COVID-19 UPDATE
05/06/2021
Next update will be issued Friday,
May 14th.
PORTSMOUTH EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
OFFICE
Phone: (401) 643-0350
In an Emergency dial 911
Email: covid@portsmouthri.com
All
personal identifiable information received will be held strictly confidential
SITUATION TO DATE:
·
World
(Center for Systems Science and
Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University)
o
Total Cases: 155,425,409
o
Recovered: 91,835,850
o
Deaths: 3,246,844
·
USA
(Center for Systems Science and
Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University)
o
Total Cases: 32,573,436
o
Recovered: Not Available
o
Deaths: 579,572
·
Rhode
Island
(RI Department of Health, as of May 6th)
o
Total
Cases: 149,384
o
Hospitalized: 118
o
Deaths: 2,685
·
Aquidneck
Island
(RI Department of Health, as of May 6th)
o
Cumulative
Cases: 4797
Includes
Prudence Island: 6
o
Deaths 25
·
Staff
o
Active
Cases: 0
o
Quarantined: 0
o
Deaths: 0
TODAY’s INFORMATION:
·
REMINDER: Changing Capacity Limits at Public Meetings and
Other Events: Tomorrow, May, 7, capacity limits will increase at a number of
different venues -- generally 80% of capacity with a 3-foot distancing
requirement. An overview is available at https://reopeningri.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/MAY-GUIDANCE.jpg and https://reopeningri.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Protect-Your-Household-Guidance.pdf. We
expect additional/updated guidance, which will be at https://reopeningri.com/.
·
MASK WEARING: Fully
vaccinated people no longer have to wear a mask outdoors when they are at least
three feet apart from others. Fully vaccinated means you’ve gotten all
recommended doses of a COVID-19 vaccine authorized by the United States Food
and Drug Administration (FDA) or World Health Organization (WHO) and more than
14 days have passed since the final dose.
o
Someone is considered fully vaccinated 14 days
after their final recommended dose. A crowded setting is defined as one where
someone cannot consistently maintain three feet of distance.
o
People still need to wear masks when indoors in
public settings. Additionally, people should keep their groups consistent and
avoid crowds whenever possible.
·
VACCINATION
CLINIC FOR THE HIGH SCHOOL AGE GROUP OF 16 – 18 IN PORTSMOUTH SCHOOLS: The Town of Portsmouth and the Portsmouth
School Department will be working in cooperation to host a local COVID-19
vaccination clinic for the High School age group of 16 to 18 year olds in
Portsmouth schools. The vaccine to be
provided is the Pfizer vaccine. This is
a 2-dose vaccination and will require the students to get a second vaccine
three weeks later. The clinic will be
held at the Portsmouth High School (New Gymnasium) 120 Education Ln.,
Portsmouth, RI:
o
1st Dose
will be held May 7, 2021 from 12 noon to 5 PM
o
2nd Dose
will be held May 28, 2021 from 12 noon to 5 PM
Who is eligible?
o
Students
age 16 and older. If a student under age
16 registers for an appointment, they will be removed from the scheduling
system without notification.
Vaccine Information
o
Pfizer
Vaccine. Click here for information.
o
Click here for FAQs.
To Register
o
Use this link to schedule your appointment.
o
The
registration link for the second dose will be given out at the 1st dose clinic after
you have received your 1st vaccination.
·
STATE
BEACHES SOON TO REOPEN TO FULL CAPACITY: Scarborough North and Roger Wheeler state
beaches will open the weekend of May 15.
Most others will be fully opened by Memorial Day weekend.
·
DOSES
TO BE RELEASED ON DAILY BASIS: The state is
moving away from releasing thousands of appointments on VaccinateRI.org on
Tuesday mornings and Friday evenings. Instead, the state will start posting
smaller batches on a daily basis, as well as creating more opportunities for
getting a shot without an appointment. The
state-run clinics in Providence, Cranston and Middletown will offer walk-up
vaccinations on the following dates and times:
o
Cranston
(100 Sockanosset Cross Road): Tuesday through Saturday from 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.
o
Providence
(Dunkin’ Donuts Center): Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
o
Middletown
(1400 West Main Road): Wednesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
·
PHASE OUT OF BUSINESS RESTRICTION AND
OTHER MANDATES: Beginning Friday,
May 7, the indoor capacity limit for restaurants, stores, and other businesses
and services will increase to 80%. Then, on May 28, the capacity limit will be
lifted completely, along with the limit on social gatherings. Additionally, there will no longer be a cap
on the number of people per table at restaurants.
·
SPORTS SPECTATORS: Starting next Monday, April 26, spectators
outside of student-athletes’ immediate families can attend athletic events, and
high-risk indoor sports such as wrestling can resume competition.
