Reading is set to receive nearly $200,000 in federal funds thanks to the stimulus package Congress passed last month.

As part of the CARES Act, millions of dollars in grants were given to states and municipalities across the country to cover expenses directly related to responding to the coronavirus pandemic.

Reading will get nearly its share from that pot of money to assist in its effort to contain the highly contagious disease and mitigate the financial impact the crisis has had on local governments.

The money, which is being administered by the Bureau of Justice Assistance program, can be used to cover the costs of obtaining personal protective equipment, providing overtime and hazard pay to essential workers, hiring workers and addressing the medical needs of inmates in local prisons and detention centers.

It can also be spent on things like training and travel expenses for those on the front lines.

Mayor Eddie Moran applauded U.S. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan for helping secure the funding.

"On behalf of the residents of Reading, I want to express the city's appreciation for the good working relationship and support we receive from Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan and her staff," Moran said in a press release. "Specific to the coronavirus, Chrissy joined our City Council members and me on March 16 when we issued Reading's declaration of disaster emergency. Since then, she has been in frequent contact to ascertain city needs, share information and offer assistance with federal funding opportunities."

The Chester County Democrat, who represents the congressional district that includes Reading and many southeastern communities in Berks County, said Wednesday that she was proud to help Reading access these funds during the unprecedented public health emergency.

"From the beginning, I have been clear that a successful response to this pandemic would require the coordination of local, state and federal officials," she said in a press release. "I'm grateful to Mayor Moran for his proactive measures. We are in this together and, as we move towards reopening, we must continue to be vigilant and holistic in our response to this virus at every level."