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The Metro Council held its meeting last night under very different circumstances. While many members were present as usual (with at least one chair separating one from another), about a dozen participated via video conference. It took a great deal of time and effort from many people to make that sort of meeting a success, but together we pulled it off. That spirit of solidarity has manifested itself in many ways over the last couple of weeks throughout our community and will be one of the reasons we'll make it through this challenge as we have made it through so many challenges in the past.
COVID-19 Relief Fund (CRF) - The agenda was limited last night, but the Council did approve $2.7 million (funds originally dedicated to paying down the city's pension obligations) to assist those impacted by COVID-19. These funds will be administered by the Office of Resilience & Community Services and will be used only to support existing programs that offer food assistance or emergency assistance for housing. The Office of Management and Budget will make a written report to the Council regarding the allocation and distribution of every $250,000 from this fund as well as a final report once the CRF is closed.
Click here to view the full agenda or watch the meeting
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https://kentucky.gov/Pages/Activity-stream.aspx?n=GovernorBeshear&prId=98
“Beginning today, Kentuckians filing for UI benefits should follow a schedule that pertains to the first initial in their last name as to what day they can file their claim. The schedule can be found here.
This pandemic is stressful for us all. People are spending a great deal of time and energy focusing on their physical health, their job, or basic needs such as food and shelter. As we come together to address these issues, we also need to recognize the importance of keeping our spirits up. Lift Up Lou provides options to do just that. Every day, followers of @liftuplou will find a morning exercise option, an afternoon education lesson, and afternoon entertainment session, and a mindfulness exercise for the end of the day. You might be directed to a virtual tour of the Frazier History Museum, learn the basics of yoga, or find out how to make homemade playdough with your children. To learn more, visit the Lift Up Lou website.
 For the latest updates, you can visit https://louisvilleky.gov/news/what-you-need-know-about-coronavirus.
The safety of our visitors and staff is of the utmost importance to us. As of Friday, March 20, 2020, we are taking additional steps to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 Coronavirus.
Latest Steps
- All playgrounds throughout The Parklands are closed until further notice. This includes Marshall Playground in Beckley Creek Park, the playground in Pope Lick Park, and Cliffside Playground in Broad Run Park.
- Restrooms at Creekside Trailhead in Beckley Creek Park and Cliffside Trailhead in Broad Run Park are closed, along with portable toilets throughout The Parklands. All other trailhead restrooms remain open at this time.
- All facility rentals and permitted events have been postponed or cancelled for the next eight weeks.
- All in-person educational programming is suspended until further notice. This includes field trips, Wednesday Wonders and Storytime in the Storybook Forest.
Previous Actions
- The PNC Achievement Center for Education & Interpretation in Beckley Creek Park, home to The Parklands Welcome Center and headquarters of the Outdoor Classroom, is closed.
- Spring Break Camps are cancelled. Those who have registered will be issued a full refund.
- Park Roots: Birding for Beginners, a Parklands Member event scheduled for March 28, 2020, has been cancelled and will be rescheduled at a later date.
- Staff who are maintaining, cleaning and patrolling the parks are following guidance from the CDC, practicing healthy hand hygiene and social distancing with both visitors and co-workers.
- All staff who are able to work remotely will be working from home for a minimum of two weeks beginning March 13, 2020.
Over the coming weeks, we know many will be looking to the outdoors for recreation, exercise and respite from the ongoing pandemic. At this time, our trails remain open to visitors and staff routinely clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces in those restrooms that are still open.
When visiting The Parklands, visitors should follow recommendations from the CDC to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, the flu and other viruses.
- Avoid social gatherings in groups of more than 10 people
- Wash hands often and for at least 20 seconds.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Stay home if you are sick.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing and sneezing. Properly dispose of the tissue and wash/disinfect your hands.
Please continue to visit our website where we will post updates in the event of additional closures and changes, and check out some of the resources our educational staff have put together in the blog posts below. Thank you for your patience and continued support of our donor and visitor-supported public park.
Due to concerns regarding the novel coronavirus, Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer has cancelled all Metro events in Louisville through April 5th, even as Louisville Metro Council moves to fund emergency housing and food supplies during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Fischer announced the cancellation of events during a news conference late Thursday afternoon. The cancellation affects all events hosted by the government or on public property.
JCPS will open some schools from 10AM to 1PM Monday through Friday to distribute lunches to eligible children. Here are the list of schools close to different areas of District 20 including Fern Creek Elementary, Jeffersontown Elementary & Middletown Elementary. Please share this post with families that may need this service. Thank you.
