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Nov. 4, 2020
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View this email through Google Translate: Español | Hmoob | Soomaali
Saliva testing offered at Roy Wilkins Auditorium
The Minnesota Department of Health has expanded options for COVID-19 testing with a new saliva testing hub in Saint Paul. The saliva test may feel more comfortable than a nasal swab, and is available seven days a week at no cost. Saliva testing is not right for those with low saliva production, such as children under age 4 or someone who has suffered a stroke.
What to expect at saliva testing sites:
- Testing is available to anyone who believes they need to be tested, with or without symptoms. Identification is not required. An email address and phone number is needed to receive results.
- Insurance not required. If you do have insurance, bring your card.
- The test is completely free, with or without insurance, and you will not receive a bill.
Monday - Friday (12 - 7 p.m.)
Saturday - Sunday (10 a.m. - 4 p.m.)
Roy Wilkins Auditorium, next to RiverCentre 175 W. Kellogg Blvd., Saint Paul, MN 55102
Schedule appointment with Vault Health
COVID-19 testing parking & entrance Map (PDF)
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Other COVID testing
Ramsey County and partners continue to offer regular nasal swab testing at community sites.
Visit ramseycounty.us/TestingSites for the latest updates and registration links.
Landlord Assistance program provides one-time grants
Are you a landlord in Ramsey County and have tenants who have been unable to make rent payments as a result of COVID-19?
The Ramsey County Landlord Assistance program provides one-time grants to landlords for up to $20,000 per rental unit for tenants' missed rent payments and/or unpaid fees from March 1, 2020 through Dec. 30, 2020 due to COVID-19.
Learn more.
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Ramsey County acquires lease to turn Bethesda Hospital into a homeless shelter
Ramsey County has approved a lease agreement with M Health Fairview to utilize Bethesda Hospital in Saint Paul as an emergency shelter for those experiencing homelessness. The lease will be in effect from Dec. 1, 2020, through May 31, 2022. The facility will provide 100+ beds and 24/7 services through spring 2022.
Please visit ramseycounty.us/Bethesda for the latest information on the project.
Sign up for Bethesda site updates.
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COVID-19 Community Conversations with Dr. Lynne Ogawa
Join Dr. Lynne Ogawa, Medical Director for Saint Paul – Ramsey County Public Health, for a series of virtual community conversations about COVID-19 and how to protect yourself, your family and our community.
Conversations will be held monthly and hosted by Ramsey County’s COVID-19 Racial Equity and Community Engagement Response Team. The conversations will be held online through Zoom meetings.
November Topic: To be determined Date: Nov. 18, 4-5 p.m. Location: Online via Zoom meeting
Watch the Oct. 28 town hall on testing.
You can submit questions in advance by email or ask them during the event.
Learn more.
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Resiliency Fund launches to help community organizations impacted by COVID-19: Workforce applications currently open
The Ramsey County Resiliency Fund will invest in community organizations that provide workforce, employment, food security, and health and well-being services to residents in 2020. The fund is an initiative of the Ramsey County Investment and Support Efforts program.
Learn more about the Workforce Resiliency Fund.
Applications for the food security and health and well-being phases are expected to open later this month.
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TechPak application period closing today
TechPak, a partnership between Tech Dump, Literacy Minnesota, Saint Paul Public Library and Ramsey County, brings computers, internet and digital literacy training into the homes of Ramsey County residents who have experienced economic impacts due to COVID-19.
The packs include a refurbished laptop, a hotspot for internet access and quick start guides. Additionally, each computer comes pre-loaded with bookmarks to assist in job searches and trainings, and comes with a one-year warranty.
During the current enrollment period, Nov. 2-4, TechPaks will be awarded to eligible Ramsey County residents who have experienced job loss, reduced hours, change of household income or have other barriers due to COVID-19.
Details about the application process can be found at ramseycounty.us/TechPak.
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Did you lose your job due to COVID-19?
Help is available at free Community Career Labs across Ramsey County. Labs offer computer and internet access along with job search support. Get the tools and resources you need to step back into the workforce with confidence.
All locations follow COVID-19 safety guidelines. Reservations are required, and many same-day, walk-up appointments have been available at all sites.
Learn more.
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Food security community conversation to be held Nov. 9
Ramsey County is hosting an online community conversation on Nov. 9 from 4-5:30 p.m. about the future of food security in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. The conversation will include a brief summary of the county’s food security work to date in response to COVID-19 and previous community conversations, and an opportunity to brainstorm ideas in small groups on how to best address Ramsey County’s food security needs into 2021 and beyond.
All are welcome; we especially encourage participation from community members and providers that have been previously engaged in food security work, as well as individuals or groups who’ve received or provide services in response to the pandemic.
Learn more.
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2020 general election results
Modified services at the Library
Ramsey County Library is committed to providing efficient, effective and equitable operational approaches during the COVID-19 pandemic. We have a variety of modified services available for residents.
Modified services include but are not limited to:
- Holds and printed documents pickup via curbside or grab and go services.
- Home delivery for eligible Ramsey County residents.
- Ramsey County Service Centers at the libraries in Maplewood, Roseville and Shoreview.
- Community Career Labs at the libraries in Maplewood and Roseville.
- Provisional library accounts.
Digital resources, online services and virtual programs are also available to enjoy from home. Learn more about modified services at rclreads.org.
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Social distanced outdoor fall and winter fun
Ramsey County’s parks, trails and open spaces have become a source of stress relief and physical activity for many during this difficult year, allowing visitors to strike a balance between social distancing and feeling a sense of connection to nature and their community.
While the cold weather may change the way people enjoy the outdoors, there are still plenty of opportunities for fun – hiking, biking, sledding, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are just the tip of the iceberg.
Explore some winter time offerings through Ramsey County Parks & Recreation.
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COVID-19 update from the Oct. 27 board of commissioners meeting
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