Osceola County has a piece of $1.2 billion waiting for it.

That’s a pool of federal funding meant for COVID-19 response. But since Osceola County, like 54 other Florida counties, has fewer than 500,000 residents, that money has gone to the state instead of its share getting immediately sent here and to other counties. At Friday’s Executive Policy Group media session, County Commission Chair Viviana Janer said Osceola has joined with those counties and the Florida Association of Counties to release that much-needed funding.

A pool of about $1 million in CARES Act funds specifically for community grants was made available, os a second round of rent and foreclosure assistance will become available Monday. Those who qualify can apply beginning at 8 a.m. by going to housing.osceola.org and selecting the Emergency Assistance option. Applicants will have to provide proof of residence and job loss, and applicants will be taken on a first-come, first-ready basis.

Local food pantries, which received financial aid from the county three weeks ago, will receive another round next week, said.

Emergency Operations Manager Bill Litton share a bit of good news: all county hospitals are sourcing their PPE from their regular suppliers and do not require emergency supplies.

COVID-19 testing — Here’s a rundown of where tests will be done in Osceola County next week:

Monday, 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Cameron Preserve Apartments. Testing available for apartment residents with appointments only. Call Osceola Community Health Services at 844-943-8600 to schedule an appointment. Limited appointments available.

Tuesday through Thursday, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Robert Guevara Community Center, 501 Florida Parkway, Buenaventura Lakes. Call the Florida Department of Health in Osceola County at 407-343-2000 to schedule an appointment. Testing available for anyone experiencing symptoms or with concerns about COVID-19 exposure.

Mondays and Fridays by appointment only at the Florida Department of Health in Osceola County, 1875 Fortune Road, Kissimmee. Call 407-343-2000 to schedule an appointment. Testing available for anyone experiencing symptoms or with concerns about COVID-19 exposure.