LOUISVILLE, KY (March 19, 2020) – During the first three days of Metro March for Meals, the meals pickup program provided nearly 2,500 frozen meal packs to seniors in Louisville. Due to this tremendous response, a few of the distribution sites have been changed to better accommodate the traffic flow and ensure that recipients can remain in their cars for pickup.
Now through April 3, up to 1,000 frozen meal packs will be distributed each weekday at six locations throughout the community on a rotating schedule. The Louisville Metro Senior Nutrition Program, part of the Office of Resilience and Community Services (RCS), rolled out Metro March for Meals to provide meals for seniors ages 60 and older while the city responds to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Meals will be available on a first-come, first-served basis from 10 a.m. until noon and are limited to one box per person, containing five frozen meals per pack, each week. Older adults in need are advised to go to the center closest to their homes for assistance.
Updated site distribution list.
- Mondays – St. Stephen Church Parking Lot, (1018 S. 15th St., 40210 - Parking lot across the street from St. Stephen Church at the corner of South 15th and Kentucky streets)
- Tuesdays – Beechmont Community Center (205 Wellington Ave., 40214)
- Wednesdays – Sun Valley Community Center (6505 Bethany Lane, 40272) and East Government Center (200 Juneau Drive, 40243)
- Thursdays – New site to be announced soon
- Fridays – Former Kroger site in Old Louisville (924 S. Second St., 40203)
This information is also available on this downloadable flyer.
Staff with the Louisville Metro Senior Nutrition program wish to thank the outpouring of support from the community to make Metro March for Meals possible. This includes funding support by Louisville Metro Government and Louisville Metro Council, countless volunteers, including local leaders and several Metro Council members; the LMPD Traffic Unit and Special Response Team; Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office; Masterson’s Catering, for responding so quickly to prepare this food; Dean Foods for providing the milk; and KIDPA, Senior Nutrition’s grant funder for on-site and technical support.
Thanks as well to Louisville Parks and Recreation, Jefferson County Public Schools, Domino Partners LLC, and St. Stephen Church for the use of their sites for distribution.
Eligibility and guidelines to participate in Metro March for Meals:
- Open to Jefferson County residents only, 60 years and older
- Proof of age will be required
- Participants are requested to stay in their cars for meal pickup to help ensure their safety. Please do not park and walk up to the distribution site.
- To help ensure that seniors in need of assistance are being served, eligible seniors should be present at time of pickup.
- Each eligible adult will be able to receive one meal pack per week on a first come, first served basis. Each pack contains five frozen meals.
Click here to review any of the cases below.
The LMAS Shelter and Animal House are still open for adoptions daily from 12-6pm! Bios are below. Thanks!
Cat of the Week
Cat of the Week:
Purcilla is ready to find a forever home after spending some time in foster. The adorable 5-year-old is a friendly, talkative cat that easily adjusts to new surroundings. Purcilla will require extra care because she’s in the early stages of kidney disease and needs a special diet to remain happy and healthy. An approved adopter can adopt Purcilla for free thanks to the Pay It Forward Program. She weighs 5lbs. and she’s already spayed, vaccinated & microchipped. To meet or adopt Purcilla, visit Animal House Adoption Center, located at 3516 Newburg Road, daily from 12-6pm. For questions about Purcilla, call 502-473-PETS.
 Dog of the Week
Dog of the Week:
If you’re looking for a friendly companion then Jake is your kind of dog - the approximately 3-year-old Pit Bull likes everyone! Jake has been a very good boy since arriving at the LMAS Shelter. He’s also a sweet dog that would love to curl up next to you on the couch for cuddles. Jake’s adoption fee is waived for an approved adopter, thank to the Pay It Forward Program. Jake weighs 45lbs. and his adoption include neuter, vaccinations and a microchip. A meet & greet is mandatory for families with children. Jake can also be tested with other dogs or cats by request. Meet Jake at Animal House Adoption Center (3516 Newburg Rd) daily from 12-6pm. Send questions about Jake to animalservicesadoption@louisvilleky.gov.
2020 PROPERTY ASSESSMENT COMMUNITY MEETING- THE JEFFERSONIAN (JEFFERSONTOWN COMMUNITY CENTER)
APRIL 7 @ 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
"Coffee with the Councilman” is my continued effort to bring government to you at locations that are more convenient than City Hall. It is an opportunity for me to listen to your neighborhood concerns, thoughts on proposed legislation and answer questions you may have about local government.
Special Guest: TBA
All events will be an open forum style from 8am - 10am.
Please mark the following dates on your calendar:
Saturday, May 9th, 2020 Crossroads - IGA 14010 Shelbyville Road Louisville, KY 40299
*Participants are responsible for covering the costs of their own refreshments.
