Yesterday, Governor Pritzker discussed efforts to ensure sufficient Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and ventilators as our case count continues to grow. While his administration has put in multiple requests for PPE and other supplies to the Federal government, the State has not received even half of the amount requested. Due to the lack of these supplies the Governor has announced the creation of the Essential Equipment Task Force. This task force is in partnership with the Illinois Manufacturers Association, the Illinois Biotech Innovation Organization (I-BIO) and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency to assist in the donation and creation of essential PPE products. Specifically, the Governor called on tattoo parlors and nail salons to donate unused gloves and masks by sending an email to ppe.donations@illinois.gov.
Some companies have already begun to re-purpose their manufacturing facilities to start creating the items needed. Facilities that were creating clothing items are now manufacturing gowns, plastics manufacturers are now creating test supply components and distilleries have begun manufacturing hand sanitizer. Companies interested in re-purposing their facilities for the creation of the necessary supplies should contact the Illinois Manufacturers Association.
A new website was created here, to have individuals and businesses donate PPE supplies needed such as N-95 masks, protective eye goggles, gowns etc.
Yesterday, the Illinois Department of Human Services announced that it will be releasing $6 million to assist in addressing homelessness amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
The City of Chicago has also announced that it will be renting out hotel rooms to those experiencingCOVID-19 symptoms. Mayor Lightfoot also shared details on a new agreement with the YMCA of Metro Chicago to help those experiencing homelessness by providing increased access to emergency shelters at select YMCA locations throughout the city. This expanded partnership will create 400 additional beds and enable the proper social distancing requirements to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. For more information please go to YMCA Chicago or alternatively to donate please click our Emergency Relief Fund.
Below please find a list of housing options for those seeking immediate assistance:
The Chicago Department of Family and Support Services Rental Assistance Program provides financial assistance to Chicago residents, to prevent homelessness, to eligible individuals and families who are in danger of eviction in order to stabilize individuals and families in their existing rental unit.
You can also find an interactive list of shelters here and filter by categories.
Illinois State Treasurer Frerichs Announces Small Business Loan Fund
An added resource for small businesses and non for profits was announced today by Illinois Treasurer Frerichs' office. This newly announced program will allow financial institutions that administer loans to businesses and non-profits to to apply as depositories who can receive funds from the state and administer loans to businesses and non for profits. To learn more visit their website here.
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation Opens Emergency Licenses
Liquor licenses expire on the last day of each month. Due to the hardships on liquor license holders as a result of the COVID-19, all licenses expiring on March 31, 2020, April 30, 2020, and May 31, 2020 are extended until July 31, 2020. For more information please go to ILCC Liquor License Extensions.
Department of Child and Family Services COVID-19 Webinar
DCFS Director Marc Smith hosts weekly webinars for Child Welfare Providers at 4pm every Monday here. Child Welfare Providers and those participating are encouraged to submit questions here. You can view last week's webinar here.
Guidance for Buildings
If an individual is diagnosed with COVID-19 it is the responsibility of the individual to notify their landlord. Building managers are encouraged to have open communication with their tenants and maintain confidentiality. The Chicago Housing Authority has released guidance available in multiple languages for tenants on COVID-19. The Building Owners and Managers Association of Chicago has also released some resources and guidance here.
Child Care Center Guidance
Over the weekend the Governor's office of Early Childhood Development sent out an update to parents and families about the closing of all child care centers closing unless they are granted an emergency license. You can visit the Governor's office of Early Childhood Development here for updates as they are release and view the frequently asked questions page here.
Blood Donation
Due to COVID-19 and social distancing requirements many individuals have cancelled their blood donation appointments. While social distancing is necessary we know that agencies administering blood donations are following the suggested guidelines and we encourage you to consider donating.
