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COVID-19 Response: Staying Connected During Social Distancing
As of Tuesday March 31, updates will be shared via GTCF social media accounts
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Twitter
LinkedIn
Find Additional COVID-19 Resources
Find out more about PIERCE COUNTY CONNECTED: COVID-19 Rapid Response Fund
TUESDAY MARCH 31, 2020
3:00pm
Franklin Pierce Youth First Coalition introduces a new Prevention Rental Assistance program being operated by Share & Care House. This program is intended to provide rental assistance to help households maintain existing housing due to circumstances related to COVID-19 (e.g. loss/reduction of employment, quarantine, etc.). Households must be at or below 50% AMI and must live in Pierce County, outside the borders of the City of Tacoma (the City will be launching a similar program for residents inside city limits). This program will launch on April 1. Interested participants can contact Share & Care House directly at either 253-841-8886 ext. 800 or COVID-RA@shareandcarehouse.org. Please do not contact Share & Care House until April 1. Information available in English and Spanish.
MONDAY MARCH 30, 2020
9:00am
Food resources are available at numerous locations across Pierce County.
Food for Adults/Families
Emergency Food Network is providing daily updates of food bank locations and hours
Use our interactive food pantry map to see a complete list of food pantry locations and schedules. We recommend calling a pantry to confirm hours prior to arrival.
Nourish Pierce County also offers an interactive map of food bank locations.
Food for students
Click on a school district below to find information about meal pick-up locations and times.
Franklin-Pierce School District
University Place School District
FRIDAY MARCH 27, 2020
11:30am
Several local organizations have shared this resource packet on COVID-19 Information By and For People with Disabilities.
This 8-page booklet about the Coronavirus is written in plain language. It was created by and for people with developmental disabilities. It focuses on “need to know” information (not “nice to know” information). Please share it widely. Our goal is to keep people with disabilities healthy during this national crisis. Let us know if you have suggestions on how to improve this booklet. Email us at info@gmsavt.org
9:00am
Food resources are available at numerous locations across Pierce County.
Food for Adults/Families
Emergency Food Network is providing daily updates of food bank locations and hours
Use our interactive food pantry map to see a complete list of food pantry locations and schedules. We recommend calling a pantry to confirm hours prior to arrival.
Nourish Pierce County also offers an interactive map of food bank locations.
Food for students
Click on a school district below to find information about meal pick-up locations and times.
Franklin-Pierce School District
University Place School District
THURSDAY MARCH 26, 2020
3:30pm
Tacoma Art Museum (TAM) has launched a TAM at Home online portal
Continue joining us online as we take you through our exhibitions, explore our collections, and provide educational moments that you can enjoy from the comfort of your own space.
1:00pm
Central Latino shared this resource page and updates to services they are still able to provide as an essential service
Currently Centro Latino is providing the following essential resources for our communities in need via phone lines and at our location and will be following the social distance requirements instituted by Governor Jay Inslee. Centro Latino prioritizes the need of our community to have language accessibility to all of our information which will be provided.
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- Emergency Financial Assistance
- Census + Food Bank Location Site
- Schools supplies for Tacoma School District Students
- Resources for Undocumented Families
Find out more about these resources and services
12:00pm
Nonprofit Quarterly published this article on How Nonprofits Can Utilize the New Federal Laws Dealing With COVID-19
Knowing that charitable nonprofits and foundations across the country are eager and anxious to learn what’s in the 880-page economic stimulus bill, my organization [National Council of Nonprofits] put together an analysis summarizing the outcomes on issues of interest to nonprofits sector-wide. Initial Analysis of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) (S. 748).
The analysis includes insights into how the CARES Act addresses:
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- Emergency Support for Small to Midsized Nonprofits (500 Employees or Fewer)
- Loan Support for Larger Entities with 500–10,000 Employees
- Support for Nonprofits of Any Size
- Benefits for Donors
9:25am
The Pierce County website now features a “donations connector” resource page for Ways to Help and Get Help During COVID-19
So many of you have asked how you can support the community, and together, we found a way to give help or get help to those who need it the most. Pierce County Donations Connector provides anyone who is able to with various ways to support their neighbors, communities and everyone on the front lines working to keep vital services up and running. Please share and remember: Stay home, stay healthy!
9:15am
DSHS Office of Refugee & Immigrant Assistance developed this COVID-19 Translated Resources Directory
This directory is a list of translated COVID-19 health education resources (fact sheets, flyers, posters, audio recordings, videos, etc.), organized in alphabetical order by language. The translated materials are from United States government entities, International non-government agencies, community based organizations, and selective countries outside the United States. This directory is not inclusive of all the translated materials available, and will be updated on a regular basis. Any questions and/or comments related to this directory, including requests to have translated materials added, please contact the Washington Department of Social and Health Services, Office of Refugee and Immigrant Assistance – Refugee Health and Wellness Program Manager, Cathy Vue (vuec@dshs.wa.gov).
9:00am
Food resources are available at numerous locations across Pierce County.
Food for Adults/Families
Emergency Food Network is providing daily updates of food bank locations and hours
Use our interactive food pantry map to see a complete list of food pantry locations and schedules. We recommend calling a pantry to confirm hours prior to arrival.
Nourish Pierce County also offers an interactive map of food bank locations.
Food for students
Click on a school district below to find information about meal pick-up locations and times.
Franklin-Pierce School District
University Place School District
WEDNESDAY MARCH 25, 2020
4:00pm
Washington State launches web form to clarify “essential” businesses under COVID-19 Stay Home, Stay Healthy proclamation
Washington state today launched an online form so businesses can get clarification or submit a request for inclusion as essential under Gov. Jay Inslee’s Stay Home, Stay Healthy proclamation. The proclamation goes into effect at midnight tonight, closing non-essential businesses for the next two weeks.
A simple online form and comprehensive resources are available at www.coronavirus.wa.gov to answer questions from businesses and individuals about their essential/non-essential status.
3:50pm
Pierce County Faith Based Community is coordinating an InterFaith response to COVID-19.
This page is a tool for those in the faith-based community within Pierce County to come together and find information & guidance, share ideas, and request or offer assistance to those in need.
3:40pm
City of Tacoma is providing COVID-19 related info and resources from their Make It Tacoma page
The City of Tacoma is concerned about the impacts of COVID-19 on small businesses related to their potential loss of revenue, possible employee layoffs and long-term resiliency. We want to ensure that you are connected to key resources that may assist in your decision-making and facilitate access to economic support. In addition, we are working to create additional tools to enhance your viability.
We will continue to post new information on this page periodically and look forward to announcing additional support soon. Please contact us directly at MakeItTacoma@cityoftacoma.org or 253-591-2012 with specific questions or information to share.
3:00pm
Operation Parent is hosting a free webinar on Helping Teens Cope With Anxiety During COVID-19
Feeling stressed and anxious during this unusual time of school closing, social distancing and canceled school events? Not sure what to say or how to help your teen cope? You are not alone. Join us as Dr. Tanya Stockhammer, Clinical Psychologist, will explain the positives and unhelpful components of anxiety, what happens to our teens during high anxiety, tips to help with discussions about the crisis and how to help them deal with their emotions.
