PLEASE NOTE: GIVEN the rapidity of information updates during this COVID-19 time, we encourage you to re-check all dates/info noted in the listings below when you get to the websites from the URLs listed here.

Also find the Rural Round-Up online at:

  • Across the Field: COPING WITH COVID
  • SPECIAL COVID-19 FUNDING
  • FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES
  • TRAINING/MEETINGS
  • OPPORTUNITIES
  • MISCELLANEOUS
  • SPECIAL COVID-19 RESOURCES

Across the Field: Coping with COVID & Planning for Our Life Ahead

Dear Rural Round-Up Readers:

It’s been a while since I wrote the Across the Field column. I wanted to reach out and let you know that Deb, Ann, and I hope you and your family, friends, neighbors, and colleagues are doing okay in the face of this extraordinary life (and livelihood) challenge that most of us, me included, cannot yet fully grasp.

I do know that I am exceedingly grateful to be living in Minnesota, where we know how to work together and help each other in the face of crisis. We drop the paralyzing politics and kick up the kindness, for people we know and for people we might never meet.

This issue of the Round-Up is pretty long. Thanks to Deb’s digging, it’s chockfull of resources related to the COVID-19 fight. It also shares info on resources that help keep a part of our brains and hearts focused on life and opportunities beyond the trauma that confronts us now.

As you know, COVID-related info can change daily, so take some of the “up-to-the-minute” info here below with that in mind.  Stay safe and please be there for one another as best you can.

–Jane Leonard

SPECIAL COVID-19 FUNDING

Here’s a list of what the Round-Up has gleaned from different sources. Big thanks to our friends at the Brainerd Lakes Area Economic Development Corporation, the Brainerd Lakes Chamber, and the Small Business Finance Corporation for compiling a short summary of special COVID-19 funding from local, state, and federal sources.

Note that there will likely be other local/regional resources originating from your localities that are not listed below (and please send info you know about but don’t see here to Jane Leonard at minntwin@comcast.net – we’ll post weekly updates!)

For other region-specific resources: check with your Regional Development Commissions and Minnesota’s Initiative Foundations.

Non-profits can also check out resources from PROPEL Nonprofits and MN Council of Non-Profits

And Minnesota’s philanthropic community has put together the Minnesota Disaster Recovery Fund for coronavirus created to support community needs as a direct result of the coronavirus pandemic. The MDRF funds both short and long-term needs that arise within communities, due to coronavirus or future disasters that occur within the state of Minnesota. Funds are raised through philanthropic entities. To date, $6 million has been raised for this fund.

And here’s the list of other resources – state, federal & more; thanks to our Brainerd colleagues for organizing this list:

Federal CARES Act (One-Pager, Simple Summary)

Paycheck Protection Program (One-Pager, Application Guide)

  • A new $350 billion loan program at SBA for small businesses, self-employed, and gig workers to help them from going under due to the COVID-19 pandemic. If employers maintain payroll, the loans would be forgiven.

Economic Injury Disaster Loans (US Chamber Guide, Checklist, SBA Guide)

  • Provides working capital loans of up to $2 million to help overcome temporary loss of revenue. Small business owners are now eligible to apply for an advance of up to $10,000. Funds will be made available within three days of a successful application, and the advance does not have to be repaid. 

Employee Retention Tax Credit (US Chamber Guide)

  • A new tax credit for employers who are closed, partially closed, or experiencing significant revenue losses. Generally, 50% tax credit for the first $10,000 of compensation for each eligible employee. Employers who receive a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan are not eligible.

Families First Coronavirus Response Act  (Workplace Poster, Employer Overview, FAQ)

Federal Department of Labor program requires businesses with fewer than 500 employees to provide their employees with paid sick or family leave related to COVID-19. Applies to those under quarantine or those caring for quarantined individuals. Generally starts at 80 hours of paid leave.

Minnesota Small Business Emergency Loans (DEED Overview)

Interest-free loans up to $35,000 available to Minnesota-based businesses in consumer-oriented sectors like restaurants, fitness centers and salons. Loans will be paid back monthly over 5 years and the first payment is deferred 6 months. Partial forgiveness may be available.

