COVID-19 Update: Stay Home Order Extended

Your Update on What's Happening at the King County Council  

Dear Friends and Neighbors:

Yesterday, Governor Inslee extended the “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order for another 30 days, mandating that people should continue staying at home until May 4th, aside from essential activities.

I know that compliance with this order will this will be tough. It will test us mentally, physically, and economically. However, the data shows that our efforts to social distance is slowing the spread of COVID-19 here in King County—even as infection rates and death tolls rise in other communities across our nation. I am convinced that this strong early action will save our region from a much worse fate. Together, we will get through this.

I am sensitive to the fact that for many small businesses—the lifeblood of our local economy and the backbone of our communities—this is an especially painful time. As of this morning, nearly $350 billion in loans are available for struggling small businesses through the federal Paycheck Protection Program. Small businesses can also get assistance up to $10,000 through a federal Economic Injury Disaster Loan. You can find more information on these programs below.   

It’s more important now than ever that we unite as a community to work through this crisis together. Many critical community organizations—such as the Maple Valley Food Bank, which I visited this week—are seeing increasing demand for their services as unemployment rises. That's why I am working to find ways to identify needs and create opportunities for our citizens to take part in the COVID-19 response.  

While we navigate through this challenging time, please know that there are resources available to help you. You can visit our COVID-19 Financial Resources website for information on unemployment, worker’s comp, and more. And don’t forget to check on your neighbors, friends, and family members in the month ahead as we follow the stay home order.

Stay safe,

Reagan Dunn Vice Chair Metropolitan King County Council

Project CARE: Support Your Local Food Bank

I recently paid a visit to the Maple Valley Food Bank, an organization that provides many people in my district with access to nutritious food during hard times. Thank you to their Director Lindsey Habenicht for giving me me a look behind the scenes at their operations and sharing ways that folks can support their critical work.

You can learn more about the Maple Valley Food Bank at their website.
Reach out to your own local food bank for more opportunities to contribute!

Resources for Small Biz: Paycheck Protection Program and FEMA Economic Injury Grants

As of this morning, nearly $350 billion in loans are available to small businesses struggling during the COVID-19 crisis through the federal Paycheck Protection Program. This program makes loans up to $10 million available to businesses with fewer than 500 employees. Find more information on the Paycheck Protection Program on the SBA’s website.

Additionally, small businesses with temporary revenue loss can get up to $10,000 through a federal Economic Injury Disaster Loan. Again, any business with fewer than 500 employees is eligible and the funds need not be repaid. Information about Economic Injury Disaster Loan is also available on the SBA’s website. 

COVID-19 Special Enrollment Extended for WA Health Plan

The Washington Health Benefit Exchange has announced a limited-time special enrollment period for qualified individuals who are currently without insurance.

Through April 8^th, individuals who lose their employer-provided health insurance can enroll in health insurance coverage through Washington Health Plan Finder. For help selecting a plan and filling out an application, contact a Navigator.

Mortgage Payment Assistance Available

The state has issued guidance to mortgage companies to work with homeowners who may not be able to make their mortgage payments, including offering forbearance. You can find more information here, including tips on how to work with your mortgage servicer.

Applications Now Open for 4Culture Cultural Relief Grants

Grant funds are available for cultural workers who have suffered financial hardship from the COVID-19 outbreak or have an innovative idea that shows promise in supporting other King County residents and for organizations whose primary mission relates to arts, heritage, or preservation. Both individuals and organizations can apply at any time now through May 15.