·
CURRENT STATE
GUIDANCE REGARDING COVID:
Mask Wearing:
o
Beginning May 7: Required
indoors and if less than 3ft spacing outdoors
o
Beginning May 28: Required indoors and if less than 3ft spacing outdoors
Indoor Dining:
o
Beginning May 7: 80%
indoors, 100% outdoors, 3ft spacing
o
Beginning May 28: 100% capacity, 3ft spacing indoors
Bar Areas:
o
Beginning May 7: For indoors: seated-only and Plexiglas required
o
Beginning May 28: Indoor standing service, no Plexiglas required
Catered Events:
o
Beginning May 7: 80% up to 200 indoors, 500 outdoors,
recommended/required
Testing (required for student catered events),
outdoor only: standing bar service and cocktail hours
o
Beginning May 28: 100% capacity w/ no cap, indoor standing bar service and
cocktail
hours, open dance floors
Houses of Worship:
o
Beginning May 7: 80% capacity, 3ft spacing
o
Beginning May 28: 100% Capacity, 3ft spacing indoors
Retail:
o
Beginning May 7: 80% capacity, 3ft spacing
o
Beginning May 28: 100% capacity, 3ft spacing indoors
Gyms, Sports & Rec:
o
Beginning May 7: 80% capacity, 3ft spacing
o
Beginning May 28: 100% capacity, 3ft spacing indoors
Personal Services:
o
Beginning May 7: 80% capacity, 3ft spacing
o
Beginning May 28: 100% capacity, 3ft spacing indoors
Venues of Assembly:
o
Beginning May 7: 80% up to 500 indoors, no cap outdoors, 3ft spacing
DBR/municipal approval for 2,500 events
o
Beginning May 28: 100% with no cap, 3ft spacing indoors
DBR/municipal approval for 2,500 events
Funeral Homes:
o
Beginning May 7: 80% capacity, 3ft spacing
o
Beginning May 28: 100% capacity, 3ft spacing indoors
Offices:
o
Beginning May 7: 80% capacity, 3ft spacing
o
Beginning May 28: 100% capacity, 3ft spacing indoors
Social Gatherings:
o
Beginning May 7: Up to 25 people indoors, 75 people outdoors
o
Beginning May 28: No limit
Youth Sports:
o
Beginning April 26: Expanded Youth Sports attendance; high-risk indoor sports
permitted to have competitions
o
Beginning May 28: Out-of-state teams can attend in-state tournaments
·
VACCINE
INFORMATION:
o ELIGIBILITY: All Rhode Islanders age 16 may register for
vaccinations. More information about
vaccinations, including information about the Johnson & Johnson vaccine
pause, is available at https://covid.ri.gov/vaccination.
o
FREE RIPTA RIDES TO VACCINATION SITES:
Governor McKee has announced RIPTA will be providing free rides to
vaccination sites. People who are
interested can get more information by calling RIPTA customer service at 401-781-9400.
o PREREGISTRATION FOR VACCINE: The state is phasing out its preregistration
system since everyone who’s signed up has already gotten vaccinated. People who sign up on portal.ri.gov between now and Sunday, May 2, will still
get an appointment.
o HOW TO GET VACCINATED: The main ways people will be able to get
vaccinated are: State-run vaccination
centers, designated local pharmacies, and other local and regional vaccination
sites, like some hospitals and healthcare systems, community health centers,
and other sites in the community. Everyone will be following the same
vaccination timeline and eligibility requirements. However, some will move through their priority
populations at different speeds due to population size and operational
capacity. State Run Vaccination Sites. Eligible Rhode Islanders
as well as those 16 to 64 with
underlying health conditions (to see the eligible underlying health
conditions, review the list published by the RI Department of Health) can register for an appointment at
any of the State-run vaccination sites.
§ Registering for Vaccination at a State-run
Site. To register to be vaccinated
at one of the State-run sites, visit VaccinateRI.org.
People who cannot register online can get help by calling the automated
line at 844-930-1779.
§ Check
to see if an appointment is needed at roughly 80 CVS, Walgreens, Walmart and
Stop & Shop pharmacy locations around Rhode Island currently offering
vaccinations.
o 211 SUPPORT FOR VACCINATION REGISTRATION. People who live, work, or go to school in
Rhode Island can now get additional support when scheduling a COVID-19 vaccine
appointment. People can call 2-1-1 to talk to a live, trained person who can
offer help in multiple languages when scheduling appointments or signing up for
the COVID-19 Vaccine Interest Notification List on portal.ri.gov. This help is available 24 hours a day,
seven days a week. For more information about COVID-19 vaccination in Rhode
Island, visit RIDOH’s COVID-19 Vaccine page.
o
HOMEBOUND COVID VACCINATIONS
STARTED. Private vendors have been contracted to provide
COVID vaccinations to those who have completed the RI Health Sept Survey at http://bit.ly/homeboundvax. The
three vendors (MedTech, Alert Ambulance and PACERI) have begun scheduling and
performing homebound vaccinations. Residents
who completed the online survey may receive calls from one of these three
vendors (MedTech, Alert Ambulance, and PACERI) in order to schedule a date and time
to receive their vaccination at the address they provided. We understand some individuals are skeptical
of receiving unsolicited calls, especially those who are elderly and have been
targeted by scammers in the past. If you
completed the survey and are contacted by one of these vendors, it is a
legitimate call and you should work with the vendor to schedule your appointment
as soon as possible. Please do not contact the vendors directly. If you or someone you know is homebound,
please be sure you have completed the survey at http://bit.ly/homeboundvax.
o COVID-19 VACCINE RECORD LOOKUP. Rhode Islanders can now get a copy of
their COVID-19 vaccine record through portal.ri.gov/VaccineRecord. From
this website, you can search for and print proof of your COVID-19 vaccination. If you need a second dose of vaccine, this
record will tell you when you are eligible to get your second dose. Please note that only people who have received
their COVID-19 vaccination in Rhode Island will be able to look up their
vaccination record online.
PLEASE NOTE:
·
PORTSMOUTH STATE OF EMERGENCY. The Portsmouth State of Emergency
Declaration issued March 16, 2020 has been extended through May 13, 2021.
o
Town Hall remains closed. Business is being conducted online or via
phone.