Note: This program has likely received applications that exceed available funds. We would still encourage businesses to apply if appropriate. The state legislature may add more funds in the future.

Minnesota Unemployment Insurance (Updates & FAQ)

Generally replaces 50% of an employee’s income (up to $740/week) with no standard waiting period or employer penalties due to COVID-19. The Shared Work Program allows employers to enable benefits if they reduce hours in lieu of layoffs. It is still unclear of how or when people can access an additional $600/week, per the federal CARES Act.

We would strongly encourage everyone to monitor the Minnesota Chamber COVID-19 Toolkit for the frequently updated links and advice.

—A Guide for Minnesota Small Businesses Who Need Help Over the past few weeks, several state and federal programs have been announced to assist small businesses struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic. Different programs make sense for different businesses, so we’re providing a summary guide to help small businesses quickly see which programs might be right for their situation. View this new guide on the DEED website to see at a glance all the programs available now to businesses.

— COVID-19 Emergency Response Grants. The East Central Regional Arts Council (ECRAC) approved a new grant program. ECRAC developed the COVID-19 emergency response grant to provide funding of up to $600 for artists and art organizations to do art projects online or in other forms during the current shut down of arts venues. This grant is for artists and art organizations who have had projects cancelled or postponed due to COVID-19. We are striving to encourage the practice of social distancing sheltering at home. Projects may be in any form or discipline, including performance, dance, storytelling, photography, film, sculpture, painting, and more.   Applicants must show that they can do the project without violating any public health guidelines. For example, no in-person activities are allowed at this time. Projects can be virtual or broadcasted events. ECRAC COVID-19 Emergency Response Grant

—Volunteer Firefighter Support Fund Stipends for volunteer first responders whose homes have been impacted by a state or federally declared disaster; a home fire; or those who have lost jobs or wages due to COVID-19 related illness, quarantine, or volunteer response activities. Applications accepted on an ongoing basis. Sponsor: National Volunteer Fire Council.

–U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation has announced emergency loans through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act which allocated $350 billion to help small businesses and nonprofits keep workers employed amid the pandemic and economic downturn. Known as the Paycheck Protection Program, the initiative provides 100% federally guaranteed loans to eligible organizations.  Importantly, these loans may be forgiven if borrowers maintain their payrolls during the crisis or restore their payrolls afterward.  Click here for a guide, Questions & Answers to some frequently asked questions, and more information on this relief measure.

–U.S. Department of Labor is offering National Dislocated Worker Grant funding to address the emergency response to COVID-19. U.S. Department of Labor Employment Recovery Dislocated Worker Grants (DWGs) provide resources to states and other eligible applicants to respond to major economic dislocations, such as large, unexpected layoff events that cause significant job losses.  Deadline:  applications are accepted at any time, provided appropriated funding for the program is available.  Click here for application guidelines.

—US Small Business Administration: Small business owners in all U.S. states, Washington D.C., and territories are currently eligible to apply for a long term, low-interest loan due to Coronavirus (COVID-19).  The United States Small Business Administration (SBA) Economic Injury Disaster Loan program provides small businesses with working capital loans of up to $2 million that can provide vital economic support to small businesses to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they are experiencing.

—Minnesota Department for Employment and Economic Development (MN DEED) is establishing a loan program to assist small businesses directly and adversely affected following the COVID-19 pandemic. Loans will range from $2,500 to $35,000, be interest free, paid back monthly over 5 years with payments deferred six months. See the Small Business Emergency Loan page for details and eligibility.

—Minnesota foundations, have created the Minnesota Disaster Relief Fund, which will channel millions of dollars through community foundations and the Minnesota initiative foundations.

—The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) will be requesting proposals from health care organizations requiring emergency support. Applicants will be asked to focus on their highest priority needs where access to financial resources is the primary barrier. The application for emergency funding is expected to be on the COVID-19 Response Funding website very soon. The application period will be short, so organizations are encouraged to prepare their most urgent cost estimates for expenses that are being undertaken now or in the near future.

