L.A. County has extended the temporary moratorium on evictions until October 31, 2020. This covers all residential and commercial tenants in the County except those who live or conduct business in cities with their own eviction moratorium (Paramount does not). It includes a ban on evictions for nonpayment of rent if the tenant can show they have been financially impacted by the health emergency, among other protections. These actions are retroactive to March 4, 2020.

For answers to Tenant and Landlord FAQ, click here. 

Tenant and landlord resources are available through L.A. County's Department of Consumer and Business Affairs (DCBA). DCBA has developed guidelines, in the interest of both property owners and tenants, to: 1) help understand the temporary Eviction Moratorium and 2) take proactive steps now.

The Guidelines, available at dcba.lacounty.gov/noevictions, include the following topics that owners should consider as they plan for the months ahead:

• Applicability for residential and commercial tenants.
• How to determine reasonable financial impacts.
• Notice requirements and documentation.
• Guidance for repayment of rent once the moratorium is lifted.
• Resolving disputes between landlords and tenants.

DCBA also provides expanded foreclosure prevention assistance for landlords with 15 or fewer units. 

If you are a renter or property owner facing financial difficulty, contact a DCBA Rent Stabilization counselor to learn about available resources: call (833) 223-RENT (7368), e-mail rent@dcba.lacounty.gov, or visit them online at rent.lacounty.gov.

For the LA County Tenants "Bill of Rights" in English and Spanish, click here.

For the LA County Temporary Eviction Moratorium FAQ in English and Spanish, click here.

For the LA County Revised Eviction Memo, click here.

In partnership with the Fair Housing Foundation (FHF), the City provides numerous weekly workshops related to tenant issues and rights in Paramount. FHF offers residents several virtual options via telephone or Zoom during the pandemic, free of charge.

Tuesdays – Virtual Fair Housing workshops (English) via Zoom from 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Wednesdays – Virtual Walk-in clinics via Zoom or telephone from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Residents can call 800-446-3247 Ex. 1111 to schedule time.)

Wednesdays – Virtual Rental Housing Counseling workshops via Zoom from 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Thursdays – Fair Housing Workshop (Spanish) via Zoom from 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Residents can register for any workshops by visiting the website calendar: https://fairhousingfoundation.com/events/.

Coronaviruses primarily cause respiratory illness in people, including fever, cough, and shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. Severe illness can lead to pneumonia and, in rare cases, death. There is no treatment for COVID-19; however, healthcare facilities can minimize transmission and help prevent more severe illness

Here are some notable facts about COVID-19 as shared by the LA County Public Health Department:

• 80% of those who contract COVID-19 experience only mild symptoms and get better on their own with proper self-treatment and isolation.
• The most at-risk population are those with underlying health conditions (i.e. heart disease, etc.) and the elderly (over 65 years old).

To help slow the spread and transmission of COVID-19, LA County Public Health Department recommends the following tips for the public:

1. Wash your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. Also, sanitize surfaces commonly touched.
2. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
3. Refrain from touching your face, specifically your eyes, nose, and mouth.
4. Cough or sneeze into your sleeve.
5. Stay home if you experience any mild symptoms like a fever or coughing.
6. Always consult your doctor for medical advice.

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (Public Health) has confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the City of Paramount. To see the daily updates from Public Health, please click here.

Public Health is investigating all new cases and will notify close contacts who are household members, intimate partners, and healthcare professionals to assess and monitor them for signs and symptoms of illness. Close contacts are quarantined.  The details of this individual (name, age, address, locations visited, etc.) will not be released by Public Health. In a press release, Public Health stated the following: “Because there are positive cases across the entire County, the public should not think one location is safer than the other.” That underscores the need for residents in Paramount and every community to take social distancing and hygiene protocols very seriously. 

To see the latest press release from Public Health, please click here. This includes numbers of cases by city and the age groups affected.

If you or a family member becomes ill, please call your doctor for advice about treatment and testing. The city does not provide testing services. If you do not have a healthcare provider, please call 2-1-1 for the Los Angeles County Department of Health’s information line.

Two Los Angeles County Health Officer Orders were released March 25 regarding quarantines and isolations.

The first requires “the self-quarantine of persons exposed to a person diagnosed with or likely to have COVID-19.”

The second requires “the self-isolation of persons diagnosed with or likely to have COVID-19.”

To see the full Orders, please click here and here. 

Click here to see a “Guidance for Cloth Face Coverings” from Public Health. Click here for information on cloth face coverings from the Centers for Disease Control.

• Immigration status
• Insurance status
• Age
• Underlying health issues 

• Visit the website la.fulgentgenetics.com or call 211.

• Answer a series of questions. The answers determine if you are eligible for an appointment. 

• If you are eligible, you will receive an appointment confirmation number by email. 

• Bring the confirmation number and photo ID to your appointment.
• People without a car can be tested as long as they have an appointment. Some sites can accommodate pedestrians.

• There are NO walk-up appointments available for people who do not register. 

• For a full list of locations and answers to questions about testing, go to covid19.lacounty.gov.

Free COVID-19 testing is offered to all residents of Long Beach, Signal Hill, Lakewood, Paramount, and Compton at these Long Beach-operated sites:

Long Beach City College Pacific Coast Campus (1305 E. Pacific Coast Hwy.), 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on weekdays.

Long Beach City College Veterans Memorial Stadium (5000 E. Lew Davis St.), 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays.

Cabrillo High School (2001 Santa Fe Ave.), 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends.

Jordan Plus High School (171 W. Bort St.), which provides testing for symptomatic individuals and essential workers, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., on weekdays. Non-vehicle-based testing is available at Jordan Plus.

The Rapid Assessment Clinic at Long Beach City College Pacific Coast Campus (1305 E. Pacific Coast Hwy.) will continue providing non-vehicle-based testing for symptomatic patients and limited healthcare from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on weekdays. Symptomatic individuals who cannot get a test can also visit this site for a free medical assessment. Walk-up appointments are available only at the Rapid Assessment Clinic for individuals experiencing symptoms. The other testing sites are by appointment only. 

Appointments can be made online at longbeach.gov/health/diseases-and-condition/information-on/coronavirus/covid-19-testing/ or by calling 562.570.INFO (4636). Appointment time slots will be made available up to three days in advance.

If you're wondering what it means to have been exposed to COVID-19, this segment is for you. You (or someone you know) may have been exposed to COVID-19, if you:

• Were within 6 feet of an infected person for more than 15 minutes; or
• Had unprotected contact with an infected person's body fluids (i.e., being coughed or sneezed on); or
• Shared utensils or saliva with an infected person; or
• Provided care for an infected person without wearing appropriate protective equipment

This may prompt you to ask "How do I know if a person is infected?" Chances are you may not. Unfortunately, based on everything we know about COVID-19, knowing a person is infected is not easy. Many COVID-19 infected individuals are asymptomatic (have COVID-19 and don't exhibit symptoms). This is precisely the reason health experts are urging the public to follow safety protocols by wearing face coverings and maintaining a 6 ft. distance from those outside of your household.

