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Aloha Neighbor,
There have been a number of concerns about what’s happening in our community and some of you are stressing about the slow intake by our state’s Unemployment Insurance Division. Distressing as it is, the fact is that the latest number of claims falls far short of the over 230,000 who are filing. Some of you are worried that the state will run out of funds before you get into the system; but there is a reserve fund and, if it is depleted, the state can ask for federal funds. So, as difficult as it is, please keep trying and take a deep breath and take care for yourself.
Keeping it together despite COVID-19.
Being locked down in our homes, frustrated with unemployment check delays, job loss, physical isolation, lack of funds, lack of exercise, perhaps eating or drinking too much because, frankly, there isn’t much else to do other than our daily routines and obligations, it’s quite a challenge maintaining emotional and mental health. But if you know how to cope, it may make you stronger. Here are some ways to cope from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention.
Social distancing and protecting neighbors in condominiums.
Our number is still not leveling or reducing. Yesterday, DOH reported 11 new cases, bringing us to 541 since February 28. Still need to keep on social distancing!
Many of us live in condos so here’s a kind reminder that social distancing guidelines apply to life within your condo and apartment communities as well. No one wants to be the reason why COVID-19 entered their building complex. Careful social distancing would require condos to close their common amenities like pools, gyms and party rooms; to hold off inviting guests (and that includes short-term rentals); to wear face masks in common areas especially in close areas like elevators and to limit the number of people in elevators; to stay at least six feet away from each other in hallways and parking areas. Be extra caring to help everyone keep healthy in your building. We’re used to hugging and chatting but until we get past this pandemic try smiling more and throwing hugs and kisses!
Some condo boards and staff are still not with the social distancing rules so here are some guidelines. The City & County of Honolulu has provided guidance. The State Department of Commerce & Consumer Affairs has also provided some general guidance on keeping your building clean.
Who’s making sure the homeless are social distancing?
We have heard from some of you that the homeless are clustering on the sidewalks now that parks are off limits to everyone. We checked in with HPD. They are enforcing the proclamations/orders of the Governor and Mayor to shelter-in-place and social distance in public. Homeless or any other group in violation will be subject to a maximum $5,000 fine and/or a year in jail.
You can also contact the Statewide Homeless Help Line at 586-0193 or email <a href=”mailto:gov.homelessness@hawaii.gov” title=”mailto:gov.homelessness@hawaii.gov” style=”mso-line-height-rule: exactly;-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%;-webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;color: #007C89;font-weight: normal;text-decoration: underline;”>gov.homelessness@hawaii.gov or the HPD at 911. HPD officers are trying to move those willing to available shelters or to the City’s new POST program at Keehi Lagoon Beach Park. POST (Provisional Outdoor Screening & Triage) is the successor to the HONU homeless outreach program (last at the Old Stadium Park). Homeless individuals are provided with individual tents in designated zones of the park with camp sites safely social distanced from each other. When they initially enter, homeless are isolated for 15 days in a “red” zone; thereafter moved to a “blue” zone with a little more freedom and flexibility and readied for transfer to available shelters or permanent housing. POST receives referrals from the public and from law enforcement officers. Call 768-4668.
Senate Special Committee on COVID-19 meets again today.
The Senate Special Committee on COVID-19 will convene today (Friday, 4/17) at 11 am on issues and concerns that are yet unresolved. Watch it live on Olelo channel 49 or online at olelo.org. See the agenda here. Prior video of hearings, when available, can be viewed here.
- Governor’s Chief of Staff Linda Takayama, Human Resources Director Ryker Wada and Labor Director Scott Murakami will discuss how we can get the Unemployment Insurance Program adequately staffed to respond faster to the over 230,000 people filing for benefit payments;
- Attorney General Clare Connors and Commerce & Consumer Affairs Director Catherine Awakuni Colon on addressing landlord-tenant and mortgage foreclosure issues.
- Department of Transportation Deputy Director Ross Higashi and Hawaii Tourism Authority CEO Chris Tatum on protocol for ensuring any passenger allowed into the state will stay in a legitimate residence or hotel for the 14 day quarantine.
Take care & stay healthy!
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