BUFFALO GROVE – State Senator Adriane Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove) is encouraging businesses that were damaged during acts of civil unrest to apply for grants to help pay for repairs.

“Businesses have faced unprecedented financial struggles this year due to the ongoing public health crisis,” Johnson said. “The additional costs of repairing damage caused by civil unrest could be the difference between keeping their doors open or closing for good.”

Businesses in Waukegan and North Chicago that experienced damage due to civil unrest on or after May 25 are eligible to apply for assistance through the Rebuild Distressed Communities grant program. The grants – spearheaded by the Illinois Department of Commerce an Economic Opportunity – will reimburse the cost of repairs for structural damages, including repairs to storefronts and entrances, improving electrical systems and restoring exterior work.

Small businesses, underinsured or uninsured businesses, businesses that have a high community impact – such as grocery stores – and businesses in communities that have experienced historic disinvestment will be given priority for funding.

The program also prioritizes the use of minority- and women-owned businesses to do the repairs.

DCEO will host a webinar about the program Thursday at 11 a.m. Interested business owners can register for the free event by visiting the agency’s website.

Applications are open from Dec. 21 until Jan. 21. For more information and to apply, business owners can visit the Rebuild Distressed Communities Program part of DCEO’s website.