So, what if you hear you were in contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19? If this is your predicament, you'll want to learn as much as you can! The infected person you were in contact with was infectious 48 hours before their symptoms began, and remain infectious for a minimum of 2 weeks. This reality makes LA County's DPH Home Quarantine Instructions for Close Contacts to COVID-19 more important than ever. You'll want to follow our quarantine guidance to avoid spreading the disease.

If you've tested positive and have no symptoms (are asymptomatic), you are considered infections from 48 hours before your test was taken, until a minimum of 10 days after your test. You'll need to follow our DPH Home Isolation Instructions for People with COVID-19.

If you think you've been exposed to COVID-19, call your doctor. If you don't already have one, dial 2-1-1 and get connected to one. For more information on LA County's health guidance and safety protocols, click here.

New State COVID-19 Framework

The State of California has released a new tiered framework to more easily communicate the extent of community transmission in counties across the state. The above graphic is a summary of: 1) the state’s tiers, 2) the indicators they are tracking, and 3) how counties are being classified (as having either widespread, substantial, moderate or minimal spread of the COVID-19 virus in their communities). Moving forward, California will use this new tier system to guide possible sector re-openings for counties to consider.

What Does the New Framework Mean for LA County?

In LA County, the ultimate decisions about sector re-openings will remain under the purview of the County Health Officer Orders, which are developed in consultation with LA County's Board of Supervisors.

As demonstrated by the below graphic, LA County is currently in Tier 1 - meaning that there continues to be widespread transmission of the virus in the county.

Per the State, LA County's current number of 7-day average of new cases (per day per 100,000 people) is 13 - nearly double the threshold for moving up to Tier 2 (which requires that LA County have less than 7 new cases per day per 100,000 population).

LA County’s current test positivity rate is 5%. And even though this places us in Tier 2 (Red) for this metric, when the two metrics fall in different tiers, the State places counties in the most restrictive tier; hence, LA County (like most counties in California) has been placed in Tier 1.

Our path forward for reopening depends on LA County being able to reduce community transmission significantly, so children and teachers can get back to their classrooms and more people can get back to their jobs with as much safety as possible.

For more information on the State's new framework, visit the CA Department of Public Health (CDPH) website here. For guidance, reopening protocols or a list of what is open or remains closed in LA County, visit LA County's Department of Public Health.

Click here for a list of sectors and how they are affected by each tier.

Getting a flu vaccine is more important than ever this season. It can help reduce the burden on our healthcare systems responding to the COVID-19 pandemic and save medical resources for care of COVID-19 patients. The more people vaccinated, the more people protected.

The Centers for Disease Control recommends that all people six months and older get a yearly flu vaccine, including healthy children and adults, and get it by the end of October before flu season begins. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body and provide protection.

Flu and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. There is no evidence that getting a flu vaccine increases your risk of getting sick from a coronavirus. Do your part. Get a flu vaccine this fall.

It is especially important to get a flu vaccine if you:

• Are 6 months through 18 years of age
• Are 65 years of age and older
• Are pregnant or just had a baby
• Live in a nursing home or long-term care home
• Have a weakened immune system
• Have chronic medical condition (asthma, heart disease and stroke, diabetes, HIV/AIDS, cancer)
• Live with or care for someone who is more likely to have flu complications
• Are a healthcare provider.

Many physician offices, clinics, and pharmacies are already offering flu vaccinations. Don’t wait. Get your flu vaccination now and protect yourself against the flu. Call your regular health care provider to see what other shots you may need. If you don’t have a regular provider, call 2-1-1 (LA County Information Line) or visit publichealth.lacounty.gov for a list of no cost or low-cost vaccine providers.

Closures 

Facilities

Paramount Park Gym

Paramount Park Community Center/Senior Center

Mariposa Center

Progress Plaza

Spane Park Learning Center

Clearwater Building

Skate Park at Village Park

Suspensions

Programs

STAR Afterschool

Learning Center at Spane Park

Mommy and Me

Park Facilities

Playgrounds

Basketball courts

Ballfields

Picnic enclosures

Bathrooms

Fitness equipment

Events

Friday Night Market

Sports

YMCA Basketball

YMCA Futsal

Cancellations

Heritage Festival

The Paramount Water Department has been closely monitoring events and public health recommendations surrounding the outbreak and spread of COVID-19. We want to reassure our customers that your tap water is available, plentiful, and safe. There is currently no evidence to support that COVID-19 is transmitted through drinking water. 

Paramount’s Water Treatment Process

Paramount provides drinking water from a blend of groundwater wells and imported surface water from the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWD). Groundwater pumped from deep underground aquifers provides a natural filtration process that facilitates the removal of contaminants.  Additionally, when the groundwater reaches the surface, it is further treated to maintain its purity.  MWD utilizes multiple steps in their treatment process that physically removes, disinfects and chemically inactivates any living organisms. This level of treatment meets the stringent state and federal drinking water standards that ensure water is safe for consumption.  There is no human contact throughout this water purification process.

Here’s more information about the Paramount water system:

English:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3nVLucQyj4

Spanish: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=90ponz659JA

For a statement on safety from the Central Basin Municipal Water District, please click here.

To see information about this from the CDC, please click here.  

On March 15, Governor Gavin Newsom and the CDC issued new guidelines to help stop the spread of COVID-19.  Among those was the following:

• Advising all people 65 or older and those with underlying health issues to self-isolate at home.

This can present a challenge for the elderly when it comes to obtaining food.  The State of California says it is working on this effort.  In the meantime, Northgate Market, Super A Market, and El Super are offering special shopping times for seniors 65 years and older from 7:00 am to 8:00 a.m. Northgate is located at 16259 Paramount Blvd., Super A is at 13120 Downey Ave., and El Super is located at 14601 Lakewood Blvd. The City is asking other markets in town to follow this example. We are also doing what we can to reach out to our senior population to ensure their welfare, including delivering care packages of food and necessities and making wellness calls.

To see a list of other things the City is doing to help our senior population during this difficult time, please click here.

Additionally, the Emmanuel Reformed Church, through their Paramount Care Foundation, has food distribution every Friday from 8:30-10 am at 8206 Alondra Blvd. This is open to all ages.

No, the City is not administering coronavirus tests. According to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, “If you are sick, your health care provider may decide to do a test for coronavirus. Only health care providers can test for COVID-19. Since most people will get better with rest and time, there is no need to see a doctor if you have mild symptoms. If you are sick and think you should be tested for COVID-19, call your doctor before going in for care.”

No. Due to Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) compliance, the City does not have access to resident information about coronavirus. For up-to-date information about COVID-19 cases in the area, please visit http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/Coronavirus/. The County is issuing press releases that now list the cities where cases have been confirmed.

