A 'support local program' is spreading a little holiday cheer to small businesses in Winkler.

The Winkler District Chamber of Commerce, the city of Winkler and some local businesses teamed up to create a $150,000 fund designed to give a helping hand to local business operators who have been financially impacted by the province's tight COVID-19 restrictions.

Chamber President Darren Heide says $110,000 of that money was allocated this week to purchase gift cards from hard-hit businesses that qualified for the assistance.

"There are about 22 businesses. Some restaurants, some in the service sector like hair salon type businesses and retailers. The money is being given out this week because we wanted to have a quick turn-around given that these tight restrictions are having a big impact now."

Heide says the remaining 40-thousand dollars from the fund will be held in reserve to help businesses who may have missed the initial offering and would like to participate.

The gift cards that are purchased from the businesses will be handed out to local charitable organizations for them to use wherever they see a need in the community.

"So, the money is being used to help our business community now and help support our community service organizations as well."