Coronavirus Update 06.30.2020
Dear Friend,
I'm in Washington to advance meaningful reform for our policing systems across America. Here are some highlights:
Fighting for equitable justice
In response to the recent civil unrest and heightened racial tensions across our country, I voted to pass the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act of 2020. Now is the time to be bold in the face of racial injustice and create meaningful change in our nation. We need to work together --the House, Senate and the President -- if we're to have comprehensive reform. It must be bipartisan to have the President sign this into law. Otherwise, there will be no reform this year. This measure works to improve transparency and create a change that safeguards every American's right to safety and justice.
Local industry stepping up
I recently toured Total Concept Enterprises (TCE) of Fresno, one of many Valley companies who pivoted to produce Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) during this health crisis. TCE switched from manufacturing metal fabrications to making clear safety dividers with help from CARES Act funding that I supported. It was a pleasure to meet Liz McIlvaine and her team. They are truly making a difference in our battle against COVID-19.
A list of local companies making personal protection equipment can be found below.
Improving access to healthcare
One of my top priorities is to see our taxpayer dollars come back to the district. I'm pleased to report that the City of Fresno approved $5 million of its $94.5 million in CARES Act funding, which I voted for, to increase COVID-19 testing and improve health in underserved communities by partnering with UCSF-Fresno to expand the Mobile HeaL program to provide healthcare access to vulnerable populations.
Hometown Hero: Hugo Morales |
Fresno resident and co-founder of Radio Bilingue, Hugo Morales, was awarded the Bess Lomax Hawes National Heritage Fellowship by the National Endowment of the Arts agency. This honor is well deserved. I can't think of a more dedicated public servant than Hugo Morales to receive such a prestigious, national honor. Mr. Morales changed the landscape of our valley by giving a voice to the Valley's Latino community - especially our farm workers - and a platform to celebrate their vibrant and rich cultural heritage for more than four decades. For more information on this prestigious honor, click here. |
- State of California
- Roadmap for Invididual CA Counties
- Fresno City
- Fresno County
- Madera County
- Merced County
Locally-sourced Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Our local County Departments of Public Health can help you sources Personal Protective Equipment:
California Manufacturing Technology Consulting (CMTC) is also putting CARES Act funding to use to help Valley manufactures create personal protective equipment (PPE), such as face shields, masks, gowns, plexiglass dividers and hand sanitizer.
Here is a list of local businesses where you can find these products. This is an opportunity to not only have good safety practices, but to support local businesses. Buy local!
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Resources:
We've compiled all the resources you need in one convenient location on our website.
If you need specific help from our district office, please submit a request and a member of our staff will contact you.
- COVID Resources Toolkit for Families (ENGLISH)
- Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act Summary
- Resources for Veterans
- Navigating Small Business Administration programs
- Food Assistance
- Ways to help your community
Recursos en Español
- COVID-19: Manual Digital de Recursos Para Constituyentes
- Informacion sobre el Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act
NEW ONLINE PORTAL FOR CORONAVIRUS FOOD ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (CFAP)I'm pleased to report that after continued pushing, I was successful in urging the U.S. Department of Agriculture to develop an online portal for Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) applications, expanding access to producers. |
FARM SERVICE AGENCY IS HIRINGTo better respond to the COVID-19 crisis, the Farm Service Agency (FSA) is hiring full-time temporary Program Technicians. These technicians will provide valuable support for FSA programs at the field level. If you or someone you know is interested in applying, email your resume to fsajobs@usda.gov. |
RESPOND TO CENSUS 2020Thank you to those of you that have already responded to the 2020 Census. If you haven't had a chance yet, now is the perfect time! Make sure you count and help shape your future! |
Stay strong and we will get through this crisis. Please don't hesitate to contact my office if you need assistance.
Sincerely,
Jim Costa
Member of Congress
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