§
In person service is by appointment only.
o The
original declaration can be found here.
o The
extension order can be found here.
·
SCHOOLS & CHILD CARE. On April 26, after the April school break,
schools may reduce the distance between students to 3 feet (from 6 feet) and
childcare centers may return to 100% capacity. Masks will still be
required. Childcare centers may apply
for grant assistance at http://kids.ri.gov/
·
TESTING: RIDOH is emphasizing the need for continued
testing, especially with the prevalence of new, more contagious variants. More information on testing, including testing
sites statewide, is available at https://covid.ri.gov/testing.
·
RI
QUARANTINE REQUIREMENTS. Quarantine
if you have been in close contact with someone with COVID-19. Close contact means you have been within 6
feet of someone with COVID-19 for a total of 15 minutes in a 24-hour period.
o 14 Days: Recommended for residents and
staff of long-term care facilities and immunocompromised persons.
o 10 Days with no testing: Quarantine at
home for ten days. Released from
quarantine after 10 days but watch for symptoms and be cautious.
o 7 Days with testing: Quarantine at home
for seven days. Released from quarantine
after receiving negative test result, but watch for symptoms and be cautious.
·
AVOID
COVID-19 VACCINE SCAMS. As COVID-19
vaccine distribution begins, here are signs of potential scams:
o You
are asked to pay out of pocket to get the vaccine.
o You
are asked to pay to put your name on a vaccine waiting list or to get early
access.
o Advertisements
for vaccines through social media platforms, email, telephone calls, online, or
from unsolicited/unknown sources.
o Marketers
offering to sell or ship doses of the vaccine for payment.
Protect
Yourself. Do not give out your personal information to unknown sources. If you believe you have been the victim of COVID-19
fraud, immediately report it to:
o HHS-OIG
Hotline: 1-800-HHS-TIPS or online at tips.hhs.gov
o FBI
Hotline: 1-800-CALL-FBI or online at ic3.gov
o CMS/Medicare
Hotline: 1-800-MEDICARE
·
UNEMPLOYMENT
INSURANCE FRAUD. The Department of
Labor and Training is increasing efforts to detect and combat UI fraud. They
have implemented artificial intelligence analysis of applications and DLT is no
longer automatically approving applications from employers that pay claims
directly (rather than through the UI payroll tax).
·
EVERYONE IS
ENCOURAGED TO GET TESTED. Every
Rhode Islander is encouraged to get tested through the PORTAL. Individuals do not need
to belong to a certain age group or industry to qualify. The State has also
reserved 3,000 more tests daily on PORTAL.RI.GOV for people with symptoms.
o TEST RESULTS. If you have received a COVID-19 test and
are awaiting results, go to https://portal.ri.gov/covidtestresults/s/. You do not need to wait for an email
directing you to the site.
o COVID-19 SCREENING. COVID-19 screening is now available by
appointment at the Dunkin’ Donuts Center in Providence. Screening at this
location will be done using the BinaxNOW test, which is a type of rapid test
that results in about 15 minutes. Appointments are required and can be
scheduled in advance on portal.ri.gov.
§ Results
for this type of test at this location will only be communicated verbally.
Testing at this location should only be used as a screening tool for people
without symptoms. Rhode Islanders requiring proof of a negative test result for
travel-related purposes should schedule a PCR test at a different
location.
·
PLEASE STAY HOME IF YOU ARE SICK. Restrictions in Rhode Island are not
easing up during the coronavirus pandemic until numbers of new coronavirus
cases start going down. Of the new cases
that have been examined, many of these people who tested positive had been to
work while sick. Please call
866-487-9243 if your current employer forces you to work when sick.
·
FLU SEASON AND FLU SHOTS. The Governor has issued a plea for all
Rhode Islanders to get a flu vaccination shot this season. The goal is to avoid a situation where the
flu and COVID are straining our health care system simultaneously.
·
GUIDANCE
ON VISITATION TO HOSPITALS AND NURSING HOMES.
Anyone who isn’t sick can visit people in hospitals after going
through a screening process, which is less restrictive than previously when
visitors were allowed only for specific reasons, such as end-of-life
visitation. Similarly, visitation will
be allowed at nursing homes and assisted-living facilities if the facility
hasn’t had any new COVID-19 cases within the past two weeks. Facilities with an
outbreak of more than two people are expected to contact the Health Department
to discuss visitation guidelines.
·
CONTACT TRACING. The Governor and Public Health Official
are urging everyone to keep track of the places you visit each day and the
names of people you encounter. If you
get sick, you will be expected to give those records to the R.I. Health
Department, so public health officials can track down others who might have
also been exposed to the disease.
o CRUSH
COVID RI APP. The State has released
a new update of the Crush COVID mobile app designed to track people’s
locations, monitor their symptoms and connect them with services and testing. The app is named “CRUSH COVID RI” and can be
downloaded at the Apple App store or Google Play. The app offers users a way to track their
travel histories and making it easier for state health officials to analyze how
the disease might be spreading after someone tests positive.
o The
latest update allows users to track and log symptoms for everyone in their
household.
o It
is totally voluntary, and the location tracking is user controlled.
o The
app can be used even if the user opts not to share their location data.
