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GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Grand Rapids-based Meritage Hospitality is facing criticism from employees say they haven’t been paid in almost two months. The employees say the lack of pay is especially frustrating knowing that Meritage was granted $29 million in paycheck protection funds by the federal government.
Meritage Hospitality Group employee Stephanie Chavez, who works at a Meritage restaurant, saw News 8’s report about the company receiving millions in taxpayer dollars meant to save small businesses. She said it adds insult to injury while she struggles to pay bills.
Chavez works as a server at Freighters in Port Huron on the east side of the state, one of the many restaurants owned by Meritage.
The majority of Meritage Hospitality's restaurants are Wendy’s, which are still operating and making money. Despite that, Meritage was granted $29.1 million from the paycheck protection program, a loan designed to keep workers on payroll.
Meritage says it has yet to receive any PPP funds. Adding, “we know it will be less than the $29.1 million reported.” News 8 is working to independently confirm that.
Read the full story: WOODTV.com