1:30pm
Graduate Tacoma and Tacoma Urban League partnered to create this directory of free community resources for families and youth impacted by COVID-19
Due to recent school closures to slow the spread of COVID-19, Graduate Tacoma and the Tacoma Urban League have partnered to provide Tacoma families and youth an online directory of resources they can access in this unprecedented time. By using the search tool, you can view available drive-up meal sites and their locations, remote learning tools, information regarding emergency relief for basic needs and much more.
11:45
Center on Addiction is hosting a FREE Live Online Support Community tonight.
Families are facing unprecedented challenges due to circumstances surrounding COVID-19. In response, we invite you to join our new online support community for parents and caregivers who may have children experimenting with, or dependent on, substances.
11:30am
Resources for foster families and children from Amara
We continue to update our community with useful, relevant, and compassionate resources to help you navigate the COVID-19 outbreak and juggling time at home with kids. We’re sharing everything from how to address stress and anxiety in children during this time to educational resources to how to keep kids connected to their families!
9:15am
Tacoma Pierce County Health Department shared information about this upcoming webinar for helping families cope with stress and depression in times of crisis.
Families for Depression Awareness is presenting a free, 1-hour Coping with Stress and Depression webinar on Thursday, March 26 at 7:00 PM ET / 4:00 PM PT. Designed for family caregivers, human resources managers, EAP professionals, and adults concerned about themselves or others, the webinar covers
· Practical ways to reduce the effects of stress
· How to recognize signs of depression
· What to do if you or someone you know is suffering from depression
· What resources are available to you and your family
Register at www.familyaware.org/trainings.
9:00am
Food resources are available at numerous locations across Pierce County.
Food for Adults/Families
Emergency Food Network is providing daily updates of food bank locations and hours
Use our interactive food pantry map to see a complete list of food pantry locations and schedules. We recommend calling a pantry to confirm hours prior to arrival.
Nourish Pierce County also offers an interactive map of food bank locations.
Food for students
Click on a school district below to find information about meal pick-up locations and times.
Franklin-Pierce School District
University Place School District
TUESDAY MARCH 24, 2020
3:45pm
The Washington Department of Health has released a series of eight ASL/captioned educational videos about the COVID-19 pandemic and includes information on how to protect yourself and prevent the spread of the virus. Here are the YouTube listings available now. Watch for this on Facebook and other social media.
- Playlist
- Introduction
- What is COVID-19?
- How Does COVID-19 Spread?
- COVID-19 Symptoms
- What to Do If You Are Sick
- Prevention & Treatment of COVID-19
- Stigma & COVID-19
- What Can You Do About COVID-19?
- What is Social Distancing?
1:00pm
Many Pierce County organizations are compiling resource pages with links to resources and support available to individuals, families, nonprofit organizations, and businesses. Below is a list of several of these resource pages. Feel free to share more resource lists like this to info@gtcf.org
Graduate Tacoma is taking submissions from community members for community needs and community strengths. A report of feedback they have received will follow.
Links to info and resources on general health guidance, meal service for community members, internet and technology support, distance learning resources, employment/financial services, mental health.
Resources for businesses, including COVID-19 Conference Call/Webinar dates and recordings, business resources, COVID-19 news sources, current health department recommendations.
Resources for utilities, internet service, and other home owner/rental needs. Also has links to a variety of online student learning resources.
Links to information on financial information/assistance, resources for children and parents, and a few links for teens/adults to help stay busy.
Links to resources for financial support, now hiring, healthcare, employment, food support, school district info/meals info
Links to regional resources including transportation, county contacts, announcements, guidance from state agencies, as well as a COVID-19 map by county as well as most recent Covid-19 data.
10:05am
Food for Adults/Families
Emergency Food Network is providing daily updates of food bank locations and hours
Use our interactive food pantry map to see a complete list of food pantry locations and schedules. We recommend calling a pantry to confirm hours prior to arrival.
Nourish Pierce County also offers an interactive map of food bank locations.
10:00am
School Districts across Pierce County are providing meals for students each day. Click on a school district below to find information about meal pick-up locations and times.
Franklin-Pierce School District
University Place School District
MONDAY, MARCH 23, 2020
6:30pm
5:45pm
Governor Jay Inslee announces Stay Home, Stay Healthy order
Gov. Jay Inslee spoke directly to Washingtonians to announce he will sign a statewide order that requires everyone in the state to stay home. The order will last for two weeks and could be extended.
This Stay Home, Stay Healthy order is similar to orders that other governors, in places such as California and New York, issued last week.
This proclamation will:
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- Require every Washingtonian to stay home unless they need to pursue an essential activity.
- Ban all gatherings for social, spiritual and recreational purposes.
- Close all businesses except essential businesses.
“The less time we spend in public, the more lives we will save,” Inslee said.
The proclamation states it’s still safe for people to go outside as long as they remain at least six feet from each other. Grocery stores, doctor’s offices and other essential businesses will remain open. People can still participate in activities such as bike rides, gardening, and dog walking — as long as they follow social distancing rules.
Read the rest of the story on the governor’s Medium page.
11:15am
Update on office closure and online resources from Hearing, Speech & Deaf Center’s South Sound Office.
(Click here for this message in ASL) Hearing, Speech & Deaf Center’s Tacoma office is physically CLOSED starting now to March 31st, 2020. We are following Pierce County and Washington State public health recommendations to determine what services we offer during this time. Videophone and phone appointments are still available for Deaf & Hard of Hearing Services in Seattle, Tacoma, and Bellingham locations. You can still refer Deaf or Hard of Hearing clients, get information about how to best serve this population during this time, or request resources in American Sign Language. Please contact us at 253-292-2209 or Tacoma@hsdc.org for an appointment. All public videophones locations are CLOSED. Go to our website, HSDC.org for more information!
10:00am
Pierce County Virtual Town Hall from Sunday, March 22, 2020
Executive Bruce Dammeier, and directors from Emergency Management, Human Services, and Economic Development, took questions after briefing residents on how Pierce County is managing through the COVID-19 pandemic.
8:45am
United Way of Pierce County is reaching out to local nonprofits to share resources and learn about needs of local nonprofits
Please use this link if your organization has needs or challenges that we can promote with our stakeholders and donors. For example, shelters may need additional hygiene kits, hand sanitizer, etc. or food banks might be able to use volunteer drivers to drop food boxes to those who cannot get out of their homes because they are high-risk.
Also, please keep 2-1-1 up-to-date on any agency closures or service impacts.
8:30am
Local youth-serving organizations providing activities and learning resources for kids
Boys & Girls Clubs of South Puget Sound
As we continue to explore ways to support our communities and families during this unprecedented time, we want to share resources for at-home arts learning.
ArtsEd Washington provides resources for families throughout the year, and we encourage families to take a look at what is available to continue arts learning from home.
YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties
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- YMCA 360 is an on-demand video platform for our Y community. We’re bringing you group exercise classes, youth sports classes, wellbeing classes and more to serve you wherever you are.
8:15am
This website from KBTC Kids provides a wealth of resources for kids in Pierce County.
KBTC is also partnering with Peace Community Center and Tacoma Housing Authority to provided Grab & Go Meals and Activities for kids
8:00am
Several Pierce County school districts open additional locations or mobile service to increase access to meals for students.
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- Meals available at 10 sites from 10am-1pm
- Delivery available for families with no transportation
- If you do not have internet access, please contact our Child Nutrition Office at 253.800.6912 to make arrangements for meal delivery. We are working on expanding this service and will have more details soon.
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- Each day, Monday through Friday, our buses will make 69 stops in Lakewood and on Joint Base Lewis-McChord to pass out meals.
