Published on: Sunday, March 15, 2020 City Council & Mayor Blog

A message from Mayor Kate Stewart to the City of Takoma Park Community

 

Our country and community are facing a fast-evolving public health crisis. As we face this crisis, we do so together.

It is times such as this that we are reminded that we live in a wonderful community and have an incredibly hard-working, dedicated staff.

For the last few weeks, the City staff have been preparing for the events that are now upon us.

The state and county have announced widespread closings of public facilities and out of an abundance of caution, the City is also putting in place closures. All of this is to minimize contact with others that could spread the coronavirus that causes COVID-19.

Tonight, on March 13th, at 7 pm, the City of Takoma Park facilities will be closed to the public. Almost all meetings, events, classes, and sports will be closed to the public through at least Sunday, March 29.  The Community Center, Library, Rec Center and public access to Public Works will all be closed.

All essential services will continue. Police officers will continue to work, and public works employees will continue to collect trash and recycling. Other City employees will work at home, as well as they are able to. We will be consistent with the State and County approach to the crisis.

As it became clear this week that we would be facing school and other closures, members of the community have begun to step forward and ask how they can be assistance. I want to share below a list of just some of the ways people can help others in our community during this time. This is not a complete list and please send me any additional resources we should share with members of the community.

Citywide Programs:
  • Apply now! Small Business Mini-Grant Applications being accepted

    The City of Takoma Park has established a Takoma Park Citywide Small Business Mini-Grant Program to provide emergency assistance to small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The City will issue grants of up to $3,000 per business for their immediate needs.

    Purpose:
    The COVID-19 pandemic. The City will issue grants of up to $3,000 per business for their immediate needs. For more info: Grants Program

  • Donation: The City of Takoma Park has established a Citywide Small Business Mini-Grant Program in response to the immediate needs of small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. For more info: Donations

  • Emergency Assistance Fund– The City of Takoma Park offers an Emergency Assistance Fund to support residents in need of emergency financial assistance for basic needs such as housing, utilities, prescription drugs, or food.
  • Meals on Wheels– There are local Meals on Wheels program that provides assistance for those who need meals.
  • Village of Takoma Park– The Village of Takoma Park provides support for older adults and people with disabilities.
  • Food Pantry at TPMS – The Difference Makers at TPMS have a food pantry for families. During the school closing, volunteers will continue to provide food for families’ needs. To donate food you can go her here to order nonperishable items that will be delivered to TPMS.
  • Support local businesses – Old Town Business Association has a micro-grants program people can donate to support grants to local businesses.
  • TPSS-Co-op – For taking steps in our community.

Many other individuals and organizations work in our City to support those in need. We thank Manna Food Center, Capital Area Food Bank, Adventist Community Services, Crossroads Community Food Network, Small Things Matter and many others.

The next few weeks will not be easy. Our lives will be disrupted. And I know that together, supporting and treating each other with kindness we will get through this together.