Coronavirus updates: Here’s what to know in Bradenton and Manatee County on May 17
The latest on the COVID-19 pandemic in Bradenton and Manatee County.
Two more deaths reported in Manatee County
COVID-19 has killed two more people in Manatee County, the Florida Department of Health said Saturday.
In addition to the deaths, which raised the death toll to 81, the health said there were eight new cases of COVID-19 in Manatee. In all, 834 people in Manatee have tested positive for the novel coroanvirus, which causes the COVID-19 respiratory disease.
Testing delays?
Thousands of Manatee and Sarasota residents have been tested at the National Guard-supported regional testing site near the Mall at the University Town Center. Yet many people say they are still waiting for their results more than a week after being tested.
“I have given up. I am thinking it’s like the great Florida state scam. That’s what it feels like to me,” said Christine Turner. “Maybe the motto for this testing is: ‘There is no free lunch.’”
Food pantries in Manatee County
As COVID-19 has ravaged Manatee County and employers have shedded jobs, food security has become a bigger issue for many residents.
Manatee County government this week released a list of food pantries in the county where residents can obtain free food and other assistance.
Read it here.
NEED A JOB? LOOK HERE
Employers can post jobs while workers displaced by the coronavirus pandemic can search for them at jobfocus.com, a service hosted by the Manatee Chamber of Commerce.
Also, here is a link to more information about applying for unemployment benefits in Florida.
Meanwhile, these companies say they are hiring.
ORGANIZATIONS OFFERING HELP
Resources are available to help struggling Manatee County residents through the COVID-19 pandemic. Opportunities also exist to support local relief efforts, which are facing a sudden and overwhelming demand.
With all schools closed through May 1, area students might struggle to find their daily lunch, and parents may need child care while they continue working. Other residents are losing work hours or jobs with the restrictions placed on restaurants and bars.
Here is a list of some of the organizations offering help.
Need help paying rent or utility bills? Check out the groups listed here.
BRADENTON RESTAURANTS OFFERING TAKE-HOME AND DELIVERY SERVICES
The Bradenton Herald has published a list of restaurants offering take out and/or delivery services during the coronavirus pandemic.
Also, feel free to leave the names, addresses and phone numbers of other restaurants, either as a comment on our Facebook page or on the page for the Manatee Eats group.
Contribute to Coronavirus Reporting Fund
The Bradenton Herald’s Coronavirus Reporting Fund allows you to contribute to our reporting on the pandemic. We need your help to maintain our current level of coverage.
You can donate here.
Or you can also send us a check. Make it out to the Local Media Foundation and in the memo field, write “Bradenton Herald.” Send it to Bradenton Herald Give Butter, 1111 Third Ave. W., #100 Bradenton 34205.