Friends,

This morning, Governor Northam and members of his administration provided an update on the health crisis that we currently face and our efforts to address these concerns in Virginia. According to comments made at the press conference:

- Virginia now has 67 confirmed cases of COVID-10
- Two deaths from the virus have been confirmed
- Most of these cases are concentrated in Eastern Virginia, with 18 people now identified
- Nine confirmed cases are located in Central Virginia
- State health agencies are working with Quest and LabCorps to develop and distribute more testing kits
- Virginia currently has 300 to 400 testing kits, and an expected delivery will double that number today
- Drive-through test sites will also soon be available in different localities

The Governor also pointed out that 45% of Virginians purchase at least one meal or more every day from a restaurant or bar, and so the state is not mandating that restaurants close. However, Virginia will adhere to the rule that "no more than 10 people” will be allowed inside a facility that serves food or drinks.  

What we can all do:

It's up to each and every one of us to flatten the curve. By each of us taking individual measures, we will limit the harm to those around us and slow the spread of the virus. Please be sure to:

- Practice social distancing
- Cancel or postpone any gatherings of 10 or more people
- Limit discretionary travel
- Stay at home as much as possible


These measures are designed to prevent the overwhelming of our healthcare resources, hospitals, and healthcare providers.

Volunteer efforts:
Many of you have reached out to our team to ask how you might help during these challenging times. Taking care of yourself, your family, and your immediate community are the best contributions that many of us can make. However, if you are healthy and able to contribute in other ways, here are some opportunt:

1) Sign up for school meals distribution:  So many of our students depend upon school breakfast and lunch. With the closure of schools, these students are in danger of going hungry throughout the day. Many of our localities are seeking volunteers to help with food packaging and distribution. Here are some sites for District 10 residents:
- Richmond Public Schools: www.handsonrva.org/rps
- Chesterfield County Public Schools: www.chesterfieldfoodbank.org
- Powhatan County Public Schools: www.facebook.com/FeedingPowhatan
 
2) Donate directly to Feedmore to help families in need. As many workers are displaced from their employment as a result of the pandemic, more families will be turning to food banks for assistance and support. [link removed]
 
3) The National Domestic Workers Alliance points out that we especially need to “take care of the people who care for us.” Nannies, housekeepers, and care workers are among the hardest hit by the pandemic and its effects on employment. If you employ care workers and other support providers, making sure that they are paid through this crisis will help them continue to take care of their own families and yours.
 
4) Support small businesses and family-run restaurants. Many small businesses do not have the resources to weather long-term closures. Purchasing gift cards, following the business’ protocols for this period, and supporting their efforts are all good ways to assist during this period.

Mental health:
Many of us have never faced a national and global crisis of this magnitude. Many are understandably stressed by the required isolation, the departure from normal routines, and the anxiety. Taking care of your own health and finding outlets for stress are important. Also be sure to understand how the change in routine impacts children, the elderly, and those living with disabilities. Seek help and assistance as you need it.


Additional resources:
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention Newsroom
: [link removed]
- Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association COVID-19 Resource: [link removed]
- US Department of State COVID-19 Resources: [link removed]
- Virginia Department of Health toll-free COVID-19 informational hotline (1-877-ASK-VDH3) and website: [link removed]

Thank you for everything you're doing for your friends, family, and neighbors. Our team will continue to be in touch with helpful information in the coming days and weeks.

Thank you,

Ghazala


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| Paid for and authorized by Friends of Ghazala Hashmi |
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Friends of Ghazala Hashmi
PO Box 72923
Richmond VA 23235 United States

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