Canceled Until Further Notice
Proposed change in zoning from R-4 to R-5A to allow 59 patio home units and a 166-
unit multi-family community on approximately 21.8 acres located on the east side of
S. English Station Road at I-64 at 1007 South English Station Road
You are being invited to a meeting the deveoper has scheduled to present neighbors with their zone change plan to allow a 166-unit multi-family community in eight, 3-story buildings and a 59-unit patio home community in 16 patio home buildings to be located as above.
Accordingly, they have filed a plan for pre-application review with the Division of Planning and Design Services (DPDS) that has been assigned case number 20-ZONEPA-0024 and case manager, Dante St. Germain. They would like to show and explain to neighbors this plan so that they might hear what thoughts, issues and perhaps even concerns you may have.
If you cannot attend the meeting but have questions or concerns, please call me at 426-6688 or the land planning and engineering firm representative Derek Triplett at 426-9374.
Planning Commission Meeting (13207 Rehl Rd) 19-ZONE-0044
Request: Change in zoning from R-4 to PEC, with Detailed District
Development Plan and Binding Elements, and associated
landscape Waiver - Requesting Continuance to
04/16/2020
Project Name: Powerscreen Crushing and Screening
Location: 13207 Rehl Road
Owner: Thomas & Rebecca Garrity
Applicant: Powerscreen Crushing and Screening
Representative: Dinsmore & Shohl LLC
Jurisdiction: Louisville Metro
Council District: 20 - Stuart Benson
Case Manager: Dante St. Germain, AICP, Planner II
Louisville Metro Government’s Office of Resilience & Community Services today announced plans to provide meals for seniors ages 60 and older while the city responds to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Starting Tuesday, March 17, the Metro March for Meals program will distribute up to 1,000 frozen meal packs per day to people 60 years of age and older at six locations throughout the community on a rotating schedule. Meals will be available on a first-come, first-served basis from 10 a.m. until noon and are limited to one box per person and to five frozen meals per week. Older adults in need are advised to go to the center closest to their homes for assistance.
- Mondays – Shawnee Community Center (607 S. 37th St., 40212)
- Tuesdays – Beechmont Community Center (205 Wellington Avenue, 40214)
- Wednesdays – Sun Valley Community Center (6505 Bethany Lane, 40272)
- Wednesdays – East Government Center (200 Juneau Drive, 40243)
- Thursdays – Wilderness Road Senior Center (8111 Blue Lick Road, 40219)
- Fridays – Arthur S Kling Center (219 W. Ormsby Ave., 40203)
“As we ask the community to engage in social distancing as a response to COVID-19, we know access to nutritional food will be a barrier for some in our community,” said Tameka Laird, Director of the Office of Resilience & Community Services. “That is why our office worked hard to ramp up efforts on our Metro March for Meals to help feed our older adults during this challenging time. We are grateful to Masterson’s Catering for stepping up to prepare these meals on short notice.”
Local nonprofit food bank Dare to Care also is currently operating normal business and is coordinating with Louisville Metro, its nonprofit partners, JCPS, and others to establish a system of food assistance access that can be durable during this situation.
“Part of being a compassionate city means helping those in need during a crisis,” said Mayor Greg Fischer. “This is a prime example of how local government and organizations like Dare to Care can work together to address challenges facing our city.”
Those seeking up-to-date information on Dare to Care services can visit www.daretocare.org/covid-19.
“With over 100,000 Louisvillians suffering food insecurity during this public health crisis, now is not the time for our neighbors to struggle to get good nutrition,” said Stan Siegwald, Director of Strategic Initiatives for Dare to Care. “We are also working to make available grab-and-go meals and increase the availability of nonperishable groceries.”
For more information on Metro March for Meals, call (502) 574-5223.
You are invited to attend a review for a FLOYDS FORK DEVELOPMENT REVIEW OVERLAY APPLICATION for construction of a ~2,400 sf camp chapel to be located on 62 acres.
Subject Property: 4010 Old Routt Road
Case Number: 20-FFO-0001
Case Manager: Brian Davis (brian.davis@louisvilleky.gov)
Land Development and Transportation Committee
Date of Meeting: TBA
Meeting will begin at 1:00 PM and continue until all cases are heard 514 W. Liberty Street 40202
To view documents related to this proposal, please visit:
Louisville Metro Planning and Design Services (Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM) 444 S. 5th Street, 3rd Floor, Louisville, KY 40202
(502) 574-6230
Or visit louisvilleky.gov/government/planning-design for:
• Meeting agenda and staff report (typically available one week prior to meeting)
• More information on zoning processes
• Public comment opportunities
• Applications for a petition for a night hearing, including procedures to change the time and/or location of a public hearing to 6:00 pm or later downtown, or to a convenient location.