The City is closely monitoring and assessing the situation, but has no scheduled date for resumption of activities. We will continue to monitor Public Health Guidelines and recommendations and assess City services and programs, and update residents as dates change. Please do your part to engage in social distancing to help contain the spread of COVID-19 and keep Paramount safe and healthy.

No, the City (like most other municipalities) has no healthcare agency. For local health information, please visit http://publichealth.lacounty.gov.

The City has put together a Virtual Recreation page on our website with all sorts links and resources for staying healthy, entertained, and informed during this time of being “Safer at Home.”

It’s a great resource to explore with your kids.

Online fitness classes, visual and performing arts sites, games and crafts, educational resources … these are just a few of the topics included. Check it out at paramountcity.com/virtualrecreation

In accordance with Los Angeles County’s Safer at Home Order to stem the spread of COVID-19, and its call for a ban on outdoor gatherings and for persons to practice social distancing during outdoor activities, the City has closed the skate park at Village Park indefinitely.

Village Park is located at 7718 Somerset Blvd.

SEACCA (Southeast Area Animal Control Authority), which serves the City of Paramount, has released an update regarding its operations. To read it, please click here.

Out of an abundance of caution due to COVID-19, many facilities throughout L.A. County that process collected recyclables have suspended operations.  Even so, in Paramount, the City's contracted trash hauler CalMet Services will continue collecting recycling and green waste along with trash and bulky items.

Residents and businesses should continue to place their trash, recycling, and green waste in the appropriate bins. However, you may see only one truck collecting the material from all your bins during this time.

Below are common guidelines to follow to ensure proper processing and the health and safety of sanitation workers and the public. 

• Continue to separate recyclables and green waste and place them in the correct bin; recyclables should be empty, dry, and clean.
• Ensure the lids of your bins are closed and that the bins are placed at curbside properly to allow for trucks to collect the material without sanitation workers having to touch the bins.

Together we can flatten the curve while protecting sanitation workers and preserving the environment.

 For any questions regarding your service, contact CalMet Services at (562) 259-1239.

The City of Paramount has expressed its support for a number of State and Federal efforts to provide financial relief to cities and individuals as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Attached are letters from Mayor Peggy Lemons regarding the following:

• Encouraging Gov. Newsom to offer more economic/financial relief for cities.
• Supporting SB 1410 (COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance Program) to Senator Lena Gonzalez for more tenant/eviction protections.
• Supporting HR 6492 (Ensuring HOMES Act) to Rep. Lucille Roybal-Allard for protocols on mortgage deferment guidelines.
• Supporting H.R. 6515 (Rent and Mortgage Cancellation Act) to Rep. Lucille Roybal-Allard for cancelling rent/mortgages retro to April 2020.

As part of Los Angeles County’s phased Road to Recovery, Paramount City Hall (16400 Colorado Ave.) and the City Yard (15300 Downey Ave.) are both now open for residents to come in to conduct business. (The City has also begun to once again to accept applications for yard sales.)

Normal business hours are being observed: City Hall, 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; the City Yard, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

In both facilities, social distancing requirements are in force. See the flyer below for details.

Other City facilities remained closed to the public until further notice.

Regarding City parks, physical distancing of six feet must be maintained at all times when engaging in activities. That said, at this time, team and contact sports such as basketball, baseball, soccer, and football that are held on park fields, in open areas, and on courts are not permitted because of the challenge of maintaining the distancing, although members of the same household may engage in such activities and sports together.

The latest Around Town newsletter is a special issue devoted to community resources related to COVID-19. It is filled with contact information residents and businesses might need regarding the following topics: Health, Housing, Business/Employees, Food Resources, and Miscellaneous.

To see a copy, please click here.

You may have heard of “the digital divide.” This describes a lack of technology infrastructure that occurs in mostly disadvantaged communities.

This digital divide is apparent in some parts of Paramount where restricted access to high-speed broadband has become a critical factor for students who need basic internet to successfully take part in distance learning this school year. Beyond that, as COVID-19 has moved many aspects of work, healthcare, and even family time online, it becomes a major issue for many people overall.

• Human I-T: A nonprofit organization that provides low-income individuals with technology, internet, and digital training. The organization helps families find low-cost internet ranging from $10-$25 per month for their home with no contract, including options that offer a free Chrome-book. For those who are on-the-go and would benefit more from a mobile service, Human I-T can assist in identifying available, low cost hot-spot options. Visit www.human-i-t.org/request-internet.
• SCDC (Southeast Community Development Corporation): A nonprofit with the mission of improving the standard of living for residents of Southeast Los Angeles. As part of their work, they help families find inexpensive Wi-Fi options starting at $10 per month. Visit www.scdcorp.org/product-category/low-cost-internet-service/.
• Everyoneon: A nonprofit dedicated to creating social and economic opportunity by connecting low-income families to affordable internet service and computers and delivering digital skills trainings. Visit www.everyoneon.org/find-offers.

If you think you need a COVID-19 test you should call your primary care provider. If you don’t have a doctor, there are free County sites available.

To make an appointment at one of these, visit covid19.lacounty.gov/testing/ or call 211.

The City is now offering free rides to Paramount residents who have appointments at two of the nearby County sites but have no transportation. Those locations, both for drive-through testing, are Bellflower City Hall and Downey – Rancho South Campus.

Call (562) 220-2121 to schedule the ride. Again, you must be a resident and have a scheduled appointment when you call for the ride, and the ride reservation must be made the day before the testing appointment.

The City is reaching out to our residents who may have physical disabilities or significant health issues that limit their ability to get out of their homes. If you know of someone who may need assistance, call us to see if we can help or coordinate at (562) 220-2121 or 220-2093. 

We also encourage all residents to check on and stay in contact with your elderly, disabled, or health-compromised neighbors. 

For our seniors 65 and older, local pharmacies are allowing City staff members to pick up prescriptions for home delivery to them. There are a number of criteria that must be met. Call (562) 220-2121 to find out the specifics. 

The pharmacies are: Walmart – 14501 Lakewood Blvd.; Rite Aid – 8447 Alondra Blvd.; Santa Maria – 16279 Paramount Blvd., Suite G.;CVS Pharmacy y Mas – 8859 Alondra Blvd.; St. Luke – 16402 Paramount Blvd.; Walgreens – 9031 Rosecrans Ave.; CVS – 4909 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood; Paramount Family Pharmacy, 8010 2nd St.

The City thanks these businesses for their flexibility, thoughtfulness, and concern during these extraordinary times. We are all in this together.

Community Legal Aid SoCal provides free support and services to help low-income people who are struggling with civil legal issues in the Paramount community.

They can address a variety of legal challenges including COVID-19-related issues such as housing and employment.

For contact information in English & Spanish, click here

Clean Power Alliance, which all Paramount electricity customers are enrolled in through Southern California Edison (SCE), has created a $1 million COVID-19 Relief Program that provides bill assistance to impacted residential and small business customers who sign up for financial assistance through SCE.

