District 6 Matters: Coronavirus Update
From the Office of Councilmember Loren Taylor
Hi Neighbor,
 


During these unprecedented times of COVID-19, it's of upmost importance to take care of one another and make decisions that are in the best interest of public health. Alameda County along with our six neighboring counties have issued a shelter in place order beginning at midnight tonight and will continue until at least April 7th, 2020.

What does shelter in place mean? Stay home and only leave for "essential activities" or "essential travel."

The shelter in place impacts everyone except essential businesses: Healthcare operations, grocery stores, pharmacies and banks. (See Section 1 below)

I know this measure may seem a bit extreme but it is informed by our public health experts and this action is in place to protect the most vulnerable among us. Therefore helping to ensure that our hospital facilities are not overwhelmed.

Those at high risk of severe illness from COVID-19  ( everyone age 65 or older, and those who have an underlying health problem)should stay inside at all times except for health care appointments.


Oakland Police, Fire and other Emergency public safety services  will not  be affected during this time, and all other City facilities will remain open unless otherwise announced.


Click here to read the complete language of the order.

 
As always, please feel free to reach out to our office with any additional questions/ follow-up.

Email us at [email protected]
 
 
 
 Please share with any neighbors who may not have received this update!

 
Yours in Service of Oakland,
 
Loren M. Taylor, Councilmember
Oakland - District 6
1.Reasons To Leave Your Home?


  • Tasks essential to your family's health and safety, including your pets

  • Getting necessary services and supplies, including groceries, prescriptions

  • Delivering such goods to family members or others

  • Going to appointments or obtaining services at any healthcare facility, including veterinary care (but not gyms)

  • Travel to care for elderly, minors, dependents, persons with disabilities, or other vulnerable persons. Including pets

  • Travel to educational institutions to receive materials for distance learning or meals and other related services

  • Travel related to providing or accessing services exempted in the order


What is social distancing?

Social distancing is a strategy to limit the spread of COVID-19. This is a conscious effort to reduce contact between people to slow down the spread of the virus.
 
Even if you are symptom free and not part of an at-risk group.
 
You should avoid public places if you cannot stay six feet away from other people.



2. Businesses NOT Impacted?

  • Hospitals, clinics, dentists, pharmacies, home healthcare providers, and other healthcare facilities and businesses 

  • Grocery stores, farmers' markets, food and produce stands, food banks, convenience stores, or any other retailer who sells food, household and cleaning supplies, and personal care products 

  • Restaurants and cafes for to-go service only, and food delivery services 

  • Gas stations, auto repair shops, and related businesses

  • Laundromats and dry cleaners

  • Banks and financial institutions

  • Hardware stores, plumbers, electricians, exterminators and related service providers

  • Shipping and mailing services

  • Childcare and private educational institutions, in observance of social distancing restrictions 

  • Residential facilities, shelters, and home-based care facilities 

  • Organizations and businesses that provide food, shelter, and social services to high-need populations 

  • Personal transportation providers including airlines, taxis, para-transit operations, ride share and other services 




3.Family Resources To Support You During School And Business Closures


A. Free Learning Resources For Kids: 

Access a list of FREE online learning platforms for kids during the school closures.



B. List of Food Pantries & Support

Follow this link for a detailed list of all food pantries in Alameda county.

OUSD Food Pickup sites


C. Parent Support Hotline:

Parent Support and Resource Hotline: Family Paths 1-800-829-3777


D. Financial Support

This resource below has information in English and Spanish for families who are being economically impacted at this time.

Click the link.


E. Internet Resources

Chrome Books:
This week only( March 16-21 ), Tech Exchange is distributing devices to OUSD families who need them for student online learning during school closures.

Families should go to 2530 International Blvd, Oakland , 10am-5pm , Monday-Saturday .

Families should complete ​ the registration form before picking up a device. Please follow protocols for social distancing to minimize the risk of COVID-19 transmission. 

Registration form .


Comcast: is offering free/reduced price internet for those of low-income who are forced to work or study remotely due to COVID-19. ​

Get more information here.

F. Small Business Support

Oakland Business Assistance Center:

Has your business been impacted by COVID-19? Small business owner's please take some time to complete this survey.

City of Oakland COVID-19 Business Impact Data Survey  


Kiva Small Business Lending Support:

We’re eager to help small businesses struggling under the impact of this pandemic. Small business owners please reach out to us.

Please follow this link.



Question or Concerns? Contact The District 6 Team:

Councilmember Loren Taylor; [email protected]

Chief of Staff/Policy Lead: Pamela Ferran; [email protected]

Scheduling/Events: Lina Hancock; [email protected]

Constituent Liaison: Rowena Brown; [email protected]


Email us all: [email protected]