A list of persons notified of this proposal is available in the case file.
Public Meetings are now available for viewing via live stream at the following website:
https://louisville.legistar.com
Persons who desire special accommodations should contact the Planning Commission office at (502) 574- 6230 at least one week prior to this meeting. TDD users please use the Relay Service, 1-800-648-6056
Dare to Care needs volunteers to help pack emergency food boxes. We are scheduling three shifts per day of small teams (10 – 12 volunteers) from 8:00 – 11:00 a.m., 12:00 – 3:00 p.m., and 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.. Any healthy persons with the ability to do assembly line, light lifting, is encouraged to volunteer.
To learn about Dare to Care’s response to COVID-19 and to sign up to volunteer, follow this link: https://daretocare.org/covid-19/
Mayor Greg Fischer announced today that Louisville Metro Government, the Community Foundation of Louisville, Metro United Way and other community partners have created an emergency response fund to rapidly deploy resources to individuals and community-based organizations impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak in our region.
The One Louisville: COVID-19 Response Fund will provide flexible funding resources for rental assistance, childcare assistance, transportation aid, food access, utility assistance, pharmaceutical needs and other support as determined, via $1,000 payments to eligible households. Funds will also be made available to community-based organizations that are being hit hard by the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We know that the necessary response to stem the spread of COVID-19 is creating hardships for so many in our community, especially some of our most vulnerable,” said Mayor Fischer. “This fund is meant to ease that burden somewhat.”
The Mayor also singled out Ambassador Matthew Barzun, the publisher of Louisville Magazine and a prominent local philanthropist, for helping to lead the fundraising effort for the One Louisville: COVID-19 Response Fund.
“I could not be prouder of the way our community leaders, businesses, and GLI have stepped up,” the Mayor said. “This is what a compassionate city does.”
Funds will be managed by the Community Foundation of Louisville, with distribution to households managed by Louisville Metro Government’s Office of Resilience & Community Services. Funding to community groups will be directed by the Community Foundation of Louisville, in coordination with Metro United Way and fund partners.
In just a matter of days, organizers have already built the fund to more than $3.6 million, but that amount is expected to grow significantly as more contributions, large and small, come in. To donate to One Louisville: COVID-19 Response Fund, go to COVID-19 Response Fund.
“Our focus, as always, is on uniting the people and resources necessary to meet our community’s most pressing needs,” said Theresa Reno-Weber, President and CEO of Metro United Way. “Today, our community needs us now more than ever to address the immediate challenges we face through this crisis. We are proud to work in partnership with Mayor Fischer, the Community Foundation of Louisville, and many others to ensure the necessary resources go to those who need them most in the most coordinated, transparent, and effective way.”
One of the largest donations has come from the family of Christy Brown, the local philanthropist, who is recovering at her home from COVID-19. Brown and her children contributed $1.5 million.
“I may be alone in my home, as so many of us are, but I am also so inspired by our awakening of how interconnected we truly are,” Brown said. “While we are going to get past this virus if we all do our part, let's never again forget that our health in all its forms – physical, economic, spiritual, and more – is something we share in common.”
UPS is one of the private companies that helped organize this effort and is one of its first donors.
“UPS believes it is critical that the public and private sectors work together to mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on our community,” said UPS Airlines President Brendan Canavan.
“We take corporate citizenship very seriously, and we are pleased to take a leading role in these $1,000 grants to help citizens in need.”
The James Graham Brown Foundation has donated $1 million to the fund.
“The James Graham Brown Foundation stands ready to support our city and those suffering from this unprecedented crisis,” said Mason Rummel, the foundation’s President and CEO. “Our hope is that this initial support of $1 million toward the relief fund will inspire others to consider their own response to helping our most vulnerable citizens and our extraordinary city.”
The Humana Foundation also weighed in with its support.
“These are unprecedented times for us all as we navigate the COVID-19 health crisis,” said Bruce D. Broussard, Humana Foundation Board Chairman. “Every day, the situation evolves, creating greater complexity for those in our community, especially our most vulnerable citizens. But it’s times like these that define countries, states, and local communities. Louisville is a city that time and again has proved its ability to rally around a common cause for its people. Support the One Louisville coalition and lift our city up during this challenging time.”
The Community Foundation of Louisville is providing funding as well as fund administration.
