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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Carolyn Marinan, Communications, 612-348-5969

130 people experiencing homelessness moved to alternative accommodations in response to COVID-19

Providing alternative accommodations for people experiencing homelessness who are at especially high-risk of COVID-19 (including the elderly and those with underlying health conditions) has been a top priority for Hennepin County this week. Yesterday, staff moved 130 people out of congregate shelter settings into alternative living arrangements at area hotels.

On Tuesday, March 17, the Hennepin County Board approved $3 million to secure alternative accommodations for high-risk individuals, as well as separate spaces for people who may become sick or have tested positive for COVID-19.

As of Friday afternoon, four people with flu-like symptoms have been identified and moved to separate living spaces and one has been tested for COVID-19. There are currently no documented positive cases of COVID-19 within the Hennepin County shelter system.

Media availability 

David Hewitt, Hennepin County director of the Office to End Homelessness will be available for media inquiries today between noon and 2 p.m. Contact Carolyn Marinan at 612-348-5969 to coordinate.

Look for more news on the Hennepin County website at hennepin.us/news.

Discover how we're making a difference in our communities at hennepin.us/stories.