Friends and Neighbors,

As of Friday, there were 19,879  confirmed COVID-19 cases in Colorado with 987 deaths. There are 4,066  cases and 225 deaths in Denver. Please  stay home. 

I have been inspired by the majority of Coloradans doing their part to slow the spread of COVID-19. Keep it up! We need you.

Unfortunately, there are still some who are choosing to ignore public safety and put the lives of many at risk. That is not ok.

As you probably saw all over the news this past weekend, a restaurant in Castle Rock allowed  crowds of people to dine in, creating a serious public health hazard and flagrantly disobeying state law. Today, Governor Polis announced that restaurant will now be closed until they comply with public health orders. 

This restaurant's decision to open as it did was not only detrimental to the public health of customers, but they also put their own workers at risk. 

If you work for or know of a business that is not complying with the current public health orders you can report them by calling 2-1-1. This includes businesses not providing PPE, not implementing social distancing or, in some counties, like Denver, not wearing masks inside stores or public buildings. 

By and large, businesses across Colorado are doing their part to ensure that the public and their employees are safe. By following public health guidance, they are doing their part to stop the spread.

Let's celebrate these businesses! 

Can Do Colorado is an initiative that provides guidance and tips to businesses about how to increase teleworking capabilities. The initiative is also highlighting  innovative businesses who are working hard to keep Colorado's economy going. Know one? Nominate them here

With more freedom comes more responsibility. It is up to all of us, business owners and customers alike, to ensure that we are protecting our most vulnerable from COVID-19. Deciding to comply with the state's health orders can be the difference between life and death.

We are adapting to the new normal. We will get through this together.


Boldly Forward,






P.S. Miss an email? Check out the  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. 
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.

Información en Español de la ACLU of Colorado y Servicios De La Raza.
Facebook Live Town Hall!

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
Facebook event: here  
'Safer at Home'
Updated 5/11 at 2 PM

Denver is now in the 'Safer at Home' phase. Read about new regulations in Denver and surrounding counties.

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. 
COVID-19 By The  Numbers
Updated 5.11 at 5:02 PM

Denver
4,066 cases and 225 deaths.  [ Source ]

Colorado
19,879 cases and 987 deaths. [ Source]

United States
New York leads the nation in total cases (342,317)  and total deaths (26,878). 
Other states with high case totals include  New Jersey (139,945), Massachusetts (77,793), and Illinois (77,662). [ Source ]

Global
The United States leads the world in new cases ( 13,704 ), total cases ( 1,318,342 ), and total deaths ( 81,545 ).  Other nations with high numbers of new cases include India ( 3,607 ), the UK ( 3,877 ), and Russia ( 11,656 ) .  [Source]. 
Updated 5.11 at 1 PM

Housing

Governor Polis has banned evictions statewide. [ Full text]

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: 

Denver small businesses can seek cash grants of up to $7,500 from a $4 million relief fund created by Mayor Hancock and the City of Denver. Apply here.

Denver has announced initial Economic Relief Package for Business and Employees. Read more about these packages here.
Additional COVID Updates from Governor Polis and Mayor Hancock
Updated 5/11 at 3:53 PM

*Governor Polis announced he will make a decision about spring skiing, next steps for restaurants and summer camps on May 12th. 

*Camping may resume in many state parks on May 12

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. 

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.

Essential workers and government employees are required to cover their faces when close to colleagues or the public. [ Full text

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.

Individuals can obtain a marriage license remotely . [ Full text ]

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]

Remote notarizations will be permitted. [Full text]

Click here for a full list of the Governor's executive orders.
Updated 5.11 at 2 PM

$175 billion in small business loans were given out in the second round of the Paycheck Protection Program. 

$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 begunClick 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 actionRecipients 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.

UnemploymentBenefitsExpanding 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
PPEPersonal 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.

Type of PPE
Distributed
N95 Masks
534,474
Surgical Masks
2,472,205
Face Shields
116,065
Surgical Gowns
195,109
Gloves
1,640,100

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.
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.

Violence Free Colorado resources: 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. 

The Office of Children, Youth and Families urges everyone to keep an eye on children and teens in your neighborhood and report neglect or abuse to this hotline: 1-844-CO-4-KIDS (1-844-264-5437)
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. 

Scams. The AARP has compiled common scams to avoid.

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. 

Open Food Pantries in Denver. Click here for a map.

Denver Regional Council of Governments Aging and Disability Resources. A collection of resources including guides to in-home healthcare, transportation, and legal assistance.

