Human Services Secretary Reminds Pennsylvanians of Food Assistance Resources

Harrisburg, PA – Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Teresa Miller today visited Philabundance to assist with on-going volunteer efforts to ensure food is available for people and families experiencing challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic and current economic insecurity. Secretary Miller and Philabundance Chief Executive Officer Loree D. Jones reminded Pennsylvanians of food assistance resources available even and especially amidst COVID-19 mitigation efforts. 

Reminder: July 15 is Deadline to File Personal Income Tax Returns

Harrisburg, PA — The Department of Revenue is reminding Pennsylvanians the deadline to file 2019 personal income tax returns is Wednesday, July 15, 2020. The filing deadline was extended 90 days this year to provide relief to taxpayers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Department of Health Provides Update on COVID-19, 725 Positives Bring Statewide Total to 95,414

Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Health today confirmed as of 12:00 a.m., July 12, that there are 725 additional positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 95,414. All 67 counties in Pennsylvania have cases of COVID-19.

The number of new cases in Allegheny County increased by 200 cases overnight. Philadelphia County reported 148 new cases overnight.

Department of Health Provides Update on COVID-19, 813 Positives Bring Statewide Total to 94,689

Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Health today confirmed as of 12:00 a.m., July 11, that there are 813 additional positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 94,689. All 67 counties in Pennsylvania have cases of COVID-19.

The number of new cases in Allegheny County increased by 215 cases overnight. Philadelphia County increased by 105 cases overnight.

Wolf Administration: Wear Masks to Protect and Support Local Businesses

Governor Tom Wolf, Department of Community and Economic Development Secretary Dennis Davin, and Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding today reminded Pennsylvanians to wear masks while shopping and dining to protect and support our local businesses.

“Mask-wearing is much more than a requirement; it is a sign of support and respect for our local businesses,” Gov. Wolf said. “Pennsylvania businesses have made significant sacrifices over the past few months and now they are relying on us as consumers to help keep their doors open. Wearing a mask protects everyone from the virus and shows our respect and support for businesses and their employees. They mask-up each day and take other important health and safety measures to protect us and provide us with the goods and services we need and want.”

Governor Wolf Signs Executive Order Authorizing Commonwealth Agencies to Conduct Remote Administrative Proceedings

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and to help reduce unnecessary in-person contact that can spread the virus, Governor Tom Wolf signed an executive order today authorizing state agencies to conduct administrative proceedings remotely. Several state agencies conduct administrative proceedings including meetings and disciplinary hearings of the 29 occupational licensing boards and commissions under the Department of State.

Dashboard Data Confirms Need for Masking, Social Distancing

Governor Tom Wolf released a weekly status update detailing the state’s mitigation efforts based on the COVID-19 Early Warning Monitoring System Dashboard comparing the seven-day period of July 3 – July 9 to the previous seven days, June 26 – July 2.

The dashboard is designed to provide early warning signs of factors that affect the state’s mitigation efforts. The data available on the dashboard includes week-over-week case differences, incidence rates, test percent-positive rates, and rates of hospitalizations, ventilations and emergency room visits tied to COVID-19.

Senator Santarsiero Announces Nearly $1Million in Funding to Fight Homelessness in Bucks County

BUCKS COUNTY – July 10, 2020 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced that Bucks County will receive $996,400 in Emergency Solution Grant (ESG) funding to assist in mitigating the impacts Coronavirus has had on homeless families and individuals in the county, and to prevent future homelessness.  The funding is part of $19 million in federal CARES Act funds and is being distributed statewide by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED).

“I am pleased to see that nearly $1million in funding will be coming to Bucks County to help our homeless population and to prevent future homelessness,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “The pandemic has had devastating effects on the financial security of individuals and families across the Commonwealth, including here in Bucks County.  These funds will help support some of our most vulnerable residents when they most need it, and will help make a lasting impact on the fight against homelessness moving forward.”

County officials had previously indicated that there has been about a 10% increase in homelessness in Bucks County since the pandemic began.

For more information on DCED’s Emergency Solution Grants – CARES, visit the DCED website

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Department of Health Provides Update on COVID-19, 1,009 Positives Bring Statewide Total to 93,876

Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Health today confirmed as of 12:00 a.m., July 10, that there are 1,009 additional positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 93,876. All 67 counties in Pennsylvania have cases of COVID-19.

