March 24, 2020
Media Contact:
Scott Peterson, Director of Communications, Office of Public Information, 202-277-9412
ELLICOTT CITY, MD – Howard County charities are coordinating to rapidly raise funds and deploy critical resources to nonprofits in Howard County through HoCoRespond.com, with the goal of raising $100,000 in the next 10 days.
"We're facing an unparalleled challenge, and it will require collective action and support for those that are impacted the hardest,” said County Executive Calvin Ball. “We’re calling upon our community to practice kindness and compassion in supporting their neighbors, friends, and strangers through this time.”
The Community Foundation of Howard County, Horizon Foundation, United Way of Central Maryland and Women's Giving Circle of Howard County are working together to assess where assistance may be needed, accept donations and provide funding to assist Howard County nonprofits on the frontline of support, focusing on assisting with food security, housing, childcare and healthcare.
Additionally, the Timbers at Troy Golf Course has been closed as of March 23rd at 5 p.m. The golf operations, clubhouse, golf course and driving range will be closed until further notice as mandated by the Governor of Maryland via his executive order related to non-essential businesses. All scheduled tee times will be canceled during this time of closure. For further updates please visit the website www.timbersgolf.com, social media channels, and email for announcements regarding Timbers at Troy status.
The Department of Transportation also announced today that the Howard County BikeShare is closing until further notice to protect the health and safety of the public and their operations team.
Finally, County Executive Ball will host a Virtual Town Hall on Thursday, March 26th at 6:30 pm to answer questions and concerns from Howard County residents about coronavirus and the local response, the census, and upcoming elections. Residents are encouraged to pre-register and will receive a phone call to join the virtual town hall. Or residents can call in at 855-756-7520 ext. 57556#. The event will also be live-streamed online.