I know the last week has been a whirlwind: public concern about the COVID-19 outbreak, widespread uncertainty about its economic impact, and now an emerging sense of what social distancing means for our families and community. This is not the first time we have faced a major crisis, but it's the first time our nation has seen one like this in a very long time.

 

Our country has been through seemingly endless wars, acts of terror on our schools and places of worship, major natural disasters, and economic collapse. Most recently, during the financial crisis, we know that our community was hit particularly hard because of the way it impacted our auto industry. 

 

There was struggle. There was sacrifice. And during those times, we found a way to band together as a region to get through it. 

 

This time, we will do the same. 

 

Downriver is, above all else, a community with grit, determination, and a hard-working spirit.

 

Throughout my years representing this community, that’s not only been clear to me, but also to everyone who knows Downriver. 

 

And it’s going to take our strength to get us through this because coronavirus and its reaction is a crisis of a different magnitude. 

 

If this virus is not contained, our healthcare system will be overwhelmed, and far too many people won’t receive the care they need. That’s why we need to do our part to slow it down. 

 

The best course of action to diminish your risk and exposure is to wash your hands frequently, stay home if you can, and maintain a distance of at least six feet from others. I also urge you to follow the Governor’s executive orders and CDC guidelines as they change to reflect what we are learning about this situation. You can view those at Michigan.gov/coronavirus and cdc.gov/coronavirus. 

 

Right now, you can still pick up carry-out or have food delivered from a local restaurant, go to the grocery store and pharmacy, and go out for other necessities. 

 

In this public safety emergency, we also know that many people will be out of work -- especially those in the service industry. With new unemployment rules, many are eligible to apply for benefits and can do so by visiting Michigan.gov/UIA or calling 1-866-500-0017. 

 

I know that in times of crisis, it’s tempting for all of us to get together and comfort one another. That’s how the Downriver community has always responded to moments like this. But this time calls for creative ways to make sure we’re there for one another while we’re physically apart. 

 

I’ve seen stories of people in our community who are already doing their part to step up and help others. We have Facebook groups to share information and so many things going online: Religious services, home workouts, book clubs, music, and more. And I’ve seen people volunteer their time to deliver meals to our students and seniors and offer to go on grocery runs for those most in need. 

 

It’s truly remarkable to see our Downriver spirit thrive when every instinct tells us to only worry about ourselves. 

 

With this time at home, please take care of yourself and your family. We will get through this. Our Downriver community will be OK. It’s going to take all of us to do our part to protect each other -- we always have, and I’m certain we will again. 

 

Keep washing your hands, 

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