·
THE PORTSMOUTH EMERGENCY FOOD BANK.
o PLEASE NOTE: No
longer send donations to Town Hall or mail to Town of Portsmouth for the
Food Bank! Please see below for
instructions on how to support the Food Bank going forward.
o Food Bank Location: St. John’s Lodge
No. 1, 81 Sprague Street, Portsmouth.
People in need or donating food may come to the parking lot and follow
the signs.
o Operating
Hours: Wednesday and Friday 10 AM to
4 PM to get or donate food.
o Contact
the Emergency Food Bank: Call Scott
Jamieson at 401-835-3819 (or email stjohns1foodbank@gmail.com) if you have any questions or need
information.
o To
Get Food: Enter the marked food lane
at the Food Bank. A Food Bank volunteer will come out to your car to assist
you. Please do not park or get out of your vehicle. Unfortunately, we are only
able to provide food for one family per vehicle without prior
arrangements. We may ask for some type
of identification, but the Food Bank is available to ALL in need and NOT
restricted to Portsmouth residents.
o
To Donate Food. Donations are most truly
appreciated. Non-perishable, non-expired food items can be dropped off anytime
between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM Wednesday and/or Friday. Bring your donation to
the lodge parking lot, follow the signs and a volunteer will come out to your
car to receive it. Please do not park or exit your vehicle.
Items
needed are such things as: cereal, pancake mix, syrup, mac & cheese, peanut
butter, jelly, powdered milk, baked beans, canned fruit, pasta sauce, canned
pasta, canned vegetables, canned tuna or chicken, crackers, Minute Rice
packages, canned soups, coffee, tea, hot chocolate, or similar.
o To
Make a Monetary Donation: Make
checks payable to the “St. John’s Lodge”. Note “Food Bank” on the check and
either hand-deliver to the Food Bank or mail to “St. John’s Lodge #1, P.O. Box
587, Portsmouth, RI 02871. Please hand deliver cash donations directly at the
Food Bank at St. John’s Lodge, 81 Sprague. Gift
Cards to area markets will also be accepted and used primarily to purchase
needed items for the Food Bank supply.
·
OUT-OF-STATE TRAVEL. If you are planning to travel to a state
that requires a COVID-19 test in order to avoid extended quarantine, you can
schedule a test through portal.ri.gov. Individuals will receive their results
within 24-48 hours.
o Rhode
Islanders who travel to or from the states with a positivity rate greater than
5% must quarantine for 14 days upon arrival in Rhode Island and schedule an
asymptomatic test.
o If
you are traveling to Rhode Island from one of these states with a COVID-19 positivity rate of higher
than 5%, you must quarantine for 14 days and self-monitor for symptoms. RIDOH
recommends those people get tested for COVID-19 in their home state, if
possible. RIDOH is asking out-of-state
visitors to complete this certificate of compliance with out-of-state travel quarantine/testing
requirements upon arriving in Rhode Island and complete this out-of-state travel screening form.
o As
an exception, you may provide proof of a negative test for COVID-19 that was
taken within 72 hours prior to arrival in Rhode Island.
o People
visiting Rhode Island from out-of-state can find a place for asymptomatic
testing at this link.
·
DUE TO THE IMPACTS UPON OUR HOUSEHOLDS BY
COVID 19, Portsmouth established a team of volunteers ready to provide
families with information and access to essential services. Residents may seek assistance by completing a
COVID-19 Wellness Survey that can be found by clicking here , or
may call the WELLNESS CENTER HOTLINE at (401) 643-0444.
o The
survey may also be completed online at https://bit.ly/PEMA-COV19-Wellness-Survey
o
This survey is voluntary participation is
optional, but we highly encourage responses.
o
You may
contact the WELLNESS HOTLINE and leave a message any time. The Center is staffed workdays and messages
are checked daily during regular Town Hall business hours.
o
The Team is
presently updating its operational guidelines so that it may also serve during
other major emergencies such as Hurricanes.
o
If you have questions about this initiative, or
like to participate as a volunteer member of the team, please feel free to call
Ray Perry, CEM, our Town Emergency Manager, at
401-477-2172 or e-mail him at COVID@portsmouthri.com
INFORMATION WHICH IS STILL
CURRENT
ORDERS,
CLOSURES and SERVICES
·
EXECUTIVE ORDERS. All RI Executive Orders can be found here.
·
TOWN HALL.
To ensure the safety of town employees due to the risk of
COVID infection and in compliance with applicable Governor’s executive orders, Town
Hall business is being conducted online or via phone. In person service is by appointment only,
and only if pre-arranged with the appropriate department. Contact details for each Town Department can
be found at the Town website by clicking here.
·
PORTSMOUTH LIBRARY. Portsmouth Free Public Library has
increased its service hours. Hours are
now Monday & Tuesday from 9 AM to 8 PM, Wednesday through Friday 9 AM to 5
PM, and Saturday 9 AM to 1 PM. Patrons
are requested to limit their visits to 30 minutes. Masks are required and social distancing must
be maintained. 7 public access computers
are available for use by appointment or on a space available basis. Browsing is allowed but “Grab and Go” service
is also available for those who prefer it.
For further information, please call the Library at 683-9457.
o
You can still download books and audio. Find
out more here. Additionally,
Portsmouth Free Public Library will fulfill requests for materials and have
them ready for “Grab and Go” service right inside the entrance. Items may be requested via phone at 683-9457
x 2 or via email at porlibref@gmail.com. The items must show as AVAILABLE in the
online catalog at www.portsmouthlibrary.org.
o
Wi-Fi is available 24/7 in the library parking
lot.
