March 26, 2020
Media Contact:
Scott Peterson, Director of Communications, Office of Public Information, 202-277-9412
ELLICOTT CITY, MD – County Executive Ball will host a Virtual Town Hall tonight 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.
“I want the Howard County community to know that our government is working tirelessly to keep our public safe and informed,” said Ball. “We’re hosting this town hall to provide updates, clarity and reassurance to our residents as we face this challenge. We will get through this together, with collective action, compassion, and kindness.”
With increased closures and mitigation measures, residents facing unemployment can file for unemployment benefits online the state of Maryland or over the phone at 410-853-1600.
Ahead of the virtual town hall, County Executive Ball spent time this week hosting conference calls with community leaders, faith groups, and businesses to address concerns around coronavirus and listen to how the County can continue to respond. Today, Ball shared multiple infographics on social media to inform residents about senior hours at grocery stores, clarify any modifications to County services, and to highlight donation requests for personal protective equipment.
Howard County Department of Community Resources and Services is collecting donations of the following new items in the weather-tight bins located outside 9830 Patuxent Woods Drive in Columbia. It is recommended residents bring a pair of gloves or paper towel to wear/use to lift the lid. Requested items are:
• N-95 Masks
• Surgical Masks
• Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPRs)
• Impermeable Gowns
• Medical Gloves (Non-Latex)
• Hand Sanitizer (Not homemade)
• Eye Protection
• Flip down grinding/splash shields
• Cleaning Supplies/Disinfectants
Collections occur during the week from 9:00am - 5:00pm. Or if you have a donation that you would like the County to pick up, please email PPE@howardcountymd.gov.
Additionally, the Howard County Public School System announced today three more locations for meal pick-ups and weekend meals beginning April 3rd for all youth. Full details can be found on their website.