Dear Friends and Neighbors,

As of Saturday, there are 4,565 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Colorado with 126 deaths. In Denver, there are 806 confirmed cases with 24 deaths. To slow the spread of COVID-19, p lease stay home

If you need to leave your home, Colorado and the federal government now recommend that you cover your face with a non-medical cloth-based mask. 

The announcement from the CDC and Governor Polis yesterday got many folks asking the question:

To Mask or Not to Mask? And why?

Will wearing a cloth mask while out of the house running essential errands keep you from contracting COVID? 

Possibly, but when you dig a bit deeper, you realize that's not the point at all.

Governor Polis's recommendation to wear a mask is based on new research showing that up to 25% of people who have COVID-19 can unwittingly spread it even if they don't have symptoms.  

Wearing a mask is a good way to slow the spread of the virus from these asymptomatic spreaders.

So what should you do? Mask Up Colorado!

Of course, given the global shortage of medical masks, please save those for health care workers and make your own at home - no sewing required! 

All sorts of household items can be turned into masks, including a bandanna, handkerchief, clean t-shirt, vacuum bag, or dish towel. You can find other creative designs at the Colorado Mask Project. 

You can also sew a simple mask for yourself or more complex masks for a local hospital, like the Lopez family is doing (pictured above).  For a more ambitious project, make 20 masks out of a bed sheet for your friends and family! 

To disinfect after wearing, wash with the hottest setting on your washing machine and thoroughly wash your hands.

We can beat this if we work together. Please stay at home and wear a mask on the few occasions when you have to leave your home. Happy crafting!

Boldly Forward,





P.S. In an attempt to keep folks informed, I have been sending more frequent updates and created a COVID-19 Resources Page on my website. As always, follow me on facebook , twitter and instagram for updates on COVID-19.
Stay Informed  with reliable, up-to-date information on COVID19. 

For general questions, call (303) 389-1687 or 1-877-462-2911. 

For written answers in English, Spanish (Español), Mandarin (普通话), and more, email COHELP@RMPDC.org.

You can find a list of telehealth providers and nurselines here For information on COVID19 en Español, click here  (provided by Denver Health). 
Motus Theater Presents: Women of Resolution - 
Virtual From The Homes of Colorado Legislators 

Women of Resolution  shares the autobiographical stories of Araceli Velasquez, Ingrid Encalada Latorre, Rosa Sabido and Sandra Lopez. Four women who sought sanctuary to prevent being deported and separated from their families. Scripted by Kirsten Wilson based on interviews recorded by recorded by Joel Dyer and Motus staff. 

RSVP to attend an intimate virtual reading of Women of Resolution, presented by Motus Theater, from the homes of Representative Leslie Herod, Representative Barbara McLachlan, Representative Serena Gonzales-Gutierrez and Senator Kerry Donovan.

When: TOMORROW, Sunday, April 5th at 2 PM (MT)
Where: Your house! 
RSVP here
Stay-at-Home Orders

To slow the spread of COVID-19, Governor Polis has issued a mandatory statewide  stay-at-home order, which follows Denver's stay-at-home order.

Click here for the full text of Denver's public health order, including exemptions. Find frequently asked questions here.
COVID-19 By The  Numbers
Updated 4.4 at 1:45 PM

Colorado: 392 new cases were reported on Saturday for a total of 4,565  cases and 126 deaths. [ Source ]

United States: The largest hotspots are New York (113,706   cases), New Jersey (34,124 cases), and Michigan (12,670 cases). [ Source ]

Global: 4  countries reported more than 6,000 new cases on Friday: Germany (6,365), Spain (7,134), France (23,060), and the United States (32,284). After a large outbreak, South Korea has been reporting less than 150 new cases per day. [ Source ]
DisasterDeclarationEconomic Relief
Updated 4.3 at 2:25 PM

President Tr ump approved Colorado's request for a major disaster declaration . This declaration allows the state and tribes, along with some local governments and nonprofits, to receive federal money to help with COVID-19.