- See full list of locations
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- Free breakfast & lunch meals for ANYONE 18 and under
- March 23 – April 24 (Monday – Friday) 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
- Served at Lake Tapps Elementary School – 1320 178th Ave E. Lake Tapps,WA 98391
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- Service continuing at same locations as last week
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- Starting today (March 23) meals will be delivered to 23 locations across the district
- Meals also available at same school locations as last week
Franklin-Pierce School District
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- 29 Locations
- Monday-Friday from 11am-12pm
- Grab n’ go lunch and breakfast for the next day
- All children and youth ages 0-18
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- Delivery to 39 locations across the district
- Pickup at Orting Middle School
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- Same sites as last week
- If you cannot get to one of the offered sites, please contact 253-530-1016 for additional information.
- Questions can be emailed to info@psd401.net
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- As of Monday March 23rd, we will be providing Monday through Friday meal service for all children 0-18 from 11:00 to 12:00 at each of our 22 elementary schools.
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- Same sites as last week
- Two additional meal distribution sites have been added
- Chief Leschi Park 1775 Ridge View Drive in DuPont
- Intersection of 108th Ave SW and 109th St SW in Steilacoom
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- Same sites as last week
- Three additional sites have been added
- Bonney Lake Elementary
- Lakeridge Middle School
- Mountain View Middle School
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- See this interactive map for delivery locations across the district
University Place School District
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- See this list for updated delivery locations
FRIDAY, MARCH 20, 2020
4:00pm
Washington State Attorney General Bob Ferguson warns of scams related to COVID-19
Tips for avoiding COVID-19 scams:
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- Be skeptical — there is no cure for COVID-19.
- Don’t click on links — they can be malicious.
- Don’t provide your personal information to unknown sources who may be trying to get your personal or financial information.
- Don’t donate money without researching who is asking for your money — there are many bogus charities offering to help.
- Visit trusted resources for legitimate information about COVID-19, like government health departments or your health care provider.
3:30pm
Pierce County Parks playgrounds will close on Saturday
Starting Saturday, March 21 all Pierce County Parks playgrounds are closed until further notice. Restrooms are open subjected to cleaning and supply availability.
12:10pm
CHI Franciscan providing FREE virtual urgent care visits for Mild COVID-19 symptoms
Please encourage the families you work with to check this out, especially if they are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19. We are highly encouraging people to utilize virtual care from their phone or computer. There is no cost for this service if you use the discount code “COVID19”. There are also triage sites in Bonney Lake and Enumclaw for those who are experiencing symptoms and at a higher risk. The website link lays out more guidelines for seeking treatment and other resources.
To be assessed from the comfort of your home by one of our providers for mild Coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms such as cough, low-grade fever or mild respiratory problems, visit franciscanvirtualcare.org and enter the discount code COVID19 to waive the typical $35 fee.
10:45am
Tacoma Rescue Mission continues to provide services for individuals experiencing homelessness in Tacoma.
Tacoma Rescue Mission is on the front lines as we come alongside individuals who have some of the fewest resources to cope with the Coronavirus (COVID-19). We’ll continue to provide crucial services and resources during this uncertain time. All while taking necessary and extra precautions to protect our guests, volunteers and staff.
As an additional safety measure, staff at the Mission’s South Tacoma Way location will begin screening all guests at the gated courtyard entrance before they enter the property.
Follow updates and information from Tacoma Rescue Mission
10:00am
Metropolitan Development Council (MDC) has TRiO resources for parents of Tacoma, Franklin Pierce, and Bethel Schools:
While students across our state are out of class through April 24, MDC is offering online enrollment and virtual services for eligible youth in Tacoma, Franklin Pierce, and Bethel school districts.
Our TRiO youth education programs help low-income, first-generation students graduate from high school and enroll in college. Virtual services are available through free teleconferencing to meet with students individually and in groups to provide comprehensive college preparation and student support services.
Types of support include:
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- College Admissions Support
- Financial Aid Navigation Support
- Complete Missing Assignments
- SAT/ACT Testing Prep
- Online Tutoring/Enrichment
- Academic Assessments
- Career & College Planning
- Individual Online Tutoring
- Parent Activities & Ideas
- Virtual Field Trips to Colleges
- 1:1 Advising
9:15am
Kelly Blucher of Goodwill Olympics & Rainier Region compiled this list of resource for grants and funding opportunities around the Western Washington region.
The above list includes links for grants and funding for those losing income through this, also for small businesses and those self-employed.
9:00am
Goodwill Olympics & Rainier Region closes retail stores through April 2nd. Donations will still be accepted.
“…we have become increasingly concerned for the health of our retail employees and the community at-large. Therefore, we have decided to close our retail stores effective this Thursday, March 19, for two weeks, through April 2. During this period, we will continue to pay our retail employees.”
We will continue accepting donations at all of our store locations Monday – Sunday from 10am-6pm, with the exception of Graham, Tacoma Outlet and the Blue Boutiques.
8:45am
Meals for Students
This interactive map shows student meal sites for school districts across Pierce County
Food for Adults/Families
Emergency Food Network is providing daily updates of food bank locations and hours
Use our interactive food pantry map to see a complete list of food pantry locations and schedules. We recommend calling a pantry to confirm hours prior to arrival.
Nourish Pierce County also offers an interactive map of food bank locations.
THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2020
3:10pm
Updates and resources from local libraries
All buildings closed
Due due dates extended to April 30
Fines waved
Do not return books to book drops
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- Register for a new library card electronically.
- Digital Media (ebooks, audiobooks, magazines) remains available.
- Online resources including research databases and online homework help remain available.
- Book a Librarian service continues to be available by phone.
- Electronic services like Web Reference and My Next Reads services remain available seven days a week.
All buildings closed
Fines will not accrue during the closure period.
Drop boxes are closed. Please hold onto library materials until we reopen.
All materials currently checked out will be automatically renewed through May 1, 2020.
Holds will remain on the pick-up shelves until the libraries reopen.
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- Streaming movies, TV, and the Great Courses with Kanopy and Hoopla
- Downloadable eBooks and Audiobooks with Overdrive/Libby apps and Hoopla
- Streaming music on Hoopla
- Professional tutorials via Lynda, from LinkedIn Learning
- Worksheets and educational activities for elementary-age students through Scholastic Teachables
- Literacy and learning for younger readers from BookFlix and TrueFlix
- Educational lessons for all ages via HelpNow – check out the “Skill Surfer” section
All buildings closed. f you currently have items checked out, you may keep them until the library reopens. No fines or fees will be charged if the materials are returned in good condition even if they are “overdue.” There is no need to renew your items–that will be done automatically. If you have a hold on an item, the hold will be extended as long as needed. We’re sorry that holds cannot be picked up while the building is closed.
2:45pm
League of Education Voters has compiled this page for education-related COVID-19 resources
This is a working resource page for parents, families, teachers, students, and other community members as we respond to the impacts of COVID-19 on education, equity, health, and wellness of children and families.
9:00am
Meals for Students
This interactive map shows student meal sites for school districts across Pierce County
Food for Adults/Families
Emergency Food Network is providing daily updates of food bank locations and hours
Use our interactive food pantry map to see a complete list of food pantry locations and schedules. We recommend calling a pantry to confirm hours prior to arrival.