·
PORTSMOUTH PLAYGROUNDS. Portsmouth Playgrounds are open. Portsmouth Department of Public Works will
sanitize playground equipment on a regular basis. Signs will be posted reminding patrons to:
o
Maintain proper social distancing of at least 6
feet.
o
Use hand sanitizer prior to and immediately
after using the equipment.
o
Stay home if you feel sick.
o
Avoid crowds and seek an alternate playground if
a large group is present.
o
Wear face masks as appropriate.
PERSONAL PROTECTION
·
MASK WEARING 101: HOW TO PROPERLY USE &
RE-USE A MASK. For a mask to offer
protection — rather than becoming a vehicle for COVID-19 germ-spreading — it
must be handled, worn and stored properly.
This step-by-step video on mask-wearing covers the how-to’s and the do's
and dont's of mask use: Mask
Wearing 101.
COVID-19 TESTING
·
COVID-19 TREATMENT. Rhode
Island now has a doctor-recommended treatment for COVID-19 that's fast, easy, and highly effective. If
you test positive for COVID-19 and are 65 or older or have an underlying health
condition, immediately call your healthcare provider and ask about treatment.
The earlier you start treatment, the more effective it is.
·
RIDOH
QUARANTINE/ISOLATION LETTERS. Rhode
Islanders who require a letter to verify their quarantine/isolation, or their
test negative or positive results, may request a letter which may be sent by
encrypted (secure) email within 72 hours upon verification by submitting this online
form.
·
PRE-K THROUGH 12TH GRADE COVID
TEST SCHEDULING SERVICE. This
student testing service is open seven days a week, from 7:30am to 9:30pm. Test can be scheduled by calling (844)
857-1814. All tests are free and offered
same day (except Sunday). Tests are
available to any student or school staff member who is symptomatic or is a
close contact of a positive case.
·
SEROLOGY ANTIBODY TESTING FOR FIRST
RESPONDERS. The RI
Department of Health released additional information about the serology testing
available for first responders. First
responders (police, fire, and emergency medical services), Rhode Island
National Guard members, RIDOH staff, correctional facility workers, and
hospital and nursing home staff can schedule a test online. Testing is voluntary. Results will be made available to participants
approximately four days after they are tested. Additional information is
available at https://www.ri.gov/press/view/38841.
·
RI COVID SELF-CHECKER. You can assess your COVID-19 Health Risks
by visiting the RI COVID SELF CHECK site at https://covidselfcheck.ri.gov or
download the CRUSH COVID RI App.
·
COVID-19 TESTING FOR THE GENERAL PUBLIC. RI Dept. of Health (RIDOH) is recommending anyone
with symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, muscle aches
(myalgias), chills, runny nose or stuffy nose, sore throat, headache, or
diarrhea) to be tested. Information for
those with and without insurance, and ways to get tested, can be found at the RIDOH Website.
o TRANSPORTATION
TO COVID-19 TEST SITES:
§
MTM has procedures/policies in place to
transport Medicaid and ETP (Elderly Transportation Program: individuals 60
years of age and older) individuals to COVID-19 testing sites. MTM will
confirm individuals are eligible for transport and have no other transportation
options prior to scheduling a trip. Eligible individuals can
call: 1-855-330-9131 (TTY: 711) or visit their website by clicking here
§ This
service is only available if no other transportation options are available.
BUSINESS INFORMATION
·
SMALL BUSINESS LOANS: The RI Small Businesses Relief
Grant Program, which provides $5,000 to RI small businesses affected
financially by COVID-19, has begun to accept applications on a first-come,
first-served basis through April 30. Additional
information and online application materials are available at https://commerceri.com/ReliefGrant/.
·
SECOND
ROUND OF PPP LOANS. The U.S. Small
Business Administration, in consultation with the U.S. Treasury Department, has
re-opened the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan portal to PPP-eligible
lenders with $1 billion or less in assets for First and Second Draw
applications. SBA/Treasury also released
accompanying guidance documents; the full statement and these documents may be
accessed here.
·
BUSINESS RELATED COVID QUESTIONS AND
COMPLAINTS. The RI Department of
Business Regulation (DBR) has created a
webpage for COVID-10 questions and complaints which can be found here. Additionally, the State has announced they
will be increasing enforcement of current guidelines. DBR issue new enforcement
policies and fine structures which will be posted at their website.
·
EVENT PLANNING DURING COVID. Go to the re-opening RI web site and complete the
appropriate event template for your event. For private events, have a
copy of the completed template ready for State official review during the
event. For public events, submit the completed form for review to
“Business Development Director, 2200 East Main Road, Portsmouth RI
02871” (email rtalipsky@portsmouthri.com
) at least 10 business days before your event. If you require
deviations from the event template, use this form.
·
COVID BUSINESS ENGAGEMENT TEAM (CBET). In partnership with the Rhode Island
Commerce Corporation, the Tech Collective has formed the COVID Business
Engagement Team (CBET), a volunteer task force that is reaching out to local
business owners to gather information and identify a primary COVID point of
contact. The purpose is to:
o Identify
each company’s primary COVID testing point of contact.
o Review
important business centered COVID safety and health guidelines.
o Collect
information on each company’s plans for testing and reopening.
o Review
outbreak response plans.
o Determine
if each company has classified their employees as low, medium, or high risk.
o Aggregate
data on companies’ testing plans.
More information can be found here, or by calling (401)
521-7805.
