Restaurants were some of the hardest hit businesses during the pandemic, and now New York's senior senator says there is money that could help pay some bills.

Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer is urging restaurants owners to apply for emergency funds that are part of the American Rescue Plan - which is about to launch.

He says $28 billionh as been set aside for restaurants to help pay for pandemic-related bills. Rust and Gold owner Frank Antonetti says he's excited about the plan and hopes it keeps more restaurants from folding.

Schumer says restaurants need to apply now before funds are exhausted.

According to the Small Business Administration, restaurants could receive between a thousand up to $5 million in aid.