Governor Polis has taken the following executive actions:

Delaying the due date for business sales tax from April 20th to May 20th.

Allowing homeowners to split their property tax payments over April and May.

Expediting payment of unemployment claims.

Asking companies to allow  deferment for payment for mortgages, and  landlords not to charge late fees for rent until April 30th.
 
 
 

For Individuals and Businesses in Denver: 

Denver small businesses can seek cash grants of up to $7,500 from a $4 million relief fund created by Mayor Hancock and the City of Denver. Apply here.

Denver has announced initial Economic Relief Package for Business and Employees. Read more about these packages here.
a
Additional COVID-19 Updates from the Governor
Updated 4/1 at 2:23 PM

Click  here  for a full list of Executive Orders.

Governor Polis has extended school closures until April 30th.   

Individuals can obtain a marriage license remotely. [Full text]

The Department of Corrections will have greater flexibility to manage the prison population in order to reduce the likelihood of an outbreak behind bars. [Full text]

Remote notarizations will be permitted. [Full text]

Certain auto insurance requirements for restaurant delivery drivers have been lifted (Full text).

Governor Polis' statewide "Stay-at-Home" order will last through April 11th. To read frequently asked questions about this order click here. [ En Español

Note: To report gatherings or business that are not complying with the stay-at-home order, please contact your county public health department (Denver) or go to the Attorney General's website.

Gov. Polis launched the state's Innovation Response Team (IRT) to ramp up a mass testing program for COVID-19 and develop alternatives for critical medical supplies in short supply.

Restaurants can sell alcohol for take-out or delivery. This website lists Metro Denver and Boulder restaurants that are still open.

Suspension of elective and nonessential surgeries and medical procedures, to free up medical devices and personal protective equipment for medical staff.
*Federal Response
Updated 4.2 at 2:10 PM

b$2 Trillion Aid Package

Direct Payments.  Single adults with Social Security numbers who are U.S. residents and make $75,000 or less will  receive  $1,200, plus $500 for each child 16 and younger. Individuals making more than $99,000 or couples making more than $198,000 are not eligible. 

Payments will be delivered automatically to most Americans who file individual federal income tax returns. When available, electronic direct deposit will be used in place of mailing a physical check. If you haven't yet filed a tax return for 2018 or 2019, you may want to do so quickly so that the IRS has your up-to-date information on file. Find an FAQ here.

UnemploymentBenefitsExpanding unemployment benefits. More than doubles the average unemployment benefit by adding $600 to the weekly benefit. It will also allow self-employed and part time workers to receive benefits.

Delaying student loan payments. Allows federally-serviced student loan borrowers to defer payments until September 30th without interest or penalty. 

*PERA. Waives the penalty for coronavirus-related distributions up to $100,000 during 2020, along with other changes.

For an F.A.Q on direct payments, unemployment and the rest of the bill, click  here

Families First Coronavirus Response Act,  Signed on March 18th. To read more on what this Act includes, click here

T he  Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental  Signed on March 6th. See what this $8.3 billion package includes  here

For more information on the federal response to COVID-19, click here.
PPEPersonal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Updated 4.01 at 1:43 PM

Governor Polis announced that China is sending Colorado 10,000 masks. 

Many of you asked for additional information about PPE. We've added this section and will update it as new data becomes available.


Type of PPE
Received
Need
N95 Masks 220,000 2,000,000
Surgical Masks 517,000 4,460,000
Face Shields 350,000 880,000
Surgical Gowns 720,000 100,140
Gloves 504,000 4,300,000
Ventilators 0 10,000

To donate Personal Protective Equipment. If you have small quantities of supplies to contribute, between 1-25 boxes of personal protective equipment, donate these supplies to your  local public health department local community health center , community clinic, or local hospital. If you have more than 25 boxes, or the pieces of larger equipment such as anesthesia machines or ventilators, fill out  THIS FORM .
Connect for Health CO Open!
Updated 4.4 at 1:30 PM

You can NOW sign up for health insurance through the Colorado Health Exchange. This special enrollment window will close on Thursday, April 30th. 