Eligible purposes for emergency funding include:

  • Establishing and operating temporary sites to provide testing services, treatment beds, or to isolate or quarantine affected individuals.
  • Temporary conversion of space for another purpose that will revert to its original use.
  • Staff overtime and hiring additional staff.
  • Staff training and/or staff orientation.
  • Purchasing consumable protective or treatment equipment or supplies to protect or treat staff, visitors or patients.
  • Developing and implementing screening and testing procedures.
  • Patient outreach activities.
  • Additional emergency transportation of patients.
  • Temporary information technology and systems costs to support patient triage, screening and telemedicine activities.
  • Purchasing replacement parts or filters for medical equipment that are necessary for the equipment’s operation.
  • Specialty cleaning supplies for facilities and equipment.
  • Expenses related to the isolation or quarantine of staff, not including payment of wages for staff being isolated or quarantined.
  • Other expenses that, in the judgement of the commissioner, cannot reasonably be expected to generate income for the recipient of funds after the outbreak ends.

— USDA Rural Development has taken a number of immediate actions to help rural residents, businesses and communities affected by the COVID-19 outbreak. Rural Development will keep our customers, partners, and stakeholders continuously updated as more actions are taken to better serve rural America. Read the full announcement to learn more about the opportunities USDA Rural Development is implementing to provide immediate relief to our customers, partners, and stakeholders.

— HHS Announces Grants to Provide Meals for Older Adults The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced $250 million in grants from the Administration for Community Living (ACL) to help communities provide meals for older adults. This additional funding will bolster nutritional service programs that provide home-delivered meals and other services to help protect older Americans during the coronavirus outbreak.

REGULAR FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES

— Minnesota Housing Partnership (MHP) is offering grants through their Strengthening Rural Communities Program, open to organizations anywhere in the U.S. that are considered rural areas by HUD and USDA and focused on affordable housing in rural areas, including, but not limited to: community development corporations (CDCs), community housing development organizations (CHDOs), local/county governments, and Native Nations.  Deadline:  4/15/2020.  Click here to review application guidelines.

— Newman’s Own Awards Grants for organizations working to improve quality of life for military members and their families, including programs for job training, housing, caregiver support, and mental health. Application Deadline: Apr 21, 2020.

–U.S. Treasury Department is offering grants through the Community Development Financial Institutions Fund – Financial Assistance Awards or Technical Assistance Grants.  The program offers both Financial Assistance and Technical Assistance awards which support and enhance the ability of organizations to meet the needs of the communities they serve.  Deadline:  4/21/2020.  Click here for application guidelines.

— Alzheimer’s Disease Programs Initiative – Grants to States and Communities
Grants to support the development and expansion of dementia-capable home and community-based service systems in states and communities. Application Deadline: Apr 22, 2020.

— Hillman Emergent Innovation: Serious Illness and End of Life Program Grants for early stage nursing-driven interventions that target serious illness and end of life needs faced by vulnerable populations, including economically disadvantaged, rural, and other populations that encounter barriers to accessing services. Letter of Intent (Required): Apr 27, 2020. Application Deadline: Jul 20, 2020.

— Rural Health Care Telecommunications Program Assistance to healthcare providers for eligible expenses related to telecommunications and voice services for the use of telemedicine and telehealth. Application Deadline: Apr 30, 2020.

— Rural Healthcare Connect Fund Provides assistance to healthcare providers for eligible expenses related to broadband connectivity at a flat discounted rate of 65%. Participants can apply as a member of a consortium or a stand-alone entity. Application Deadline: Apr 30, 2020.

— Grain Bin Rescue Equipment and Training Contest Awards for rural emergency first responders that include grain rescue tubes and hands-on rescue training. Application Deadline: April 30, 2020.

— Mary Kay Domestic Violence Shelter Grant Program Grants to support domestic violence shelters. The Foundation will award a grant to at least one domestic violence shelter in every state that applies, and many grants have gone to rural areas. Application Deadline: Apr 30, 2020.

—Indian Highway Safety Occupant Protection Grant Grants to federally recognized tribes for implementing traffic safety programs and projects which are designed to reduce the number of traffic crashes, deaths, injuries, and property damage. Application Deadline: May 1, 2020.

— Medica Foundation Accepting Proposals for Two Grant Programs.  These are:

  1. Early Childhood Health: Seeking proposals for early intervention programs that focus on developing healthy families to foster optimal growth and development of young children. Deadline May 1.
  2. Strategic Initiatives: Seeking proposals from past grant recipients for larger scale initiatives addressing the intersection of mental health and stable housing, dental programs for youth or adults in need, or telehealth programs that support access to health care services. Deadline May 1.

