If you are like me, this is probably your hundredth email about the Coronavirus! I don't want to add to the pile of unopened emails, but with the situation changing so rapidly, I wanted to be sure you had access to the most up-to-date information and links to resources that may help.
The whole family working from home!
First, the best possible website with the most up-to-date information is:
https://covid19.colorado.gov/.This is the State of Colorado's primary resource for information related to COVID-19 and will feature statewide coordinated response information. This also contains valuable information from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and the State Emergency Operations Center.
Second, here is a link to information specific to Jefferson County. This is the main source of information for the number of cases in Jefferson County and various community resources.
Third, the City of Arvada and the City of Westminster both have stories on their main pages containing local information and links to helpful resources. You can also find links to popular services that you can access "online."
Finally, here is a link to Jefferson County Public Schools where they have links to a daily community update, remote learning resources, mental health resources, and grab-and-go meal sites.
Have questions? Need help? Share your concerns
No matter how well we try to address community concerns related to the Coronavirus, questions or issues will inevitably come up that we just didn't think about.
I have received a number of emails asking for financial assistance, questions about non-emergency medical appointments, people wondering how long school will remain closed, and concerns about people hoarding toilet paper and personal protective equipment.
I've heard from folks in the restaurant industry, transportation industry, insurance industry, and the tourist industry. I've heard from concerned citizens about tax deadlines, worries about feeding their pets, the dangers of playing the lottery, distress about large groups of kids playing Frisbee, and anxiety from people who cannot pay their rent this month. I've received phone calls from people who have lost their jobs, don't know how to do "online learning," and received information on funerals that have been postponed.
This virus has certainly disrupted our lives. While
I cannot guarantee that I'll have the answers, I'm keeping track of the questions and will try my best to track down resources to help. Please be patient with one another and use this time to reflect on how we can come together and support each other (while maintaining an appropriate amount of social distance). Please feel free to reach out to me if you have questions or concerns, and we will try and figure this out together. Stay safe!
Resource Guide and SBA disaster assistance
Here is a link to another very helpful
Resource Guide that contains information on everything from what to do if you think you have the virus, tips on how to avoid contracting the virus, how to access and file unemployment claims, links for child care, and other business resources.
Also, we just received word today that Governor Polis was able to secure federal loan assistance for Colorado's small businesses.
Colorado small businesses impacted by COVID-19 can seek individual small business loans up to $2 million as part of the Small Business Administration's Economic Injury Disaster Loan program.
Rachel Zenzinger won election to the Colorado State Senate, representing District 19, in November 2016. She also served as Senator for SD19 in 2014. Sen. Zenzinger is a member of the Joint Budget Committee, the Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and Vice Chair of the Statutory Revision Committee.
HelpColoradoNow.org volunteer and donation site
If you are interested in volunteering or looking to donate to Coloradans in need, there is a new website the Governor launched yesterday called Help Colorado Now.
You can become a volunteer, sign up to receive volunteers, contribute, donate supplies, donate blood, and find childcare services for first responders.
If you have questions about the relief fund please email [email protected] with the subject line "Relief Fund."
All in-person constituent events canceled this month
Unfortunately, due to the spread of the novel Coronavirus, we are canceling all constituent outreach events in both March and April. Stay tuned for a future Tele-Town Hall event in the coming weeks. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to email me.
Mental health resources
During this difficult time, we must remember how important it is to take care of ourselves both physically as well as mentally. The stress is more than likely mounting and people are feeling the strain on their sense of well being.
Here is a link to a list of actions that help release fear and stress energy, as well as suggestions for talking with kids about their fears.
If you need to speak to a mental health worker, call 844-493-8255 for 24/7 emergency assistance.
US Census kicks off
If you are self-isolating at home and looking for something to do, now would be the perfect time to fill out your U.S. Census forms!
2020 Census: What is the Census?
The census provides critical data that we use to provide daily services, products, and supports. Every year, billions of dollars in federal funding go to hospitals, fire departments, schools, roads, and other resources based on census data.
I am pleased to announce that I am running for re-election for a second term as your state senator for Senate District 19. I would be honored to have your support! Can you help by making a contribution?
