Even though we’re all figuratively frozen in place, there still are plenty of new developments unfolding across Arapahoe County and throughout Colorado. The Ticker will provide new or updated information as it arises. This week’s edition focuses on keeping an eye out for COVID scams, details for how to view our recent town halls, a guide to making your own masks, and more.
Beware of COVID Scams
With public health crises comes the potential for fraud. This could be anything from fake charities to suspect companies offering emergency “loans.” Here’s how you can avoid falling victim to COVID-related scams. https://coag.gov/coronavirus/
Missed a Telephone Town Hall Q&A event?
Listen to them on the County’s YouTube channel. Dr. Douglas’s “Tips for Healthy Living” videos are there as well. www.youtube.com/arapahoecountygov
CDC DIY Face Mask Instructions and FAQs.
The latest guidelines recommend that all people over two years old wear mask when out in public, and the federal public health agency has published details about how to make and wear these masks.
Sheriff’s Office Issues a Stage 1 Fire Ban
The Arapahoe County Sheriff implemented this ban because the ground is drying out and COVID-19 is taking a toll on emergency efforts, which could slow down response times. Stage One means no open burning of any kind without a permit from the appropriate fire district, and no use of fireworks. To learn more, visit https://tinyurl.com/ACSOburnban
Elections 2020: Suggest Locations for Three New Ballot Drop Boxes
Won’t you help these three new ballot drop boxes find permanent homes before the Nov. 3 General Election? If you know of a public area in the County that could benefit from an additional ballot drop box location, suggest it! You can make a suggestion by email at elections@arapahoegov.com, or through this online form. The deadline for submissions is April 27.
Childcare Assistance for Essential Services Providers
If you have young children and are still working during the COVID crisis, you may be eligible for emergency child care assistance. Visit CovidChildCareColorado.com for information and to fill out an application.
Resources for Individuals With Disabilities
The Disability and Employment Community has compiled a list of federal resources to support individuals with disabilities. This targeted listing will be updated as new information is shared and updated from different federal agencies.
USDA Provides Relief to Rural Communities
The USDA Rural Development division has taken a number of immediate actions, in areas such as loans and housing assistance, to help rural residents, businesses and communities affected by the COVID-19 outbreak. Read more about these offers at the USDA site.
Support for parents
The Shiloh House has many resources available during this challenging time. They have a support line—303-695-7996—where individuals can speak to a professional who can address parenting concerns, listen to their needs, and direct them to appropriate services and resources.
The Shiloh House also has a no-cost parent support group, the Circle of Parents. This group meets virtually, and is parent-led and facilitated by a staff member. To join the Monday English group from 6-8 p.m., or the Tuesday Spanish group from 6-8 p.m., call 303- 695-7996. Statewide Spanish groups are also available on Mondays from 9:30-10:30 am and Wednesdays from 6:30-7:30 p.m. via this link. Find a Circle of Parents group here.
Fill Out Your Form!
The 2020 Census Paper Questionnaires Have Arrived Colorado households have begun receiving a 2020 Census paper questionnaire in the mail. You can respond to the survey online, by phone, or by mail – all without having to meet a census taker. All Coloradans should self-respond as soon as possible and make Colorado the state with the highest 2020 Census self-response rate in the nation! Go to 2020census.gov or call 1-844-330-2020 and cross it off your to-do list today.