This is applicable to customers who enroll in CARE, FERA, or Medical Baseline and who call SCE at (800) 655-4555 to get on a payment plan. Please visit cleanpoweralliance.org/covid19 to find out if you are eligible for $25 to $50 electricity bill credits, available on a first-come, first-served basis until the funds are exhausted.

Customers not eligible for Clean Power Alliance’s COVID-19 Relief Program can visit sce.com/safety/coronavirus for other resources.

Sadly, online scams and hacking attempts are being perpetrated in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic. They can take the form of requests from fake charities, selling counterfeit products, and more. Read this Special Bulletin from the L.A. County Sheriff’s Department Fraud and Cyber Crimes Bureau, attached here.

Paramount residents can file specific types of crimes or incident reports from home with the Sheriff’s Online Report Tracking System (SORTS) on the LASD.org website. Once your report is reviewed and accepted, you will receive a free copy of the approved report emailed to you for your records. 

You can report the following incidents:

·       Lost or stolen cell phones valued $950 or less

·       Lost or stolen property valued $950 or less

·       Vandalism, excluding graffiti, where damage is valued under $400

·       Theft from an unlocked vehicle valued $950 or less

·       Theft from an open or unsecured area valued $950 or less

·       Supplemental Loss Form (Must already have a LASD report number)

All cases filed within this system will be reviewed. Department policy will dictate the level of investigation needed for the incident you report to us. A Deputy Sheriff may need to follow-up by email, telephone, or in person, if the incident requires further investigation.

Visit http://shq.lasdnews.net/shq/SORTS/sorts_intro.aspx.

Southern California Edison is temporarily suspending disconnections and waiving late payment charges for customers facing financial challenges including inability to pay their bills. Visit https://www.sce.com/safety/coronavirus for more.

Southern California Gas is temporarily suspending service disconnects for customers who are having a hard time paying their bills.  Natural gas service will still be there and SoCalGas will continue to make essential and emergency service appointments. Visit http://socalgas.com/coronavirus for more.

And while Gov. Gavin Newsom today issued an executive order restricting water shutoffs to homes and small businesses for consumers who may not be able to pay for their water service due to COVID-19-related issues, the Paramount Water Company has for the last several weeks temporarily suspended water turn-offs and waived late payment fees. Call (562) 220-2013 to learn more.

There have been reports of price gouging during this public health crisis.  If you think you are a victim of this, please report it here:

https://dcba.lacounty.gov/portfolio/coronavirus-price-gouging/.

211 LA County is a team of devoted community resource experts committed to providing LA County residents with accurate, timely, and trusted information on the COVID-19 health crisis. Before making that 211 call, here is a quick guide on the Do's and Don'ts of 211 LA County:

211 can help with...

• Information on COVID-19: symptoms, spread, disinfecting
• Questions about the "Safer At Home" Health Order
• Guidance for Employers, Businesses, Workers, Medical Professionals, and
  Service Providers
• Referrals to sign up for health insurance or find a clinic if you don’t already have a
  medical provider
• Referrals to food pantries, food distribution sites/programs, or CalFresh food benefits if you are struggling financially to purchase food
• Shelter referrals, motel vouchers for homeless families only, and eviction
  moratorium information
• Information on County services
• Referrals to health, human, and social services and supports - please note service
  hours and delivery is changing
• Reporting an act of hate or bullying motivated by country of origin, race, religion,
  gender, sexual orientation

211 cannot help with...

• Requesting a COVID-19 test or testing kit
• Requesting an exemption from the Safer at Home Health Order
• Requesting or ordering masks, sanitation supplies or medical supplies, or accepting donations of these supplies
• Screening/testing for COVID-19 symptoms or admission to a clinic, hospital, or
  quarantine center (contact your doctor, medical or clinic provider)
• Locations to purchase groceries or meals (grocery stores are restocking, and many
  restaurants are open for pick up or delivery)
• Booking hotel rooms at any hotel/quarantine housing
  locations
• Direct connection to County officials or Department of Public Health
• Lists of services and providers 
• Filing a police report, or reporting a dispute or crime not motivated by discrimination of a protected class

You can also visit 211la.org to learn more about how 211 LA County can help.

If you are receiving public assistance through programs like CalFresh, CalWORKs, General Relief, Medi-Cal, Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI) or others through the Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services, or if you need to apply for one of these programs, please click here for important information and updates.

An estimated two million people in Los Angeles County suffer from food-insecurity issues on an ongoing basis. That vulnerable community is sure to swell because of pandemic-related economic losses in the months to come, but Los Angeles County is committed to preventing hunger and ensuring access to food for all residents.

The County is currently mobilizing a Countywide response to hunger by coordinating public agencies, nonprofits, and volunteers to provide meals to anyone in need during the weeks and months to come. The County is also launching new digital resources to help members of the public access food at no cost — including program sign-up information, maps, and frequently asked questions — all located on the County COVID-19 website. 

Individuals/Families in Need Can:

• Get help with food expenses. CalFresh is a Nutrition Assistance Program that can help people in low-income households purchase food by increasing their food-buying power. Apply here and see eligibility requirements here.

• Find free food near you. County agencies and partners that provide free groceries and meals are expanding their services during COVID-19. Click here to see options and find food distribution sites near you. Some programs also provide delivery.
• Get food delivery assistance. The County has launched a Critical Delivery Services program to deliver food and other vital items to adults age 60+ and individuals with disabilities who are unable to leave their homes due to COVID-19. Items must be prepaid and ready for pick-up. There is no cost to the client for delivery. For more information, click here or call 1-888-863-7411.
• For assistance, or if you do not have access to the Internet, please dial 2-1-1. Multilingual operators are available to help members of the public find free food resources. 

Service Providers/Nonprofits in Need Can:

• Request volunteers. L.A. Works matches community organizations with volunteer labor and other resources. More information here.

• Request food to redistribute. The L.A. Regional Food Bank is accepting new applications for partner agencies. Partner agencies receive free food and re-distribute it to community members. More information here.

