Helgeson: Virtual program opportunities available

Published 6:50 am Saturday, June 20, 2020

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We may be practicing social distancing for the time being, but that doesn’t mean we can’t continue to connect with each other and hang out!

We are excited to offer virtual programs for LIFE participants. Learn more by visiting www.lifemowercounty.org/coronavirus.

Video programs are conducted over Zoom, a free app that can be downloaded on your phone, tablet or computer.

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We are still adapting and changing programs based on participant and family needs, and we would love to hear your thoughts and ideas! Send your feedback to info@lifemowercounty.org and let us know how we can better support you while we are all staying safe at home.

Program and building update

We wanted to share a quick note about what we are doing at LIFE Mower County in light of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Like you, we are following the news very closely and taking every precaution as recommended by the Minnesota Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control. We have been taking every precaution to slow the spread of COVID-19.

Following the recommendations from the State of Minnesota around social distancing, and with an abundance of caution and concern for our entire community, we will be canceling all in-person activities through Tuesday, June 30. These changes are precautionary and are not due to any known exposure to COVID-19 in our building. The health, safety, and well-being of our community remain our No. 1 priority.

Senate action needed on developing a fourth coronavirus package

The Senate must act to pass legislation that includes the critical needs of people with disabilities, their families, and the direct support professional workforce in a new coronavirus package.

In May, the House passed its fourth coronavirus package, the Health and Economic Recovery Omnibus Emergency Solutions (HEROES) Act (H.R.6800), with a vote of 208-199.

This package includes:

• Increased federal funding for home and community based services (HCBS) under Medicaid;

• Expanded eligibility for economic impact payments to adult dependents and another round of payments; and

• Paid leave eligibility for family caregivers of adults with disabilities, including siblings and grandparents.