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Friends and Neighbors,
As of Friday, there were
18,827
confirmed COVID-19 cases in Colorado with 960 deaths. There are 3,877
cases and 217 deaths in Denver.
Please
stay home.
It has been 9 long weeks since Colorado's first confirmed case of COVID-19. Since then, the pandemic has
closed schools for in-person learning, closed businesses,
cancelled professional sports' seasons, and even forced the legislature to
temporarily adjourn.
These decisions were difficult, but critical, to minimizing hospitalizations and deaths. They gave the state time to build healthcare capacity, acquire additional medical supplies, and increase social distancing to flatten the curve of this deadly virus.
Your commitment to staying home and quick action by the state have stabilized the outbreak in Colorado and allowed Denver to slowly reopen, transitioning into the
safer-at-home phase.
This fight is not over, but it is changing.
Starting tomorrow,
some businesses, including non-essential retail stores, hair salons and tattoo parlors, can begin to
reopen throughout Denver.
As the city transitions, so will these newsletters, from daily to a few times each week. No need to worry! You can still find frequent updates and resources by visiting
my
website
and following me on
Facebook
,
Twitter
and
Instagram
. I will be in touch.
Thank you to everyone who has shared encouraging words and resources with my office, and with each other.
I am proud to represent such a caring and community-centered district.
Lastly, I wanted to give a shout out to my Chief of Staff, Andrew Fish. Andrew has worked with me for two legislative sessions and has been an extremely valuable asset. Today is his last day and I wish him the best of luck on his new adventure.
Please remember that it's still safer to stay at home
. We will get through this together.
Have a great weekend.
Boldly Forward,
P.S. In an attempt to keep folks informed, I have been sending more frequent updates and created a
COVID-19 resources page
on my website. Click
here
to suggest a new resource. As always, follow me on F
acebook
,
T
witter
, and I
nstagram
for updates on COVID-19.
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For general questions
, call (303) 389-1687 or 1-877-462-2911.
For written answers in English, Spanish (Español), Mandarin (普通话), and more, email COHELP@RMPDC.org.
For telehealth providers and nurselines, click here.
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Join me and elected officials from Northeast and Far Northeast Denver for our weekly Facebook LIVE town hall on COVID-19.
When: Every Friday, 3:30 - 4:30 PM
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Stay-at-Home Orders and 'Safer-at Home'
Governor Polis has
announced
a new 'safer-at-home' phase now in effect, which will have many of the same recommendations and restrictions currently in effect, while allowing for a gradual reopening. Read the executive order
here
.
P
lease call 3-1-1 to report Denver businesses that you believe should be closed, that are not practicing social distancing, that are not maintaining a clean and safe work environment, or that are violating any other city laws.
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COVID-19 By The
Numbers
Denver
3,877 cases and 217 deaths.
[
Source
]
Colorado
456 new cases were reported on Thursday for a total of 18,827 cases and 960 deaths.
[
Source
]
United States
New York leads the nation in total cases (332,931)
and total deaths (26,206).
Other states with high case totals include
New Jersey (135,454), Massachusetts (73,721), and Illinois (70,802). [
Source
]
Global
The United States leads the world in new cases (
25,595
), total cases (
1,318,218
), and total deaths (
78,479
).
Other nations with high numbers of new cases include the UK (
4,649
), Brazil (
5,395
), and Russia (
10,699
)
.
[Source].
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Housing
Homeowners can
split
their property tax payments over April and May.
Unemployment Benefits
If you are an independent contractor, freelancer, or self-employed individual, and had less than $2,500 in W-2 income during 2019, apply for benefits
here.
If you had more than $2,500 in W-2 income, regardless of your income from other sources, apply for regular state unemployment benefits here.
Benefits are retroactive as far back as February 2nd and the federal $600 per week is retroactive as far back as March 29th, for those individuals who qualify.
Taxes
For Individuals and Businesses in Denver:
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Additional COVID Updates from Governor Polis and Mayor Hancock
Updated 5/8 at 2 PM
*The state has launched
Connect to Care Jobs, a site dedicated to matching health care job seekers with immediate openings in residential care settings. Apply
here.
*A new initiative,
Can Do Colorado, will provide guidance and tips to businesses about increasing teleworking capabilities as well as highlight innovative businesses.