Nourish Pierce County also offers an interactive map of food bank locations.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 2020
6:30pm
The Northeast Pierce Resource Guide focuses on basic needs and ways to get involved in the community through community service and support through donations.
Please note that many of our local service organizations are temporarily modifying their hours of operation, cancelling programs or changing how they are serving. The guide does not reflect this information as it is changing daily. Additional temporary services are also not reflected in the guide as they are also changing daily. I suggest contacting an organization directly or one of the resources on page 2 of the guide if you need current information.
COVID-19 Resources:
Tacoma-Pierce County Health Dept. COVID-19 Resources
Washington Dept. of Financial Institutions
6:00pm
Centro Latino Direct Service Drive-Thru – Census Completion Service
Centro Latino understands that due to the coronavirus pandemic that is going on right now has greatly impacted census outreach efforts. This pandemic has forced safe havens such as community organizations to close their doors to our people. Centro Latino remains aware of the situation but we have decided to come up with a Take-Out Style Census Completion Service. We know the importance of our community to be counted especially for these situations.
As of today, Centro Latino will be opening its doors to the public following the protocol that restaurants and large gathering places have been following. Centro Latino will be using our parking area as a waiting area for individuals who want to complete their census. Individuals will be called by one of our staff members who will dial the U.S. Census phone number in Spanish and remain present if necessary to complete the process. Centro Latino will maintain the recommended distance of 6ft between the clients and our staff members. After individuals have completed their census, Centro Latino will sanitize phones and any other areas touched.
Appointments will be accepted but walk-ins are welcome. This service will be from Monday to Thursday from 9:00am to 3:30pm starting March 19th, 2020. In addition to helping out with the census information, we will also be offering our services of green card renewals, passport applications, request of ITIN numbers, utility assistant application, basic interpreting letters. At the moment we, unfortunately, can not help out with unemployment applications. Please feel free to dial 253.572.7717 to make an appointment or if you have any questions, comments, or concerns regarding this announcement.
Census 2020 – Make Yourself Count: April 1, 2020
5:30pm
YMCA wants to make sure people stuck at home due to the COVID-19 outbreak can still get the exercise they need. The YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties announced Wednesday the launch of more than 60 free online exercise classes and youth programs to “support the health and well-being of the community,” the organization said in a press release. Find your favorite Y classes for all ages, wherever you are at YMCA 360!
4:00pm
Tacoma Area Coalition for Individuals with Disabilities (TACID) is closed through April 1.
Due to the COVID-19 virus, TACID is closed until April 1st, 2020, at which time we will reassess the situation. Please check our website at www.tacid.org or our Facebook page, TACID online, for information and updates. I will be checking and responding to email. Thank you and stay well.
I will be checking email Nola Renz (253) 565-9000 x12
CRISIS & SUPPORT RESOURCES
If you are in immediate danger, please call 911
- Pierce County Crisis Line: If you are struggling emotionally and feel overwhelmed please call 1-800-576-7764 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- Peer Support Warm Line: When you just need someone to talk to about a problem. 1-877-780-5222 Hours: 3:00pm – 11:00pm
- Suicide Prevention Hotline: Talking about suicide is the most powerful way to reduce the risk. 1-800-273-8255 Hours: 24 hours- 7 days a week
- Crisis Text Line: Text HEAL to 741741 Sometimes it’s easier and more private to text than talk. Hours: 24 hours – 7 days a week, confidential
2:15pm
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) suspends all foreclosure and evictions for the next 60 days.
“Today’s actions will allow households who have an FHA-insured mortgage to meet the challenges of COVID-19 without fear of losing their homes, and help steady market concerns,” said HUD Secretary Ben Carson. “The health and safety of the American people is of the utmost importance to the Department, and the halting of all foreclosure actions and evictions for the next 60 days will provide homeowners with some peace of mind during these trying times.”
The guidance issued today applies to homeowners with FHA-insured Title II Single Family forward and Home Equity Conversion (reverse) mortgages, and directs mortgage servicers to:
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- Halt all new foreclosure actions and suspend all foreclosure actions currently in process; and
- Cease all evictions of persons from FHA-insured single-family properties.
See full statement and read more information about this announcement
2:00pm
Pierce County Emergency Operations Center has launched a Facebook Group to connect Faith-Based Communities responding to COVID-19 in Pierce County
In recent days, we at the Pierce County EOC have been seeing increasing requests for assistance and increasing offers of assistance in regards to responses to COVID-19. Some have (vetted) volunteers available while others need volunteers. Some churches need to restock food banks and others have food that will go bad if not put to use. An ongoing challenge has been communication. We in the faith-based community have an opportunity to come together to connect the resources to the needs, and this is a time to wrap our arms around everyone in every faith in Pierce County, leveraging our strengths to serve those in need. For this reason, we have launched a Facebook Page that intended to bring us all together here in Pierce County.
12:35pm
Updates to community services for children and families from Project Child Success – First 5 Fundamentals
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- All scheduled meetings will continue – virtually. Some of these meetings may have a shift in focus to help meet the immediate needs of the COVID-19 response. Others will remain dedicated to their original purpose. Please watch for meeting and agenda updates via email.
- The Help Me Grow Newsletter will now be sent weekly, rather than monthly. In addition to the HMG updates, it will include a section about resources to share with organizations and families. If you have information to share, please email info@first5fundamentals.org.
- Our staff will be working remotely, but are available via phone and video conference. If you need anything, please let us know.
11:45am
Updates on services in Key Peninsula from CHI Franciscan Key Peninsula Violence Prevention Coordinator, Cynthia Ricks-Maccotan
Free Meals for Students provided by Peninsula School District
Lunches will be grab and go sack lunch style, with either a sandwich or wrap with fruit, vegetables, and milk. Lunches will be provided at the following sites for pickup Monday-Friday between 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.:
· Artondale Elementary
· Evergreen Elementary – Key Peninsula location
· Purdy Elementary
· Key Peninsula Middle School – Key Peninsula location
· Gig Harbor High School.
Meal stations will be located near the front of each school to encourage social distancing. Students must be present to receive a lunch and do not need to qualify for free or reduce lunch to receive a meal. No forms or pre-registering are required. If you cannot get to one of the offered sites or your student has dietary restrictions, please contact Katie Walters at waltersk@psd401.net.
PSD will be adding breakfast soon…more info to come.
April 22nd PVPC Meeting – Virtual
I am making arrangements for us to have our April 22nd meeting virtually. More information to come.
9:45am
Tacoma Public Utilities offering support for customers in need
Tacoma’s Public Utility Board approved the creation of a new Emergency Assistance Program for low-income customers, funded for up to $1 million. The new program will support Tacoma Public Utilities (TPU) customers whose incomes are within 200 percent of federal poverty guidelines, as established by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
The Emergency Assistance Program will provide a utility credit of up to $250 for eligible singlefamily households, usable toward TPU bills. The eligibility requirements for this new program will allow more TPU customers to qualify for bill pay assistance than under the existing Bill Credit Assistance Plan (BCAP).
Customers in need can apply online or call 253-502-8600
9:30am
9:00am
Meals for Students
This interactive map shows student meal sites for school districts across Pierce County
Food for Adults/Families
Emergency Food Network is providing daily updates of food bank locations and hours
Use our interactive food pantry map to see a complete list of food pantry locations and schedules. We recommend calling a pantry to confirm hours prior to arrival.
Nourish Pierce County also offers an interactive map of food bank locations.
TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2020
6:00pm
The national Disaster Distress Helpline offers 24/7/365 crisis counseling & emotional support
24/7/365 crisis counseling & emotional support is available for anyone experiencing distress or other mental health concerns during the ongoing COVID-19 infectious disease outbreak. Calls (1-800-985-5990; press “2” for Spanish) and texts (text TalkWithUs to 66746) are answered by trained counselors from a network of independently-operated crisis centers located across the U.S.
The DDH is funded by the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration & administered by Vibrant Emotional Health. SAMHSA tip sheets available for download include
5:30pm
Tacoma/Pierce County Habitat for Humanity suspends volunteer opportunities through April 24
In the Office
Effective tomorrow, March 17, our office will be open by appointment only. Most of our administrative staff will be working remotely, as their roles allow.
On the Construction Site
We are suspending volunteer opportunities through April 24. Our staff will continue to build – under increased safety measures – as we work diligently to provide affordable housing to partner homebuyers who are depending on us.
In Habitat Stores
At this time, our three Habitat Stores remain open for business and our trucks continue to pick up donations curbside. However, we are also suspending volunteer opportunities through April 24 in the Stores. Should you drop off a donation at one of our locations, you will be asked to remain in your vehicle while our staff unloads. You will also notice our Store employees wearing gloves – a product of new policies around sanitation and hygiene.
Follow updates from Tacoma/Pierce County Habitat for Humanity
3:30pm
Peace Lutheran Church and KBTC partner to provide grab & go meals and activities for kids
Each person will receive a lite lunch, bag with educational activities and a book from our little free library.
We will be outside of Peace Lutheran Church beginning tomorrow from 11am-1 pm, and will continue each Monday, Wednesday and Friday as resources permit. Please share!
Email Brendan Nelson (brendan@peacetacoma.org) if you’d like to donate a prepackaged snack or book for our library.
3:15pm
Rebuilding Together South Sound postpones Rebuilding Day event and announces temporary changes to services
In response to the Governor’s emergency proclamation for large gatherings, advice from our National Office, and to protect the vulnerable people we serve, we have decided to postpone Rebuilding Day to Saturday, July 25th while maintaining basic office operations.
Additionally, we have suspended all projects in our Safe at Home program and will only complete exterior work through our Tacoma Home Repair program if it is possible to have no contact with the homeowner and the individuals completing the exterior repairs are symptom-free. We will not conduct home evaluations during this time, but will accept applications via mail or email.
More information from Rebuilding Together South Sound
3:00pm
Orting Haven Teen Center cancels regular programming while partnering with Orting School District to support youth in their community
At this time, The Haven Teen Center will be aligning our efforts with the Orting School District, City of Orting, and other public entities. The Haven will be taking the following steps to limit the spread of the virus.
As of March 13, Teen Center Hours will be closed and will be closed as long as the schools are. As of today this looks to be until April 24th.
– We will suspend renting our facility after Monday, March 16th. Any rentals that have already paid for rentals between March 16th – April 24th will be refunded.
-Karate at the Haven and Haven Karate Club will be suspended effective Tuesday, March 17th until April 24th. For our adult classes that pay for a membership we will issue a pro-rated refund. Sensei Jason will be posting on those FB pages as well with updates.
2:30pm
2nd Cycle, Tacoma’s community cycle center, announces temporary closure
After an open conversation with available staff at Second Cycle, we have decided that it is in the best interests of both our community and our staff to temporarily close 2nd Cycle starting today, March 17, through at least March 23, circumstances pending. We will continue to monitor the COVID-19 outbreak and make further decisions as necessary.
During our closure, staff will be onsite disinfecting our community tool space and high touch areas throughout the shop. Things are uncertain right now, but we are hopeful that we will be able to reopen with reduced services and a plan to keep our staff and community healthy.
11:55am
Mayor Victoria Woodards announces nonprofits receiving funding from the City of Tacoma will continue to receive funding.
Mayor Woodard’s press conference shared updates on COVID-19 impact in Tacoma
Updates included:
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- Health info from Anthony Chen, Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department Director
- School closures, food service, and childcare updates from Scott Heinze, Tacoma Public Schools Board President
- City Hall will be closed as of Wed 3/18 but many services are still available online
- City looking to figure out issues connected evictions and foreclosures
- Nonprofits receiving funding will continue to receive funding
- Supports for local businesses
- Supports for utility payments from TPU
- Trash pick up will continue, 911 still running, 311 still running
11:23am
Pierce County included on list of areas eligible to apply for loans from the Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration is offering designated states and territories low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital to small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19).
Any such Economic Injury Disaster Loan assistance declaration issued by the SBA makes loans available to small businesses and private, non-profit organizations in designated areas of a state or territory to help alleviate economic injury caused by the Coronavirus (COVID-19).
Find out more info about eligibility and how to apply
10:30am
Eatonville Family Agency offering basic needs support to residents in their community
As more changes happen during COVID-19 Quarantine, you may find yourself in a situation where money is getting very tight. Our bills are not going away, and for some of us work hours are being cut. Please know and share that EFA is here to help take some of that burden off your plate by continuing to run our Food Bank. We are here for YOU! Eatonville is our home, and we take pride in supporting Eatonville Families during these uncertain times. If you, or someone you know, needs their funds to go toward essential bills, let us help ease some of your food costs. Our food bank hours are:
M W Th F 9am-12pm & 12:30pm-3:00pm
Follow the signs around to the back of the building for our Drive Thru Food Bank. Please stay in your car, we will take all precautions to keep everyone as safe as possible.
10:00am
Alchemy Skateboarding temporarily cancels programs
We’re not happy about it, but we’re making due. Until further notice all Drop-in Hours are cancelled, The Alchemy After Hours Premier is being postponed, and we will post updates as they come. Look out for each other, support the businesses you can that are offering takeout/delivery and if all else fails, go ride your skateboard. Strange times are here, but we’ve got unicorns. ||
8:45am
Emergency Food Network is providing daily updates of food bank locations and hours
Use our interactive food pantry map to see a complete list of food pantry locations and schedules. We recommend calling a pantry to confirm hours prior to arrival.
Nourish Pierce County also offers an interactive map of food bank locations.
Additional info and request for volunteers from local food banks
Our Food Bank policies have been modified at least through the end of March 2020. Clients will check in at our usual ‘exit’ point nearest the parking lot (do NOT enter the building from the Sunset Street side) and receive PRE-BAGGED food.
Days and hours of operation currently remain as:
Tuesdays from 12 Noon to 3:00 PM
Thursdays from 3:30 Pm to 5:00 PM
Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 12 Noon
THANK YOU, and to accommodate your continued support.
8:35am
This interactive map shows student meal sites for school districts across Pierce County
8:30am
Eatonville School District offering grab and go meal services starting today
Meal service will be near the front entrance of these schools:
Eatonville Middle School 11:00am-12:00pm
Weyerhaeuser Elementary School 11:30am-12:30pm
Columbia Crest A-STEM Academy 12:00pm-1pm
Children must be present to receive meals
This interactive map shows student meal sites for school districts across Pierce County
MONDAY, MARCH 16, 2020
4:48pm
This interactive map shows student meal sites across Pierce County
4:25pm
Pierce County Parks cancels all indoor programs through March 31
This includes Sprinker Recreation Center, Heritage Recreation Center, Meridian Habitat Community Center, Frontier Park Lodge, Lakewood Community Center and the Environmental Services Building at Chambers Creek Regional Park.