• Join a food recovery network. There are a number of organizations that use mobile apps with matching technology to recover unused food from restaurants and other businesses and re-distribute it to communities in need. If you are interested in donating food or receiving donated food to re-distribute, look for the following in your mobile app store:

• Food Finders
• ChowMatch

Here Are Other Ways Los Angeles County Residents Can Help: 

• Giving food-related offers and donations. Does your business or organization seek to sell or donate food-related resources to support COVID-19 response efforts?  The County is helping to match available food resources with those in need. Fill out an online questionnaire to let us know what food resources you have to share. Our partner providers are in need of food resources, services, and equipment including:
• Prepared meals ready-to-eat meals: no heating required
• Prepared meals: just heat and service
• Groceries: non-perishable, shelf stable food items and perishable food such as produce, meats, and dairy
• Specialty foods: Vegan, kosher, gluten-free, and other specialty options
• Food delivery: drivers and vehicles, including special vehicle types such as refrigerated trucks
• Other types of donation and support. Looking for other ways to lend a hand during this crisis? Explore the County’s COVID-19 resource page to learn how you can help, from doing wellness checks on older neighbors to donating blood.
• Starting a food pantry. Interested in offering free food to community members? If you already have food to re-distribute or are planning to collect food items from private sources, please follow these Guidelines for Charitable Feeding Operations. If you are interested in receiving donated food to re-distribute, consider partnering with the L.A. Regional Food Bank, which is currently accepting new applications for partner pantries. More information here.
• Joining a food recovery network. There are a number of organizations that use mobile apps with matching technology to recover unused food from restaurants and other businesses and re-distribute it to communities in need. If you work for a restaurant or other business that is interested in donating food, look for the following in your mobile app store:
• Food Finders
• ChowMatch
• Postmates Merchant App

• Volunteer your time. L.A. Works matches community organizations with volunteer labor and other resources. More information here.

• Home Visiting Programs are still enrolling new clients and serving families in LA County. Home Visitors provide support and services during pregnancy; coaches parents on how to support children during difficult times; offers techniques for lowering stress; and connects parents to educational training, job opportunities, and other resources. For the health and safety of our clients, all home visiting programs have temporarily moved all in-person visits to telehealth visits to continue providing support to all our families. For more information, call (213) 639-6434.
• MAMA’s Program is providing services to pregnant women and those who have recently delivered during the COVID-9 crisis by offering telehealth telephonic and video visits for medical and behavioral health services, social care navigation, and nursing support. The telehealth platform lessens the face-to-face contact for these women without decreasing the number of visits they require or desire. Pregnant women in the safety net who need prenatal and immediate postpartum services can call 844-37-MAMAS for appointments and enhanced perinatal services.  
• Doula services provide emotional support, physical comfort, education, and advocacy to African American pregnant women and persons during pregnancy, childbirth, and the newborn period. Call (213) 639-6448 for more information and eligibility requirements.
• Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Program provides healthy foods and other resources to pregnant women and families with a child under 5 years of age. For more information and eligibility requirements, text APPLY to 91997, visit phfewic.org or call (888) 942-2229.

• Cash aid and food purchasing services are available through CalWORKS. This program provides monthly financial assistance to help pay for housing, food, utilities, clothing, medical care and other necessary expenses. For more information and eligibility requirements, call (866) 613-3777. 

• Early childhood education and childcare services are available for essential workers. Call (888) 92CHILD (922-4453) or visit lacoe.edu/childcare for more information and resources.

• Emotional support services are available for pregnant and parenting families feeling anxious, panicked, or stressed. Mental health professionals are available at (800) 854-7771.

• California Women, Infants and Children (WIC) services are available and include nutritious foods and more resources that are available to all eligible families affected by COVID-19. WIC welcomes military families, migrant families, fathers, foster parents and legal guardians with eligible children. If your income has been affected by recent events, and you are:
  • Pregnant 
  • Breastfeeding (up to the infant’s first birthday)
  • Non-breastfeeding women (until the infant is six months old)
  • Women up to six months after a pregnancy loss
  • For infants and children, up to the child’s fifth birthday. 
  • To find out if you’re eligible, California residents can start by texting APPLY to 91997, call (888) 942-2229 or visit phfewic.org

• Stay home. Avoid contact with people who are sick.
• Have food delivered to your home so you can avoid checkout lines at grocery stores.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after blowing your nose, coughing, sneezing, or using the restroom.
• Clean and disinfect your home to remove germs: practice routine cleaning of frequently touched surfaces (for example: tables, doorknobs, light switches, handles, desks, toilets, faucets, sinks & cell phones).

• Phone: (833) 238-4450

• Online: LACountyHelpCenter.org

• E-mail: DisasterHelpCenter@lacounty.gov

• Social media: @LACHelpCenter on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram

As LA County’s communities of color remain the hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, they are at a higher risk for exposure to the virus because many cannot work from home, cannot afford to miss a day of work, and often have jobs that require interacting with large numbers of people. Communities of color are on the frontlines of this pandemic: they work in health care, agriculture, transportation, restaurants, grocery stores, delivery services, and many other fields that make our country strong. 

As of May 1, the Department of Public Health had identified 23,182 positive cases of COVID-19 across all areas of LA County, and a total of 1,111 deaths. 

• Race and ethnicity are so far available for 99% those who died:
  • 38% of deaths occurred among Latinx residents,
  • 28% among White residents,
  • 19% among Asian residents,
  • 13% among African American residents,
  • 1% among Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander residents, 
  • and 1% among residents identifying with other races.

“Many of our hardest working families are either uninsured or underinsured and do not normally seek access to health care, which is why increasing access to COVID-19 testing sites remains one of my top priorities,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda L. Solis. “We know that widespread testing will help flatten the curve. I’m pleased all essential workers regardless of symptoms can be tested. That includes our first responders, healthcare professionals, grocery workers, and critical government workers. Asymptomatic individuals who are either over 65 or have chronic underlying health conditions can also be tested. For all LA County residents being tested for COVID-19, immigration status and health insurance are never requested or taken into account.”

There are now 35 drive-up testing sites throughout LA County. They are safe, free, and do not require proof of medical insurance. If you have symptoms such as difficulty breathing or a high fever, or are a first responder, please make an appointment at the website covid19.lacounty.gov/testing or dial 2-1-1 to find a neighborhood testing site near you. You must have an appointment for a test, but there are many time slots available—including same-day, or next-day appointments. 

There are also resources for people who are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, but do not have health insurance. If you are having difficulty breathing or have a high fever, you can dial 2-1-1 to find a neighborhood clinic near you. You may also qualify for My Health LA, a free health care program with a network of more than 200 community clinics for low-income LA County residents who are 26 years or older. Undocumented immigrants qualify for My Health LA. Call 844-744-6452 for information on how to enroll.

L.A. County families are also reminded that a healthy start in life begins with getting immunized to prevent diseases. Starting, and staying, on schedule with recommended immunizations protects our children from diseases that can spread easily and that can cause serious health problems, especially during this public health crisis. 

To ensure the care of our newborns and young children, we ask that families keep up with child immunizations for preventable diseases like hepatitis B, chickenpox, measles, mumps, and whooping cough. L.A. County doctors and healthcare providers are taking steps to make sure their clinics and offices are safe spaces where families can bring their children in for their immunizations.

The priority is newborn care and the immunizations of infants and young children (through 24 months). We also ask that everyone – including teenagers and adults – continue with routine immunizations. Call your provider to learn how they have modified their spaces and their schedules in order to bring children in for their immunizations. As always, visit covid19.lacounty.gov or dial 2-1-1 for more assistance.

