A MESSAGE REGARDING CORONAVIRUS
As the Alabama Department of Health (ADPH) and the CDC announces confirmed cases of Coronavirus (Covid-19) across the state and the U.S., the Arab Chamber of Commerce staff and board of directors are continuing to monitor the spread of the virus and the impact it is making on local business and community. As new developments are released each day, we remain in contact with local and state agencies to provide you with the most accurate information in response to the spread of Covid-19.

Below we have provided you with links to helpful resources to be used in preparation and response to the spread of Covid-19. We encourage everyone to seek and understand the facts about Covid-19 in order to make educated, rational decisions regarding the health and safety of your employees and patrons of your businesses.
U.S. Chamber of Commerce Covid-19 Response Toolkit


From the Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama
The Partnership, BCA and CCAA, is working closely with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to monitor the recent outbreak and its potential impact on the economy and the business community. While the threat of a major economic recession remains low, there will likely be a slowdown in economic growth. The U.S. Chamber, in partnership with the White House, U.S. government agencies, and foreign government officials, has provided the most up-to-date information to ensure both employers and employees are prepared to address this issue.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has provided information on available  SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) assistance . This program is designed to make economic injury assistance available to small businesses affected by the Coronavirus. SBA also shared the following contact information if you have specific questions:
  • For States (Alabama) and Territories in Federal Regions I-V, contact: Kem Fleming, Director of Field Operations Center East, at kem.fleming@sba.gov;
  • For other requests for SBA Office of Disaster Assistance HQ, contact Alejandro Contreras at alejandro.contreras@sba.gov


From the Arab Chamber of Commerce
In addition to the resources included above, the U.S. Chamber and CDC suggest:
  • Actively encouraging employees to stay home when sick.
  • Emphasizing the importance of hand washing and respiratory etiquette by all employees.
  • Routinely cleaning all frequently touched surfaces and providing cleaning wipes to employees to do the same.
  • Making fact-based decisions regarding travel and complying with the latest guidance, specifically surrounding international travel.
  • Maintaining business as usual with limited disruptions while monitoring the evolving situation.
  • Mitigating household fear by keeping all employees informed on the facts of the situation and educating them on how they can prepare for the potential impacts of the virus.


These are certainly unusual and challenging times for all and we should make every effort to support each other. The city of Arab and the surrounding area is a strong, supportive community and we will get through this together.

Our office is open M-F, 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM, via phone or email. We are here to help. Please reach out to us for more information or questions. You may call us at (256) 586-3138, email us at info@arab-chamber.org and/or bhemphill@arab-chamber.org, or visit our website at www.arab-chamber.org.


Brooke Hemphill
President, Arab Chamber of Commerce