Essential Human Services & Nonprofits Open During Michigan Shutdown

Ottawa County, Michigan sent this bulletin at 03/24/2020 08:42 AM EDT

March 24, 2020
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Essential Human Services & Nonprofits Open During Michigan Shutdown

Governor’s Executive Order permits residents to leave their homes to seek assistance, volunteer or make donations

On Monday, March 23, Governor Whitmer issued an executive order suspending activities that are not necessary to sustain or protect life. The order mandated that residents remain home, leaving only for essential functions. At this time, most vital human services organizations in Ottawa County will remain open and accessible to those seeking assistance. These agencies will continue to ensure vulnerable citizens are housed, fed and healthy during the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to language in the Executive Order, the following are defined as essential services: businesses and operations (including both and religious and secular nonprofit organizations) that provide food, shelter, and other necessities of life for economically disadvantaged or otherwise needy individuals, individuals who need assistance as a result of this emergency, and people with disabilities.

Residents are permitted to leave their homes in order to seek help with food, shelter and other basic needs. In addition, people may leave their homes if they plan to volunteer with, or are transporting donations to, an essential service.

It is important to note, however, that residents should connect directly with the organization they intend to access to confirm hours and other basic details, whether it is for obtaining services, donating or volunteering. Always observe social distancing guidelines by remaining at least six feet apart.

About the Lakeshore Nonprofit Alliance: The Lakeshore Nonprofit Alliance (LNA) is a membership-based organization providing resources and services to over 160 members in the greater Ottawa County area. LNA exists to strengthens the ability of nonprofit organizations to accomplish their missions by working together.

Media Contacts

Patrick Cisler | Lakeshore Nonprofit Alliance Executive Director | 616-594-7133 |

patrick@lakeshorenonprofits.org

Lakeshore Nonprofit Alliance | 96 W 15th Street Suite 105 | Holland, MI 49423 | lakeshorenonprofits.org

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Ottawa County is located on Lake Michigan’s spectacular freshwater coastline where nature is cherished and protected. More than the lakeshore, you’ll find the people of Ottawa County friendly yet driven, working hard to succeed in charming downtown small businesses, at manufacturing hubs with global impact and on acres passed down from generations. We embrace creativity and believe that diversity makes us stronger. We resolve that our public services must be high-quality and cost-effective. We are innovative and never wait for someone to solve our problems for us. We are friendly neighbors chipping in, lending a hand and making sure you know Ottawa County is where you belong.

The Ottawa County Board of Commissioners meets the second and fourth Tuesdays each month at 1:30PM. The public is welcome and encouraged to participate. Meetings are held in the Board Room located at 12220 Fillmore Street, West Olive, Michigan.

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