At this time, parks, golf courses, trails and outdoor restrooms operated by Pierce County Parks are open for public use.
Read the full statement and find more info about Pierce County Parks
3:15pm
The Seattle Office of Arts & Culture (ARTS) is hosting a webinar for arts and cultural organizations and individual artists to share information and resources from the City, the State and Public Health-Seattle & King County (PHSKC) regarding COVID-19.
Tuesday, March 17 at 2:30 pm
COVID-19 Webinar
A recording will be available afterwards.
2:15pm
Hilary Ryan offers these recommendations for maintaining internal employee communications during a crisis.
Failing to keep employees in the loop during a crisis can have a high cost. With access to social media, every employee can serve as a de facto spokesperson, executing effective internal communications can help you ensure safety, minimize damage to your brand, help staff stay productive and build trust among employees.
Here are some tips to consider:
1. Identify the best channels to reach staff.
2. Provide messaging early and often.
3. Designate one (1) point person for inquires or red-flags.
4. Be open and available for questions.
5. Provide reminders about communications messaging.
Suggestions for messages include:
· Information about health and safety resources
· Updates from leadership/board
· Recommendations for Self-Care
· Updates about actions being taken at local, regional, and/or national levels by government agencies and/or associations
Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department suspends in-person services.
We are suspending most in-person services at our office at 10 a.m. today. This closure will last through March 30, 2020. We will keep you updated as we reassess the situation.
We will still provide our essential services. Our methadone clinic and vital records office remain open. The Pierce County Auditor’s office removed its staff from our vital records office last week.
Many of our services are available online:
Read the full statement and find more info from Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department
Pierce County Emergency Operation Center opens communications line for Pierce County Nonprofits
10:00am
Many local organizations have announced office closures and shifts in service provision in order to support social distancing requests from Gov. Inslee
Because of the current cluster of COVID-19 cases in our area and the increasing call for social distancing, Rainbow Center will be suspending its community hours and RC groups effective immediately through April 24th.
If you feel isolated or feel like you need someone to talk to, call us at 253-383-2318 or email us. If you reach a voicemail, one of us will call you back as soon as we can. Of course you can always communicate directly with any staff with whom you are already working. If you need confidential advocacy support, you can set an appointment.
Read the full statement and find more info about Rainbow Center
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- Clothing for men women and children
- Hygiene products women and men
- Shoes men, women and children
- Adult diapers
- Children diapers
- Underwear for men and women
- Wipes
- Pillows
- Limited furniture
- Suites for men
- Women men and children socks
- House hold goods
- Linnen
- Towels
- Baby clothes
- Blankets
- & more
Cancelled Classes & Programs
Tacoma Urban League (link to website not currently working)
Contact us with any questions or if you need our support:
-
- Call 253.593.2111 (push ‘0’) and leave a message..
- Email us at info@soundoutreach.org
- Fill out our contact form in which you can indicate the department which you’d like to reach.
- Message us on Facebook.
Metropolitan Development Council (MDC) outlines shift in provision of services
MDC will shift the way that it does its work in our community through at least March 30. A number of services will shift to an online model during this time, and more information about that will be available soon. The second floor of 721 Fawcett, 730 Fawcett, and 945 Fawcett Avenue will remain closed during this time.
Read more about specific service changes on the MDC website
SUNDAY, MARCH 15, 2020
11:10am
The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions has developed a list of financial resources for Washington consumers impacted by the Coronavirus.
9:05am
FOOD BANKS AND PANTRIES
Emergency Food Network is maintaining a page with updates of food bank openings and closures
Use our interactive food pantry map to see a complete list of food pantry locations and schedules. We recommending calling a pantry to confirm hours prior to arrival.
9:00am
Tacoma Public Utilities issued this statement
We know many in our community are concerned about the financial impacts of COVID-19. The situation in Pierce County is evolving quickly, and we are working with City leaders to provide additional resources for customers in need. Our team is here to help. We have immediately given staff authority to extend the 15 day due dates to allow 12 week payment plans and waive late fees. We expect to announce more relief early next week following consideration by our board. Learn more and submit questions at MyTPU.org/COVID19
Multi-Care sent out this reminder
MultiCare is currently offering free e-visits to anyone who has COVID-19 symptoms through MultiCare Virtual Care, where our providers will also help you navigate to the next appropriate step. Use promo code “COVID19” at the payment page to unlock the free e-visit after completing our protocol.
Raising Girls shared this update
At Raising Girls we are aware that school closures can have adverse effects on children who do not have what they need. There are girls and boys who will need personal hygiene products. We have care bags that we can get to them. If you know of students who need them please text us at 253-260-4580 or email us at info@raisinggirls.org.
8:45am
FOOD FOR STUDENTS
These are services and opportunities for students and young people to access food at this time. We are also posting all of this on our Facebook page. If you have information to share about resources or
Free meals for all Tacoma Public Schools students starting Monday, March 16
Our Nutrition Services Department will provide meals to all students affected by emergency school closures beginning Monday, March 16 at our middle school buildings.
Meals will be served between 10 a.m. and noon.
Each student will receive two meals: lunch for the day and breakfast for the following morning.
Please enter through the school’s bus loading zone. Our Nutrition Services staff will serve drive-thru style. Walk-ups are also welcome.
Please look for our onsite sandwich boards for additional directions.
The Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department has approved this process for meal distribution, which avoids people congregating in one area.
CLICK HERE FOR A GOOGLE MAP OF ALL FREE BREAKFAST AND LUNCH SITES
University Place School District
• — University Place + Fircrest Families — •
The district will begin food service for all University Place school-age students who need it on Monday, March 16th at Evergreen Primary, Narrows View Intermediate, Chambers Primary and University Place Primary schools. School cafeterias at these schools will be open Monday-Friday from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM to provide lunch and the next day’s breakfast (in a bag) for students. If you can’t get your student to these schools – at these times- please contact your school. We will expand services if needed.
•Parents in Healthcare Field + First Responders•
The district will provide additional support so that these parents can continue doing their vital work. If parents working in these fields need help caring for their school-age children, please contact our Executive Director of Primary Education, Becky Owens, at bowens@upsd83.org or contact your student’s school.
Free meals will be delivered via school bus for all Fife Public Schools students impacted by school closures.
See this link for additional food pantry and student meal options: https://www.efoodnet.org/food-pantry-updates/
Steilacoom Historical School District No.1
Steilacoom Historical School District No. 1 is offering free breakfast & lunch to anyone under 18, beginning Monday, March 16.
Sumner-Bonney Lake School District
Meals
Weekday Meal Pickup: Grab-and-go meals will be available to all students under the age of 18 starting Monday, March 16. Locations for March 16-20 are as follows:
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- Daffodil Valley Elementary | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | 1509 Valley Ave, Sumner
- Liberty Ridge Elementary | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | 12202 209th Ave Ct E, Bonney Lake
No forms or registration are required. Students can drop by to pick up breakfast and lunch.
Weekend Backpack Food Delivery: SBLSD is continuing its Backpack Program in which low-income students receive a bag of nutritious, easy-to-prepare food on Fridays to last over the weekend. District staff will deliver these bags of food to families who already receive this service. We thank the Sumner and Bonney Lake food banks for their continued dedication to serving our students in need.
