Covid-19 Response

The Alabama Department of Labor has allowed workers who are displaced due to COVID-19 the ability to file for unemployment. Details here. Though the career centers are currently closed to the public for safety precautions, individuals can still receive assistance via phone and the Department of Labor website.

Alabama Department of Labor Secretary Fitzgerald Washington discussed what the department is doing to help employees who may be out of work due to COVID-19 with the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama’s membership through a community conference call. Listen in to our conversation here.

The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama launched its COVID-19 Business Toolkit to offer assistance on funding opportunities, provide resources and more.
The Chamber will also host weekly conference calls/webinars on relevant COVID-19 topics, which will be posted to this site.

The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama has partnered with area childcare centers to assist healthcare workers and first responders with childcare. Essential employees with children ages 0-5 may reach out to Little Peoples Child Care Center and Capstone Child Development Center. Essential employees with children ages 6-14 may participate in programs from the Boys and Girls Clubs of West Alabama and YMCA Tuscaloosa.

Own a small business? The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama will update details on local, state and federal funding for small businesses affected by COVID-19 here. The Chamber will also share tips on applying for funding opportunities.

Our local businesses need us right now. Purchase a gift online from one of your favorite local shops. Patronize a local restaurant with a to-go order. Support your favorite business by buying a Support Small tee. Learn more about ways you can support your local economy here.

To help your business, we are offering informative conference calls, webinars and other remote training opportunities during this time. Listen in to our recent webinar with the Governor’s Office, Department of Education and the Alabama Community College System here. Learn more about the Call On Your Chamber series here. The Chamber will also share tips on applying for funding opportunities.