While Governor Wolf announces that we all need to stay home, we know that can be difficult for many reasons but we're here to help in whatever way we can. Check out resources we've put together, volunteer opportunities, and ways to stay involved with your neighborhood:
THINGS TO DO AT HOME
Finding yourself stuck on the same websites and need a change of pace? We’ve assembled a list of online resources for kids/learning, arts/entertainment, and health/wellness including some events that have moved online like the Clean Air Run and orchestra performances.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
SOSNA is forming a virtual neighborhood committee to work on two things:
1) Create a database of neighbors who may need assistance in the upcoming weeks and those who may be able to offer it (think grocery pick up, or even helping someone who isn't familiar with online grocery shopping, and other essential tasks that may become difficult).
2) Develop an updated and evolving plan for identifying neighborhood needs that can be met by their budgeted grant program.
Please let us know you are interested by filling out this quick form: CLICK HERE
Bethesda Project is urgently looking for groups to drop off packaged food or “sponsor” a meal delivery from local restaurants at My Brother’s House (609 S. 15th Street). You can contact Volunteer Coordinator at jisaacson@bethesdaproject.org or (513) 280-2236 for more information.
Bethesda Project also has a list of opportunities here for families to do from home such as make cards or videos of encouragement for guests and residents.
MEDICAL & NON-MEDICAL VOLUNTEERS: The best way to get involved in the COVID-19 response is to join the Philadelphia Medical Reserve Corps (MRC). The Philadelphia MRC is a group of more than 2,500 volunteers who serve the City during public health emergencies and large-scale events. The Philadelphia Department of Public Health trains the Philadelphia MRC and coordinates its response in times of need. By volunteering for the Philadelphia MRC, you can contribute to a healthier, more resilient Philadelphia.
Interested volunteers must register for the Philadelphia Medical Reserve Corps on SERVPA. A brief guide to using SERVPA is located here. We have staff working steadily to approve volunteers. Email mrc@phila.gov with questions.
BUSINESS SUPPORT
Our local, small businesses are some of the hardest hit in this crisis and in effect, their employees livelihoods are at stake. In an effort to help our businesses and their staff weather this storm, we’ve put together 3 ways that you can support our local businesses from the comfort of your own quarantine zone. Use this spreadsheet to find:
Best ways to contribute to worker funds for service and industry folks out of work at this time.
Purchase gift cards to use in the future at our local favorites.
Find takeout or delivery to satisfy your quarantine cravings.
STAY UPDATED - PHILLY VERSION
Daily video briefings at 1:00p by the Mayor’s Office and the PHL Department of health on @PHLHealthDept’s Twitter.
Beginning Monday, March 23, families can pick up meals at 80 locations linked below. Please note the new schedule and locations. Meals are available from 9 a.m. to noon only. All children and youth are eligible, and no ID is required. Here is an updated meal list.
Here is the link to apply for an absentee or a mail-in ballot this year.
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SEPTA has announced changes to its service schedule. It will be operating the Severe Weather Plan for Regional Rail. Click here for more info.
The Philadelphia Department of Public Health has activated a Greater Philadelphia Coronavirus Helpline. It’s available 24/7. If you have questions about symptoms and risk factors, what to do if you think you may have been exposed, testing resources or recommendations for social distancing, you can contact the helpline at 1-800-722-7112. Click here for more info.
During the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, Philadelphia Water Department knows you may have questions about the safety and continued availability of drinking water and wastewater services. Click here for updates from PWD.
STAY UPDATED - PENNSYLVANIA VERSION
Gov. Wolf has ordered all non-life-sustaining businesses in Pennsylvania to close. Grocery stores are life-sustaining, so they will stay open. You can get a breakdown of which businesses are non-life-sustaining and which are life-sustaining by clicking here. The PA Turnpike Commission (PTC) has announced that to keep travelers from interacting with tolling personnel during the COVID-19 pandemic, cash and credit cards will NOT be accepted at any interchange statewide until further notice. Click here for more info. Amtrak has changed its service schedule. Click here for more info. If you’re employed in Pennsylvania and unable to work because of COVID-19, you may be eligible for Unemployment or Workers' Compensation benefits: Click here for more info. PennDOT has issued an announcement about expiration dates for driver licenses, ID cards, vehicle registrations and safety and emission inspections. Those dates have been extended. Click here for more info.
CORONAVIRUS - Know the Facts
via SCORE Philadelphia
Please refer to the following resources in the coming days and weeks:
Go here for Information and resources for businesses impacted by COVID-19.
Go here for Information and resources for workers impacted by COVID-19.
Go here for Information about social distancing best practices for essential businesses that remain operating.
For updated information and guidance from the Philadelphia Department of Public Health, visit www.phila.gov/COVID-19. There is a section specifically dedicated to businesses and nonprofits.
If you are an essential business that remains open, require sick staff to stay home. Learn more about Philadelphia’s sick leave policies here.
Be vigilant in your washing hands and not touching your face.
Refer to the CDC’s website for additional information.
If you have questions about whether your business is considered essential, please email VBEOC@phila.gov.
If you would to like to find out more information about business assistance, resources, and programs, please email business@phila.gov.