Childcare
SBLSD will provide free childcare for families who are first responders (police, fire, paramedics, EMTs), healthcare providers or uniformed service members. Childcare is available for children ages 0 to 11.
For families who meet this criteria and seek childcare service, please fill out this form. After the District reviews the scope of needs, we will determine your childcare location (Valley: Sumner, Hill: Bonney Lake).
PSD is offering free meals for all students 18 and under starting Tuesday, March 17. For details, go to psd401.net
Breakfast and Lunch Service – March 16, 2020 – April 24, 2020.Access to breakfast and lunch service will continue. All children, ages 0 – 18 years old, from any school location, any attendance area, any site can receive meals for free. Meals will be served at Firgrove, Stewart, Waller Road, and Wildwood elementary schools, during the 11:00am – 11:30am service time. Read more.
Franklin-Pierce School District
Franklin Pierce Schools will host 30 meal sites M-F during the school closure. All children and youth are welcome to pick up a grab n’ go lunch and breakfast for the next morning.
Visit www.fpschools.org/meals for more information and to view the meal site map.
BREAKFAST AND LUNCH SERVICE: Access to breakfast and lunch service will continue throughout the closure. All school-age children through 18-years-old can receive meals for free. More details to come.
FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2020
4:45pm
Local library systems announce temporary building closures:
The Pierce County Library System’s buildings are closed to the public starting, Saturday, March 14, to help slow the spread of the novel coronavirus pandemic 2019 (COVID-19).
Starting, Friday, March 13, the Library System will stop charging fines on overdue books and materials, to give people grace during this disruptive time.
See full statement and follow updates from Pierce County Libraries
Effective Saturday, March 14, all Tacoma Public Library locations will be closed until further notice.
Fines will not be accrued during the closure and book drops will remain open for patrons to return materials. At the time of this release, the library system was still evaluating how it will process holds.
Valuable online resources are available to all card holders. Parents and caregivers affected by school closures should be aware that Tacoma Public Schools students can use their student ID number to access
See full statement and follow updates from Tacoma Public Library
2:45pm
Several local Museums and Arts organizations announce temporary closures:
Effective at 5 pm on Friday, March 13, Tacoma Art Museum will be temporarily closed to public, volunteers, and staff through Tuesday, March 31. Following the guidance and directive from public health officials as an action to mitigate the spread and severity of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in our community, TAM’s board has made this difficult decision.
See full announcement and follow TAM updates
Washington State History Museum
- As of 5:00 PM, March 12, the State History Museum is closing to the public for the time being. Our museum is a place of experiential learning, full of interactive exhibits and touchable objects. We would not serve our visitors with a “please don’t touch” approach. Our goal is to bring visitors together for meaningful conversation, not remind them to stay six feet apart.
- The State Research Center is also closed to the public for the time being.
- School field trips and public programs continue to be canceled for the remainder of March.
- We have paused new field trip reservations and facility rentals for private events during March.
Follow Updates from Washington State History Museum
In light of the governor’s emergency proclamation which will temporarily limit public gatherings in our region, Tacoma Historical Society has made the difficult decision to temporarily close our museum at 919 Pacific, and to cancel the Historic Homes of Tacoma Tour which had been scheduled for the weekend of May 2-3, 2020. We hope to be able to announce a rescheduling of the Tour for later in the year.
See full announcement and follow updates from Tacoma Historical Society
In order to comply with Governor Inslee’s orders and recommendations and to protect the health and safety of our patrons, as of Monday, March 16, The Grand Cinema will close operations, with a few exceptions, for at least two weeks.
See full announcement and follow updates from The Grand Cinema
1:00pm
Metropolitan Development Council buildings will close through Friday, March 13
Metropolitan Development Council learned on March 9 that an MDC employee who was displaying symptoms of coronavirus COVID-19 was tested for the virus and is presumed positive awaiting results of the test. As a result, three MDC buildings will close through Thursday, March 13, for deep cleaning.
These closures will temporarily interrupt services including outpatient counseling at The Center, Energy Assistance, Weatherization, and the Child Care Food Program. Employees working in those programs will do work that they can from home, but the closures will impact client access to these programs through March 13.
Follow updates from Metropolitan Development Council
10:35am
The Grand Cinema, South Sound’s nonprofit home for independent, international, and local film continues operation with extra measures in place.
Here are the current measures we are taking to prevent the spread of infection and support your health when you join us for films this month.
- Extra cleaning. Employees and volunteers are cleaning and wiping down touch surfaces like counters, door handles, and railings more frequently. Concessions volunteers are using gloves to serve you. We have a nightly cleaning service paying extra attention to all of our frequently touched areas.
- Screening for symptoms. We are screening all employees and volunteers for COVID-19 symptoms daily (fever, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat).
- Limit on seats. We are selling no more than 50% of our seats per theater to allow social distancing during screenings. Thank you for your understanding, as popular showtimes will fill up quicker than usual.
Read the full statement from The Grand Cinema
9:35am
Bethel School District will start their school closure on Tuesday, March 17 2020:
You may notice some school districts are closing as of this Friday. We have chosen to follow the Governor’s direction to give our families an additional day to plan for this difficult transition. If you choose to keep your student home on Friday or Monday, the absence will be excused.
We want to encourage parents, students, and staff to retrieve medication and other essential personal items that they need to have with them before schools are closed.
We are finalizing plans to support our families during the closure in the following ways:
Providing meals to our students who qualify for free or reduced-price meals.
Providing learning support materials and online learning resources. These are not meant to be a replacement for classroom instruction, but will help students practice their skills and learn independently during the closure.
We will be sending updates with information and resources via robocall, email, and text messages. We will also post them on our district website.
Follow ongoing updates from Bethel School District
8:35am
Puyallup School District will continue to provide food service during the closure from March 16 – April 24
Breakfast and Lunch Service – March 16, 2020 – April 24, 2020.
Access to breakfast and lunch service will continue.
All children, ages 0 – 18 years old, from any school location, any attendance area, any site can receive meals for free.
Meals will be served at the following locations:
Firgrove, Stewart, Waller Road, and Wildwood elementary schools, during the 11:00am – 11:30am service time.
Follow ongoing updates from Puyallup School District
THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2020
6:35pm
Metro Parks Tacoma announced the following updates regarding facilities, rentals, and parks:
These facilities will close at the end of their regular schedule on Friday, March 13:
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- Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium
- Northwest Trek Wildlife Park
- All four community centers (Eastside, STAR, People’s, Norpoint)
- Tacoma Nature Center
- W.W. Seymour Conservatory
- Fort Nisqually Living History Museum
- All programs are canceled, including indoor, outdoor, and volunteer work parties.
- All rentals — including community center rooms, the Point Defiance Pagoda, Titlow Lodge, Wapato and Dune pavilions, etc. — are canceled. We will work with renters to reschedule or give full refunds.
These decisions are effective through March 31. In the meantime, we will continue evaluating the situation with public health authorities and other partners.
Parks will be maintained and open during their regular operating hours.
Check here for updates to Metro Parks programs & facilities
6:30pm
Museum of Glass is still currently operating under normal schedule but has postponed or cancelled the following events:
March 14/15: Hands-on workshop: Fusing – canceled
March 19: Third Thursday (5–8pm): Hot Shop access has been canceled. The galleries will be open until 8pm.
March 21: Ninth annual Slider Cook-off (6:30–10pm) – postponed, details to follow as they become available.
