We know that with the spread of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), many are most interested in how to stay healthy and help our neighbors during this pandemic. Here’s how COVID-19 is affecting our neighborhoods and where you can go for more information as the situation evolves:
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is the most reliable source of up to date information on COVID-19, so we recommend visiting cdc.gov regularly for the latest news about the virus, tips to prevent illness and what to do if you are sick. The Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment is coordinating all of our state efforts, and is posting real time updates on reported cases, what to do if you’re exposed or have symptoms, and recommendations to protect our communities at colorado.gov/cdphe.
Denver Public Schools are closed beginning Monday, March 16. For many families, schools offer more than instruction, providing needed childcare for working families and a daily food source. DPS is offering meals to students during the closure, and Denver Parks & Recreation is providing meals, as well. For more details and for timely updates on social media, we recommend following DPS’s Facebook page and Denver School Board Member Brad Laurvick.
Many large, public events have been canceled, and both the State of Colorado and the City and County of Denver have declared states of emergency to access additional resources and allow for faster responses as developments occur. If you are on Facebook, the City and County of Denver is providing frequent updates. Councilwoman Amanda Sandoval is also aggregating information on her page.
We have also been getting questions about people and organizations volunteering to help others in the community. We will share information as it becomes available, and encourage you to visit our website and social media channels throughout the month if you’re in need of help or looking for ways to offer assistance to others.
While COVID-19 is the biggest news around the world right now, we know that times like these also remind us of the importance of our local communities. As our public institutions close and people begin to create social distance to help prevent the spread of the virus, it’s more important than ever to feel connected to those in your community.
This issue of The Denver North Star has updates on our schools, commercial development in North Denver, health and wellness, and the renaming of a holiday after a North Denver Icon. We hope this sixth issue of the paper helps you feel connected to the news and happenings in our community, even as you’re staying in.
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