I write to let you know that you are not alone during these uncertain times. As the COVID-19 response is ever-evolving, this draft already seems old as I move to hit send.
I am heartened to report that the Massachusetts Legislature, a body designed to act deliberatively, has acted expeditiously and collaboratively to respond to this crisis with the Governor as an ally and partner. Some legislative highlights include: an initial $15 million dollar economic stimulus, waivers for unemployment insurance eligibility as well as an unemployment extension, housing safeguards and small business assistance. I will follow-up with more detailed emails outlining legislative measures as they arise.
Below please find links that will connect you to up-to-date government services on the issues I have been contacted about the most in recent days. These links will connect you to real-time resources and reliable information compiled by the departments and agencies that are best able to help you and your family through this public health and economic crisis. This is not an exhaustive list. These links are just a start.
While the State House remains closed to the public during this State of Emergency, my staff and I remain available to help you navigate the following resources. Please do not hesitate to leave a phone message at my office at (617) 722-2370 #2, contact me via email at [email protected], or call my home phone at (617) 242-5950.
A good first stop for local services are the municipal 3-1-1 non-emergency lines. These lines operate similar to 9-1-1, but for non-emergency access to municipal services or information. You will get a live person to assist you. Please refrain from using 9-1-1 in non-emergencies!
In Boston: Dial 3-1-1
Boston COVID-19 updates
For text updates: Text: BOSCOVID to 994-11
In Chelsea: Dial 3-1-1
Chelsea COVID-19 updates
For State Services: Dial 2-1-1
Commonwealth COVID-19 updates
For text updates from the Commonwealth: Text: COVIDMA to 888-777
Specific Issues
Unemployment For 1099 filers and the self-employed
Commonwealth Small Business Resources
Federal Small Business Administration
PPE Procurement and Donation Portal
Student Grab and Go Lunch Sites: Boston Chelsea
Each night, the Massachusetts Emergency Management (MEMA) COVID-19 Command Center releases its daily report. I find this to be a helpful snapshot of data, daily legislative changes and up-to-date state information.
Here is an example of last night’s report, which I post to Twitter and Facebook each night:
COVID-19 Command Center sitrep_04.02.20
Note: This link may work best when opened in Safari.
The information contained in this e-mail is intended to provide guidance on governmental and social services. If you are experiencing an immediate health issue, please contact a healthcare provider.
For more up-to-the-minute status updates, please follow me on Facebook and Twitter.
Be well! Wash your hands. Stay home when you can. Look out for your neighbors!
– Dan Ryan