Dear John,

 

These are incredibly difficult and scary times, and I wanted to check in with you.  Steve and I hope that you and your family are following the stay-at-home guidelines and that you and your loved ones are safe and well.

 

Like you, we are especially grateful for our healthcare professionals who are on the front lines of caring for people sick with COVID-19. They are working around the clock in the most demanding environments to heal and comfort their patients. And, to the thousands of truckers, grocery store personnel, food and agricultural workers, pharmacy associates, and all of the other front-liners, we say thank you for standing in the gap for us.

 

Our government leaders — from President Trump to Governor Kemp and our local elected officials — are making difficult choices in an effort to keep us all as safe as possible.  It is unclear how long the stay-at-home order here in Georgia and across most of the US will need to remain in place.  Uncertainty is always frustrating.  But one thing is certain:  the priority right now must be doing all that is necessary to keep you and your family safe and healthy.

 

During this “shut down,” people’s lives and livelihoods are being disrupted with real and serious consequences.  Still, we are a strong nation of tremendously generous, innovative, adaptive, and resilient people.  So, we will get through this – together. 

 

The American spirit is evident all around us.  Take the fragrance manufacturer Arylessence in Cobb County.  Cynthia and the team have retooled the manufacturing lines to produce much-needed hand sanitizer.  And, how about all of the amazing restaurant owners?  Even though most are struggling mightily, they are finding ways to help.  From Table and Main in Roswell to Sugo in Johns Creek and scores of others, these caring members of our community are teaming up to get meals to healthcare workers and those having a hard time making ends meet.

 

While all in-person campaign activities have been suspended, I will be sure to stay in touch with you over the coming weeks to share relevant information and updates. Meanwhile, my campaign website has a new feature with resources updated on a daily basis to keep you informed and connected with state and federal assistance:

 

https://karenhandel.com/covid-19-resources/

 

And, if you find yourself out of closets and drawers to organize or are just looking for a new activity, watch for ways to get involved in the campaign right from home. In the next few days, we’ll be rolling out virtual phone banking and texting and a fun postcard project.

 

This week, as some celebrate Passover and others observe Easter, Steve and I pray that the messages of liberation and salvation echo in your homes and your hearts … giving you strength and calm for the weeks ahead and inspiring hope for our futures.

 

It’s in times like these that we are all reminded how precious life and friendships are.  Thank you for your friendship!  Please be safe and stay well.