“We are fortunate to be a part of a caring, generous, and resilient community during this incredible time of need,” said Trisha Finnegan, the foundation’s Chief Strategy Officer. “In partnership with our generous donors, we will continue to leverage our resources to lift those most in need, especially now.”
Household assistance
Households seeking assistance should call their nearest Neighborhood Place location. Those locations are closed to walk-ins but will have drop-boxes available to leave verification documents required for getting assistance.
To be eligible for support, individuals/households must be Jefferson County residents with an income at or below 100 percent of Area Median Income (AMI), which is determined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The AMI for the Louisville region is $76,400 for a four-person family (100 percent AMI).
Applicants will be asked to offer proof of identity and supporting documents that demonstrate a loss of earned income due to the COVID-19 pandemic due to medical reasons, business closure, or school closure.
To find a Neighborhood Place in their area, residents may call Metro311 or (502) 574-5000, or visit www.louisvilleky.gov/neighborhoodplace.
Assistance for community-based organizations
The One Louisville: COVID-19 Response Fund also seeks to address both short-term needs of nonprofit organizations, as well as reserve funding to address longer-term potential impacts.
Community-based organizations seeking assistance should contact the Community Foundation of Louisville at (502) 585-4649 or go to https://www.cflouisville.org/.
In order to move resources quickly and not further burden organizations at the frontline of this outbreak, there is no formal application process during the initial round of funding. Funds will be released on a rolling basis as fundraising continues throughout the outbreak and recovery phases, making it possible to move resources quickly and adapt to evolving needs in subsequent funding phases.
The One Louisville: COVID-19 Response Fund expects to make an initial round of grants in April.
To donate, please visit: COVID-19 Response Fund
New locations for some Metro March for Meals food distribution sites
Mayor Fischer also announced that three of the sites used to distribute food to seniors via the Metro March for Meals are changing.
Here is the complete list of pickup sites (New sites in bold):
Mondays – St. Stephen Church Parking Lot (1019 S. 15th St., 40210)
Tuesdays – Beechmont Community Center (205 Wellington Ave., 40214)
Wednesdays – Sun Valley Community Center (6505 Bethany Lane, 40272) and East Government Center (200 Juneau Drive, 40243)
Thursdays – Slaughter Elementary School (3805 Fern Valley Road, 40219)
Fridays – Former Old Louisville Kroger Site (924 S. Second St., 40203)
Now through April 3, up to 1,000 frozen meal packs (each containing five meals) will be distributed each weekday at six locations throughout the community on a rotating schedule.
Gleaned from many sources, this is a curated list based on what our LIBA members have been asking about the most. Thanks to the many organizations who have shared information, including Louisville Forward, GLI, KCCE, SBA, etc. These updates have been posted on our more comprehensive resource page.
Take Action NOW - Things are moving very quickly in Washington, which is what we need. We also want to ensure it doesn't further concentrate power. We are pleased that the current proposal would allow for part of disaster relief loans to be forgiven if used for payroll, and we want to be sure independent businesses end up on a level playing field. Visit this page to take action!
Summary of the Families First Coronavirus Relief Package that will become effective April 2. For businesses with under 500 employees, this requires paid sick time (related to Coronavirus) that will be subsidized by the government by giving credits towards Social Security taxes owed by the business.(Businesses with under 50 employees can request waivers.) The bill also ensures testing for the Coronavirus will be at no cost for all.
Non profits need help too - Our friends at the Kentucky Nonprofit Network ask that charitable nonprofits are included in the next Corona virus stimulus bill. See full details here.
SBA Disaster Loan Updates - A call was held to give updates on disaster loans, and there will be many more of these calls. We'll be sure to let our members know when more guidance is available, but you can get some notes from the call here, and other current information on our resource page. Applications are being accepted now.
Federal and State tax filing deadline postponed from April 15 to July 15; awaiting official notice regarding local deadlines.
Hospitality Industry Forum: A Focus on Short Term Opportunities - Tue. 3/24, 9:30-10:30am - Our friends at GLI and Louisville Tourism have invited LIBA members in the hospitality industry to be part of this forum. More info here, and register here.
American Independent Business Alliance held a call yesterday to introduce new ideas for collaboration across IBAs and to share experiences from Austin (who was affected earlier when SXSW cancelled). You can view a recording here.
Independent Contractors - All sources confirm government is working on a way for independent contractors to file unemployment. Hopefully ready soon. Contractors are eligible to apply for SBA Disaster Loans as Sole Proprietors.
Unemployment Claims updates - A recording of today's call through KCCE with Deputy Secretary Benton that includes detailed information (including for businesses with over 100 employees, who can streamline the process) will be available by Monday. A summary of unemployment information is available on our resource page.