Visit Medica Foundation’s website to learn more about their 2020 funding opportunities.

— AmeriCorps Indian Tribes Grants Funding for programs that are designed to improve lives, strengthen tribal communities, and solve local problems through service and volunteering. Application Deadline: May 6, 2020.

— Rural Housing Preservation Grants (Section 533)
Grants to organizations that work to rehabilitate and preserve affordable housing for rural, low-income homeowners and renters. Priority will be given to projects designed to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with substance use disorder (including opioid misuse) in high-risk rural communities. Application Deadline: May 7, 2020.

— National Tribal Broadband Grant for Tribes to hire consultants to perform feasibility studies for high-speed internet deployment or expansion in Tribal communities. Application Deadline: May 8, 2020.

— Farmers Market Promotion Program (FMPP) Grants for projects that assist in the development, coordination, and expansion of domestic farmers markets, roadside stands, community‐supported agriculture programs, agritourism activities, and other direct producer‐to‐consumer market opportunities. Application Deadline: May 11, 2020.

— Local Food Promotion Program Grants to support the development, coordination, and expansion of local and regional food business enterprises to help increase access and availability to locally and regionally produced agricultural products. Application Deadline: May 11, 2020.

— Rural Community Development Initiative (RCDI) Funding to help nonprofit housing and community development intermediary organizations support housing, community facilities, and community and economic development projects in rural areas. Priority will be given to applications that address USDA’s goal to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with Substance Use Disorder (including opioid misuse) in high-risk rural communities. Application Deadline: May 13, 2020.

— Justice and Mental Health Collaboration Program
Funding for states, tribes, and local governments to plan, implement, or expand a criminal justice and mental health collaboration program. The program supports officer and public safety and violence reduction through social service and other partnerships that will enhance and increase law enforcement responses to people with mental illness and co-occurring mental illness and substance abuse. Application Deadline: May 18, 2020.

—USDA is offering grants through The Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program Formerly known as the Food Insecurity Nutrition Incentive Program (FINI) to support projects to increase the purchase of fruits and vegetables among low-income consumers participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by providing incentives at the point of purchase. The program will test strategies that could contribute to our understanding of how best to increase the purchase of fruits and vegetables by Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participants.  Deadline:  5/18/2020.  Review program guidelines by clicking here.

— Direct Services for Victims of Human Trafficking Grants to develop, expand, or strengthen victim service programs for victims of human trafficking. Rural communities are a priority. Application Deadline: May 18, 2020.

— U.S. Department of Justice is offering grants to develop, implement, and/or expand comprehensive programs in response to illicit opioids, stimulants, or other substances of abuse. The program provides resources to support state, local, Tribal, and territorial efforts to reduce violent crime and drug abuse and enhance public safety while supporting victims.  Deadline:  5/21/2020.  Click here for application guidelines.

— Household Water Well System Grants for qualified nonprofit organizations and tribes to create a revolving loan fund to increase access to clean, reliable water for households in eligible rural areas. Application Deadline: May 31, 2020.

— Community Food Projects Competitive Grant Program Grants to plan or implement food projects designed to meet the needs of low-income individuals and increase community self-reliance concerning food and nutrition. Application Deadline: Jun 3, 2020.

— Social and Economic Development Strategies Program (SEDS) Grants for tribal community-based organizations, tribes, and village governments for social and economic infrastructure development. The program is focused on community-driven projects designed to grow local economies, strengthen Native American families, including the preservation of Native American cultures, and decrease the high rate of current challenges caused by the lack of community-based businesses, and social and economic infrastructure in Native American communities. Application Deadline: Jun 15, 2020.

—USDA is offering funding through the Strategic Economic and Community Development Program, which allows USDA to give priority for projects that support the implementation of regional economic development plans through several USDA Rural Development funding programs.  Deadline: 6/30/2020.  Click here to review program guidelines.

