Coronavirus (COVID-19) Resources
Fourth District residents,
As the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic continues to unfold, many people are wondering where to find information they can trust to keep themselves and their families healthy and safe. These are unprecedented times, and though it can feel overwhelming, we will get through this – and each of us has a role to play. My hope is that the resources below are helpful and informative for you as we continue to take on the challenge of slowing the spread of this disease.
The American Rescue Plan was signed into law on March 11, 2021. Read my full statement on how this life-saving bill will help Minnesota families, small businesses, and local governments stay afloat.
While my office is closed to the public, staff are available remotely for questions, concerns, or casework matters that need direct assistance. Please note that my staff does not have regular access to incoming postal mail or faxes. Please call my St. Paul office at (651) 224-9191 or send a message here.
Be well,
Betty McCollum
Member of Congress
STAY HEALTHY
Slow the spread ("flatten the curve") by following CDC recommendations:
- Wash your hands frequently for 20 seconds.
- Stay home if you are sick.
- If you are able, work from home (find tips for telecommuting here and here).
- Practice social distancing best practices, like avoiding groups, social events, and staying at least 6 feet apart from other individuals in all public places.
- More information here.
What to do if you get sick:
- Stay home and self-manage symptoms if you can.
- If your illness worsens, seek medical care. Before going to the doctor's office or emergency room, call ahead and tell them your symptoms. They will tell you what to do.
- More information from the Minnesota Department of Health here and the CDC here.
Manage your mental health:
Food Resources:
- Minnesota Department of Human Services Food Emergency Resources
- Map of food pickup locations for Minnesotans
- Restaurants offering free meals for kids during school closings
- Information for Seniors from the MDH
- Information about Meals on Wheels
- Free Meals for Kids app can be downloaded at Apple or Google Play app stores.
- School district information on free meals for children during school closures:
STAY INFORMED
Find the latest information and updates from these trusted sources:
- Minnesota Department of Health (MDH)
- Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- Additional information and resources from Ramsey County and Washington County.
- Summary of resources from federal agencies
Economic Impact Payments: All first and second Economic Impact Payments (otherwise referred to as "direct cash payments" or "stimulus checks") have been sent. If you didn't receive all or part of the first or second direct payments, you may qualify for the Recovery Rebate Credit and must file a 2020 tax return to claim the credit, even if you don't normally file. See Recovery Rebate Credit for more information. Third-round economic impact payments from the American Rescue Plan were distributed starting on March 12, 2021. Find more information here.
Minnesota Agencies and Governor's Office Resources:
- State of Minnesota COVID-19 Dashboard, with the latest information and updates on COVID-19 cases in Minnesota.
- Read the latest on COVID-19 vaccines in Minnesota.
- Information on Gov. Walz's "Stay Safe" order here.
- Apply for Minnesota Unemployment Insurance benefits.
- Minnesota veterans and surviving spouses facing financial hardship because of COVID-19 can apply for a one-time Disaster Relief Grant or Special Needs Grant. Learn more and apply here.
Minnesota Coronavirus (COVID-19) Hotlines:
- General questions: 651-201-3920
- School and child care questions: 651-297-1304
Resources for Small Businesses:
- MN Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) information on applying for SBA disaster loans and information on the state Emergency Loan Program.
- Guidance for small businesses from the Minnesota Department of Health.
- Information for Minnesota Businesses and Organizations here.
STAY ENGAGED
Protect Yourself From Scams:
- Information from the IRS.*Do not give out your Social Security Number or other personal information to any entity claiming that you need to "sign up" to receive a federal stimulus check.*
- Information from the FBIon avoiding phishing, airline refund scams, fake testing kits, and more.
- Information on avoiding Medicare and Social Security scams.
- Recent scam alerts and helpful tips from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), and 5 things you can do to avoid a scam:
How You Can Help:
- FEMA guidance on donations and volunteering.
- Helping others in Minnesota.
Newsletter Sign-up:
- Sign up for Congresswoman McCollum's E-Newsletter here.