April 24th COVID-19 Update

April 24, 2020

I want to pass along some important information and updates on the state's response to COVID-19.

For the most up-to-date information from the State of Connecticut on COVID-19, including an FAQ and other guidance and resources, visit ct.gov/coronavirus.

Don't forget to sign up for CTAlert, the state’s emergency alert system, which provides text message notifications. To subscribe, text the keyword COVIDCT to 888-777.

CLOTH FACE COVERING DO'S AND DON'TS

The Governor has asked for people to wear cloth face coverings wherever close contact is unavoidable. This includes taxi, car, ride-sharing and mass public transit.

  • Read the full Executive Order here.
  • Watch the U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Jerome Adams demonstrate how to make your own face mask here.
  • Spanish language tutorials on how to make a face mask with and without a sewing machine are available here.
  • American Sign Language video on how to make a face mask can be accessed here.

TALK IT OUT HOTLINE

When it builds up, talk it out.

Trained professionals are just a call away for parents who wish to discuss concerns and anxieties surrounding family life under COVID-19. You can reach them at 833-258-5011, Monday- Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and on the weekends, 1 p.m. to 8 p.m.

English and Spanish language operators are available.

FOOD RESOURCES FOR KIDS

The Office of Early Childhood (OEC) wants you to know you’re not alone. The OEC offers many options to make sure Connecticut families are well-fed during this difficult time.

Read a flier they have developed here for sites near you serving breakfast and lunch to kids 18 and younger. Their webpage will be updated daily as meal sites are added.

RELIEF FOR STUDENT LOAN BORROWERS

Student loan borrowers are getting some relief.

The State of Connecticut has announced that payments will go into ‘forbearance’ for 90 days – with interest put on hold and no negative credit reporting. For borrowers, this is a life line during this difficult time. To learn more, visit CT’s Department of Banking at:  www.ct.gov/dob

#EatLocalWinLocal

The Town of West Hartford, in cooperation with West Hartford Chamber of Commerce, is launching a campaign called “Eat Local – Win Local” now through May 31st to generate support for local restaurants. To enter to win:

— Spend at least $15 at two different West Hartford restaurants for a minimum total of $30 from April 20, 2020 to May 31, 2020.

— Then, take a picture of your receipt and email it to EatLocalWinLocal@westhartfordct.gov.

— Each time you spend a minimum of $30 at two different restaurants during the five week period, you may submit your receipts for another chance to win.

— There will be four winner selected each week for a total of 20 winners over the course of the campaign.

— Winners will receive a $25 restaurant gift certificate for a future dine-in visit at a randomly selected West Hartford Chamber-member restaurant.

WeHa At Your Service

Three West Hartford students have created ‘WeHa At Your Service’, which offers the services of healthy and responsible high school students to perform critical tasks for elderly residents.

To learn more, visit their website by clicking here.