Coloradans living with Alzheimer's. The Alzheimer's Association of Colorado has a 24/7 helpline (800-272-3900), community resource finder, and training courses.
HousingRent, Utilities & Services
Updated 5.11 at 4 PM

Housing

Governor Polis has banned residential and commercial evictions in Colorado. [ Full text]

The COVID-19 Eviction Defense Project is  a collaborative, community legal project to support Coloradans struggling to pay rent. If you need to talk to a lawyer about your situation, click here. If you are a Colorado lawyer and want to volunteer, click here.

Denver's Temporary Rental and Utility Assistance (TRUA) program can pay utility bills and up to 80% of rent.

The Colorado Tenant's Guide to COVID-19   helps tenants navigate conversations with landlords, respond to eviction proceedings, and get support in this challenging time.

Utilities and Other Services

Xcel Energy, Denver WaterComcast, and T-Mobile have suspended service shut-offs for non-payment.  Over 700 other companies have suspended service shut-offs due to non-payment and are waiving late fees. 

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.

*Financial institutions such as American Express, Wells Fargo and Capitol One are working to provide relief to their customers. Find out more information here and here

*Some car insurance companies are offering relief including Allstate, State Farm, and Geico. Click here for the full list. 
SmallBusiness Small Businesses
Updated 5.11 at 5 PM

A 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 .

Resources for employers from the Colorado Department of Labor & Employment

Eviction assistance for businesses, industry-specific information, and an e conomic Injury Hotline (303-860-5881 or email oedit_sbnavigator@state.co.us), from the Colorado Office of Economic Development & International Trade.

*Cl ick here for information about safer-at-home business requirements.
SmallBusinessEmployment
Updated 5.11 at 5:18 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

Resources for Workers  from the Colorado Department of Labor & Employment.

Paid sick leave up to four days.

File a wage complaint if you were not paid for hours worked.

Layoff / separations assistance, information and resources.

Business and employee resources from the Colorado Restaurant Association

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.

Denver resources for job assistance.

*Connect to Care Jobs is a site dedicated to matching health care job seekers with immediate openings in residential care settings. Apply here
MentalHealth 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.

National Crisis Text Line. Text SHARE to 741741 to connect with a Crisis Counselor. It's free, confidential and available 24/7.

Maria Droste Counseling Center. Providers can  connect virtually with clients.

Denver Metro Counseling  is providing  online therapy

Denver Therapy Match. Search for Denver providers here.

Open Path. For additional reduced rate options

Psychology Today. Search for statewide providers here.
AtHomeLearning At Home Learning & Activities
Updated 5.11 at 5:30 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.

Rocky Mountain PBS will air educational programs from 6 AM - 5 PM, weekdays, to support at-home learning.

Cleo Parker Robinson Dance will launch Cyber Dance 2020, an ongoing series of classes and movement activities, serving all ages and levels of ability. Please pay what you can and contact amelia@cleoparkerdance.org with questions.

The Denver Museum of Nature and Science has online activities and a facebook page with videos of scientists in action.

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

Food 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.
Childcare and Tips for Parents
Updated 4/22 at 3 PM

Emergency Childcare Collaborative. A  100% tuition credit will provide childcare to all essential workers until May 17.  If you are a family who meets the criteria above, fill out the application for child care  here .

Other Resources for Parents

Online groups in English and Spanish, from Illuminate Colorado



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

Undocumented Workers 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

Details for hospitals are below, or  contact my office for assistance.

Denver Health: Contact Amy Friedman at (303) 602-2926 or email  Amy.Friedman@dhha.org.

Children's Hospital: Contact Rachel Bernhardt at  rachel.bernhardt@childrenscolorado.org.

National Jewish Health & St. Joseph: Contact Justine at (303) 270-2833.

Porter Adventist: Email  CovidDonations@Centura.org.
 
UC Health: Fill out  this form or thank hospital workers   here.
 
Presbyterian St. Luke's & Rose Medical Center: Fill out this  form explaining your donation.
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.

Click here for some tips from New Era Colorado if you're struggling to pay back your student loans.
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.
Past COVID-19 Newsletters
Updated 5.11 at 3:46 PM

5.5 - Good News!

4.27  - Blood Donation

4.26 - Adopt a Pet!
4.25 - Who's Hungry?


4.12 - Easter Sunday
4.11 - Scams

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. 

Leslie Herod for Colorado
leslie@leslieherod.com
303-866-2959
200 E. Colfax Ave., Rm. 322
Denver, CO 80203