Old Lyme — Officials have announced a grant program that will allow small businesses and nonprofit organizations to collect a portion of the town's $2.16 million in federal pandemic relief aid.

The town's American Rescue Plan Committee in a news release said one grant will help organizations recover from the coronavirus pandemic, while the other will fund community initiatives that address the negative impacts of the pandemic. The deadline for application submissions is May 2, 2022.

Small businesses and nonprofits can apply for both programs. Applications are available on the town website, oldlyme-ct.gov, and at the Town Hall reception desk. The forms can be submitted online, through the postal service or dropped off at the secured lockbox at the Town Hall. A complete set of rules can be found on the application. For more information, contact ARPA@oldlyme-ct.gov.

The committee will look at the total amount requested by applicants before deciding how much of the federal aid should be set aside for the grants. The remaining funds will be allocated to town projects in coming months. The town so far has allocated $21,622 to the Ledge Light Health District and approved $20,000 for a consultant to administer the Economic Recovery Grant.

The committee will finalize the recommendations for both grant categories and submit them to the Board of Selectmen for approval. Grant decisions will be announced on the town website.

Small businesses and nonprofit organizations located in Old Lyme who apply for the Economic Recovery Grant must submit details of pandemic-related economic losses incurred between March 3, 2021, and April 1, 2022. The grant is capped at $10,000 per organization.

The Community Initiative Grant is for organizations seeking funding for programs and initiatives that "will help address the negative impact of the pandemic and create new transformative opportunities in Old Lyme," according to the committee. Initiatives can address issues such as mental health, early child care, infrastructure, tourism and business patronage. Funds must be expended and final reports submitted to the town by Dec. 31, 2026.

The Community Initiative Grant also is open to local boards, commissions and Town Hall departments with initiatives that meet the objectives of the funding.

Other pandemic relief services for individuals and households will continue to be coordinated through the town Social Services Office. Old Lyme residents who have suffered economic loss due to the pandemic are encouraged to contact (860) 434-1605, ext. 228, or socialservices@oldlyme-ct.gov.