–Minnesota Housing and its partners announce the launch of the 2020 Consolidated Request for Proposals (RFP). Our vision is that all Minnesotans live and thrive in a safe, stable home they can afford in a community of their choice. This annual Consolidated RFP process advances that vision by making funding available to help construct and preserve homes that are affordable in communities throughout Minnesota.

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges to every community in the state. Most of the Minnesota Housing staff team has converted to teleworking. Minnesota Housing remains operational across all divisions and continues to process construction draws, complete closings, and provide technical assistance. Please continue to reach out to us with proposals and questions.

Minnesota continues to need homes that are deeply affordable. To help keep housing production moving forward, the Consolidated RFP is launching as scheduled on April 2. However, we recognize that many of our community partners are focused on addressing immediate needs brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. In light of that, we have extended the application deadline to July 16, 2020. Selection announcements are anticipated to be made at the December 2020 Minnesota Housing Board meeting. For more information go to: https://t.e2ma.net/message/7t0i6b/75td7g

—The HOME DEPOT Foundation’s Community Impact Grants Program provides support to nonprofit organizations and public service agencies in the U.S. that are using the power of volunteers to improve their communities. The program focuses on support for organizations that serve veterans in local communities, as well as organizations that serve diverse and underserved communities. Grants of up to $5,000 are made in the form of The Home Depot gift cards for the purchase of tools, materials, or services. Requests will be accepted on a rolling basis through 12/31/2020. Visit the Foundation’s website here to submit an online application.

–The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) provides zero-interest loans to small businesses for capital equipment purchases that meet or exceed environmental regulations, and costs related to the investigation and cleanup of contaminated sites. Some eligible projects include purchasing a solvent recycler, installing a new paint booth to switch to water-borne paint, and installing updated equipment that reduces emissions from refrigerants. Many small business loan projects lead to fewer regulatory requirements, lower waste disposal bills and less exposure to harmful chemicals for your employees, your customers and your neighbors.

Eligibility and conditions – Many business sectors are eligible. Projects that reduce regulatory obligations are highly encouraged. To quality, a borrower must be an existing small business corporation, sole proprietorship, partnership, or association with:

  • Fewer than 100 full-time employees
  • An after-tax profit of less than $500,000
  • A demonstrated ability to repay the loan

Loan terms and conditions:

  • Loan amount between $1,000 and $75,000
  • 0% interest rate
  • Repayment term up to seven years
  • Flexibility in the types of collateral accepted
  • Awarded throughout the year

TRAINING/ MEETINGS

—If you miss a Minnesota Compass webinar? Watch the recordings when it works for you! Minnesota Compass webinars with tips on using data and resources to support your work. Build Your Own Data Tool Training 
Tips on How to Use Minnesota Compass Data

— NOSORH Rural Health Data Institute An 8-part, web-based training for individuals who work with rural health data. Application Deadline: May 5, 2020.

–MCN’s first-ever fundraising, communications, and technology conference, ACTcon (May 5, St. Paul), has been moved to August 13 at the Saint Paul RiverCentre. All current registrants will receive further details as soon as they are finalized.

–The Many Faces of Community Health Conference will be held October 22-23 in Brooklyn Center.

OPPORTUNITIES

–Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis High School Essay Contest:  Adverse Consequences of Trade.  Deadline April 17th.  For more information go to:https://www.minneapolisfed.org/about-us/community-development-and-engagement/student-essay-contest

—DEED Begins New Community Certification Program: Telecommuter Forward! We’re pleased to roll out a new economic development tool to promote the vitality of Minnesota’s rural communities – Telecommuter Forward! We know that fast, reliable broadband access improves quality of life, makes businesses more competitive, and provides career opportunities for our Greater Minnesota workforce.

DEED’s Office of Broadband Development is now accepting applications for Telecommuter Forward! Community certification. To become certified in the Telecommuter Forward! Program, Minnesota cities, villages, towns, or counties must adopt a resolution that includes a statement of support and commitment to promote telecommuting. The Office of Broadband Development has created a model resolution to help get you started.  Learn all about the Telecommuter Forward! Program on the DEED Developments Blog.

— Johns Hopkins Center for American Indian Health Scholarship Financial support for American Indian and Alaska Native scholars, health leaders, health professionals, and paraprofessionals serving tribal communities who are interested in attending the Johns Hopkins Center for American Indian Health Summer or Winter Institute courses at the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health. Application Deadline: May 1, 2020.