March 28: Tacoma Night Market at MOG (5–10pm) – canceled
March 28/29: Hands-on workshop: Blow Your Own Egg – canceled
As a non-profit organization, these changes were not arrived at lightly. They affect the livelihoods of independent artists, restaurants, non-profits, and our community at large — all of which are being impacted significantly by this unprecedented situation.
Find out more information about Museum of Glass updates
5:00pm
Local Library Systems Announce System Changes
Tacoma Public Library has cancelled all programs, events, and meeting room bookings through April 30:
All programs, events, and meeting room reservations are canceled through April 30, 2020. This includes outreach programs.
Tacoma Public Library has increased disinfection practices, removed toys from the children’s area, and is implementing and encouraging social distancing in the libraries.
Please check back on this website for updates.
Pierce County Library has made the following changes to library services:
To help slow the spread of this pandemic, we are making the following changes to library services:
- Canceling all classes and events in libraries, such as story times, author visits, computer classes and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) events, currently through April 30.
- Postponing Pierce County READS, the Library’s community-one book program, with the best-selling author Amy Stewart, which was scheduled for March 28. The Library plans to reschedule this event for the fall.
- Canceling all public meetings in public meeting rooms.
- Closing all conference rooms to the public.
- Asking staff and visitors to keep a 4-6 foot distance from each other while using the library.
Find out more information about updates and services
4:55pm
Tacoma Public Schools announces their Nutrition Services Department will provide meals for all TPS students starting Monday, March 16:
Tacoma Public Schools Nutrition Services Department will provide meals to all students affected by emergency school closures beginning Monday, March 16 at our middle school buildings.
Meals will be served between 10 a.m. and noon.
Each student will receive two meals: lunch for the day and breakfast for the following morning.
Please enter through the school’s bus loading zone. Our Nutrition Services staff will serve drive-thru style. Walk-ups are also welcome.
Please look for our onsite sandwich boards for additional directions.
View a map of the school locations where meals will be served
The Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department has approved this process for meal distribution, which avoids people congregating in one area.
2:15pm
Gov. Jay Inslee announced today that all public and private K-12 schools in King, Snohomish and Pierce counties will close for the next six weeks. GTCF is sharing this information here recognizing that his closure will impact many local nonprofits:
Schools will close from Tuesday, March 15 through Friday, April 24. The timing will coincide with spring break for most Washington school districts.
“We do not take these decisions lightly and I am fully aware of the various impacts this has on families and communities,” Inslee said today during an Olympia press conference. “Today’s decision has a full range of implications from learning plans and childcare, to free and reduced-price breakfast and lunch, just to name a few. I anticipate this will cause ripple effects throughout our state. But we can’t afford not to do it. We must ensure that we slow the spread of this virus.”
Read more about this announcement
2:02pm
Tacoma Arts live shared the following updates regarding postponed events at their locations:
Dear Friends,
Following Governor Inslee’s mandate for immediate prohibition around public gatherings and events of more than 250 people, Tacoma Arts Live will be postponing all events scheduled from March 11 through April 5, 2020. Our team is carefully navigating the postponement of more than a dozen events. If you have tickets to one of these events, please wait for our Box Office to contact you with more details by phone or email in the coming days.
We ask for your patience as we balance the needs of our community, employees, and artists in this financially stressful situation.
We are grateful for your loyalty and are working diligently to ensure that you remain an important part of Tacoma Arts Live.
We Need Your Help! As you can imagine, this closure represents a profound financial loss for Tacoma Arts Live. Support Tacoma Arts Live today with a financial contribution and sustain us in a very uncertain time. CLICK TO DONATE TODAY.
Thank you for your loyalty. Stay healthy, Tacoma Arts Live
Tacoma Arts Live COVID-19 Updates
1:25pm
Small to mid-size nonprofits without Communications of HR staff are requesting guidance on how to communicate with staff about potential closures or changes to operating hours:
One of the things that would be really helpful is some guidance or examples of how organizations are communicating potential closures and operational disruption with staff. For small to mid-sized organizations that do not have a full-time communication person or HR person it can be difficult. And, a lot of nonprofits have hourly staff which may be affected the most.
So far, this is the best resource that we have found: The Washington Employment Security Department has adopted a series of emergency rules to relieve the burden of temporary layoffs, isolation and quarantine for workers and businesses. This easy-to-read comparison guide lists some of the most common scenarios that may occur and benefits that may apply. You can find more on the ESD website
12:04pm
Tacoma Art Museum shared the following updates regarding hours of operation and temporary cancellation of public programming:
Dear TAM members and friends-
Your health and safety is our greatest concern. During this unpresented time as COVID-19 (Coronavirus) spreads in Washington State, we are closely monitoring this fluid situation. At this time, TAM will continue to be open for our regular schedule (Tuesday – Sunday 10 am to 5 pm and every Thursday until 8 pm). Admission will be limited to 250 visitors at any one time.
In order to maintain a safe environment and follow Governor Jay Inslee’s mandate, TAM has taken the following actions:
TAM has increased cleaning to two (2) daily disinfection processes in both public and administrative areas.
TAM has cancelled or postponed all public programming effective until the end of March. This includes school field trips, weekly Neighborhood Night programming, Second Saturday Studio and Storytime (March14), Teen Night (March 27), and mural coloring.
We are actively following the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the Washington State Department of Health, as well as, Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department recommendations. We will announce any other changes to Museum programs or operations through all our regular channels including social media and website.
If events, fundraisers or plans are cancelled at nonprofit organizations that you support, please consider making an online donation.
We appreciate your support.
11:45am
COVID-19 and the necessary public health measures to address it are disrupting nonprofit fundraising events. The events listed below have been postponed in support of the community wide effort to slow the outbreak of COVID-19.
(originally scheduled for March 21)
POSTPONED Level Up! Learners to Leaders – Peace Community Center
(originally scheduled for March 27)
GTCF is donating the ticket price of any cancelled events GTCF already committed to attend and will double the donation GTCF intended to make at the event.
11:30am
Washington Nonprofits offers these Coronavirus Response Resources for Nonprofits
The Russell Family Foundations offers A Message of Support to Our Community – COVID-19
501 Commons and Tech Impact teamed up to launch a brand new website dedicated to helping organizations adapt their work practices in this unforeseen emergency.
Tacoma’s JayRay offers these tips for communicating during COVID-19
8:30am
Emergency Food Network shared this update in regards to changing their Recognition Breakfast today to an online event:
Out of care and caution for our community, Emergency Food Network has decided to change our Recognition Breakfast to an online event. We are grateful for everyone’s patience and understanding through this change. Please enjoy this message from our Chief Executive Officer, Michelle Douglas.
And don’t worry about food from the event going to waste. We worked with our caterer, Snuffin’s Catering, to provide the food that would have been served at Recognition Breakfast to our friends at The Tacoma Rescue Mission to help our neighbors in need.
We are asking today for your help. Our goal today was to raise $25,000 at this event. These funds are now more essential than ever. We are in a rapidly shifting landscape for emergency food distribution and we are doing everything in our power to be responsive and ready for what is next. Please join us by donating to provide diverse, consistent, and nutritious food to our neighbors in need. We are all in this together.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11, 2020
This page has just been launched. It will be updated daily with notifications we receive. Nonprofits and community service providers can share service changes, event cancellations, impacts, needs, and stories to info@gtcf.org.