The U.S. federal government has allocated more than USD $350 billion to assist small businesses, including non-profits such as congregations and other denominational organizations, in keeping employees on the payroll and covering critical expenses through this trying financial time. The CARES Act created the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), providing loans through the Small Business Administration with provisions for loan forgiveness of up to 100%, depending upon how the loan funds are spent.

Disciples Church Extension Fund (DCEF) is collaborating with an organization we use for some of our employee benefits, Cost Stewardship, Inc., to provide assistance to Disciples congregations and organizations wanting to apply for these loans. Each Disciples congregation or organization is required to apply directly with a bank, preferably one that has their deposit accounts. The assistance will be very helpful in gathering all of the correct information and fully completing the application form. This service is provided at no cost to Disciples congregations, Regions, General Ministries and recognized ministries. DCEF does not benefit financially in any way from this service. 

If your congregation or Disciples organization needs assistance in applying for the PPP loan, here are the steps you need to take:

  1. Download the Data Collection Spreadsheet seen below and begin to compile your payroll data including benefits on the spreadsheet.
  2. Email the file to CaresAct@DisciplesCEF.org and include your name and phone number, your church’s name, city and state.
  3. You will be contacted by a member of the Cost Stewardship, Inc. team to walk you through the process and get your application completed. They will assist you with determining if your current bank is receiving these applications or if you need to take it somewhere else.

The application process is now open; however, many banks have delayed accepting applications pending time to prepare their systems. Because there is a limited supply of funds, if a congregation or ministry determines they want to apply, we encourage them to begin the application process on a timely basis. If you have any questions, please email DCEF at CaresAct@DisciplesCEF.org.  DCEF is here to assist you.

Information provided by DCEF regarding PPP is of a general nature and is not intended to be tax or legal advice or opinions related to specific matters, facts, situations, or issues. Additional facts or information or future developments may affect the subjects addressed in this communication, especially regarding PPP. Consult with your tax advisor or your legal advisor about your particular circumstances.

Links for Application Process

SBA Faith-Based FAQ

Data Collection Spreadsheet

Financial Data Required for PPP Loans

Informational Links

Information about PPP Loans from the US Chamber of Commerce Foundation

An excellent guide and checklist for PPP Loans from the US Chamber of Commerce Foundation

SBA Federal Relief Loan Comparison

Application (For information only; Application not needed if ministries are using our assistance)


Along with Hope Partnership Services, DCEF is a ministry partner of New Church Ministry.

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