·
ECONOMIC INJURY DISASTER LOANS AND ADVANCE PROGRAM. The U.S. Small Business Administration has
reopened the Economic Injury
Disaster Loan (EIDL) and EIDL Advance program portal to all eligible
applicants experiencing economic impacts due to COVID-19.
o The
program offers long-term, low interest assistance for a small business or
non-profit.
o These
loans can provide economic support to help alleviate temporary loss of revenue.
o EIDL
assistance can be used to cover payroll and inventory, pay debt or fund other
expenses.
o Additionally,
the EIDL Advance will provide up to $10,000 ($1,000 per employee) of emergency
economic relief to businesses that are currently experiencing temporary
difficulties, and these emergency grants do not have to be repaid.
o Local
small businesses with questions about EIDL or any other SBA program should
email RhodeIsland_DO@sba.gov.
·
BUSINESS MICROENTERPRISE STABILIZATION GRANT
(MICROE) PROGRAM. The Town of
Portsmouth began accepting applications for the MicroE program on a first-come,
first-served basis on May 27, 2020.
Under this program, eligible microenterprises adversely impacted by
COVID-19 may be eligible for working capital grants.
o
More information is available at the Town
website by clicking
here.
·
COVID-19 ECONOMIC RECOVERY. SBA is helping small businesses with their economic
recovery from the effects of COVID-19.
o
The Portsmouth Business Association Web Page http://www.portsmouthbiz.org/ will
keep you updated on SBA events and other business help topics.
·
HELP FOR SMALL BUSINESS. The RI Commerce Corporation has
established COVID-19 Resources for small businesses affected by COVID-19. Information can be found at RI Commerce Help or by calling 401-521-HELP.
·
EMPLOYERS AFFECTED BY COVID-19. Employers forced to limit or cease
operations due to COVID-19 should review the RI Department of Labor and Training Website
for relief options. Quick facts are
located here.
·
SUPERIOR COURT INITIATIVES FOR BUSINESSES. The Rhode Island Superior Court has started a
business protection program in response to disruptions caused by COVID-19. Under the Business Recovery Plan, the court
will supervise and provide protections for Rhode Island businesses so they can
remain operational, access new working capital and pay debts.
·More information
can be found by clicking
here.
SOCIAL WELFARE
·
EVICTIONS. If you are at risk of eviction due to
non-payment of rent, assistance may be available from agencies such as
Crossroads, United Way, and the various community action agencies. For help,
you can call 211.
o
Free legal help for low-income tenants is
available from:
§
Rhode Island Legal Services: 401-274-2652
§
The Rhode Island Center for Justice:
401-491-1101
·
WER1 RI
RELIEF FUND. There is still money
left in the “WeR1” RI Relief Fund. This
is a program to provide cash assistance to undocumented immigrants who have
experienced financial hardship during the COVID-19 pandemic.
o The
program can provide $400 through a
pre-paid debit card. Only one member per
household may receive this cash assistance.
o All
monies in the fund are derived from donations.
There are no State dollars in the program.
o Information
regarding how to donate or apply for this benefit can be found
here.
·
HARDEST
HIT FUND FOR COVID-19 MORTGAGE PAYMENT ASSISTANCE. The Hardest Hit Fund Rhode Island (HHFRI)
is offering assistance to Rhode Island homeowners negatively impacted by the
COVID-19 pandemic and struggling to make their mortgage payments. HHFRI is
offering eligible homeowners a five-year, zero interest forgivable loan to pay
up to six months of mortgage payments. The loan will be forgiven and the lien
will be discharge if the homeowner continues to occupy the property as their
primary residence and does not sell, transfer title or refinance. Eligible homeowners must:
o Own
and occupy a one-to four family property or condominium in Rhode Island
o Be
or have been unemployed or underemployed due to the pandemic
o Receive
or have received unemployment benefits from the Department of Labor and Training
or another provider beginning March 1, 2020 or after
o Have
been current on their mortgage payment on March 1, 2020
o Have
less than $20,000 in non-retirement, liquid assets. Non-retirement, liquid
assets include bank accounts, stocks, bonds, investments and cash value of life
insurance
o Have
an original mortgage balance no greater than $820,500
o Meet
household income limits
§ ≤$97,646
for 1-2-person households
§ ≤$112,293
for 3 or more-person households
·
MENTAL
HEALTH. COVID has been here for
months now…and winter is looming. Mental
health issues related to our lock down and pandemic are especially hard for
people with depression and other mental health disorders. The relapse and overdose rate has increased
by 30% since March 2020, as of the end of October 2020.
o
NAMI, the national Alliance on Mental Health
Illness has a 24-hour helpline:
1-800-950-6264.
·
EMPHASIS ON MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES. If you are in a mental health or
substance abuse crisis made worse by the COVID-19 pandemic and you need
immediate assistance, please call 24/7 to get connected to care through BH Link:
o
401-414-LINK (5465)
o For
under 18 call: 855-KID-LINK (855-543-5465) or click here.
·
VIRTUAL
CAREER CENTER: The State of Rhode
Island and Google Cloud have launched an initiative that will dramatically
expand access to key career resources across the state. The Virtual Career
Center connects Rhode Islanders to career services on an innovative,
data-driven, and easy to navigate online platform developed on Google Cloud and
in partnership with the tech-for-social-impact nonprofit Research Improving
People’s Lives (RIPL). Rhode Islanders are able to access a Back to Work landing page and a
preliminary chatbot named Skipper, to get answers to questions, navigate career
resources and access job openings, training opportunities and additional
support services. The Virtual Career Center and Career Matching Bot was
launched in November, with additional services to become available in the
coming months.
