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Here’s an update for Friday, March 27.

Thought of the day: I’ll say it once, I’ll say it twice, I’ll say it three times. Stay home, keep your distance and help mitigate the spread of this virus.
 
Today the House will consider and likely pass the third bipartisan coronavirus relief package. The President is expected to sign it quickly. This legislation will increase unemployment benefits for the millions of workers who suddenly found themselves displaced, provides direct aid to healthcare institutions, boosts supplies of personal protective equipment and critical medical gear, and creates a large loan program for small businesses. We are at war with an invisible enemy, and these are all the weapons we have in our arsenal.
 
Since the first coronavirus case in Michigan, Governor Whitmer has worked relentlessly to help our state. She is fighting to stop the spread of the virus. She is fighting for more PPEs and safety gear, expanding unemployment insurance, helping small businesses, and the hardworking men and women of Michigan. She is a leader who is leading. Yesterday, she wrote a message to our state on efforts to keep us all safe. Find it here. 
 
There is good news. Hard work got the Taha family back in Michigan. They were in Peru when the country shutdown due to coronavirus. We worked tirelessly with State Department and Embassy to arrange their return and smiles came to many faces when they were home safe.
 
With daily coronavirus updates and all levels of government activating new emergency response tools, it’s important we understand what it all means. On Wednesday at 5:30pm, I will host my fourth telephone town hall to answer any questions you may have on steps being taken to keep you safe and financially secure. Sign up here.

Getting unemployment insurance to people right now across the country is a must. The Families First Coronavirus Act that was signed into law by the president will send money directly to states to help them offer unemployment insurance to people. If you or someone you know needs to sign up for unemployment, visit Michigan.gov/UIA.
 
New information becomes available everyday. Below is a list of resources and information that can be helpful during this time. Please share this information with your family, friends, and colleagues. 
 
Coronavirus information

File for unemployment

Small Businesses can apply for low-interest disaster loans

Navigating Social Security Benefits
 
School Based Food Service Interactive Map
 
Food Banks and Kitchens in Michigan's 12th Congressional District
 
Contact numbers for people looking for information are:
• Centers for Disease Control, cdc.gov/coronavirus, 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636).
• Michigan.gov/coronavirus, Call 2-1-1 or 734-287-7870 from within Michigan to connect with help of all kinds including food, housing, healthcare, and more.