—The American Indian College Fund Full Circle Scholarships for American Indian, Alaska Native, and Indigenous Canadian students seeking undergraduate and graduate degrees at Tribal colleges and universities and nonprofit, accredited schools in the United States. Application Deadline: May 31, 2020.

—Agricultural Safety and Health: Core Course Registration Fee Waivers Awards course registration fee waivers to attend the Agricultural Safety and Health Core Course to be held in Iowa in June, 2020. Application Deadline: June 7, 2020.

MISCELLANEOUS

—Minnesota Compass has released Compass Points 2020, our annual indicator report. This year’s report includes data and analysis about populations at risk of being under counted in the 2020 Census, a dashboard that highlights how Minnesota is doing in key topic areas, and what’s new and coming soon on MNCompass.org. The information is used by policymakers, business and community leaders, and others working to ensure the health and well-being of all Minnesota residents and communities.

— Social Determinants of Health in Rural Communities Toolkit  The latest toolkit assembles resources and model programs that support rural organizations in implementing programs to address social determinants of health in their communities. Learn how to define, understand, and address social determinants of health and overcome barriers specific to rural areas.

— Rural America Ends First-Ever Period of Population Loss Line chart showing metropolitan and nonmetropolitan population change from 1978-2018. Highlights a period of population loss in rural areas followed by a modest population gain.

— Understanding the True State of Connectivity in America Provides an overview of the TestIT mobile app, developed to study cellular and broadband internet services, and the data collected from app users. Examines download speeds by county compared to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) standards. Discusses challenges rural and underserved communities with a limited broadband infrastructure face, including economic development, education and workforce development, and access to health and human services.

— Solar Siting Resource Guide released.  The Center for Rural Affairs and Iowa Environmental Council have released a guide for counties developing utility-scale solar siting ordinances. The guide outlines best practices of a solar ordinance including process, treatment in zoning districts, setbacks, infrastructure, and decommissioning. For residents in states other than Iowa, the guide can be used as a template or resource. Learn more.

SPECIAL COVID-19 RESOURCES

— Step-by-step UI Application Guide for the Self-Employed. The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) has just published a guide to help

self-employed workers (including artists, musicians, creators, & more) apply for Minnesota’s unemployment benefits during COVID-19. COVID-19 UI Application Guide for the Self-Employed

— How the CARES Act Works for Nonprofits.  Let’s focus instead on some key elements of the CARES Act for nonprofits. To help you parse through the jargon and decide which loan program may be best for your organization, the National Council of Nonprofits prepared a chart, “Loans Available for Nonprofits in the CARES Act,” which you can download here.

—Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) regulatory flexibility. With the onset of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and the Governor’s declaration of a state of peacetime emergency in Minnesota, MPCA is aware that regulated entities may be impacted from a reduced workforce necessary to maintain normal operations at some facilities. While all permittees and operators are expected to meet all terms and conditions of their permits, including conditions applicable to cessation of operations, MPCA has developed a regulatory flexibility process for those regulated entities that may have an unavoidable noncompliance situation, directly due to impact from COVID-19.

—Special Grants Directory edition available with COVID-19 funding opportunities.MCN has created a free digital special edition of the Grants Directory, featuring both Minnesota and national funding opportunities in response to COVID-19 and disaster relief. Nonprofit grantseekers are encouraged to download the first version (March 23, 2020) here.

—USDA Rural Development has launched a COVID-19 resource page to keep our customers, partners, and stakeholders continuously updated on actions taken by the Agency to help rural residents, businesses, and communities impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak.

Visit www.rd.usda.gov/coronavirus for information on Rural Development loan payment assistance, application deadline extensions, and more.

— Rural Response to Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) This new issue guide provides information on activities underway to address Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and includes federal and state resources to help communities and healthcare facilities respond to this issue.

— Updates and Resources on Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Resources for hospitals and health systems to help them respond to COVID-19. Includes news from AHA on the latest developments.

American College of Emergency Physicians: COVID-19 Information to assist with patient care during the response to COVID-19. Addresses clinical assessment and management, testing, emergency department issues, EMS issues, and more. Date: 03/2020.