·
BACK TO WORK RI. RI has announced an investment of $45 million
for a workforce development partnership that will create job opportunities for
Rhode Islanders displaced by COVID-19 and help break down traditional barriers
to hiring. The initiative – Back to Work RI – will use CARES Act funding.
o
Back to Work RI will offer several pathways for
individuals to quickly get back to work while gaining the skills they need to
succeed. Employers of all sizes will create immediate roles for Rhode
Islanders, focusing on higher-paying, sustainable jobs in sectors such as
healthcare, financial services and IT. Every participating employer will sign a
pledge to open opportunities to Rhode Islanders through the public-private
partnership of Back to Work RI.
o
More information can be found at https://www.backtoworkri.com/.
·
CHILDREN IMMUNIZATIONS. There has been a significant drop in the
number of children receiving required pediatric immunizations. All parents are encouraged to contact their
health care providers to ensure your children’s shot records are up to date. There are programs available for those who do
not have health care coverage. More
information can be obtained from the RI Department of
Health.
·
HOUSING NOW CAMPAIGN. The State of R.I. Office of Housing and
Community Development has emergency rapid re-housing vouchers that will
guarantee rental income to landlords. Tenants pay 30 percent of their income
toward rent to the landlord and the vouchers pay the difference of the total
rent, directly to the landlord. The
vouchers are available now to rapidly rehouse individuals and families who are
living in congregate shelters. Information
can be found here. There are specific financial benefits for landlords:
o Guaranteed
rental income is not dependent on the tenants’ income fluctuating – an
individual will pay 30% of their monthly income and the rest is guaranteed.
o A
$2000 bonus for the first unit and a $500 bonus for each additional
participating unit.
o Up
to $2000 for move-in upgrades like minor renovations and repairs.
o First
and last month’s rent.
o Housing
Retention services, which means fewer vacancies and less turnover.
o Assistance
in bringing units to code.
o Service
providers who can assist with screening to ensure a good fit and help solve any
potential issues.
This is a real opportunity for
landlords to do the right thing and help their fellow Rhode Islanders, but also
get some economic security during these unprecedented times. Units in the cities and areas close to public
transportation are particularly desirable. They should be ready to rent
immediately and be able to meet housing quality standards. If you are a
landlord with one or more units to pledge, please call 211 and ask for the
housing assistance line today.
o For
households that qualify, United Way’s Safe Harbor Housing Program can help with
up to six months of rent arrearages accumulated on or after March 1, 2020.
Legal services may also be available for renters who do not otherwise have
representation.
o Help
is available for income-eligible tenants who are experiencing financial
hardship because of the COVID-19 emergency and are at risk of eviction as a
result. Landlords may initiate the application process on behalf of tenants who
they believe to be eligible. In order to
receive assistance, tenants must meet the following criteria:
§ The
household earns at or below 80% of Area Median Income, adjusted for family
size; and
§ The
household is in arrears because of financial hardship due to the COVID-19
emergency.
o Go
to Safe Harbor Housing Program https://www.uwri.org/2-1-1/safe-harbor-housing-program/. They may also be reached by dialing 211.
·
SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
(SNAP). Starting June 10th,
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participants will be able to
select and pay for their groceries online using their EBT card at Amazon and
participating Walmart stores. Households can purchase the same food online that
they would normally purchase in the store at Walmart. Rhode Island Works cash recipients will also
be able to use their benefits to make food or other purchases at Walmart.
o
For Walmart, anyone in RI can purchase online. Go to WALMART.COM and enter your zip code to
check if delivery is available to your address.
o
SNAP benefits cannot be used to cover the cost
of delivery at this time. Walmart delivery costs range from $7.95 - $9.95.
o
To learn more about SNAP acceptance at Walmart,
please visit here.
o
To learn more and register for online grocery
shopping on Amazon, click
here.
§
Amazon has free shipping on orders over $35.
Additional information is here.
·
WORKSHARE PROGRAM. State employees are being encouraged to
participate in the voluntary WorkShare program.
This program offers federal funding to help pay for employees who work
fewer hours. The goal is for between 25%
and 50% of the State administration workforce to participate in the program,
which would amount to about 1,000 to 2,000 employees and save the state an
estimated $5 million. The decision to
reduce employees’ hours — which would translate into two fewer days per week
for full-time employees — was spurred by the unprecedented deficit that’s
emerged in the current and next fiscal years as revenue has slumped during the
pandemic.
·
VIRTUAL FAMILY ASSISTANCE CENTER. The American Red Cross extends their sympathy
for the loss of loved ones to the coronavirus. Grieving is always difficult, and they recognize
the COVID-19 pandemic creates additional challenges and needs. To help, they
have established a Virtual
Family Assistance Center which offers information and resources they hope
will help you during this time.
·
COVID SUPPORT FACTSHEET. The RI Department of Health has published a
very informative factsheet for anyone needing support during this time. You
can find it here.
·
DAILY COVID-19 INFORMATION. RI has established a way for you to get daily
COVID updates from her office. Click here to fill
out the request to be added to the distribution list.
