Covid 19 Update

by | Apr 1, 2020 | Announcements, Blog, Public Official Updates

Dear District 35,
As we face the daily obstacles that COVID-19 has presented us with, the last thing that Brooklynites should have to do is struggle to provide food for themselves and their families. However, I am aware that this struggle is a reality for many of us.
This morning, I had the pleasure of hosting a food pantry with the Myrtle Avenue Revitalization Project and City Harvest. We were able to provide our neighbors with 22,000 pounds of avocados, potatoes, melons and oranges at two separate distribution sites within the district.
I want to thank MARP, City Harvest and all of our volunteers who came out to serve the community this morning. Over the past few weeks, we have witnessed first-hand the power of coming together as a community. Our city, and our borough have made us proud to be New Yorkers and I am confident that this sentiment will enable us to weather the storm all the better. While we are working tirelessly to support ourselves and our community, let’s also take time to appreciate our families, near or far.
Speaking of families, as a parent, I am aware that we aim to limit screen time, which can be challenging in times such as these. That being said, I have found some indoor activities that allow us to ditch electronics for a little while. Click here to learn how to use board games to help build important skills. If you are interested in crafts, try making an accomplishments box to learn how to start setting goals at an early age.
It breaks my heart that many have been forced to isolate from their loved ones, or are unable to travel to those who live out of state. If you are away from your family, try to give them a call and walk through the San Diego Zoo together or explore the Palace of Versailles all from the comfort of your couch! Click on the underlined text to get started on your adventure now.
Our current situation is an extraordinary one but we have done an incredible job as professionals, community, and family members to rise up and ensure that we are staying #TogetherApart.
As always, wash your hands frequently, practical social distancing when going out for essentials, and stay connected! #SpreadJoyNotGerms
Stronger Together,
Laurie A. Cumbo
Majority Leader, New York City Council
Food Pantry/Distribution Update
Rethink Cafe
154 Clinton Ave.
Brooklyn, NY 11205
Monday – Friday 10AM-5PM
Serving meal options with only a Suggested Donation of
$3 every day from 11am-3pm
 They also have grocery staples available 3 for $5!
Bethany United Methodist Church
1208 St Johns Place
Brooklyn, NY 11213
Soup Kitchen: Tuesdays, 12:30-2:30PM
Take-out only!
In the News
  • “According to NYC DOH data, neighborhoods in Central & South Brooklyn have been the hardest hit in Kings County.” This week in COVID-19; read everything you need to know so far in this article published by BKReader.
  • On Friday, Mayor De Blasio warned New Yorkers & religious institutions that they could soon be hit with fines as high as $500, for failure to comply with social distancing guidelines. Read more at NY1.
  • The USNS Comfort, which is headed to NYC to provide relief for local hospitals, is set to arrive on Monday, the Daily News reports.
  • Yesterday, Governor Cuomo announced the completion of NY’s first temporary hospital site at the Javits Center, now home to 1,000 hospital beds. This site is just the first of several that will be built in NYC, CNBC reports.
Daily Updates: Governor Cuomo
Watch “New York Gov. Cuomo announces Presidential approval of hospital sites at Brooklyn Cruise Terminal, Aqueduct Race Track (Queens), CUNY Staten Island & NY Expo Center (Bronx)- 3/28/2020”
Watch Live: New York Governor Cuomo Holds Coronavirus Briefing
Daily Updates:
Mayor De Blasio
Watch “Message from the Mayor” on YouTube. Update for 3/28 now!
Message from the Mayor, March 28, 2020
Art and Culture from Couch
Attend a Music Festival
Just because we’re social distancing, doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy the beautiful sounds of live music, without the long lines! “Stay at Home Festival” is an online music and events platform, offering concerts, film screenings, live meditation sessions & more! Click here to sign up for daily updates.
Help for Creative Workers Effected by COVID-19
For the first time ever, 1099 workers are able to receive the unemployment insurance they deserve. If you are a creative worker whose employment has been effected by COVID-19, please take note of the following information:
For additional information and resources, visit the Association of Performing Arts Professionals here.
#MajorityLeaderMom
Students, parents and teachers across the Borough are adjusting to remote learning. Mayor De Blasio remarked how we are “flying the plane as we’re building the plane.” Read more in the Brooklyn Paper.
Census 2020
We are just 3 DAYS Away From Census Day!
Fill out your form from your phone!
to get started!
#SelfCareCheckIn
Tips for Remaining Calm
From NYC Employee Assistance Programs
  • Focus on what you can control, let go of what you can’t.
  • Be cautious of over exposing yourself to news coverage. If the news is making you anxious, don’t be afraid to take a break from it. It’s OK to pace yourself with information.
  • Don’t forget to laugh!
  • Practice good hygiene, eat healthy and exercise.
The NYC Employee Assistance Program is available for free, confidential phone, video, or text sessions with licensed mental health professionals and have expanded hours.
Hours: 8AM-11PM, Monday through Friday
Phone: (212) 306-7660
For more information, visit their website here.