L.A. County has announced new resources for Latino communities in response to a an increased need for COVID-19-related mental health services. In the County, Latino communities have: 1) the highest number of confirmed cases of COVID-19; 2) the highest death rate; and 3) are more likely to say that they or someone in their household has experienced a pay cut or job loss due to COVID-19. 

• LA County's Department of Mental Health (DMH), in partnership with the UCLA Hispanic Neuropsychiatric Center of Excellence, is building up a team of 150 Spanish-speaking “promotores” (trusted messengers who will connect people with services) who will work side-by-side with DMH clinicians to ensure vulnerable Latino communities are tested for COVID-19 and connected with improved and expanded mental health resources.
• UCLA and DMH have established bilingual support groups for Latino parents of children with disabilities and mental disorders (such as autism and ADHD) as many of these families are struggling due to the pandemic. There are bilingual support groups for elderly persons and caregivers who are also more likely to be struggling at home during this time.
• In addition to work in the community, UCLA has created resiliency training for DMH psychologists to support them in dealing with their own burnout and grief.

For mental health support or services, please call 800-854-7771 or text "LA" to 741741.

New County Testing Sites Opening Soon to Meet Demand, But Health Officials Seek Support from the Public to Prioritize Tests For Those At Highest Risk

As cases and hospitalizations rise, many residents believe they need to get tested for COVID-19. However, Los Angeles County health officials stress that not everyone needs to be tested and emphasize the basic ways individuals and businesses can and should protect themselves from this virus.

Here are 10 tips to keep in mind as we navigate this dynamic situation together:

1. At this point in this rapidly-evolving crisis, it is important to reserve testing for those who have a medical or public health reason for it. While Los Angeles County currently has enough testing supplies to meet the needs of those who need to be tested, the number of COVID-19 cases are on the rise here and throughout the country. Let’s work together to reserve testing for those with a medical or public health need.
2. The common-sense rules still apply. Here are the most important things we as individuals and community members can do to slow the spread of COVID-19.
• Stay home as much as possible.
• Leave home only for essential activities like work, medical appointments and grocery shopping.
• Wear a cloth face covering when you’re out in public.
• Stay at least six feet apart from people you don’t live with.
• Wash your hands thoroughly and often, and don’t touch your face.
3. Check with a health care provider if you think you need to get tested. It’s always best to work with your health care professional to determine the kind of care you need—just as you would with any other health care concern. Unless you have specific symptoms, exposures or risk factors, you may not need to be tested, and your health care provider can talk with you about your concerns and help determine if you need to be tested. If you don’t have a doctor, call 211 to get a referral.
4. Know your risk level. According to the latest Public Health guidance, highest priority for testing should go to people with symptoms—including hospitalized patients, healthcare workers, first responders, employees and residents in group living settings, and people over 65 years old or with underlying health conditions that place them at higher risk of serious complications. Asymptomatic people— those without symptoms—also should be prioritized for testing if they are part of a public health investigation, if they live or work in high risk settings, such as skilled nursing facilities or homeless shelters, if they are a close contact of someone with a confirmed positive diagnosis of COVID-19, or if they are an essential worker.

Prioritization of routine testing among other asymptomatic people is not recommended at this time. People over the age of 65 or with underlying conditions do not necessarily need to be tested unless they have symptoms, have had an exposure or have been told by public health to be tested. Once again, please check with your healthcare provider about your specific situation and let their medical advice guide you.

1. Employers should not require a negative COVID-19 test result before employees return to work, and employees do not need to present a certificate saying they have tested negative, under the current guidance from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health.
2. Employers can offer and pay for COVID-19 testing as an occupational health and safety measure if an employer wishes to have its workforce get tested before returning to a work site. These employees should not seek a test at the City/County/State testing sites, which should be reserved for those who meet the medical or public health criteria for testing, and who do not have access to testing through their regular provider or health plan.
3. Healthcare providers are required by a recent L.A. County Health Officer Order to provide their patients with access to COVID testing if they are symptomatic, are part of a public health investigation, or have been in close contact with a confirmed COVID-19 infected person. The Health Officer order also encourages providers to bill private insurance plans for these services whenever possible. Patients are not allowed to be charged by their plan or provider for COVID-19 tests. Obtaining testing through a patient’s regular provider network helps to assure tailored clinical advice and facilitates good follow-up in the case of positive results.
4. A COVID-19 test does not protect you from the virus, and a negative result should not be seen as a reason to engage in risky social behavior. A COVID-19 test does not guarantee that you do not have the virus; a false- negative test is possible. Also, even when accurate, a test result only reflects whether you have the virus at the moment you took the test. You could become positive at any time and an exposure to COVID-19 could happen immediately following your test.
5. Don’t panic. Although rising case numbers and hospitalizations are cause for concern, we can still turn this around by following the common-sense steps listed above. Los Angeles County came together to flatten the curve earlier in this pandemic, even when testing was much more limited than it is today, and we can do it again. We are still in a phased reopening, with many more options for safe recreation available, and it’s up to all of us to behave in ways that enable us to move forward, instead of taking a step back.
6. More testing capacity is on the way. Appointments may be limited at testing sites due to increased demand. The County and the City of Los Angeles are adding capacity at existing sites, as well as standing up new County- and City-funded sites in high-need communities in the weeks to come. Learn more here. 

Remember: Regardless of test results, you still need to follow quarantine and isolation orders from Public Health or your provider. If you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, you need to self-quarantine for 14 days, even if you test negative during that time. If you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, you should self- isolate in order to prevent spread of the virus to others and follow these steps:

• Keep your physician informed of your symptoms and consult with your provider about getting tested.
• If you are elderly or have an underlying health condition, seek medical care.
• If you don’t have a physician, call 211 to get connected to one.

Los Angeles County has launched Stay Housed L.A. County, a new program which connects tenants facing eviction with legal assistance and virtual educational workshops to help keep them in their homes amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The new program is a partnership between the County of L.A., legal aid groups, and community-based organizations to provide emergency support to tenants in need.

The StayHousedLA.org website offers useful information about rights, workshops for residents who need legal assistance, as well as other support, including case management services.

Stay Housed L.A. County serves as an important resource for tenants who are facing housing uncertainty — including bilingual residents and those with undocumented status — with information about their rights and legal support navigating their interactions with landlords and the legal system. When tenants have legal representation, a family’s chance of avoiding homelessness due to eviction increases by over 70 percent.

The following sectors are permitted to reopen:

As of October 1^st, nail salons may reopen for indoor services, limited at 25 percent occupancy. Nail salons are encouraged to continue to offer services outdoors, where the air circulation is better and there is lower risk of disease transmission.

Beginning October 5^th, cardrooms are permitted to reopen for outdoor gaming only; face coverings are to be worn at all times, unless patrons are in a designated outdoor dining area. Food and beverages may not be served at any gaming tables. Cardrooms should be in full compliance with the HOO order and protocols before re-opening.