The number of new cases in Allegheny County increased by 180 cases overnight. Philadelphia County increased by 182 cases overnight. About 175 of the total cases reported today did not occur within the past 24 hours but are the result of an influx of private lab results.

Wolf Administration Awards Nearly $19 Million for Homelessness Assistance and Prevention

Gov. Tom Wolf announced nearly $19 million in funding awards to assist in mitigating the impacts of the coronavirus on homeless families and individuals and to prevent future homelessness across the commonwealth.

The Wolf Administration, through the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), is awarding the first of two allocations of Emergency Solutions Grant CARES Act (ESG-CV) funding provided through the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act supplemental appropriation.

Wolf Administration Awards Nearly $19 Million for Homelessness Assistance and Prevention

Harrisburg, PA — Today, Gov. Tom Wolf announced nearly $19 million in funding awards to assist in mitigating the impacts of the coronavirus on homeless families and individuals and to prevent future homelessness across the commonwealth.

The Wolf Administration, through the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), is awarding the first of two allocations of Emergency Solutions Grant CARES Act (ESG-CV) funding provided through the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act supplemental appropriation.

Human Services Reminds Pennsylvanians to Apply for Housing, Utility and Emergency Assistance Programs

Harrisburg, PA –  Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Teresa Miller today encouraged Pennsylvanians who have been affected financially by the COVID-19 public-health crisis to take advantage of programs designed to help with rent payments and utility bills. Secretary Miller also advised of the upcoming July 12 deadline to apply for the Emergency Assistance Program, a one-time cash assistance program for families and pregnant women who have lost income or employment due to COVID-19.

Department of Health: While Enjoying Summer Activities, Take Steps to Protect Your Eyes

Harrisburg, PA – The Department of Health today urged all Pennsylvanians to take steps to prevent eye injuries that can occur more frequently during the summer months.

“During the summer, many children and adults are staying active by playing outside and taking part in organized or recreational sports,” Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine said. “While we need people to take additional precautions as part of COVID-19 when participating these types of activities, it is also very important that individuals take the proper steps to protect their eyes from serious injuries. Eye injuries can be severe and impact an individual’s future and entire way of life.”

Wolf Administration Releases Updated FAQs for Summer Recreation, Camps and Pools

The Wolf Administration today released updated frequently asked questions (FAQs) about summer recreation, camps and pools. The original FAQs were announced on May 22 to cover summer camps and recreation. The new FAQs modify those and also add information about pools.

“As we learned more about the importance of mask-wearing and listened to questions from providers and parents, we updated the FAQs so everyone involved in these summer programs understands how they may operate,” Governor Tom Wolf said. “We hope that this updated guidance helps everyone participating in summer child care and recreation programs and eliminates some of the stress and worry associated with the COVID-19 pandemic and how it is affecting our everyday lives.”

Wolf Administration Reminds Pennsylvanians to Wear Mask While Enjoying the Outdoors

Governor Tom Wolf and Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn today reminded Pennsylvanians to wear masks while enjoying the outdoors when they are not able to consistently maintain social distancing from individuals who are not members of their household.

“It’s critical that Pennsylvanians take opportunities to go outside and enjoy our many parks, trails and beaches. It’s good for our mental and physical health. But we must do so safely,” Gov. Wolf said. “Park attendance has increased dramatically, so Pennsylvanians should protect themselves and their fellow outdoor seekers by wearing a mask.”

Department of Health Provides Update on COVID-19, 719 Positives Bring Statewide Total to 92,867

Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Health today confirmed as of 12:00 a.m., July 9, that there are 719 additional positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 92,867. All 67 counties in Pennsylvania have cases of COVID-19.

The number of new cases in Allegheny County increased by 158 cases overnight. Philadelphia County increased by 161 cases overnight.

The number of tests administered since July 2 is 121,032 with 5,625 positive test results.

Gov. Wolf Announces Protections from Foreclosures and Evictions Through Aug. 31

Governor Tom Wolf today signed a new executive order that protects homeowners and renters from eviction or foreclosure until Aug. 31, if they have not received assistance from a new program administered by the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA) or are not already receiving relief through one of several federal foreclosure moratorium programs or judicial orders. Lenders and property owners that receive funds through the PHFA program agree not pursue foreclosure or eviction actions as a condition of participation in the program.

“I am taking this action to help families know they will have a roof over their heads and a place to live while all of us fight the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Gov. Wolf. “It takes one more burden off of people who are struggling and ensures that families can remain in their homes so they can protect their health and wellbeing.”