·
NEWPORT COUNTY COVID-19 HOUSING ASSISTANCE
GRANTS. Working in partnership with
Newport Partnership for Families and Conexión Latina with funding from Rhode
Island Housing and the Rhode Island Foundation, Church Community Housing
Corporation is offering one-time financial assistance for individuals facing a
short-term housing crisis. Grants up to $2,000 are available. If your
application is approved, funds from this grant program will go directly to
third parties such as your landlord or utility providers. Go to https://www.cchcnewport.org/covid19
or contact Aubrey Collins at Church Community Housing Corporation have any
questions (401 846 5114 x111, or email: ACollins@cchcnewport.org.)
·
STUDENT LOAN HELP AVAILABLE. Those with
student loans can get assistance in loan extensions and other student loan help
during COVID-19 by going to https://www.meetsummer.org/COVIDRelief/
or by contacting the RI Student Loan Assn (RISLA) at https://www.risla.com/.
·
SAFE AT HOME.
People who are surviving violence in their relationships or families
may be experiencing increased isolation and danger caused by social distancing
measures during the COVID-19 pandemic.
o
Safe at
Home was launched by the Rhode Island State Police in concert with leading
community organizations to raise awareness of the threat of increased violence
during the COVID-19 pandemic. Safe at Home is focused on connecting with those
who may be facing violence at home and providing all Rhode Islanders with
resources to identify and help those at-risk.https://risp.ri.gov/safety/preventingviolence/safeathome.php
o
If you are in immediate danger, please call or
text 911 (include your address in the text). For non-emergency assistance, please call
(800-494-8100) or visit Rhode Island
Victims of Crime Helpline. The
Helpline is a free, 24/7, confidential resource for those impacted by crimes of
violence.?The Helpline is a collaboration between Day One, The Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic
Violence and the Blackstone
Valley Advocacy Center.
·
STATEWIDE CALL FOR MEDICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH
CARE PROFESSIONALS. The State is
issuing another call for available medical and health care professionals. If you are available to join Rhode Island’s
response to COVID-19, please visit Rhode
Island Responds and register to volunteer.
·
SCAM WARNING.
The Rhode Island State Police Financial Crimes Unit is warning
residents to be extra vigilant of scammers trying to take of advantage of the
coronavirus pandemic.
o
The scams include people posing as government
agencies and representatives to get personal information from consumers, and
fraudulent online sales and offers of coronavirus equipment or treatments.
o
There have been a large number of illegitimate
unemployment insurance claims recently.
o
Anyone who thinks they have been targeted by
scammers should contact law enforcement at https://risp.ri.gov/.
·
ARTS.
RI has launched a new website, RIArts.org,
to connect artists with available resources and provide Rhode Islanders with an
up-to-date list of virtual performances happening in the state.
·
RI DELIVERS.
RI Delivers has
been established to provide food delivery help for those living in quarantine
or isolation due to COVID-19. Their goal
is to ensure that for this temporary quarantine period, you have what you need
to safely remain home and monitor your symptoms. By doing so, you will help
slow the spread of COVID-19. If you are
under quarantine, you should not leave your home for any reason. Please click here for more
information. If you have a question or
need further guidance, call 2-1-1 or the Point at 401.462.4444.
·
PORTSMOUTH SENIOR CENTER MEALS. Portsmouth Senior Center has established a
Meal Site at their address - 110 Bristol Ferry Rd. Meals need to be made
with a 24-hour reservation.
Participants can call Cynthia (Director-Portsmouth Senior Center) at 401-683-4106. If no answer call 401-297-6102.
·
CONTINUATION OF MEDICAID. The State is halting terminations and
income verifications related to RI Medicaid for the duration of the COVID-19
emergency.
·
HEALTHSOURCE RI IS OFFERING A SPECIAL
ENROLLMENT PERIOD available to Rhode Islanders losing health coverage due
to a change in employment status.
o
Rhode Islanders who wish to obtain coverage can
do so by visiting www.HealthSourceRI.com
and enrolling online, or by contacting the HealthSource RI call center
Monday-Friday, 8am-6pm at 1-855-840-4774.
NEED MORE
INFORMATION?
·
Portsmouth residents may call 401-643-0350 for
general inquiries related to the current health situation. Please leave a detailed message if no answer
and someone will respond as soon as possible. Residents may also email requests
or inquiries to covid@portsmouthri.com.
·
The town has established local information on
the town website, its NOTIFY ME system, and social media as follows:
o
Town
Website:
www.PortsmouthRI.com – See the COVID-19 Alert at the top and the “Spotlight”
section that will direct users to other town web pages with specific COVID-19
information.
o
Notify
Me®:
Sign up for automatic e-mail updates. On the town web home page click the
“Notify Me®” button and choose your topic.
o
Facebook: Log on to the town
Emergency Management Facebook page (Portsmouth Emergency).
o
Twitter: Log on to the
Portsmouth Emergency Twitter feed - @PortsmouthEmerg and use Hashtag
#COVID02871 for Portsmouth-specific tweets.
o
Phone: The Emergency Operations
Center phone number is 401-643-0350. Leave a message and your call will
be returned.
o
Email: Email COVID@PortsmouthRI.com and your message will be
routed to the appropriate town staff person to help.
o
Town Webpages:
§
https://www.portsmouthri.com/AlertCenter.aspx
§
https://www.portsmouthri.com/#spotlight
§
https://www.portsmouthri.com/1594/Portsmouth-Specific-Coronavirus-Informat (and the Quick Links located on the
right side of the page)
Portsmouth
Emergency Management Blog