COVID-19 testing is free if you're uninsured, but if you test positive and have a serious case, you may incur large costs for treatment without insurance.  If you are uninsured, consider signing up to protect your health and safety during this epidemic. Get coverage today.

Note: you have 60 days to get health insurance anytime you lose job-based health coverage.
Resources for Domestic Violence and Child Abuse
Updated 4/4 at 1:45 PM

Not everyone has a safe environment to "stay at home."  If it's not safe for you to remain home and you can't find another safe place to stay, please contact the  National Domestic Violence Hotline : (800) 799-7233. If you are unable to speak safely you can visit thehotline.org or text LOVEIS to 22522. 

If you or someone you know is in an unsafe living arrangement, please call Safe Shelter at 303-772-0432. If you are in danger, call 911. 

The National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV) has developed new resources and compiled state and national guidance to help domestic violence coalitions, service providers and advocates support survivors and operate effectively. View those here.

The National Center on Domestic Violence, Trauma & Mental Health has developed a tip sheet that outlines key steps in advocating for survivors' continued access to mental health and substance use services and medication. View here

Violence Free Colorado has gathered resources you can find here

Child Abuse and Neglect

Reports of child abuse have dropped drastically since the stay-at-home order was implemented. Service providers worry that abuse and neglect is still happening but going unreported due to school closures. The Office of Children, Youth and Families urges everyone to keep an eye on children and teens in your neighborhood and report neglect or abuse to this hotline: 1-844-CO-4-KIDS (1-844-264-5437)
Resources for Seniors 
Updated 4.2 at 11:50 AM

Senior shopping hours. Stores are dedicating hours for seniors, click here.

Show our seniors some love and support. Read  7 ways to boost your loved one's morale here (provided by AARP).

Transportation  for seniors. The Denver Regional Mobility and Access Council has transportation options for older adults and individuals with disabilities.

Older Adult Resource Directory. An extensive directory of contact information, including benefits, emergency services, meals and healthcare. 

Food pantry schedule. A listing of food pantries in the Denver Metro area.

Denver Regional Council of Governments Aging and Disability Resources. A collection of resources including guides to in-home healthcare, transportation, and legal assistance.

Coloradans living with Alzheimer's. The Alzheimer's Association of Colorado has a 24/7 helpline (800-272-3900), community resource finder, and training courses.
Paying Rent & Utilities
Updated 4.4 at 2 PM

Denver's Temporary Rental and Utility Assistance (TRUA) program can pay utility bills and up to 80% of rent.

The Colorado Tenant's Guide to COVID-19   helps tenants navigate conversations with landlords, respond to eviction proceedings, and seek out support in this challenging time.

Xcel Energy, Denver Water (en español) and Comcast have suspended utility shut-offs for non-payment.

T-Mobile has announced that they will not terminate service because of inability to pay and will waive ate fees.


1) N ot terminate service to customers because of their inability to pay their bills due to disruptions caused by COVID-19.

2) W aive late fees caused by circumstances related to COVID-19.
SmallBusiness Small Businesses
Updated 4.2 at 1:30 PM

The Coronavirus Small Business Loan Program: What You Need To Know, read here


Small businesses impacted by COVID-19 can apply for emergency grants up to $10,000 and Economic Injury Disaster loans up to $2 million.
 
Colorado has opened applications for the Colorado COVID Relief Fund,  which provides small business relief funds up to $25,000.
 
Denver businesses who have had to temporary close, lay off staff, or are struggling to pay rent and utilities, can  apply for grants  up to $7,500.  To apply,  click here .

Comprehensive resources including information on SBA Express Bridge Loans and Paycheck Protection Loans from the Denver Metro Small Business Development Center.

Resources for employers from the Colorado Department of Labor & Employment

Eviction assistance for businesses, industry-specific information, and an e conomic Injury Hotline (303-860-5881 or email oedit_sbnavigator@state.co.us), from the Colorado Office of Economic Development & International Trade.
SmallBusiness*Employment
Updated 4.2 at 1 PM

Resources for Workers from the Colorado Department of Labor & Employment.