Job Matching Through GLI - Mass unemployment has begun to take hold in our region. At the same time, the demand for workers in industries like grocery, logistics and healthcare is rising exponentially. We are collecting data from companies that are hiring and match them to companies laying off employees. Please click here so that they can gauge your needs and work to match jobs.
Package liquor sales - Kentucky restaurants can temporarily sell package liquors to go.
Remember to update your business listing with helpful info as we drive traffic there! (hours, delivery/curbside options, etc.) Email Leslie if you need help.
Take care of yourself and hang in there! This is a challenging time, but it will not last forever. Let's support each other and come out an even stronger community!
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LIBA has developed an online resource and is sharing recommendations to help the community keep their local businesses in mind as we stay safe.
- Visit www.KeepLouisvilleWeird.com for a listing of local, independent businesses. Special space on each listing is dedicated to information useful during COVID-19 precautions. Keep checking back as our members update their information regularly. The directory is also searchable by businesses that offer delivery, curbside pickup, online ordering, etc.
- Give the Gift of Business - Buy a gift card (on the phone or online) that would cover your usual spend over the coming weeks. Then spend the gift cards later, or give them as gifts to others.
- Buy Now, Pick Up Later - If you had planned on purchasing an item, give the business a call. Pay for it now and have them set it aside for later pickup.
- Keep Up Your Memberships - If you have a membership to a gym, class, studio, etc. keep it going. Many small businesses count on that constant support to keep their doors open so they can be there when you come back.
- Curbside Pickup/Delivery - For restaurants and for retail! Many of our local independents are offering this service.
LIBA is also offering resources to support local businesses themselves. We are offering webinars on working from home, tutorials on Facebook lives that retailers can use for commerce, etc.
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The necessary act of employing social distancing has inflicted hardships upon individuals, families, communities, and businesses. As of Friday, March 20, the mandate to protect Kentuckians from the exposure to the coronavirus will be imposed upon child care providers.
Although it is a mandate of necessity, it is a mandate that is tumultuous for parents and providers alike. Parents, who still need child care services, are scrambling for an alternative; while, providers are wondering what to do next.
Jeff Quinlan, owner of A to Z Childcare and Preschool ( https://www.a-zchildcareky.com/contact), is a provider working hard to figure out next steps. “I don’t want to charge customers during this closure. We are all feeling the effects of Covid-19. But, my company pays tens of thousands of dollars in monthly expenses.” Quinlan sounds frustrated, and rightfully so. But he has remained focused. “I have been on the phone with my accountant a few times today to find creative ways to cut costs. We decided that one option to use immediately is to direct employees to sign up for unemployment benefits.” His aim is to lower A to Z’s labor costs to help reduce some of the company’s overhead and pass those savings on to his customers. Right now, every child care provider faces the challenging effects of the Covid-19 virus. Here are some resources that might help navigating this trying time:
Business Insurance- Many businesses have business interruption insurance. Contact your insurance agent to review your policy to understand precisely what you are and are not covered for in the event of an extended incident. Be sure to ask about benefits your company may have from disruption due to acts of God.
Access to Capital-The US Small Business Administration is rolling out low-interest federal disaster loans for eligible small businesses and non-profits struggling with the financial impact of the corona virus. The program is being developed in real-time, so all of the details are not yet available. Here are a few key details:
· Eligible small businesses can receive loans of up to $2 million.
· The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills that can’t be paid because of COVID-19.
· The interest rate is 3.75% for small businesses without other credit options, and 2.75% for non-profits.
· A long-term repayment plan of up to 30 years can help keep payments affordable.
I know that this is a very difficult time for you. If you think that I can be of assistance, feel free to reach me directly at 502-625-0124 or at toni.cardell@uky.edu SBA Info and Forms:
LOUISVILLE (March 20, 2020) – Mayor Greg Fischer and Louisville Metro Chief Health Strategist Dr. Sarah Moyer, who is leading the city’s battle against COVID-19, today warned that even young and healthy Louisvillians must take precautions against the COVID-19 virus.
Although data suggests that the virus is not as deadly for young people, it can make them sick, sometimes requiring hospitalization, and they can spread the virus to other, more vulnerable people.
Two of Louisville’s 25 confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been in people under the age of 18 – an 8-month-old and a 17-year-old – both of whom did not require hospitalization and recovered at home. There have been a total of 63 confirmed cases in the state as of Friday evening.
“We’ve been hammering away about social distancing and proper handwashing for weeks now, but we still see news reports from other cities of packed bars on St. Patrick’s Day and crowded beaches during spring break,” the Mayor said. “This virus does not care how old or how young you are. Everyone needs to take it seriously.”
