Gov. Walz and Lt. Gov. Flanagan Update: August 24, 2020

August 24, 2020

Updates from the Governor

Minnesota’s $100 million COVID-19 Housing Assistance Program officially launched today, which will help prevent eviction and homelessness and maintain housing stability for eligible renters and homeowners. The program is funded by the federal CARES Act and is designed to cover expenses such as rent, mortgage, utilities, or other housing-related costs. 

Local administrators will review applications from individuals and families requesting assistance, verify eligibility, and process payments for eligible expenses on behalf of households. Minnesotans interested in applying and learning more about the program can begin the application process by calling Greater Twin Cities United Way’s 211 Resource Helpline (Toll Free: 1.800.543.7709; Local: 651.291.0211), visiting 211unitedway.org, or texting “MNRENT” or “MNHOME” to 898-211. The 211 helpline has dedicated multilingual staff available to answer questions about the COVID-19 Housing Assistance Program, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Also today, Governor Walz and Lt. Governor Flanagan issued statements on the police shooting of Jacob Blake in Wisconsin. 

“Let this strengthen our resolve to continue our fight for police reform and accountability until no person has to fear for their lives in the presence of law enforcement due to the color of their skin,” said Governor Walz. “In July, I signed the Minnesota Police Accountability Act into law, but that did not end our work on police reform. We will continue to work with the DFL POCI Caucus to advance meaningful change.”

“I’m praying for Jacob Blake, his children and loved ones, and for Kenosha,” said Lt. Governor Flanagan. “Here we are in the aftermath of yet another incident of police shooting a Black man. We must use our anger and grief to end the racist systems that perpetuate violence against Black people.”

Everyone can work to reduce the spread of COVID-19

  • Wear masks when in public. 10-50% of virus carriers are asymptomatic wearing masks helps control the virus and has been shown to lower COVID-19 spread. 
  • Avoid enclosed spaces with groups of people, where the virus can linger in the air for long periods of time.
  • Get tested if you have cold or flu-like symptoms – Find testing locations. 
  • Stay six feet away from others.
  • Cover your coughs and sneezes with your elbow or sleeve, or a tissue and then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands afterwards.
  • Washing your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom or before eating. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
  • Avoid touching your face – especially your eyes, nose and mouth – with unwashed hands.
  • Up-to-date guidance is available from the Department of Health.

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