Chicago Mayor Pushes Grants, Contest To Support Bars, Restaurants

CHICAGO — Mayor Lori Lightfoot on Thursday extended a $10 million olive branch to city bars and restaurants suffering under the state's shutdown of indoor dining in response to the spiking spread of coronavirus.

Lightfoot said the city has reallocated cash from the federal coronavirus stimulus to provide about 1,000 independent bars and restaurants $10,000 grants that will be distributed through a lottery. The city will begin accepting grant applications on Nov. 16, and cash is expected to be distributed by the end of the year.

City Hall also has launched a contest — Take Out Chicago — aimed at boosting carry-out and delivery service. Folks who order take out from 1o different Chicago restaurants before Dec. 15 can register to win behind-the-scenes tours at Chicago cultural landmarks including Soldier Field, the Art Institute of Chicago and DuSable Museum of African American History.

Lightfoot also said she plans to work with the City Council to cap fees third-party food delivery services charge restaurants.

City Hall also launched ChiServes.com, an online portal that aims to connect hospitality industry workers that have been either laid off or had their paychecks severely cut with career coaching and workforce development services, including resume writing, interview preparation, occupational training, and job placement.

This is a developing story.