All restaurants and bars will close tonight through March 30, but you can still support these small businesses by utilizing drive-thru, delivery and curbside pickup where offered. Also, consider buying gift cards online to use later. This small step can help these local businesses get through this difficult time.

All K-12 schools in Illinois will be closed through March 30. This applies to both public and private schools. Students who qualify for free and reduced lunch will have access to two grab and go meals each day. Check with your local schools for more details.

The Illinois primary will proceed as scheduled tomorrow, Tuesday, March 17, but some polling places may have changed. The Illinois State Board of elections is keeping an up to date list as local election authorities report changes. https://ova.elections.il.gov/PollingPlaceLookup.aspx. You can also still vote early today.

The Small Business Administration will provide disaster assistance loans for small businesses impacted by COVID-19. More here: https://www.sba.gov/coronavirus.

If you don’t have paid sick leave, or can’t work because of COVID-19 visit https://www2.illinois.gov/ides or call IDES at 1-800-244-5631 to apply for unemployment insurance.

How can you help?

The American Red Cross is urging healthy, eligible individuals to donate blood to help maintain sufficient blood bank supplies and avoid potential shortages. If you are healthy, call your local Red Cross or visit this link to schedule an appointment. Be sure to schedule an appointment ahead of time. You will be properly screened before donating to ensure the safety of workers and recipients, so don’t hesitate to give. https://www.redcrossblood.org/donate-blood/dlp/coronavirus–covid-19–and-blood-donation.html

• If possible, work remotely and avoid going out unless it’s necessary. 
• Practice social distancing.
• Check-in on elderly relatives and friends for whom it may be more challenging to pick up groceries and other necessities.
• Call or face time with friends and family who are more likely to feel isolated by staying at home.

What should you do if you think you’re sick?

If you think you may be experiencing possible COVID-19 symptoms, the first thing you should do is call your primary care physician. If you don’t have one, call the Illinois Department of Public Health’s coronavirus hotline at 1-800-889-3931

For general questions about COVID-19, or to report a suspected case, call the IDPH hotline at 1-800-889-3931 or email mailto:dph.sick@illinois.gov