Last Updated on March 29, 2020 by News release from Indiana State Representative Ethan Manning
Friends and neighbors, you don’t need me to tell you, but these are challenging times. We recently finished the 2020 legislative session, but that feels small now compared to the extreme public health and economic challenges we are facing due to the coronavirus pandemic. I know we are all experiencing some level of hardship due to the difficult, but necessary, steps taken in the past week that may continue for days or months ahead as we fight the spread of the illness.
I would encourage you to follow the advice of public health officials. Work from home if you can, do not gather in large groups and practice social distancing if you must meet in a small group together. Make sure you wash your hands and sanitize surfaces. In addition, remember to help your neighbors, especially those who are elderly or most at risk, and support our local businesses. Many have rightfully suggestedordering carry out or delivery can help our local restaurants, and purchasing gift cards can support other small businesses during this challenging time. The following weeks and months will not be easy, but Hoosiers and our community are resilient and we will get through this together.
Several resources are available to help you navigate through this unprecedented public health crisis. You can stay up to date about the coronavirus by visiting in.gov/coronavirus. If you find yourself out of work during this time, please visit unemployment.in.gov. Expanded unemployment benefits are available to help you bridge the gap in your budget.
If you own or work for a small business that is impacted, visit sba.gov/coronavirus to find resources that may help , including information on the Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program that businesses in Indiana now qualify for. Small businesses are an economic driver of our local communities, and we must do everything we can to support them in their time of need.
As this pandemic is causing schools to close, many parents are left looking for child care. Childcarefinder.in.gov is a resource families can use to find child care services in their area.
Please know that I am here to help. Since most public events have been canceled, I may not have an opportunity to see many of you for some time, so I would welcome your calls or emails to discuss the recently concluded legislative session, the coronavirus pandemic and response, or any other input you have to offer. Now is a great time for us to talk and catch up. You can reach me at 317-232-9620 or send me an email at H23@iga.in.gov.
Remember, it’s your state government, so participate in it! And, given the current situation, let’s especially remember to support our neighbors during this ongoing crisis. Help someone if you can.