Dr. Moyer said parents need to encourage their children to practice social distancing, frequent handwashing, and to avoid touching their faces. She also reiterated the necessity of shutting down schools and daycares.
“These are reasons why closing schools and daycares is essential to help stop the spread,” Dr. Moyer said. “As a mom of four young children, I understand how much these closings can disrupt our daily lives, but it’s vital to slow the spread of COVID-19 throughout the community.”
City acquiring protective gear for medical workers
The COVID-19 outbreak has strained the national supply of surgical masks, face shields, gowns, and other personal protective equipment (PPEs) used by medical workers, and Louisville is no exception.
Mayor Fischer said Louisville Metro Government has acquired a supply of PPEs and is distributing them to the city’s three major healthcare systems and other providers with COVID-19 cases.
“All the hospitals have the supplies they need for now, but we are prepared to help,” the Mayor said. “Louisville Metro Government is monitoring the national supply of PPEs and is working to acquire more.”
Dr. Moyer said the criteria for distributing PPE is at louisvilleky.gov/COVID19.
Mayor encourages Louisvillians to donate blood
Mayor Fischer also encouraged the Louisville community to help keep local hospitals supplied with blood during the COVID-19 outbreak.
The pandemic that is disrupting daily life in Louisville and the rest of the nation has forced the American Red Cross to curtail its usual schedule of community blood drives, impacting the supplies on hand at hospitals that are already under stress.
“While we’re all rightfully focused on COVID-19, our hospitals need to know that there will be enough blood on hand to maintain all their vital lifesaving functions,” the Mayor said.
American Red Cross officials said 117 local blood drives had been cancelled in recent days, resulting in nearly 4,000 fewer donations than normal.
“This is a time when many of us are feeling anxious and want to do something – anything – to help the community. Well, this is something you can do,” Mayor Fischer said. “If you are healthy, are feeling fine, and are eligible to donate blood, I urge you to do so.”
The American Red Cross is still accepting donations at its donation centers and will be conducting blood drives. To make an appointment or find a blood drive near you, go to RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS.
Red Cross employees are following safety protocols to help prevent the spread of any type of infection, including:
- Wearing gloves and changing gloves often
- Sanitizing beds after each donor
- Routinely wiping down donor-touched areas
- Using sterile collection sets for every donation and preparing the arm for donation with an aseptic scrub
- Checking the temperature of staff and donors to make sure they are healthy
- Providing hand sanitizer for use before entering the drive, as well as throughout the donation process
- Spacing donors to follow social distancing practices
- Increasing enhanced disinfecting of surfaces and equipment.
“For over 100 years, Kentuckians have looked to the American Red Cross during times of uncertainty while joining us in bringing help and hope to others,” said Cyndi Dahl, regional donor services executive at Red Cross Kentucky Blood Services. “In these unprecedented circumstances, we’re so grateful for the community’s generosity. Every day, hundreds of patients across the region are dependent on voluntary blood donors to help them fight for their lives. We’re urging all healthy individuals to join us in helping to ensure they won’t have to fight alone.”
Groceries and retailers responding to the outbreak
Mayor Fischer lauded the local groceries and retailers that have stepped up to help during the COVID-19 outbreak by offering special shopping hours for the elderly and people who are especially susceptible to the virus.
“These businesses and their employees are under the same stress that we all are, but they have made a commitment to ensure that our vulnerable population has safe access to essential items,” the Mayor said.
For more info, go to www.louisvilleky.gov/government/health-wellness/covid-19-response-community-agency-actions-taken-assist-our-most
Mayor Fischer also admonished people from hoarding essential items like toilet paper and cleaning supplies.
“One area where supply is not an issue is with our grocery stores,” the Mayor said. “Do the compassionate thing and leave essentials for your neighbors. There’s enough for everyone. There’s no need to hoard.”
Mayor to conduct online Q&A town hall on Saturday
Mayor Fischer will answer questions from the community during a Facebook Q&A at 10 a.m. Saturday. He’ll be joined by Dr. Jon Klein, Vice Dean for Research at the UofL School of Medicine and an expert in microbiology and immunology.
“We're committed to being as transparent as we can,” Mayor Fischer said. “Send your questions and we’ll answer as many as we can.”
Go to Facebook.com/MayorGregFischer to join the conversation.
Mayor preaches vigilance about COVID-19 misinformation
The COVID-19 outbreak has brought out the best in the community, but unfortunately it has inspired some to take advantage of their neighbors during this time of stress and confusion.
