For Immediate Release: August 4, 2020
The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Health Department (AHD) remind everyone that you are safest at home. Older adults, persons with underlying medical conditions and pregnant women are at greater risk for severe disease and are advised to minimize potential exposures as much as possible. Please keep at least 6 feet of distance from others. Everyone is required to wear a mask in most indoor public settings. Your neighbors and loved ones are counting on you to stop the spread of COVID-19.
The Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services and Mental Health America of Virginia have established a non-emergency “warm line” for those struggling with isolation, fear, grief, or trauma caused by COVID-19. A warm line may be a more comfortable choice for those who do not feel their concerns are urgent enough to call a hotline. Trained staff provide support, community resources, and referrals for any Virginia resident in need. Counselors are available by phone or text at 877.349.6428, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-9 p.m., and Saturday-Sunday, 5 p.m.-9 p.m. Calls are anonymous, and Spanish-speaking counselors are available. This service should not be used as an emergency or crisis hotline. If you or a loved one are having thoughts of suicide, please call the National Crisis Hotline at 800.273.8255, or call or text 911. More information about the program is available at vacopes.com and Facebook page (VA COPES). Additional resources are also available at the Virginia Association of Community Service Boards.
Senior Services of Alexandria has partnered with Giant Foods to offer a grocery delivery program for seniors living in Alexandria. Screened volunteers shop for and deliver groceries to seniors every other week. Groceries are ordered based on the recipient’s personal shopping list, which is created with volunteers over the phone. There are no delivery fees and no minimum order requirements. To be eligible, seniors must be 60 years of age or older, an Alexandria resident, and have a debit, credit or electronic benefits transfer (EBT) card. To learn more about the program or how to apply, email groceries@seniorservicesalex.org or call 703.836.4414, ext. 119. Senior Services of Alexandria also has many other programs that support senior residents.
The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Alexandria is now 2,867, including 60 fatalities. COVID-19 is spread by people whether or not they have symptoms, and AHD estimates that nearly 10% of infected Alexandrians have required hospitalization. Everyone must do their part to stop the spread: maintain at least 6 feet of distance from others, wear a mask, and carry and use hand sanitizer. With a recent increase in cases, you are more likely to encounter someone who is infected. Be prepared to answer a call from the Alexandria Health Department in case you are identified as a close contact. Detailed data, including data on age, race and ethnicity, is available through links at alexandriava.gov/Coronavirus.
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