ASHP: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Resources to help pharmacists respond to COVID-19. Includes information on treatment options, including off-label treatment considerations. Date: 03/2020.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Partner Toolkit Provides resources from federal government agencies regarding COVID-19. Includes infographics, regulatory guidance, podcast and webinar recordings, and other sources of information for the general public, Medicare beneficiaries, caregivers, and providers. Date: 03/2020.

COVID-19 Related Cybersecurity Information Resources to help hospitals and health systems mitigate risk related to cybersecurity threats during the COVID-19 response. Date: 03/2020.

COVID-19 Safety Training Health and safety resources for workers who may be at risk of exposure to COVID-19. Training resources will continue to be updated as the situation evolves. Date: 03/2020.

COVID-19 Telehealth Toolkit Provides an overview of how telehealth can be used to respond to COVID-19. Identifies policy and payment issues, examples of how telehealth has been used in the past to address epidemics, training, and other resources. Date: 03/2020.

EMS.gov Coronavirus/COVID-19 Resources to help emergency medical services (EMS) personnel appropriately and safely serve communities during the COVID-19 pandemic. Addresses EMS workforce protection, patient care, crisis planning, and more.
Date: 03/2020.

FDA: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Information and guidance from the FDA related to COVID-19. Includes information on diagnostics, personal protective equipment, and therapeutics. Also covers FDA monitoring of products with fraudulent COVID-19 claims.
Date: 03/2020.

FEMA: Coronavirus (COVID-19) Response Information and resources on how FEMA is assisting state, local, tribal, and territorial governments related to the Nationwide Emergency Declaration for COVID-19. Includes best practices section where communities can share their experiences and learn from others. Date: 03/2020.

Funding for Coronavirus (COVID-19) Provides an overview of philanthropic activity in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Includes a list of funding related to COVID-19, an analysis of who is providing and receiving grants, and news regarding funding for the COVID-19 response.
Date: 03/2020.

General Provider Telehealth and Telemedicine Tool Kit Provides a list of resources on telehealth and telemedicine services for providers interested in establishing a telemedicine program in response to the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency declaration. Includes links to resources on the 1135 waiver, general federal and state guidance, implementation, and technical assistance.
Date: 03/2020.

IHS: Coronavirus (COVID-19) Information on the federal response to COVID-19 in Indian Country. Addresses testing, access to personal protective equipment, funding, emergency planning, and service delivery. Date: 03/2020.

Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Information and Resources for Community Health Centers
Updates, resources, and information to help community health centers respond to COVID-19. Lists webinars, provider resources, regulatory guidance, and more.

Novel Coronavirus Resources Collection of COVID-19-related websites and documents prepared by the Technical Resources, Assistance Center, and Information Exchange (TRACIE), including technical assistance responses, infectious disease resources, and topic collections.
Date: 03/2020.

Project N95: The National COVID-19 Medical Equipment Clearinghouse to help healthcare providers and facilities request needed personal protective equipment (PPE), including N95 masks, surgical masks, isolation gowns, and ventilators. A request form is available, and the expectation is that PPE will be available in the coming weeks and will be distributed where it is most urgently needed. Date: 03/2020.

Rural Health COVID-19 “Call First” Communication Toolkit COVID-19 communication toolkit for rural hospitals and clinics. Focused on helping facilities demonstrate leadership in protecting the community, while taking steps to ensure that facilities are not overburdened. Includes customizable print and digital ads, radio scripts, social media posts, and other materials. Free, registration required. Date: 03/2020.

States Waiving Licensure Requirements/Renewals in Response to COVID-19 State-by-state list with brief descriptions of changes in licensure policy for healthcare professionals as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Includes links to relevant official declarations and press releases. Date: 03/2020.

Using Telehealth to Care for Patients During the COVID-19 Pandemic An overview of resources and tools to help providers use telehealth to care for patients while keeping staff safe. Includes resources to help quickly set up telehealth, as well as information on payment, legal issues, Medicare services, and more. Date: 03/2020.

 

EDITORS’ NOTE: As always — please send us items to post, comments, ideas, etc. You can send them to Jane Leonard at minntwin@comcast.net. And thanks for getting to the end of this month’s issue!