Denver's stay-at-home order
will end today, May 8th.
In Denver you are
required to wear face coverings in public places
2-1-1, Colorado's free information hotline, will now be answering questions about worker protections and health care discrimination as more Coloradans return to work.
Read more here.
Downhill ski slopes will remain closed until at least May 23rd. [
Full text]
Denver is
banning alcohol and group sports in city parks until July 23rd.
Governor Polis announced new regulations to keep residents of senior living facilities safe.
Read more here.
Governor Polis announced the formation of a health equity response task force to ensure equitable access to care and testing for all Coloradans. The state will also be providing new COVID-19 updates
including racial data.
The Department of Corrections will have greater flexibility to manage the prison population in order to reduce the likelihood of an outbreak behind bars. [Full text]
Click here for a full list of the Governor's executive orders.
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$1,200 Economic Assistance Payments
Who is eligible? Single adults with Social Security numbers who are U.S. residents and make $75,000 or less will
receive
$1,200 ($2,400 for a couple), which phases out for individuals making more than $99,000 or couples making more than $198,000. Eligible individuals will also receive $500 for each child 16 and younger. FAQ here.
Individuals without documentation and others without a social security number, including those with an ITIN, are not eligible.
How do I receive my direct payment?
If you filed a 2018 or 2019 tax return and received a refund via direct deposit, you do not need to take additional action. Automatic payments have begun. Click here if you haven't received your payment.
If you filed a 2018 or 2019 tax return and did not receive a refund, or if you did not provide your direct deposit information, you need to enter your direct deposit information here.
Social Security recipients who are not typically required to file a tax return do
not need to take action.
Recipients will receive these payments as a direct deposit or by paper check, just as they would normally receive their benefits.
Individuals who make less than $12,200 ($24,400 for married couples) for 2019 or w
ere not otherwise required to file a federal tax return for 2019, and don't plan to, should fill out this quick IRS form to receive their payment. You will need to provide your
Social Security number, name, address, and dependents.
Why can't I get my payment status? Click
here for reasons why you may not be able to see your status.
 Expanding unemployment benefits. More than doubles the average unemployment benefit by adding $600 to the weekly benefit. It also allows self-employed and part time workers to receive benefits. Apply here.
Delaying student loan payments. Federally-serviced student loan payments are automatically deferred until September 30th without interest or penalty.
PERA. Waives the penalty for Coronavirus-related distributions up to $100,000 during 2020, along with other changes.
For an F.A.Q. on direct payments, unemployment and the rest of the bill, click
here.
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Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Updated 5.6 at 2:48 PM
As of Wednesday, May 6, Governor Polis
announced
that the state had distributed the following personal protective equipment.
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Type of PPE
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Distributed
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N95 Masks
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|
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Surgical Masks
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|
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Face Shields
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116,065
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Surgical Gowns
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195,109
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Gloves
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1,640,100
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To donate Personal Protective Equipment. If you have small quantities of supplies to contribute, between 1-25 boxes of personal protective equipment, donate these supplies to the Denver public health department or fill out
THIS FORM for larger donations.
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Domestic Violence and Child Abuse
Updated 5/4 at 12:40 PM
If you are in danger, call 911.
If it's not safe for you to remain home and you can't find another safe place to stay, please contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233. If you can't speak safely, visit thehotline.org or text LOVEIS to 22522.
If you or someone you know is in an unsafe living arrangement, call Safe Shelter at (303) 772-0432.
State and national guidance to help domestic violence coalitions, service providers and advocates support survivors and operate effectively (from the National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV): click here.
Tip sheet that outlines key steps in advocating for survivors' continued access to mental health and substance use services and medication, from the National Center on Domestic Violence, Trauma & Mental Health: click here.
Read Representative Monica Duran's personal story with domestic violence.
Child Abuse and Neglect
Reports of child abuse have dropped drastically since the stay-at-home order was implemented. Service providers worry that abuse and neglect is still happening but going unreported due to school closures.
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Seniors
Updated 5.7 at 3 PM
Senior Care Centers. Governor Polis announced
new regulations to protect residents of senior care centers.
