You may not know that today is World Book Day. So much of our time and attention is focused on COVID-19 these days, that it’s rare we focus on news like this. I hope you will join me in enjoying a book on your own or with your family this evening. Please continue to stay home, stay safe and help us to save lives. Your sacrifices and individual decisions are making a collective impact.
| Please join me, along with Carla Miklos of Operation Hope and the entire Fairfield state delegation from a Coronavirus update tomorrow. I will be focusing my remarks on mental health resources. Look for continuing updates and resources on my Facebook page. |
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Unemployment Update
- The Ct Department of Labor has processed 327,000 of 402,000 applications since March 13
- They are on target for processing time to go from a 6 week wait to 1 week by April 27
- The extra $600/ week will begin the week of 4/27 and will be retroactive
- PUA - the program for self-employed will begin accepting applications by April 30-also retroactive
- PEUC - which will extend benefits by 13 weeks will be in operation by mid-May
Read the complete DOL release and more information here, and check out the FAQ in the DOL website |
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Town of Fairfield News
Frist Selectwoman Brenda Kupchick today announced that the town’s Memorial Day Parade will be cancelled. While many of us may be disappointed that we do not have the opportunity to gather as a community to honor our Veterans, we know that the steps we are taking to stop the spread of this virus are working. Restrictions on open space and parks will be eased, with specific guidance coming from the town next week.
In the meantime, the First Selectwoman urged residents to purchase beach stickers online. Finally, Fairfield Human and Social Services will partner with the Southwest Community Area Agency on Aging to provide groceries to all residents 60 or over unable to shop. To sign up, call (203) 256-3169.
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| Testing
The ability to re-open our economy and ease the current social distancing restrictions means that we will need to rely on testing, contact tracing and isolation / quarantine. If you are experiencing symptoms or believe you should be tested, here are some of the ways you can get a test:
- Call your primary care provider to receive a doctor’s order for a test
- Go to CVS.com and complete the form online to get an appointment for the New Haven rapid testing site. No doctor’s order is required and results will be available on site within 30 minutes. The tests are free.
- Reach out to Hartford Healthcare, (833) 621-0600, who this week announced a partnership with Quest Diagnostics. The capacity at the 5 sites around CT will be improved and mobile testing units will be added. There is no cost to these diagnostic tests.
- If you do not have transportation, please reach out to 2-1-1 to access services so that you can be tested.
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Next week I plan to host one or two Facebook live events with some special guests. Look for updates and invitations in the coming days.
Previous COVID-19 Updates:
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