Coronavirus updates: Here’s what to know in Bradenton and Manatee County on May 31
The latest on the COVID-19 pandemic in Bradenton and Manatee County.
Another Manatee County resident has died due to COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus, according to the Florida Department of Health on Saturday.
Manatee County’s death toll now stands at 97 residents who have died from the disease, according to health officials.
There were 15 new cases of COVID-19 reported overnight bringing the county’s total to 1,037.
COVID-19 changes hurricane preparations
The combination of the COVID-19 pandemic and the start of hurricane season on Monday is bringing changes to how residents should prepare for a major storm.
The coronavirus is forcing Manatee County government to significantly reduce the capacity of hurricane shelters in the event of an evacuation. According to Emergency Management Chief Steve Litschauer, the county’s shelter capacity has been cut from more than 36,000 to 14,000.
“A shelter — this year with COVID-19 — really is a refuge of last resort. It truly is,” Litschauer said, explaining that social distancing guidelines recommend providing 60 sq.uare feet pf space per guest, instead of the usual 20 square feet. “We always say it’s a lifeboat, not a pleasure cruise. Now it’s more of a kayak.”
“In normal times, (county hurricane shelters are) uncomfortable at best, but at the end of the day it keeps you safe from the elements — that, we can guarantee,” added Nick Azzara, the county’s information outreach manager. “There is no guarantee you’ll stay clear of the coronavirus at a shelter. You’re putting yourself at risk if you come in — end of story.”
Read more here.
COVID-19 could lead to more homelessness in Bradenton
The federal government put eviction protections into the national CARES Act stimulus bill amid the pandemic, but those protections are due to expire in July.
“I think in late June to early July you’ll see that surge,” in homelessness, said Adell Erozer, the outgoing executive director at Turning Points in Bradenton.
Read more here, including on how Erozer’s successor plans to address the new challenge as head of Bradenton’s primary homeless services agency.
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.
This story was originally published May 31, 2020 at 5:00 AM.