application. To check if your area is eligible click the link above to apply.

Restaurant Workers' Community Foundation Crisis Relief Fund

The formal application process for crisis relief through the Restaurant Workers' Community Foundation is administrated by Southern Smoke (see above.) Please visit the Southern Smoke website to apply for assistance.

Florida Reemployment Assistance

If your employment has been negatively impacted because of mitigation efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19, you may be eligible to receive Reemployment Assistance (formerly known as unemployment compensation.)

Restaurant Opportunities Centers United Relief Fund - NO LONGER ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

The National Restaurant Worker Relief Fund is a pool of money raised by members and donors of the Restaurant Opportunities Centers United. To apply, complete the contact form at the link above and a staff member will be in contact to discuss your needs.

US Sommelier Emergency Fund

This fund is specifically dedicated for restaurant sommeliers who have lost wages due to COVID-19 in the United States. If selected, they will call you for a 5-10 minute interview. Applicants are eligible for grants of $250, $500, and $1,000 that will be awarded to those determined by the board to be of the greatest need.

All Faiths Food Bank

All Faiths Food Bank’s mobile pantry program continues as scheduled. Find a food program at the link above. AFFB has partnered with Sarasota County Food and Nutrition Services to provide meals to children and families affected by the temporary school closures. Visit the link above to view food pick up locations.

2-1-1

Access 2-1-1 Human Services by phone, email, chat or text (just text your zip code to 898-211). Reaching out will get you connected to a multilingual 2-1-1 specialist in your area who can put you in touch with local organizations providing critical services. The Season of Sharing Campaign helps individuals and families on the verge of homelessness and 2-1-1 is the starting point for this service.

Children of Restaurant Employees (C.O.R.E.)

CORE offers assistance to hospitality industry families that have been diagnosed with COVID-19. If a family qualifies for CORE support, they may receive a grant to cover medical bills for children, gas cards, groceries, clothing, medical supplies and therapies, utilities, rent and mortgage, and other essential needs a family might need to navigate their specific circumstance. Apply online at the link above.

Another Round, Another Rally Emergency Relief Fund - NO LONGER ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

ARAR is currently collecting funds for all types of workers affected by COVID-19. The group is distributing $500 grants to those who have lost jobs or hours because of the pandemic. Apply online at the link above.

James Beard Foundation Relief Fund - NO LONGER ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

Due to an overwhelming response within hours of opening, the Foundation has suspended the application for the JBF Food and Beverage Industry Relief Fund at this time. We will notify our audiences if the application is going to reopen. Please continue to check www.jamesbeard.org for updated information.

NEW* City of Sarasota Small Business and Safety Assistance Grant Program

In response to the COVID-19 impact on local businesses, the City of Sarasota is preparing emergency stabilization grant applications in the amount of $5,000 to eligible City of Sarasota independently owned and operated small businesses, that were negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic resulting from governmental orders to close or limit operations. The City’s goal is to provide critical support to restaurants, bars, retail, and service-based businesses across our City.

Job Opportunities

Manatee County Job Board & Sarasota County Job Board

View the list of open positions at the links above. Many corporate retailers (food service) are seeking part time workers.

Major Retailers Urgently Hiring

JobFocus.com has job openings in the Manatee-Sarasota area to help residents who are no longer employed find work.

CareerSource Suncoast serves Manatee and Sarasota Counties and offers resources for job seekers and employers.

Visit EmployFlorida.com to view open positions.

The U.S. Census Bureau will be conducting field operations after the pandemic danger has passed. Work will last about 8 weeks and will pay $18 per hour plus mileage of $0.57.5 for official miles driven. Census workers can work flexible hours from 20 to 40 hours per week. Some of the work will be nights and weekends, so almost any schedule can be accommodated. Applications can be submitted at 2020Census.gov/jobs.

University of South Florida is offering a FREE online course to earn a Certificate in Post Crisis Leadership. The course includes two-hour live instructor-led modules, held on Wednesday evenings from 6 to 8pm from May 20 - July 1, 2020. Click here to learn more.

*Links to additional resources can be found here!

Community Initiatives

The Originals are actively engaged with each of these groups and initiatives on behalf of the organization. We recommend individually engaging as well, for maximum community awareness.

NEW* Submit your Virtual Events to Visit Florida

Visit Florida is currently accepting information about virtual events taking place across the state for inclusion in its monthly events calendar seen by Florida residents and visitors. If you have a virtual event you would like to be considered, you can complete and submit the form linked above. This is a great resource for your restaurant if you're live streaming entertainment, cooking demonstrations, sunsets, wine tastings etc.

*NEW Submit your Virtual Events to the BACVB

You can add all scheduled events to the BACVB’s Calendar of Events. You can do so by logging in here. We’ve created a guide with step-by-step instructions for your reference linked above. If you have any questions at all, please contact Emily Knight at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Savor Sarasota To-Go

Savor Sarasota To-Go runs June 1-14. Register now to reserve your spot in this Visit Sarasota initiative. The price point for the two-course lunch is $16 and the three-course prix-fixe dinner is $32 (where applicable). This year’s focus will be on curbside and takeout (excluding delivery). Feel free to offer “upgrades” – like a wine pairing or larger portion – in addition to the prix-fixe menus. Note: Registration is not considered complete until approved by VSC Staff.

SRQ Curbside Facebook Group

This page was created to provide local restaurants a platform to share their altered offerings for take out.

Visit Sarasota County Facebook Post

VSC is helping to promote local dining through facebook posts.

Manatee Eats Facebook Group

This is the Bradenton Herald's Facebook Group where users can discuss dining and restaurants in Manatee and Sarasota counties. Users are welcome to post food photos, dining experiences, news tips and more.

SRQ Food Facebook Group

SRQ Food is the destination for information on Sarasota restaurants, dining specials, and recommendations on where and what to taste in Sarasota.

Manatee Strong Facebook Group

ManateeStrong is a public group for businesses and residents in Manatee County and surrounding areas brought to you by the Manatee Chamber of Commerce. Please use this group to share how you are helping our community, requests for resources, messages of support, or other information important for the community at this time. We especially want to hear good stories about how our community is pulling together to help one another during this healthcare crisis.

Herald Tribune Restaurant Updates for Sarasota, Manatee etc.

The Herald Tribune is managing a roundup of restaurant news, regarding takeout offers and more, for Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte counties as we continue to deal with concerns about COVID-19. This content is being provided for free as a public service to readers during the coronavirus outbreak. E-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to provide content to be published.

Great American Takeout

The National Restaurant Association is creating social media and website graphics and other various assets for restaurants to utilize in promoting their involvement in the Great American Takeout (every week on Tuesday.) Assets at the link above will be updated regularly.

Feed the Need

COVID-19 is challenging how individuals, families, businesses and societies operate. We will come out of this. In the meantime, Feed the Need is polling interest and ability among restaurant operators to prepare meals for delivery to those in need. This would be a paid opportunity, not a donation. This is a statewide project, and they are looking for interest to produce meals for 1) elders that have specific nutrition needs, 2) out-of-school students, and 3) those in need in the general population. If your restaurant is interested in participating please fill out the below survey. If you start this process and need more time to gather information, there is an option at the bottom of the page to "Save and Continue Later."

NEW* Project Pride - Taste of Pride

Taste of Pride is a an event that celebrates the LGBTQ+ friendly restaurants and businesses. These business will be offering specials and discounts through June 15th - 30th, 2020 that will be unlocked when a customer mentions Taste of Pride. Project Pride is currently seeking restaurants and businesses that would like to be featured on our website as participating in Taste of Pride.

Contact Info

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