Wolf Administration Encourages Summer Pool Safety, Reminds Pennsylvanians to Practice Social Distancing and Wear Masks

Harrisburg, PA – The Department of Health today urged all Pennsylvanians to practice social distancing, wear masks and be aware of pool safety concerns as Pennsylvanians enjoy the summer days outside. Face masks should not be worn in the water as a wet face covering may make it difficult to breathe.

“If you are at a private or public pool with other people outside of your household, it is important to continue to practice social distancing and to wear masks to help prevent the further spread of COVID-19,” Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine said. “Face masks should not be worn in the water as a wet face covering may make it difficult to breathe. In addition to the threat of COVID-19, Pennsylvanians need to take the proper steps to ensure they have a safe and fun time at the pool.”

Gov. Wolf Announces $10 Million Available to Support Pennsylvania’s Food System

Governor Tom Wolf today announced that $10 million is now available for Pennsylvania businesses that have worked to maintain access to fresh, healthy food throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Pennsylvania’s food retailers stepped up to the plate to protect those putting food on the shelf, to think outside of the box to protect the most vulnerable, and to make investments to support those using assistance programs such as SNAP and WIC to support their families,” said Gov. Wolf. “I will be forever grateful to those who have worked hard to ensure food is always accessible through this pandemic; our frontline workers in grocery stores and farmers markets are among Pennsylvania’s heroes.”

Department of Health Announces Additional Partnership to Assist with COVID-19 Response in Nursing Homes

Harrisburg, PA – Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine today announced a partnership with Eurofins to assist with nursing home facility testing in the COVID-19 response.

“We are so pleased to have this level of collaboration and assistance from Eurofins,” Dr. Levine said. “COVID-19 is a particularly challenging situation for congregate settings, particularly our nursing home facilities. This partnership strengthens and increases access to ensure universal testing is completed in nursing homes, as required in the order issued last month. It will provide us the opportunity to better address outbreaks, and work to prevent future outbreaks, in nursing home facilities. These teams are assisting us in our response in the hardest-hit areas as we work to protect the public health and safety of Pennsylvanians.”

State Fire Commissioner Opens $50 Million Grant Program to Support Fire, Rescue and EMS Companies Affected by COVID-19

Harrisburg, PA – State Fire Commissioner Bruce Trego announced today that the Office of State Fire Commissioner (OSFC) opened registration on July 6 for state grants aimed at providing direct financial relief to fire, rescue and emergency medical service (EMS) companies negatively impacted by the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak.

“Fire, rescue and EMS companies throughout the state have struggled since the state began taking action to curtail the spread of COVID-19,” said Trego. “Increased operational tempo, and an inability to raise funds through community events have hit these organizations hard. The financial lifeline these grants provide will help hundreds of companies keep their lights on.”

Department of Health Provides Update on COVID-19, 849 Positives Bring Statewide Total to 92,148

Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Health today confirmed as of 12:00 a.m., July 8, that there are 849 additional positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 92,148. All 67 counties in Pennsylvania have cases of COVID-19.

The number of new cases in Allegheny County increased by 230 cases overnight. Philadelphia County increased by 90 cases overnight.

PennDOT Issues Guidance as Adopt-A-Highway Activities Resume

Harrisburg PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) today announced guidance for groups looking to beautify their communities as its Adopt-A-Highway (AAH) activities resume across the state, including mask wearing, social distancing and frequent hand sanitizing. These activities were suspended as part of Pennsylvania’s efforts to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19.

“As Pennsylvania reopening efforts continue, these vital volunteer clean-up activities will resume,” said PennDOT Secretary Yassmin Gramian. “I am grateful to the thousands of volunteers and encourage their continued vigilance to protect their health and the health of others while helping to keep Pennsylvania beautiful.”

Legislators Join Gov. Wolf in Call for Masking

State and federal officials joined Governor Tom Wolf in reminding Pennsylvanians to wear a mask to reduce the likelihood of spreading COVID-19.

“As we increasingly resume public activities in our commonwealth, we need to remain vigilant about taking precautions, especially wearing a mask that covers our noses and mouths while around other people,” said Gov. Wolf. “This is an easy, yet important action that has been shown by research to reduce the spread of COVID-19.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has advised people to wear a cloth mask to help slow the spread of COVID-19. The CDC’s website offers directions for easy-to-make masks, with patterns for sew and no-sew masks made from everyday household materials.