July 8, 2020
Updates from the Governor
At the Department of Indian Work food shelf today, Governor Tim Walz and Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan announced $12 million to combat hunger in Minnesotan amid COVID-19. This funding will support approximately 300 food shelves and all seven food banks across Minnesota.
Approximately 300 thousand Minnesotans have visited food shelves each month since the pandemic began, representing approximately a 30 percent increase over typical visits. The $12 million in emergency support for food shelves, food banks, and other emergency food efforts across the state will help meet this unprecedented demand.
Information about food assistance resources is available on the state’s food emergency webpage. Minnesotans can fill out a Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) application online at ApplyMN.dhs.mn.gov. For help applying or additional food resources, contact the Food Helpline at 1-888-711-1151 or visit Hunger Solutions. By July 31, 2020, eligible families can request additional P-EBT benefits, which are SNAP benefits for families with school children who qualify for the federal free and reduced-price meal program. Apply at https://mn.p-ebt.org/.
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.
Resources
- Visit mn.gov/covid19 to learn more about Minnesota’s COVID-19 Response and Preparation
- Find a testing location in your community
- CDC Situation Updates
- Apply for Unemployment Insurance
- Minnesota Department of Health Updates
- About COVID-19