May 2021 newsletter: Information on COVID-19 vaccines and testing, Mental Health and Foster Care Awareness Months and 2021 road projects

Ramsey County, Minnesota sent this bulletin at 05/03/2021 07:00 AM CDT

May 2021 Newsletter

- Coronavirus/COVID-19 updates.
- Mental health and foster care awareness months.
- Property taxes due.
- 2021 road projects.
- Upcoming events.
- In the news.

COVID-19 updates

How to get your COVID-19 shot

Vaccine is now available at locations throughout the community. The vaccine is free, no insurance or ID required.

Sign up for a Saint Paul - Ramsey County Public Health community clinic. Walk-ins now available.
Sign up for the community clinic at the state fairgrounds.
Use the Minnesota Vaccine Locator Map to find providers.
Use the CDC VaccineFinder to find pharmacy appointments.
Contact your primary health care provider or a local pharmacy.

Sign up for e-updates on additional opportunities to get the vaccine

Families encouraged to test regularly

Testing for COVID-19 is an important strategy in slowing the spread of the virus. The state of Minnesota is recommending that schoolchildren and their families get tested for COVID-19 at least every two weeks, and every week for those participating in sports.

As of April 26, 2021, in order to continue sports and in-person learning, the state strongly encourages the following:

All Minnesotans participating in organized sports should test every week.
Every student in middle and high school, regardless of participation in activities, should test every two weeks.

View testing sites in Ramsey County

No-cost at-home COVID-19 saliva testing is also available.

View test at home information

In-person assistance available at Service Centers

Ramsey County Service Centers offer in-person assistance with a wide range of county services including Navigator assistance, computer access and secure document drop boxes.

All sites follow Public Health guidelines for COVID-19.

Visit a Service Center location or fill out a referral form for help

Federal funding available for COVID-impacted restaurants

A new American Rescue Plan program provides millions of dollars in financial support for qualifying restaurants and similar businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Learn more about the Restaurant Revitalization Fund

Virtual community healing circles to support health and well-being

Residents are invited to attend a series of virtual community healing circles to address the hurt and trauma caused by the killing of George Floyd last summer and civil unrest that followed, the recent trial and verdict, and the killing of Daunte Wright in April.

These healing circles are organized in partnership with the city of Saint Paul.

View dates and times of community healing circles

Mental health and foster care awareness months

May is Mental Health Awareness Month and Foster Care Awareness Month.

Each of us can play a role in promoting good mental health by reaching out virtually to a friend, family member or a loved one. Ramsey County provides a variety of mental health resources.

Attend a mental health month virtual event

This month we also recognize the 1,033 licensed foster care providers, policymakers, child welfare professionals, and others who help the 1,000+ youth in Ramsey County foster care find brighter futures and permanent homes.

First-half property taxes due May 17

The deadline for first-half property taxes is May 17, 2021. Payments will be accepted via U.S. mail, at secure form drop-off locations and electronically.

Learn about your payment options

Understanding your statements

A short video is available to help you better understand property taxes and valuations:

2021 road construction and maintenance projects

Ramsey County Public Works will lead or participate in dozens of 2021 projects that will improve travel and commerce throughout communities in the east metro and improve safety conditions for motorists, bicyclists, pedestrians and transit users.

Major projects include the reconstruction of Cleveland Avenue between Como and Larpenteur avenues and the resurfacing of County Road B2 between Fairview and Hamline avenues.

View all projects for 2021 season