Weekly Newsletter 06.23.2020

Dear Friend,

Everyday I am in the district listening to constituents and community leaders on the impacts of the pandemic. As we update you on my work to support a safe reopening, there was also significant news this week in our fight to help Dreamers, protect our farmworkers, and address police reform. Here are some highlights: 

Fighting for our Dreamers

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The Supreme Court ruled the Trump Administration's move to rescind the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program was unlawful. This is big win for our Dreamers! But the fight is not over. We must work to pass comprehensive immigration reform  to ensure a legal process for those who want to stay and continue to contribute to our country in meaningful ways.These young people should not have to live in fear of being ripped away from their families and for many, the only home they have ever known. 

COVID-19 Testing Near You

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We all play a part in helping prevent the spread of coronavirus. One of the ways we can help protect one another is by getting tested. Testing appointments are available at locations in Fresno, Madera, and Merced counties. Last week I scheduled an appointment on a drive-thru testing site in Fresno and am pleased to say I tested negative. It was easy! If you have concerns, I urge you to get tested. 

Find a testing center near you:

Protecting Valley agriculture

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We need to do more to protect the dedicated individuals who work our farms to feed America.  I've been active on this issue, leading 129 of my colleagues in urging Congressional Leadership to provide critical protections for this essential workforce in future legislation. Earlier this year, I introduced a COVID-19 agriculture framework, to provide relief for producers and farm workers alike. And last fall, I partnered with a bipartisan delegation to introduce the Farm Workforce Modernization Act. Farmers want to do the right thing for their employees who help put food on America's dinner tables every night. 

Hometown Heroes -- Habitat for Humanity

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Habitat for Humanity Greater Fresno Area is helping low-income families and individuals in Fresno and Madera counties meet their most basic needs. Habitat’s Neighborhood Revitalization team has been focused on providing over 100 households per week with free essential deliveries containing:

  • Essential household cleaning supplies
  • Emergency food supplies
  • An exterior home inspection for potential future Habitat support after the state of emergency has expired.

During these difficult times, it's important we all work to help one another. Thank you Habitat for Humanity Greater Fresno for doing your part! 

To learn more visit their website or call 559-237-4102. 

Addressing racial divisions and observing "Juneteenth"

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Over the past few weeks we have been faced with the stark realities of persisting racism in our nation. While protests across the country have once again exposed our nation's scars, they also represent something uniquely American -- that people from all different walks of life can unify around an issue and effect change.

This week, I cosponsored the Justice in Policing Act to increase transparency, and create change that safeguards every American's right to safety and justice. 

Historically, when we reject division, come together and believe in one another, we can ensure this country works for everyone. As we recognize the 155th Anniversary of Juneteenth  -- the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States -- I invite you to reflect on the importance of this moment.

Staying Safe

We are seeing an uptick in COVID-19 cases in California, including the Valley. Please take these health guidelines from our county health leaders seriously:

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Track recent COVID-19 developments in: 

Locally-sourced Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

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Madera County Department of Public Health has hand sanitizer available for distribution to non-profits, government agencies, healthcare providers, and small businesses. Make a request.

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!

  • Image Masters - Masks
  • Country Plastics - Ear Savers
  • Blue Dolphin - Pi Shop - Face Shields
  • Snowflake Designs - Masks
  • CTEC High School - Face Shields
  • Precision Plastics - Face Shields
  • Dumont Printing - Face Shields
  • First Fold Tie Dye - Cloth Masks
  • Uppitees Fashions and Designs - Cloth Masks
  • Total Concept Enterprises - Clear Plastic Space Dividers
  • Whole Earth Laboratories - Cloth Masks
  • Monster City Studios - Face Shields
  • Riley's Brewery - Madera - Hand Sanitizer
  • Corbin Cash Distillery - Atwater - Hand Sanitizer
  • 411 Broadway Ales & Spirits - Hand Sanitizer
  • CA Manufacturing Network (CMTC) - PPE
  • Whole Earth Laboratories - Commercial Strength Cleaning Solutions
  • KLSD - Cloth Masks

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. 

Recursos en Español 

Hemos concentrada toda la información sobre COVID-19 que necesita en un lugar conveniente. Visita mi sitio web.

FARM SERVICE AGENCY IS HIRING

To 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. 

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 RESPOND TO CENSUS 2020

Thank 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!

Respond now!

CAN'T GO TO THE GROCERY STORE?

If someone you know is unable or should not go to the grocery store, TakeCare has set up a grocery relief program, where you can get help and volunteer. 

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HAVE YOU LOST YOUR JOB?

The COVID-19 crisis has left millions of Americans unemployed. OnwardCA, built by Bitwise Industries in Fresno, is a great resource to help you find relief, training and jobs.

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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