State Representative Cindy Abrams Addresses COVID-19 Concerns
HARRISON - As we all know, Ohioans and Americans are facing a global pandemic. The dangers are real – and we don’t yet know the full impact of this rapidly-spreading virus. What we do know is we can all make a difference in helping slow the spread of this deadly virus by incorporating some common-sense steps into our daily routines.
These include:
- Wash hands frequently (for at least 20 seconds) with soap and water. In the alternative, use hand sanitizer containing at least 60 percent alcohol.
- Avoid touching your face.
- Cover coughs and sneezes.
- Disinfect surfaces daily.
- If you are sick, stay at home.
- Practice social distancing and avoid large crowds.
Governor DeWine & Dr. Acton have done a fantastic job updating us via daily press conferences. Dr. Acton has stated the goal is to keep it from dramatically spiking, so that our hospitals can handle the very sick. By now, you have probably seen the graphic to “Flatten the Curve”. Everyone is a potential carrier of the virus, whether or not you display any symptoms.
Part of my job as a State Representative, is to attend daily meetings and large gatherings. As my calendar started to clear last week, I took time to reflect on how busy we have become as a society. This is a great time to read a book you have been wanting to read but haven’t had the time, watch your favorite movies with your family, walk your dog, or hike in one of our many great parks here in Southwest Ohio.
I am so proud of our local communities here in Ohio, stepping up to help their neighbors. Many children rely on school for lunch. Governor DeWine announced Friday, March 13, that the U.S. Department of Agriculture has approved Ohio’s waiver requests to continue to serve meals while schools are closed. It will be up to each school to determine how to package and distribute these grab-and-go breakfasts and lunches. Our local communities and food pantries have rallied together to collect non-perishable foods and personal hygiene products to distribute to those in need.
I want to personally thank our health care professionals who are on the front lines caring for those who are sick. Thank you to our first responders, who are out on the streets in our communities keeping us safe. A heartfelt thank you to our food chain suppliers and grocery store employees, we appreciate the work you do.
Americans are strong, we rally together in time of need and help others. We are facing difficult times, but if we take care of ourselves and our families to stay healthy, help our neighbors in need, help our children to understand and support them as they start their e-learning, we will get through this!
Do your part to stop the spread of the coronavirus. Stay informed with accurate, up-to-date information from health professionals by visiting coronavirus.ohio.gov or cdc.gov/coronavirus
To small business owners, restaurant and bar owners, and hourly or part-time employees whose livelihood has been disrupted, my heart goes out to you. You are not alone and we are here to help. I encourage you to take advantages of these resources to help get you through these hard times.
Unemployment Benefits:
- To file claim: unemployment.cmt.ohio.gov
- To view updated rules: jfs.ohio.gov/ouio/CoronavirusAndUI.stm
- Small Business Disaster Relief:
Impacted Ohio Small Businesses can contact Ohio Development Services Agency for assistance: Email: businesshelp@development.ohio.gov
Small Business Admin Disaster Relief has set a three step process for funding/loan assistance: https://bit.ly/2w0nj75, Hotline: 800-659-2955, Email: DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov
- Bar/Restaurant: Liquor Buy Back Program:
For questions regarding the one-time high proof liquor buy back, please contact the Liquor Enterprise Service Center: Hotline: 877-812-0013, Email: OhioLiquorInfo@com.ohio.gov
We are all in this together. As always, feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns at Rep29@ohiohouse.gov. Stay safe and healthy!
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For more information, contact Representative Abrams’s office at 614-466-9091 or rep29@ohiohouse.gov