Tomorrow, Wednesday, October 7^th, indoor shopping malls will be allowed to reopen at 25 percent maximum occupancy; all food courts and all common areas remain closed per the state order.

The State of California has a one-stop website for COVID-19 information and resources at https://covid19.ca.gov/.  There is substantial information about the coronavirus along with links to pages for unemployment, paid sick leave, and other benefits, help for small businesses, and much more.

Gov. Gavin Newsom has issued an executive order to extend the eligibility period for important safety net services to ensure that California’s most vulnerable residents can continue to receive health care, food assistance, and in-home supportive services in a timely manner during the COVID-19 outbreak. The order waives eligibility re-determinations for 90 days through June 17, 2020 for Californians who participate in:

• Medi-Cal health coverage
• CalFresh food assistance
• CalWORKS
• Cash Assistance for Immigrants
• In-Home Supportive Services

The change will allow current recipients of these safety net programs to continue receiving them without interruption.

Governor Gavin Newsom has announced that Californians economically impacted by COVID-19 may receive 90-day grace periods to make mortgage payments. Financial institutions have agreed not to negatively impact credit reports as a result of accepting payment relief. Click here to see the full story.

While the State of California has banned all residential evictions through May 31 if a tenant is unable to pay rent due to the COVID-19 outbreak, it’s important to remember this does not forgive the rent payments, it only delays them.

A tenant still owes the landlord the terms laid out in their lease or rental agreement. The tenant remains obligated to repay the full rent “in a timely manner” and can still face eviction after the moratorium is lifted.

This means that even if you can’t pay rent, the landlord can still file an eviction case, though it will not proceed until at least 90 days after the end of the state of emergency.

So, experts say, if you can afford to pay the rent, you should.

Tenants and landlords who have any questions about this process can seek help through the Fair Housing Foundation, which serves Paramount. Its housing assistance hotline is 1-800-446-FAIR and website is fairhousingfoundation.com.

If you do not have a source of health care coverage or have recently lost your employer-sponsored health care coverage, click here for a fact sheet of some options you can explore. Contact the specific programs for more information.

AARP is providing all Californians – but especially older adults and their families – a single, trustworthy resource with clear guidance on where to get the most up-to-date information on COVID-19.

The Governor’s Office, the California Department of Aging, and AARP CA have partnered to launch the California For All resource card, a free, one-stop information guide.

The resource card includes information on how to get caregiving support, how to stay safe at home, and how to find important resources through the California Aging and Adults Information line. There are also contacts to report fraud, abuse, or neglect and more. 

The resource card is a centerpiece of the “Stay Home. Save Lives. Check In.” campaign, which urges all Californians to help combat social isolation and food insecurity by checking in on vulnerable neighbors with a call, a text, or a “physically-distanced” knock on the door.

The California For All resource card is digitally available in English, Spanish, and Chinese. The cards are available electronically and can be downloaded HERE.

To slow the spread of Covid-19, as new cases rise by the thousands daily in the California, Gov. Gavin Newsom has announced that people must wear face coverings state-wide in most public settings.

This does not substitute for existing guidance about social distancing and handwashing.

To see the details, please click here.

The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) recently announced the extension of driver licenses for drivers with soon-to-expire licenses and has several options available to complete other essential services as needed.

To help you get started completing your essential DMV tasks, the office of our State Senator Lena Gonzalez has compiled information about available online services, how to get your REAL ID, and how the DMV is helping with the select service needs that must be done in a DMV field office during the COVID-19 pandemic.

If you need to renew your driver's license or need any other DMV service, please read the information provided by clicking the links below.

Driver license extensions

Online services

Field office services

REAL ID

"To ensure the welfare and safety of the general public as well as officers and agents in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic response, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will temporarily adjust its enforcement posture beginning today, March 18, 2020. ICE’s highest priorities are to promote life-saving and public safety activities.

"ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) will focus enforcement on public safety risks and individuals subject to mandatory detention based on criminal grounds.  For those individuals who do not fall into those categories, ERO will exercise discretion to delay enforcement actions until after the crisis or utilize alternatives to detention, as appropriate.

"During the COVID-19 crisis, ICE will not carry out enforcement operations at or near health care facilities, such as hospitals, doctors’ offices, accredited health clinics, and emergent or urgent care facilities, except in the most extraordinary of circumstances.  Individuals should not avoid seeking medical care because they fear civil immigration enforcement."

Declaración del Servicio de Inmigración y Control de Aduanas de EE. UU. (ICE)

"Para garantizar el bienestar y la seguridad del público en general, así como de los oficiales y agentes a la luz de la actual respuesta ante la pandemia de COVID-19, el Servicio de Inmigración y Control de Aduanas (ICE) de EE. UU. Ajustará temporalmente su postura de cumplimiento a partir de hoy, 18 de marzo de 2020. Las principales prioridades de ICE son promover actividades que salven vidas y seguridad pública.

"Las operaciones de ejecución y remoción de ICE (ERO) enfocarán la aplicación de la ley en los riesgos de seguridad pública y las personas sujetas a detención obligatoria por motivos penales. Para aquellas personas que no caen en esas categorías, ERO ejercerá la discreción para retrasar las acciones de aplicación hasta después de la crisis o utilizar alternativas a la detención, según corresponda.

"Durante la crisis de COVID-19, ICE no llevará a cabo operaciones de cumplimiento en o cerca de las instalaciones de atención médica, como hospitales, consultorios médicos, clínicas de salud acreditadas e instalaciones de atención de emergencia o urgencia, excepto en las circunstancias más extraordinarias. Individuos no deben evitar buscar atención médica porque temen la aplicación de la ley de inmigración civil ".

The IRS is delivering economic impact payments to eligible taxpayers. Unfortunately, there are scams out there.

In order to avoid falling victim to fraudulent individuals either impersonating or claiming to represent the IRS, here are some tips.

• The IRS will generally first contact people by mail, not by phone, about tax-related matters.

• If the IRS does contact you by telephone, they will not insist on any pre-payment using an iTunes card, gift card, prepaid debit card, money order, or wire transfer, in order to receive economic impact payments.

• The IRS will also never request personal or financial information by e-mail, text, letter, or any social media.

• If you do receive a call or e-mail from someone claiming to be with the IRS asking for a pre-payment or for your personal or financial information in order to receive economic impact payments connected with the coronavirus pandemic, you can report it at https://www.treasury.gov/tigta/contact_report_covid.shtml.

For a list of emergency resources for small businesses from the L.A. County Consumer and Business Affairs Office of Small Business, please click here.

For assistance from the U.S. Small Business Administration, please click here.

The Labor Market Information Division of the Employment Development Department of the State of California (EDD) collects, analyzes, and produces labor market data of interest to employers and the business community. Click here to find information and resources related to the impacts of COVID-19.

