May 26, 2020
Media Contact:
Scott Peterson, Director of Communications, Office of Public Information, 202-277-9412
ELLICOTT CITY, MD – County Executive Calvin Ball discusses phased reopening steps for Howard County based on the HoCo RISE framework in a new video. Ball walks through the various data points officials are tracking to determine when certain activities can responsibly and safely resume.
“While our primary focus has been on the health and safety of our residents, we are committed to getting our economy moving in a safe and effective way,” said Ball. “Our goal is to provide safeguards to help protect us. I know there are some of our neighbors, family and friends who cannot pay bills and need to work; business owners who are seeing their life savings, hopes and dreams slipping away; and business families who must contend with layoffs. I know this pandemic has created uncertainty and has been scary and frustrating. Now, more than ever, we need each other. As we continue to reopen, we must keep working together, and consider how everyday small actions – like wearing a mask – can have an impact and keep our neighbors, friends, and loved ones safe. Let us, together, embrace a safer, brighter, healthier and more prosperous future for all.”
Earlier today, Howard County announced easing of some restrictions for retail, barber and hair salons, and religious institutions.
Online Grocery Shopping for SNAP Beneficiaries
Online SNAP purchasing will be piloted by participating retailers in smaller geographic locations around the state on May 27 and will be available to customers statewide on May 28. The process will function similar to the way a credit or bank card transaction occurs — SNAP recipients will be prompted to enter their EBT card details at checkout, along with the Personal Identification Number (PIN) associated with their card. To ensure the launch runs smoothly, the Department of Human Services provided test EBT cards to Walmart, Amazon, and ShopRite for end-to-end testing prior to rolling out the online SNAP pilot in Maryland.
Suicide Prevention Trainings
Grassroots is hosting virtual QPR (Questions, Persuade and Refer) Trainings — the 3 simple steps anyone can learn to help save a life from suicide. Just as people trained in CPR and the Heimlich Maneuver help save thousands of lives each year, people trained in QPR learn how to recognize the warning signs of a suicide crisis and how to question, assist and refer someone to help. They are offering a special session on June 8th geared toward youth ages 13-17 and their families. Register at www.grassrootscrisis.org/events/