April 3 COVID-19 Public Briefing

City of Richmond COVID-19 Public Briefing

Friday, April 3, 2020


City and partners launch centralized relief website: www.RVAStrong.org


The website is a source of help for those who need it and way to help for those who want to.

Tell your story, add a resource, or just explore your relief options at www.RVAStrong.org. You can also sign up for the public briefing to be sent to your email!

The City of Richmond thanks small businesses, offers resources for paying employees


Richmond Economic Development Authority proposes a small business disaster loan program. 

The maximum $20,000 loans will go toward keeping employees on payroll, allowing businesses to stay open and continue to employ people. 

The application for interested businesses will be available on Monday, April 6 on www.RVAStrong.org.

Robins Foundation starts Family Crisis Fund for families who have lost income due to COVID-19


The City of Richmond matched the foundation’s generosity, funding $500,000 of relief checks for eligible Richmond families. 

To learn more about this opportunity, visit RVAStrong here and fill out the interest form. 

Mayor provides weekly update 


Parks and Rec leads the way in social distancing


The administration this week took several measures to ensure that parks users abide by social distancing guidelines.


Restricted activities:
·      Playing sports on courts in parks and public schools, like basketball, pickleball, and tennis;
·      Using playgrounds in parks and public schools;
·      Sunbathing in the James River Park System;
·      Swimming in the James River; and 
·      Generally gathering in groups along the James.

 

Parks staff have started taking down basketball hoops and tennis nets to make sure people aren’t grouping to play those sports. This is a public safety measure. 

Richmond residents are still encouraged to exercise outside. This is listed as an essential activity under the Governor’s order, and responsibly using the city parks is a great option for recreation. 


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