Paid sick leave up to four days.

Unemployment benefits f or employees  (apply now); and  independent contractors, freelancers, and self-employed workers  (wait to apply).

File a wage complaint if you were not paid for hours worked.

Layoff / separations assistance, information and resources.

Business and employee resources from the Colorado Restaurant Association

Finding New Work

Health care facilities, grocery stores, package delivery companies, and companies offering online products for delivery are hiring. Register here  for more details.

Connecting Colorado state database for job seekers.

Denver resources for job assistance.
MentalHealth Mental Health
Updated 3.31 at 2:25 PM

Mental Health Colorado has updated its resource page
with useful information for those who are struggling with mental health or substance use challenges. You can also find COVID-19 updates and tips on coping here

Mental Health Colorado is also currently providing services through telemental health and are accepting new clients. If you are interested in receiving services, please call 303-504-7900. 

Colorado Crisis Services. If you are more seriously concerned about your own mental health or that of someone close to you, call 1-844-493-8255 or text "TALK" to 38255.

National Crisis Text Line. Text SHARE to 741741 to connect with a Crisis Counselor. It's free, confidential and available 24/7.

Maria Droste Counseling Center. Providers can  connect virtually with clients.

Denver Metro Counseling  is providing  online therapy

Denver Therapy Match. Search for Denver providers here.

Open Path. For additional reduced rate options

Psychology Today. Search for statewide providers here.
AtHomeLearning At Home Learning & Activities
Updated 4.1 at 1 PM

DPS has family and student  resources for Pre-K through 12th grade including at-home activities for art, math, reading / writing, science and more.

The Denver Public Library has free online resources including books, movies, music, story time, and other programs.

Rocky Mountain PBS will air educational programs from 6 AM - 5 PM, weekdays, to support at-home learning.

Cleo Parker Robinson Dance will launch Cyber Dance 2020, an ongoing series of classes and movement activities, serving all ages and levels of ability. Please pay what you can and contact amelia@cleoparkerdance.org with questions.

The Denver Museum of Nature and Science has online activities and a facebook page with videos of scientists in action.

Virtual Field Trips including over 500 museums, Yellowstone National Park, and the Great Wall of China.
Assistance for Students  and Families
Updated 4.4 at 2 PM

Governor Polis extended the statewide closure of schools until April 30th, and Denver Public Schools announced that in-person instruction is suspended for the rest of the school year.

Technology needed. The state is working to ensure that every child has access to computers for online and distance learning. Learn more about communities in need and technology requested here. Fill out this form to donate.

Laptops at home. If your high school student still needs a computer, you can pick one up on Tuesday, April 7 or Wednesday, April 8 between 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. at one of 12 DPS schools.

Wifi at home. DPS is providing a limited number of hotspots to students from these high schools. Also, new Comcast customers will receive 2    months of  free service , which is normally $9.95/month.

Please note the new times for grab-and-go meal pick up. Denver Public School students and family members  can receive free meals at twelve sites . Breakfast and Lunch will now both be available for pick up on weekdays from 11 AM - 12:30 PM only.

The locations are: 
  • Abraham Lincoln High School, 2285 Federal Blvd 
  • Valverde Elementary School, 2030 W Alameda Ave
  • Joe Shoemaker School, 3333 S Havana St.
  • Place Bridge Academy, 7125 Cherry Creek N Dr.
  • Cowell Elementary School, 4540 W 10th Ave
  • North High School, 2960 Speer Blvd
  • STRIVE Prep - Sunnyside, 4735 N Pecos St
  • Bruce Randolph School, 3955 Steele St
  • Denver Center for International Studies - Baker, 574 W 6th Ave
  • Manual High School, 1700 E 28th Ave
  • The Evie Dennis Campus, 4800 Telluride St
  • The Montbello Campus, 5000 Crown Blvd
In addition, Food for Thought Denver  will be providing Powersacks at all twelve locations, every Friday. Each Powersack contains enough food for a family of four for two days. They are available for anyone in need, not just DPS students.

