Due to overwhelming demand, the HARP fund has reached its round 1 capacity of 1,000 applications and is no longer accepting new applications. Our team is working to process applications, respond to applicants, and raise additional money needed to assist individuals in the future. We remain committed to helping as many hospitality workers as possible.
As soon as these initial ones are processed we will consider reopening the grant form if funds allow for it. We are committed to aiding hospitality workers who have suffered from the COVID-19 crisis. We take our responsibility to the hospitality community seriously and we apologize for any challenges and issues you may have experienced during your attempt to apply for a Fund grant award due to the overwhelming interest.
Grants of $250 will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis and subject to the availability of funds at the time. Only applications that are complete and include all requested documentation will be considered.
HARP Fund Eligibility:
Worked in the hospitality industry in 2020
Have experienced a decrease in wages or loss of job on or after March 16
Work and live in PA
Over 18 years of age
Owner/Operators are not eligible
Your application will include the following:
Demographic information
Employment information
Documentation of hospitality employment in 2020 (upload 2 pay stubs confirming this)
Resume is optional
Statement of need (max 200 words)
Candidates will be notified if they have been awarded the one-time grant. Grants will be distributed via electronic funds transfer to your bank account. Upon being awarded the grant, we will providing banking paperwork for you to fill out to transfer the funds directly to you.
The HARP fund is managed through the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association Educational Foundation. The PRLAEF is a 501(c)(3) that has been providing financial assistance to hospitality students for more than 15 years. Additional fund documentation is available upon request.
When we think back on our most memorable experiences in our lives--birthdays, first dates, anniversaries, graduations, weddings-- one must ask how many were celebrated at our favorite restaurants or hotels? Since the mandatory closing of dine-in service across the state, and the restriction of group gatherings, most hospitality businesses have had no choice but to make the difficult decision to let most, if not all, of their staff go. The hospitality industry in Pennsylvania, and across the nation, is currently facing its greatest challenge. With over 800,000 jobs at risk across the state, now is the time to provide whatever relief you can offer.
Questions? Contact Hope Sterner at hsterner@prla.org or call (717) 963-8368.