Please complete the form below the FAQ to request assistance.

Donations and Requests for Assistance FAQ

The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance Michigan Chapter (PHTA-MI) Board of Directors has assigned a COVID-19 Task Force to respond to some of the critical needs of industry individuals greatly affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

How do I make a donation?

Donations can be submitted via PayPal or Zelle to splash4repair@aol.com; or via check made payable to Michigan Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (Memo: COVID-19 Fund), and mailed to Chris Ferriss, P.O. Box 262, Wayne, MI 48184.

Who receives my donation?

All donations go directly into a COVID-19 Fund managed by the Treasurer of the PHTA-MI Board of Directors. 100% of these funds go directly to individuals in the pool, spa, and backyard living industry who submit a Request for Assistance. Assistance is only granted for critical, personal needs, and not for business expenses.

Is my donation tax deductible?

PHTA-MI is a registered 501(c)(6) organization. Contributions to section 501(c)(6) organizations are not deductible as charitable contributions on the donor's federal income tax return. They may be deductible as trade or business expenses if ordinary and necessary in the conduct of the taxpayer's business. All donors receive a receipt and acknowledgement of gratitude for their charitable contribution.

What kinds of donations are accepted?

Cash donations (made by check, credit card, or bank transfer) are accepted. In-kind donations of gift cards or new, unused home necessities and non-perishable foods can be accepted if there is a need. Contact michigan@phta.org to discuss acceptance of in-kind donations.

How do I request assistance?

Requests for assistance can be submitted using the form below this FAQ. Assistance will only be granted for critical, personal need, and not for business expenses. Submitting a Request for Assistance is not a guarantee for assistance.

How long does it take to review requests?

A member of the PHTA-MI COVID-19 Task Force will contact the individual who submitted the request within 24 hours of submission to gather any additional information. Decisions regarding assistance will be made within 72 hours of the request.

How do I know if my request for assistance was approved or denied?

A member of the PHTA-MI COVID-19 Task Force will contact the individual who submitted the request notifying him/her if the request was approved or denied within 72 hours. In the event of overwhelming requests, employees of PHTA-MI member companies will receive priority.

When and how might I receive funds if my request was approved?

Funds for approved requests will be distributed within one week of approval. Funds may be distributed by check, bank transfer, directly to creditors (i.e., utility bills), or in the form of a gift card to ensure that distributed funds are going directly to where assistance is requested.

Is there a deadline for submitting requests?

Requests can be submitted through April 30, 2020. The PHTA-MI COVID-19 Task Force will extend the deadline as necessary based on local and national government directives and the economical impact on the pool, spa, and backyard living industry.