Normally, I'd be spending today as I do every year, kicking off my campaign on St. Patrick's Day with a packed room full of incredible community members. Well, I wish that I could be with you all again today, but these are not normal times. We have postponed our in-person events until the spring, because the safety of our community comes first.

I am heartbroken to share that we have already lost two Virginians to the coronavirus. It is of utmost priority that we prevent any further loss of life.

Coronavirus is a public health crisis that we all need to take very seriously -- and it's quickly turning into an economic crisis as well. Families, business owners, hourly workers, and many others are struggling with the economic ramifications of the global pandemic. So, I wanted to take a minute to lay out some of the facts about this virus, and what is being done to address the crisis.

Last week the House passed an essential first step to relieve some of the hardships American families are facing. The Families First Coronavirus Act sets aside billions of dollars for paid sick leave, unemployment insurance, free testing, and other measures to help Americans impacted by the crisis.

Of course, there is still more to be done, and I pledge to continue doing everything I can to support American families as we face this pandemic.

And, there are also many things you and I can be doing as individuals to mitigate the impact of the virus. Here are six essential actions you should be taking:

CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) ESSENTIAL ACTION
1. Wash your hands with soap warm water for 20 seconds often
2. Cover your mouth with your elbow or a tissue when you cough or sneeze
3. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
4. Social Distancing as much as possible, especially if you're sick
5. Know the symptoms of coronavirus (coughing, fever, and shortness of breath), and if you are experiencing symptoms call your doctor before going to a medical office or hospital
6. Stay informed by visiting the CDC's website or the Virginia Department of Health's website.
If you are able to do so, I also strongly encourage you to support our health system by donating blood and support the most vulnerable among our community by contributing to local shelters and food banks -- here are a few I recommend supporting:

www.cornerstonesva.org
www.foodforothers.org
www.actspwc.org
With local, state, and federal governments working together to reduce the impacts of coronavirus and individuals doing their part as well, we can help to protect the health of vulnerable communities. I know that many are worried about what's to come over the next few weeks. But our community is strong, and while we may be physically distancing, we will overcome coronavirus together.

My team and I will continue to reach out with updates, and we sincerely thank you and your family for all you are doing. I'm thinking of all of my constituents today and please reach out to my office if there's anything you need right now.

Yours in Service,

Congressman Gerry Connolly
Virginia's 11th District

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