Business people in the Escalon area can learn about a San Joaquin County grant program by attending a workshop at the Escalon Community Center, 1055 Escalon Ave., on Friday, March 13 from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Christina Urquieta, coordinator for the STAART – Standing Together Against All Regional Theft – Program through the Stockton Chamber of Commerce, said the countywide initiative is focused on supporting and augmenting business and community safety through various crime prevention tools and resources.

“This includes our FastSTAART.com Merchant Accounts, a free tool for businesses to receive retail theft reports, and our FastSTAART Small Business Camera Grant, wherein independent retail and commercial businesses can qualify to receive free security cameras, installation included,” Urquieta said.

In cooperation with San Joaquin County WorkNet and the City of Escalon, STAART will host a Small Business Camera Grant workshop in Escalon, where they will walk business owners step-by-step through the application process.

Those interested in attending are asked to RSVP by contacting: staart@stocktonchamber.org

Attendees are also asked to bring a laptop or web enabled device to start an application.

The Small Business Camera Grant Workshop will provide an overview of the grant program and information on the requirements to apply. Those attending will also learn how to fill out the application and the documents they will need; receive technical assistance with the application submission if needed; and learn about other county programs that help support small businesses.

There is no cost to attend; call for more information, 209-292-8431.