BATAVIA, OH — With the exponential rise in COVID-19 cases throughout Clermont County, residents and businesses face significant challenges. This is especially true for individuals who become ill with the virus and their families or close contacts who are asked to stay home for 14 days to prevent the further spread of COVID-19.
These individuals (and their families) may face lost paychecks, lack of access to groceries and other household necessities, and economic uncertainty.
The County Emergency Management Agency in conjunction with Clermont County Public Health, local social service agencies, faith-based partners and non-profit organizations work to ensure a safety net for residents.
Local social service agencies have modified their operations to accommodate the needs of their existing client base as well as expanded their services to new clients. During the next few weeks, we will highlight the great work to provide expanded services to Clermont County residents.
This week, we highlight the efforts of the Clermont County Emergency Management Agency and the United Way of Greater Cincinnati.
As Public Health officials continue to strive to control the spread of the disease, they encounter individuals and families with limited resources that prevent them from staying home during their isolation or quarantine period. With the growing demands on Public Health, the Emergency Management Agency (EMA) has stepped in to assist.
In the past month, EMA has seen an increase in the number of individuals and families that need groceries, baby supplies and household items.
The United Way of Greater Cincinnati, in conjunction with local food pantries, provides weekly food deliveries to EMA — and then EMA staff deliver the food to the doorstep of those in isolation or quarantine.
In the past two weeks, EMA and United Way have provided food to 14 families.
“Sadly, this may only be the tip of the iceberg of individuals and families that could use assistance,” said Pam Haverkos, director of the Clermont County Emergency Management Agency.
2020 has been a challenging year and it continues to throw all of us curveballs. It is important that we all take steps to be prepared for the possibility we will be impacted by Covid-19. Take a few simple steps now to be prepared:
Remember, while we may be socially distant, we are all in this together. If you or a loved one is in need of additional support or resources, please contact the Clermont County Emergency Management Agency at 513.732.7661 or e-mail clermontema@clermontcountyohio.gov.
