COVID-19 is changing the lives of North Carolina residents, but the community is adapting to the change and helping each other out with necessary services such as emergency childcare for health care workers and other essential employees. | Stock photo
COVID-19 is changing the lives of North Carolina residents, but the community is adapting to the change and helping each other out with necessary services such as emergency childcare for health care workers and other essential employees. | Stock photo
Stokes County commissioners said the coronavirus pandemic is turning residents’ lives upside down as society grapples with a new reality.
Not only are North Carolina schools now distance learning, but numerous other changes are taking place throughout the state as COVID-19 precautionary measures, the Stokes News reports.
One such change is that grocery stores are struggling to adequately stock in-demand items.
Grocery stores' managers have said inventory is being delivered, however, demands are causing stores to run out of products quickly such as paper products, cleaning supplies and meats, the Stokes News reported.
Other state changes deal with social gatherings.
Stokes County Health Department Director Tammy Martin proclaimed that social gatherings cannot have 10 or more people.
“It’s all about prevention now,” Martin told the Stokes News. “We will reevaluate the situation in 15 days [April 1] and it may go back up to 50. … Exceptions are work and essential services. If you want to go out and have a little party or something it’s going to be 10. It’s social-distancing time.”
Some organizations are raising capital to help support the business community. The Golden LEAF Foundation, in partnership with other organizations, is offering at least $15 million through the rapid recovery loan program for small businesses.
“Small businesses are more than just job providers, they are pillars of our communities,” Gov. Roy Cooper said in a statement. “They need our support now more than ever, and this program can help people across the state as we weather the effects of this pandemic.”
The Stokes Family YMCA is offering emergency childcare medical professionals, essential workers and first-responders, he Stokes News reported.
“The days will be filled with high-quality programming that will include homework time with certified teachers,” the Stokes Family YMCA said. “In order to keep all staff and children safe, we will take each child’s temperature upon arrival to help ensure they are not sick. Please allow for some extra time for these additional daily safety precautions.”
The YMCA is charging a flat rate of $100 per week and is also offering financial scholarships.
Alerts Sign-up