Individuals, businesses and nonprofits impacted by COVID-19 now have a new “one-stop shop” for resources through the RecoveryWA.com website.
The site, a unique partnership between Microsoft, the City of Seattle, Snohomish County and the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, provides information and access to food, rent assistance, business loans and additional resources in one easy-to-navigate location.
RecoveryWA.com provides information on resources throughout the Puget Sound and is quickly being scaled to serve the entire state. Partner organizations developed the site to utilize Seattle-area tech talent to help those impacted by the pandemic. Developers modeled the website from a successful site in south Florida and spent the past weeks tailoring the service for Washington needs.
“Snohomish County, like much of the country, has seen significant economic impacts from the pandemic, and we are working hard with our regional partners to get resources into the hands of those who need them,” said Snohomish County Executive Dave Somers. “This is another successful public/private partnership that will reduce economic hardships brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic and help get our residents back on firmer financial footing.”
“The collaboration between leaders and staff in cities, non-profits and businesses across the region made this possible, and is critical as we all work together to recover from the impacts of COVID-19 ,” said Bobby Lee, Director of the City of Seattle Office of Economic Development. “Our communities, businesses and organizations—particularly those of color and those who need in-language supports—have been overwhelmed trying to navigate bureaucracy to get assistance throughout this crisis. As we move through immediate recovery, a simple path to resources is what our community needs—and that is what this project seeks to provide.”
The website offers resources and contacts in an easy-to-navigate format for all site users. As community needs continue to evolve, the website is designed to adapt with long-term economic recovery in mind.
“It’s important that we rally together to respond to the urgent economic needs developing around us,” said Jane Broom, senior director of Microsoft Philanthropies. “Microsoft is committed to using its technology to work with community leaders to connect people, businesses and nonprofits with the resources they need.”
“Making it as simple as possible for businesses and people to access the resources they need is critical for relief and recovery, especially when it is still not clear how long the impacts of this economic shock will last,” said Markham McIntyre, Executive Vice President of the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce. “This project is a great example of how the public, private and non-profit sectors can work together to deliver an important resource for our whole community.”
For questions or assistance with the site, visitors should email info@recoverywa.com.
About The Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce
The Seattle Metropolitan (Seattle Metro) Chamber of Commerce is the regional business advocacy organization that engages the innovation and entrepreneurship of its 2,600 members to promote inclusive economic prosperity. Founded in 1882 by local business leaders, the Chamber today is an independent organization representing a regional workforce of approximately 750,000. For more information, visit www.seattlechamber.com.