[Thread] Here are some updates based on today's briefing:

2/ The District’s reported data for Wednesday, April 8, 2020 includes 83 new positive coronavirus (COVID-19) cases, bringing the District’s overall positive case total to 1,523. Tragically, we also announced 5 new deaths. To date, 32 DC residents have passed away due to COVID-19.

3/ Yesterday, I issued a Mayor’s Order that creates new protections for workers and customers at grocery stores and farmers markets.

Learn more: https://coronavirus.dc.gov/release/mayor-bowser-issues-order-establishing-social-distancing-protocols-food-sellers-and

4/ The Mayor’s Order also requires that in order to operate, our fresh food markets must have plans in place to ensure social distancing protocols are followed.

Learn more: https://coronavirus.dc.gov/farmersmarkets 

5/ This Mayor’s Order clarified and amended several items from previous orders

6/ Today, I also talked about how we are working across government and with community partners to increase access to food and other essentials.

7/ We are working to get existing SNAP recipients more money to purchase groceries. Residents can apply for SNAP and other benefits by going to http://dhs.dc.gov  and clicking on “Apply for Benefits” and filling out the combined application.

8/ Starting early next week, we will have a hotline for residents to call if they need food or other essential items. This is for residents who are either in medically necessary quarantine or they have no other means to acquire these items.

9/ On Monday we are also launching our DCPS Grocery Sites. At ten DCPS schools, we are working with two community food partners to provide groceries. These sites are geared towards vulnerable populations in areas of our city where it is more difficult to access groceries.

10/ I want to thank ALL of our community partners who are identifying needs and helping out right now. We know the incredible work of World Central Kitchen which is now operating out of Nats Park and serving our community, our first responders, and health care workers.

11/ Again, I remind anyone who feels sick to call their doctor or one of our hotlines. The numbers to call are:

For English: 855-363-0333
Para Español: 844-796-2797

12/ As a reminder, if you are currently uninsured or you recently lost your employer health care coverage, you can enroll in private coverage or Medicaid right now through the DC Health Link at http://DCHealthLink.com .

13/ Remember DC, we're in this together, and we will get through this together. #StayHomeDC

http://coronavirus.dc.gov