Coronavirus updates: Here’s what to know in Bradenton and Manatee County on June 19
The latest on the COVID-19 pandemic in Bradenton and Manatee County.
COVID-19 kills 5 more Manatee County residents
Five more Manatee County residents have died from COVID-19, the Florida Department of Health said Thursday. Additionally, 25 more residents have tested positive for the novel coronavirus, part of a new daily record high for the state.
In all, there have been 1,548 cases, including 122 deaths in Manatee County.
Statewide, there were 3,207 new infections reported, the highest daily count during the pandemic. Florida’s total number of cases is now 85,926, or 5.7 percent those who have been tested. Statewide, 3,061 people have died of COVID-19.
Parents want kids back at school — survey
A majority of Manatee County families are hoping for a full reopening in the 2020-21 school year, according to a survey from the school district.
More than 11,300 people — 55 percent — chose a full return to school. Another 21 percent said they preferred a “blended schedule,” meaning groups of students would rotate between in-person and online learning each week, allowing for more social distancing.
The third option, a full-time continuation of online learning, was preferred by 17 percent of people. The remaining 7 percent had no child in school, and the second question was aimed at them.
Lakewood Ranch throws a parade
In Lakewood Ranch, residents love the workers at Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, they held a parade.
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.
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.
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 June 19, 2020 at 5:00 AM.