THE WHEELER REPORT
ISSUE 2
FRIDAY, MARCH 20, 2020
PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY , VA
Dear Neighbors,

In our rapidly changing environment, it feels like there are more questions than answers. Therefore, I want to continue providing you with timely information that will help in these uncertain times.

As our nation grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic, know the Prince William County government is working hard to address the challenging demands this public health emergency has put on our community. Please take a few minutes to learn about the many resources available to students, residents, and small business owners . You will also find ways to be of assistance to others .

Thank you for your compassion and support during this difficult time. Prince William County is stronger because of you.

In Service,
Chair Ann Wheeler
Update on Prince William County Operations
Due to evolving concerns related to COVID-19, Prince William County has closed all government buildings to the public as of 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 15. Please know departments are still operating and the public can contact them by phone and e-mail. A list of county department can be found at Prince William Emergency Information .
Spotlight on
Food Insecurity

Prince William Food Rescue, an extension of non-profit ACTION in Community Through Service’s (ACTS) Hunger Prevention Center, moves about 60,000 pounds of food to nearly 650 families every month. As part of their continuing effort to minimize food insecurity, they have created a an exciting new way to connect food with those in need – a cellphone app!
 
The Prince William Food Rescue App connects Donor Partners with Distribution Partners throughout our county. Donors range from large food distributors to small stores, restaurants, urban farms and even other nonprofits. The goal is to move healthy foods to the people who need it, rather than discarding it. Food donors can be connected to volunteers who will deliver the food to people who are in need. Learn more at Prince William Food Rescue and Food Rescue Hero .
Ongoing Efforts for Our Schools
Emotional Support
Our students are experiencing a disruption to their lives. To help them navigate these challenging times, any student can email studentsupportservices@pwcs.edu . Prince William County School (PWCS) counselors and other school-based mental health staff will respond, providing virtual emotional support. While not monitored 24 hours a day, the account is checked often . Learn more at Emotional Support.
Food Service
Ensuring children have food service while schools are closed remains a top-priority. In continuing our efforts to address this need, Coles and Yorkshire Elementary Schools have been added to our To-Go Meals program. This brings the total number of locations to 19! These meals provide breakfast and lunch to all children under the age of 18, without charge. Pick-up times are between 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. Monday – Friday. Learn more at To-Go Meals.
Small Business Corner
Disaster Loans: Virginia has officially received an Economic
Injury Disaster Loan declaration from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). Small businesses and non-profits located throughout the state can now apply for a loan of up to $2 million from the SBA to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other expenses. To learn more and obtain application process details visit SBA Disaster Loan Assistance .  
Your Input Needed: The Virginia Employment Commission (VEC) wants to hear from you! They are asking small businesses to complete a 13-question survey to better understand the impact COVID-19 is having on business revenue and employment. The survey closes 5:00 p.m. March 27 . To learn more and access the survey visit VEC Small Business Survey

Additional Resources
CDC information on how to protect yourself and if you think you are sick visit Coronavirus (COVID-19).

CDC comprehensive before, during and after household readiness checklist visit Get Your Home Ready.  

Virginia Department of Health Updates visit COVID-19 in Virginia.
Ways You Can Help
  • First and foremost, follow CDC guidelines
  • Donate to charitable organizations
  • Volunteer to help if possible
  • Check on your vulnerable neighbors
Making A Difference in our Community
The Prince William County Area Agency on Aging packaged over
100,000 meals on Monday, March 16th.

ACTS, The Haymarket Food Pantry, and SERVE will each receive
$10,000 donations from the County.
Ann B. Wheeler was elected Chair At-Large of the Prince William Board of County Supervisors during the 2019 General Election and assumed office on January 1, 2020. Prince William County is located 25 miles south of Washington, D.C., and is the Commonwealth of Virginia’s second-most populous county with approximately 469,000 residents. 
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