We are here to build a community to support us through our Social Distancing Efforts. Play games, make friends, learn things. Together we are strong.
Greater Lowell Community Foundation COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund
Due to the rising concern of the impact of the COVID-19 virus , particularly on vulnerable populations in our community, such as the elderly, low-income and homeless, the Greater Lowell Community Foundation is starting the GLCF COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund to support the unanticipated needs of those nonprofits serving our community during these uncertain times. Requests have come into the foundation for funds to cover unforeseen costs of needs including: portable sinks, antibacterial supplies, lunch bags and supplies as well as prepackaged food. The Community Foundation has seeded the GLCF COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund with an initial amount of $10,000. GLCF will accept community donations and working in concert with our public health departments, will strategically grant to local nonprofits serving those affected by the COVID-19 virus.
Two Lowell residents test positive for COVID-19
Two Lowell residents have tested positive for COVID-19, the first presumptive positive caces in the City.
Projects and Virtual Class from Lowell Makes
Lowell Makes, the downtown Makerspace in Lowell, is preparing virtual classes and activities to reduce loneliness and anxiety.
Additionally, Lowell Makes has prepared a list of activities, crafts, and instructions to learn new skills.
Massachuetts closes schools, restaurants for 3 weeks
Summary
Starting on March 17th, and continuing until April 6th:
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All elementary and secondary schools are suspended
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Gatherings are limited to 25 people
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Restaurants cannot serve food, but can offer take-out and delivery
Additionally:
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All medical insurances must cover telehealth services
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Insurers must cover COVID-19 treatment and testing without co-pays or coinsurance
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Assisted living residences are to ban visitors
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Hospitals must screen visitors
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Hospitals must cancel non-essential elective procedures
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The RMV is extending expiration dates for licenses that would expire between March 1st, 2020 and April 30th, 2020
Lowell Public Schools Grab and Go Meals
Lowell Public Schools has announced the schedule and locations where lunch will be provided for students.
Locations: Bartlett, Butler, Greenhalge, Lincoln, Moody, Murkland, Pawtucketville, Robinson, and STEM (Rogers)
See the linked schedule for the exact locations and times when food is available.
Information and Resources via 211
All 211 providers across the United States and Canada are operational and continue to connect people with services and resources in their local communities, including people who are in need of financial or other assistance as a result of lost wages from event cancellations, business closures, and quarantines.
Additionally, many 211s are working closely with state and local health officials to provide up-to-date information to the general public about the virus and outbreak.
Lowell Public Schools Closed March 16-March 27th
Summary
All Lowell Public Schools will be closed for two weeks, starting Monday, March 16, 2020 through Friday, March 27, 2020. This includes all school-related activities scheduled to take place during this period of time.
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Still no confirmed cases in Lowell
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Central office continuing operations with remote access as deemed appropriate
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The Family Resource Center (FRC) will be open, providing limited services.
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Preschool registration will be delayed, from the originally scheduled date of March 16th.
Lunch
Lunch will be provided at 5 sites, with a food truck on location for 30 minutes a day at each site.
A schedule will be sent when it has been finalized.
Lowell Public Schools is also working to set up additional sites as needed.