“Unfortunately, we know a crisis brings out scammers, especially on social media,” the Mayor said. “In a situation as serious as this, we have to do everything we can to fight back against disinformation.”
Mayor Fischer advised residents to get their facts about COVID-19 tests and medical supplies from Louisville Metro Government and the Commonwealth of Kentucky. When in doubt go to www.louisvilleky.gov, www.kycovid19.ky.gov, and the state COVID-19 Hotline, 1-800-722-5725.
https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus
It is not business as usual for any of us, and like you, we are trying to navigate the new normal and make sure we connect with you where you are, so welcome to the Frazier Virtual Museum. This is free content for you and your family. We hope you can learn from it, be entertained by it, but most importantly know that we are in this together.
https://fraziermuseum.org/virtualmuseum
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Although we are closed, we want everyone to stay connected with LFPL!
If you have a library card with overdue fine-restrictions, if you have a library card that has expired or is about to, or if you are eligible for a library card but don’t have one yet, we want to make sure LFPL’s digital resources are available for you during the COVID-19 related closure. That’s why we have decided to temporarily make the following changes:
- New Library cards will be granted virtually – follow directions at www.lfpl.org/get-card.htm*
- Restrictions due to overdue fines and replacement fees have been lifted
- Expired and soon-to-be expired library cards are extended until June 1st
- All holds have been extended to 21 days so that your current holds will be here when we reopen
- Late fees are suspended at this time, don’t worry about returning materials to the Library until we reopen
For up-to-date information on the coronavirus COVID-19, go to kycovid19.ky.gov
*Please note, our phones are staffed Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., so it is important to sign up for a card today before 5 p.m. to use digital resources over the weekend.
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Research your family history from home on Ancestry.com Library Edition, available now through April 30
In response to the COVID-19 crisis, ProQuest and Ancestry.com have made access to its Library Edition temporarily available to library patrons from home through April 30. Click here to get started.
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Louisville Metro launches Lift Up Lou initiative to help citizens stay connected
Lift Up Louisville is designed to lift up our spirits during the fight against Coronavirus. Find fun ways to stay active, connected, and healthy at LiftUpLou.com.
And be sure to watch Lift Up Lou daily on Facebook for live programming at 9 a.m. (Health & Fitness), 11 a.m. (Education), and 4 p.m. (Music/Performance). The Libray will be hosting Facebook Live storytime on Lift Up Lou every Monday at 11 a.m. We hope to see you then!
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Looking for more to do? LFPL now has more to offer!
Thanks to the generocity of a number of publishers and library service providers, LFPL is able to offer temporary access to more digital materials and online resources to help keep you informed, engaged, and entertained at this time.
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Although we are closed, we want everyone to stay connected with LFPL!
If you have a library card with overdue fine-restrictions, if you have a library card that has expired or is about to, or if you are eligible for a library card but don’t have one yet, we want to make sure LFPL’s digital resources are available for you during the COVID-19 related closure. That’s why we have decided to temporarily make the following changes:
- New Library cards will be granted virtually – follow directions at www.lfpl.org/get-card.htm*
- Restrictions due to overdue fines and replacement fees have been lifted
- Expired and soon-to-be expired library cards are extended until June 1st
- All holds have been extended to 21 days so that your current holds will be here when we reopen
- Late fees are suspended at this time, don’t worry about returning materials to the Library until we reopen
For up-to-date information on the coronavirus COVID-19, go to kycovid19.ky.gov
*Please note, our phones are staffed Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., so it is important to sign up for a card today before 5 p.m. to use digital resources over the weekend.
|
| |
|
Research your family history from home on Ancestry.com Library Edition, available now through April 30
In response to the COVID-19 crisis, ProQuest and Ancestry.com have made access to its Library Edition temporarily available to library patrons from home through April 30. Click here to get started.
|
| |
|
Louisville Metro launches Lift Up Lou initiative to help citizens stay connected
Lift Up Louisville is designed to lift up our spirits during the fight against Coronavirus. Find fun ways to stay active, connected, and healthy at LiftUpLou.com.
And be sure to watch Lift Up Lou daily on Facebook for live programming at 9 a.m. (Health & Fitness), 11 a.m. (Education), and 4 p.m. (Music/Performance). The Libray will be hosting Facebook Live storytime on Lift Up Lou every Monday at 11 a.m. We hope to see you then!
|
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|
Looking for more to do? LFPL now has more to offer!
Thanks to the generocity of a number of publishers and library service providers, LFPL is able to offer temporary access to more digital materials and online resources to help keep you informed, engaged, and entertained at this time.
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