Workers in California may be eligible for benefits due to illness from COVID-19. For more information on disability insurance, paid family leave, unemployment insurance, paid sick leave, and workers’ compensation, please visit https://www.labor.ca.gov/.

If your employer has reduced your hours or shut down operations due to COVID-19, you can file an unemployment insurance (UI) claim. UI provides partial wage replacement benefit payments to workers who lose their job or have their hours reduced. For more information, visit https://edd.ca.gov/about_edd/coronavirus-2019.htm

There are a number of resources that can help you understand and navigate the process of applying for Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits.

Find instructional videos providing an overview of UI Online, how to create an online account, and the steps for filing a new claim in both English and Spanish at https://www.edd.ca.gov/Unemployment/UI_Online.htm.

Find written material to understand the process at the State Employment Development Department’s (EDD) website, https://edd.ca.gov/about_edd/coronavirus-2019.htm.

For help completing the application, call your America’s Job Center of California to schedule a phone appointment with an EDD representative. Locally, that is the Southeast Los Angeles County Workforce Development Board at (562)484-5020. (Be prepared to provide the EDD representative with your contact information.)

Keep in mind that, according the EDD, it takes at least three weeks to process a claim for unemployment benefits and issue payment to most eligible workers.

Whether you are a business owner struggling to keep your doors open or a worker who’s uncertain about their next paycheck, L.A. County has launched a centralized call center and website providing free, one-on-one counseling and support for those adversely affected by the ongoing COVID-19 public health crisis.

The Business & Worker Disaster Help Center, jointly operated by the Departments of Consumer and Business Affairs (DCBA) and Workforce Development, Aging and Community Services (WDACS), is open Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and can be reached by:

• Telephone: (833) 238-4450
• Online: LACountyHelpCenter.org
• Email: DisasterHelpCenter@lacounty.gov
• Social media: @LACHelpCenter on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram

Struggling small businesses affected by the COVID-19 can apply for various forgivable loans and other programs provided through nearly $350 billion available in the Federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.

Some of the Small Business Administration (SBA) relief programs include:

The Paycheck Protection Program (providing and forgiving loans for small businesses with fewer than 500 employees if all employees are kept on payroll for eight weeks and the money is used for payroll, rent, mortgage interest, or utilities)

Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program

Economic Injury Disaster Grants

Employee Retention Credit

More information, including how to apply and a sample of the application form, can be found on the SBA website. Here is a fact sheet created by the U.S. Treasury Department. Below, for example, is a comparison of two of the programs.

The California Economic Development Department (EDD) is accepting applications for the New Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program:

Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA)

• Independent contractors, individuals who are business owners, self-employed, have limited work history, and those who are not currently eligible for state unemployment benefits are eligible for PUA. For more information visit the Labor & Workforce Development Agency's website.

FAQ

Here are some answers to frequently asked questions regarding unemployment benefits:

Q: How do I know I am eligible for PUA?

A: You may qualify for PUA benefits if you are unemployed, partially unemployed, unable to work or unavailable to work as a direct result of a COVID-19 related reason and you meet one of the following criteria:

• You are a business owner, self-employed, independent contractor or gig worker (and are not participating in the UI Elective Coverage program). You will be able to indicate if you have no employment wages (for example, you did not receive a W-2), solely for the purpose of applying for the PUA program (and not to be used for any other purpose). However, you may proceed with a regular Unemployment Insurance (UI) claim if you believe you were misclassified and have wages from an employer.
• You don't have sufficient work history. This generally means you don't have enough wages reported as an employee during the last 18 months to establish a regular UI claim. This could be the case if you are self-employed or an independent contractor. But this could also be the case if you are an employee with insufficient earnings. To qualify for PUA based on insufficient work history, you must have been recently employed, which could be satisfied if you had a bona fide offer to start working on a specific date but were unable to start as a direct result of a COVID-19 related reason.
• You have collected all unemployment benefits for which you were eligible and remain unemployed or partially unemployed as a direct result of a COVID-19 reason. This means that you were qualified for regular UI but have exhausted those benefits, as well as any extended benefits.

Q: How much will I receive in PUA benefits?

A: PUA provides a minimum "base benefit" of $167 per week for people in this part of the workforce, including part-time workers, affected by the virus. On top of their base benefit, affected workers will receive $600 per week in unemployment assistance through the end of July.

Q: How long will it take to start receiving PUA benefits?

A: Qualified applicants will be able to receive their benefits within one to two days upon determination of eligibility.

For more information visit the EDD website.

Additionally, here is more information from EDD on Recertifying Benefits for those who already receive benefits:

• Individuals who are currently receiving unemployment insurance payments no longer have to recertify their claims every two weeks to keep receiving the money.

• This applies to the dates for weeks ending March 14 through May 9.

• If you work during this time, you will still have to report the earnings to EDD. For more information, visit the EDD website.

Here is a message for all small businesses in Paramount. The Paramount Chamber of Commerce will connect you with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) for assistance in applying for programs available from the federal Small Business Administration (SBA). 

A business owner can contact the Chamber to then meet with an SBDC counselor.  Meetings can be done remotely, over the phone, or in person at the Chamber office, and coping, printing, and scanning of anything necessary for applying is offered at the office at no charge. 

And you don’t have to be a Chamber member to participate. 

Call 562.634.3980 to learn more.

L.A. County wants to guide you and your businesses as you embark on the Road to Recovery. In order to boost the local economy, and maintain the public's safety during the COVID-19 health crisis. County Health Inspectors are making their rounds to ensure businesses (like yours) are in compliance with the Health Officer Order.

If you're a retail business owner, these are the five areas our Inspectors will cover: 

(1) Workplace policies and practices to protect employee health.

(2) Measures to ensure physical distancing.

(3) Measures to ensure infection control.

(4) Communication with employees and the public.

(5) Measures to ensure equitable access to critical services.

Make sure you're compliant by following the full checklist here.

To help you protect employees and customers, alike, the County has also created signs. These are ready to be posted on-site, to remind everyone how they can protect themselves (and others) from COVID-19.

You can download these posters here:

• "Curbside Pickup Only"
• "Please Stay Away if You're Sick"
• "Please Stay 6 Feet Away"
• "Wear a Cloth Face Covering"

If you still have questions on compliance, call LA County's Department of Public Health at (888) 700-9995 or visit our DPH website for more information.

Here are some other public health resources featuring accurate information and facts:

• For information from the Federal government.

https://www.cdc.gov/

• How to protect yourself from the virus.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/prevention.html

• For information from the State.

 https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/Immunization/ncov2019.aspx

• For answers to frequently-asked questions from the County.
  
  https://lacounty.gov/covid19/frequently-asked-questions/

• For up-to-date information from the County on closures.

https://lacounty.gov/covid19/

• Dial 211 for Public Health information
• Social media
  o LA County Public Health (@lapublichealth)
  o Center for Disease Control (@CDCgov)