Senior shopping hours. Stores are dedicating hours for seniors,
click here. Kind Soopers has
added hours (6-8 AM Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Certain Safeway locations have
added a day (7-9 AM Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday),
check with your local store.
Show our seniors some love and support.
Read
7 ways to boost your loved one's morale here (provided by AARP).
Transportation
for seniors. The Denver Regional Mobility and Access Council has transportation options for older adults and individuals with disabilities.
Older Adult Resource Directory. An extensive directory of contact information, including benefits, emergency services, meals and healthcare.
Denver Regional Council of Governments Aging and Disability Resources. A collection of resources including guides to in-home healthcare, transportation, and legal assistance.
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Rent, Utilities & Services
Updated 5.4 at 2 PM
Housing
Utilities and Other Services
AAA is providing free emergency roadside assistance for first responders and healthcare workers traveling to and from their duties. Read more here.
Lyft is providing free scooter rides for first responders, medical, and transit staff. Critical business employers can email HeroScooters@Lyft.com to enroll employees.
McDonald's is providing free "Thank You Meals" to all first responders and healthcare workers via drive-thru and carry-out by simply showing a work badge.
For additional resources, discounts, and offers for health care workers, click here.
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Small Businesses
Updated 5.4 at 2 PM
A new package
of support for small businesses and hospitals has been signed into law, including $310 billion for the depleted Paycheck Protection Program.
Apply now
.
Colorado has opened applications for the Colorado COVID Relief Fund,
which provides small business relief funds up to $25,000.
Denver businesses who have had to temporary close, lay off staff, or are struggling to pay rent and utilities, can
apply for grants
up to $7,500.
To apply,
click here
.
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Employment
Updated 5.5 at 2 PM
Unemployment Benefits
If you are an independent contractor, freelancer, or self-employed individual, and had less than $2,500 in W-2 income during 2019, apply for benefits
here.
If you had more than $2,500 in W-2 income, regardless of your income from other sources, apply for regular state unemployment benefits here.
Benefits are retroactive as far back as February 2nd and the federal $600 per week is retroactive as far back as March 29th, for those individuals who qualify.
Other Resources
Layoff / separations assistance, information and
resources.
Lost your healthcare? Visit
CO.gov/PEAK to find out if you're eligible for Health First Colorado, Colorado's Medicaid Program, and/or Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+) if you have dependents.
Going Back to Work and Finding New Work
Return to Work Guidance for Workers:
here.
Health care facilities, grocery stores, package delivery companies, and companies offering online products for delivery are hiring. Register here
for more details.
Connecting Colorado state database for job seekers.
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Mental Health
Updated 4.13 at 1:25 PM
Support for Isolated Trans People. The Validation station is a free text service which sends daily support to isolated trans people.
Mental Health Center of Denver has compiled a list of resources to help maintain positive well-being during this time. They are providing "telemental" health and are accepting new clients. Call (303) 504-7900.
Colorado Crisis Services. If you are concerned about your own mental health or someone close to you, call (844) 493-8255 or text "TALK" to 38255.
Denver Therapy Match. Search for Denver providers
here.
Open Path.
For additional reduced rate
options
.
Psychology Today. Search for statewide providers here.
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At Home Learning & Activities
Updated 4.13 at 1:15 PM
DPS has family and student
resources for Pre-K through 12th grade including at-home
activities for art, math, reading / writing, science and more.
Virtually Denver includes dozens of ways to experience arts and culture from home, including Denver museums, music, and performing arts.
The Denver Public Library has free online resources including books, movies, music, story time, and other programs.
Virtual Field Trips including over 500 museums, Yellowstone National Park, and the Great Wall of China.
The Stay at Home Colorado Guide has free resources, supports, and activities to help you, your family, and your loved ones during this time. You can submit suggestions of free resources here.
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Assistance for Students
and
Families
Updated 4.24 at 4 PM
DPS has
suspended in-person instruction for the rest of the school year.
Meal Assistance
Free breakfast, lunch, and dinner. DPS students and families can receive free meals at sites throughout the city. Breakfast and lunch are available from 11 AM - 12:30 PM, Monday - Friday, and dinner is available from 3:30 - 5:30 PM. For a list of distribution sites, click here.
Powersacks.
Food for Thought Denver
will be providing Powersacks at all distribution sites, every Friday. Each Powersack contains enough food for a family of four for two days. They are available for anyone in need, not just DPS students.
