Ohio’s Forgotten Funds: Act Now to Help Struggling Families

In 2020 and 2021, when Ohioans were grappling with the devastating economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, many workers were laid off and turned to the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) program, enacted under the CARES Act for help. These funds provided relief to workers who were not traditionally eligible for unemployment benefits, including gig workers, self-employed individuals, and others who found themselves suddenly without income due to the pandemic.

But in an outrageous oversight, nearly $900 million of these federal funds—approximately $3,000 per household—were never distributed to the families who desperately needed them. Thousands of Ohioans missed out on the support they were entitled to, leaving many without the resources to stay housed, pay for basic needs, or support their families during a time of unprecedented uncertainty.

Now, Governor Mike DeWine has a chance to rectify this oversight and request these funds from the federal government, but time is running out. These funds could be lost if the Governor does not act quickly. This is a rare opportunity to help those who have been forgotten in the rush of pandemic relief efforts.

At Advocates for Basic Legal Equality, Inc. (ABLE), we believe that no one should be left behind, especially when they are entitled to assistance that can provide a path forward. These funds are not a handout; they are a lifeline that will help Ohio families recover from a crisis that is still being felt by many. But this opportunity won’t last forever. We must act now to ensure these resources reach those who need them most.

We are currently urging all Ohioans impacted by the pandemic to contact the Governor’s office today and demand that the state request these funds before they disappear. Call or email Governor DeWine and let him know that the people of Ohio need these funds to survive and thrive:

Phone: 614-466-3555

Online: governor.ohio.gov/contact