Hunger Free Colorado has set up a Food Resource Hotline for anyone who needs help locating food. Call 855-855-4626, M - F (8 am - 4:30 pm) to find school meals, food pantries, and SNAP and WIC enrollment.

Students outside Denver can find nearby locations to pick up meals  here.

A full list of Food Distribution sites from the Denver Department of Public Health and Environment here
Childcare and Resources for Parents
Updated 4/2 at 2:15 PM

Emergency Childcare Collaborative. A  100% tuition credit will provide child care to all essential workers, including health care, food industry, and public safety, until May 17. The program is aimed at serving families in need of child care in order to continue to perform their critical duties.

If you are a family who meets the criteria above, fill out the application for child care here.

Other Resources for Parents

Facebook and other online groups, in English and Spanish, from Illuminate Colorado

Updated 4.2 at 12:05 PM

Help Colorado Now has raised $7.7 million dollars from nearly 4,000 individuals, foundations and companies.  More than 9,000 volunteers including 2,500 health care volunteers have signed up to date. You can donate or sign up to volunteer here Apply here for grants up to $25,000.

Blood donors needed. Donor eligibility here . Make an appointment here.

Health Care Response Volunteer Sign Up. Once you sign up you will be contacted and matched with a hospital or care facility in need in your area.

Other Volunteer Sign-up here. Roles include administrative, client advocacy, construction, mental wellness, food bank support, language skills, healthcare, volunteer management, childcare, delivery of goods and more.

Denver is seeking volunteers to support residents experiencing homelessness and in need of shelter. If you are healthy, willing and not in an at-risk category, email sheltervolunteer@denvergov.org.

Review the Attorney General's charity fraud page here before donating.

How to help feed unemployed workers, hospital staff, school kids and others in need around Denver.
College Students and Higher Education
Updated 4/1 at 12:05 PM

Meeting Students' Basic Needs During COVID-19.  This guide offers a few of the ways that institutions are stepping up to meet students' basic needs, including buying food and paying bills. (provided by CoPIRG Foundation).

FedLoan Servicing will reduce their interest rates to 0% Click here for some tips from New Era Colorado if you're struggling to pay back your student loans during this uncertain period of time.

Each of us can do our part to fight COVID-19 by staying home as much possible. When its necessary to leave your house, please practice social distancing and wear a mask.

Hospitals and medical staff will be under enormous strain in the next few weeks to care for individuals with COVID-19, and by staying home, you can make sure those beds are available for others. 

Guidance For People Experiencing Symptoms, provided by the Colorado Department of Public Health (CDPHE)
  • Mild symptoms (might include a combination of cough, body aches, fatigue, and chest tightness, with or without fever):  Self-isolate, and use over-the-counter medications to treat your symptoms -- like you would for a cold or other respiratory illness.
  • Serious symptoms, especially trouble breathing: Self-isolate, use over-the-counter medications and contact a health care provider or nurseline if your illness becomes more severe. The provider may recommend you be tested for COVID-19, and should be able to instruct you on how to get a test.
     
  • Severe symptoms: call 911 for symptoms of heart attack or stroke; difficulty breathing or choking; difficulty speaking, walking, or seeing; an allergic reaction; confusion, dizziness, or disorientation; sudden, severe pain.

Paid for by Leslie Herod for Colorado. Contributions are limited to $400 every 2 year election cycle from individuals, sole proprietorships, LLPs, LLCs and state PACS and $5,350 from small donor committees. Contributions from corporations, labor unions, foreign governments and non-US citizens are prohibited. Contributions are not tax deductible. Donations from registered Colorado lobbyists or principals of lobbyists are prohibited during the legislative session running from January 8th to May 6th, 2020 and any email or donation page from this campaign is not soliciting a contribution from lobbyists or principals of lobbyists. 

Leslie Herod for Colorado
leslie@leslieherod.com
303-866-2959
200 E. Colfax Ave., Rm. 322
Denver, CO 80203