New COVID-19 State Mitigation Measures: Effective November 20
Due to a rise in COVID-19 cases throughout Illinois, Governor J.B. Pritzker announced the reimplementation of Tier Three resurgence mitigations statewide, effective Friday, November 20 at 12:01 am.
On November 20, the following industries or activities must close:
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Movie theaters
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Indoor recreational facilities (i.e. bowling alleys, arcades, casinos, etc.)
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Performance venues
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Museums
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Indoor group sports and recreational activities
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Meeting rooms, banquet centers, private party rooms, private clubs, and country clubs may not host gatherings.
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Special events at places of worship or funeral homes, such as weddings, funerals, Bar Mitzvahs, or wakes, are limited to 10 people.
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On November 20, the following industries or activities may continue operating under these additional regulations:
1. Bars and Restaurants
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Outdoor service, take-out, curbside pick-up and delivery can continue under existing regulations.
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Private event spaces must be closed.
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Indoor dining still not allowed.
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In Chicago, a citywide curfew on nonessential businesses between the hours of 11:00 pm and 6:00 am is still in effect.
2. Retail stores
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Allowed to operate at 25 percent capacity
3. Grocery Stores and Pharmacies
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Allowed to operate at 50 percent capacity
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"Big box" stores that sell a combination of general retail, groceries, and/or pharmacies among other goods must operate at 25 percent capacity.
4. Health and Fitness Centers
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Allowed to operate at 25 percent capacity
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Reservations are required.
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Indoor fitness classes must cease.
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Outdoor activities are allowed at 25 percent capacity, with group activities limited to 10 people or less.
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Locker room areas should be closed.
5. Hotels
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Limited to registered guests only
6. Personal Services
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Allowed to operate at 25 percent capacity, or a maximum of 25 people - whichever is less
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Services that require the removal of face coverings must cease.
7. Offices
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Work remotely if possible
8. Outdoor Activities
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Outdoor museums, performance venues, and other outdoor activities can continue at 25 percent capacity or a maximum of 100 people, whichever is smaller.
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Group size is limited to 10 people or less.
COVID-19 Information
Latest Guidance and Information
Latest Guidance For:
Protecting Chicago: Metrics Update, May 23, 2020
Reopening Framework Press Conference, May 22, 2020
#ChicagoStrong Email Newsletter
With the news that Illinois' Shelter-in-Place order will be extended to the end of May, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by the constant stream of information on COVID-19.
In light of this, there will be a newsletter for residents to share stories and photos of the moments that have inspired you, given you hope, or brought you joy to you and your family as we do our part to Stay Home, and Save Lives.
Any content should be sent to Ward02@cityofchicago.org with the subject "Chicago Strong." My staff will then compile your submissions into a Chicago Strong E-Newsletter as a means of inspiring and uplifting your 2nd Ward neighbors.
Catch up on previous Chicago Strong emails below:
Food Assistance
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a program that provides low-income residents of Illinois with funding to use on groceries and other essential goods. The Federal Government will make it possible for Illinois to give SNAP recipients additional funds.
If you are interested please visit the website below to fill out the application online or call (800) 843-6154. If you qualify, you will be assigned a case worker who will interview you on the phone and may ask for proof of identity, along with other documents that are needed to get you started. Learn more about SNAP, cash assistance, and more at www.abe.illinois.gov.
The Greater Chicago Food Depository
The GCFD responds to food insecurity in our community every single day. Anyone in need of food assistance can turn to the Food Depository’s network of agencies and programs.
With some exceptions, their network of 700 partner agencies and programs remains open. These sites are modifying their distributions to promote social distancing, including offering pre-packaged boxes of groceries.
Mental Health Resources
Taking care of yourself, your friends, and your family can help you cope with stress. Helping others cope with their stress can also make your community stronger.
Things you can do to support yourself:
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Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including social media. Hearing about the pandemic repeatedly can be upsetting.
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Take care of your body. Take deep breaths, stretch, or meditate. Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals, exercise regularly, get plenty of sleep, and avoid alcohol and drugs.
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Make time to unwind. Try to do some other activities you enjoy.
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Connect with others. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling.
In order to manage the increased stress and anxiety during this time, please feel free to visit some of these resources below for assistance:
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The Kennedy Forum Illinois is offering a free 60-minute webinar for businesses and organizations on how to manage stress and reduce isolation. Please contact James Burns, Director of Programs, at james@thekennedyforum.org if you would like to schedule a training.
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Coronavirus Disease 2019 Managing Anxiety and Stress
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Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): Tips For Social Distancing, Quarantine, And Isolation During An Infectious Disease Outbreak
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American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: Taking Care of Your Mental Health in the Face of Uncertainty
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Mental Health America: Mental Health And COVID-19 – Information And Resources
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NAMI Chicago provides support services in our communities. Chicago helpline: (833) 626-4244
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National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
Nonprofit and Volunteering
Below is a list of local organizations in need of assistance. If you know of a local organization that is in need of volunteers to help respond to COVID-19, please email Ward02@cityofchicago.org so that we may add it to the list.
Finally, if you have elderly or vulnerable neighbors on your block or in your condo, please take the time to call and check up on them. You may also consider volunteering to go to the store on their behalf for food and other necessities.
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A Safe Haven has started a fundraising project to help those in need during COVID-19. To learn more visit their website.
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Big Brothers Big Sisters is now offering virtual mentoring opportunities for youth ages 7-14. If you are interested in volunteering, please visit their website.
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Chicago Help Initiative: Donate or volunteer to help prepare to-go meals for individuals experiencing homelessness by visiting their website or calling Jacqueline at 312-861-1700.
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Connections for Abused Women and their Children (CAWC): Donate or volunteer to help women who have experienced domestic violence.
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Cradles to Crayons has set up their emergency assistance fund to help children experiencing poverty with much-needed items such as diapers, baby wipes, hygiene items, school supplies, and toys.
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Deborah's Place: Help women experiencing homelessness by making a monetary donation online or donating thermometers. Drop off or mail thermometers to the main office at 2822 W. Jackson Blvd.
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Donate Blood: Information available through the Red Cross or through Vitalant (formerly LifeSource).
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Greater Chicago Food Depository: Prepare food for distribution to Chicagoans in need or make a monetary donation.
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Little Sisters of the Poor: Donate masks, gloves, goggles, hand sanitizer, and liquid soap.
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Meals on Wheels: Donate to help provide meals to senior citizens and individuals with disabilities.
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Salvation Army: Make a monetary donation to help individuals experiencing homelessness.
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Sitter City - Chicago Responds: Provide childcare for a first responder's family.
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VolunteerMatch is the Web's largest volunteer-engagement network. They have been creating solutions that make it easier for individuals, nonprofits, and companies to make a difference. To learn more, visit VolunteerMatch.org.