Meal Delivery. School buses will deliver weekday meals to schools and community locations throughout the city for the remainder of the school year. They will stop at each site for 20 - 30 minutes to hand out breakfast and lunch. On Fridays, weekend breakfast and lunch are also available for pickup. For delivery sites, click here.
Hunger Free Colorado
has set up a Food Resource Hotline for anyone who needs help locating food. Call 855-855-4626, M - F (8 am - 4:30 pm) to find school meals, food pantries, and info on SNAP and WIC enrollment.
Students outside Denver can find nearby locations to pick up meals
here.
A map of the 44 open food pantries in Denver can be found
here.
Wifi at home. N
ew Comcast customers will receive 2 months of free service, which is normally $9.95/month.
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Childcare and Tips for Parents
Updated 4/22 at 3 PM
Other Resources for Parents
Talking to kids about COVID-19:
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Donate and Volunteer
Updated 5.4 at 3 PM
Contribute Money
C
ontribute to the statewide Colorado COVID-19 Relief Fund here. Apply here for grants up to $25,000.
COVID-19 Mutual Aid Fund for LGBTQI+ BIPOC Folks:
click here
First Nations Development Institute Relief Fund:
click here
Other Donations
Blood donation - donor eligibility
here. Make an appointment
here.
Plasma donation - if you have been diagnosed and completely recovered from COVID-19, you can donate your plasma. For more information on donor eligibility and how to sign up click here.
How to help feed unemployed workers, hospital staff, school kids and others in need around Denver.
Volunteer
Help Colorado Now has recruited more than 10,000 volunteers, including more than 2,500 health care volunteers.
Health Care Response
Volunteer Sign Up. Once you sign up you will be contacted and matched with a hospital or care facility in need in your area.
Other Volunteer Sign-up
here. Roles include administrative, client advocacy, construction, mental wellness, food bank support, language skills, healthcare, volunteer management, childcare, delivery of goods and more.
Coordinate a Meal Donations to Denver Hospitals
National Jewish Health & St. Joseph: Contact Justine at (303) 270-2833.
Presbyterian St. Luke's & Rose Medical Center: Fill out this
form explaining your donation.
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College Students and Higher Education
Updated 4/22 at 3 PM
This guide offers a few ways that institutions are stepping up to meet students' basic needs, including buying food and paying bills. (provided by CoPIRG Foundation).
FedLoan Servicing will reduce their interest rates to 0% and automatically delay federally-serviced loan payments until September 30th.
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Protect Yourself and Others
Updated 5/4 at 2:30 PM
*NEW: Find a community testing site near you. Please check with your health care provider for guidance on whether you qualify for testing and where you can get tested close to you.
Each of us can do our part to fight COVID-19 by staying home as much possible. When its necessary to leave your house, please practice social distancing and wear a mask.
Guidance For People Experiencing Symptoms, provided by the Colorado Department of Public Health (CDPHE)
- Mild symptoms (might include a combination of cough, body aches, fatigue, and chest tightness, with or without fever): Self-isolate, and use over-the-counter medications to treat your symptoms -- like you would for a cold or other respiratory illness.
-
Serious symptoms, especially trouble breathing:
Self-isolate, use over-the-counter medications and contact a health care provider or nurseline if your illness becomes more severe. The provider may recommend you be tested for COVID-19, and should be able to instruct you on how to get a test.
-
Severe symptoms: call 911 for symptoms of heart attack or stroke; difficulty breathing or choking; difficulty speaking, walking, or seeing; an allergic reaction; confusion, dizziness, or disorientation; sudden, severe pain.
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Past COVID-19 Newsletters
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Paid for by Leslie Herod for Colorado. Contributions are limited to $400 every 2 year election cycle from individuals, sole proprietorships, LLPs, LLCs and state PACS and $5,350 from small donor committees. Contributions from corporations, labor unions, foreign governments and non-US citizens are prohibited. Contributions are not tax deductible. Donations from registered Colorado lobbyists or principals of lobbyists are prohibited during the legislative session running from January 8th to May 6th, 2020 and any email or donation page from this campaign is not soliciting a contribution from lobbyists or principals of lobbyists.
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