The governor recently signed an executive order requiring all employees of customer-facing businesses to wear cloth face coverings while at work. Customers at these businesses are also encouraged to wear face masks.
Rhode Island Commerce has compiled a list of resources of local businesses who are making and selling masks. Some are even donating a portion of their proceeds to local non-profits. Visit their website for more information about masks regulations, how to DIY a mask at home, and where to purchase handmade masks.
At AIPC, we continue our work to make Aquidneck Island a great place to live, work, play, and thrive. While our options as an island to work and play are limited right now, our ability to thrive continues on. Please use the following resources to make sure you are thriving during these difficult times.
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Resources For All
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Resources for Older Adults
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Resources for Businesses
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On a Lighter Note
1. Resources For All:
Tax Filing Extension – From the IRS
The federal government is providing 90 additional days to pay income taxes due, up to $1 million in taxes owed. The tax deadline for paying taxes due has been extended from April 15th to July 15, 2020. Visit the IRS’s website for more information.
General Guidance and Information – From the State of Rhode Island
For information about the disease and what to do if you think you are sick, visit the RI Department of Health website. For updates from the governor’s office, click here for press releases.
Food Assistance – From the Rhode Island Community Food Bank
If you are experiencing food insecurity, here is a Food Assistance Provider List (updated 4/14/20). Please check back for updates as the list evolves. All are welcome, regardless of background, including immigration status.
Mental Health Services – From Newport County Mental Health
During this stressful time, mental health is just as important as physical health. Newport County Mental Health remains a frontline healthcare provider and remains open. They are available for appointments – their number is 401-846-1213 both for emergency and non-emergency situations.
Supporting Local Restaurants – From WhatsUpNewp
Small businesses and restaurants are being severely hit by this crisis. Here is a list of restaurants with takeout and/or delivery options, please consider supporting them during this time.
Mandatory Face Masks – From Commerce RI
The governor has announced that all employees of customer-facing businesses must wear masks at work and customers are also encouraged to do so. Visit Commerce RI’s website to learn more.
2. Resources For Older Adults:
RI Office of Healthy Aging
This fact sheet provides an abundance of resources available to our older residents. You can call the agency’s helpdesk at 401.462.4444 with questions about available resources.
Meals on Wheels
If you are age 65 or older, homebound and need assistance making meals, call Meals on Wheels at 401.351.6700.
Early Morning Grocery Shopping
The following grocery stores have reserved early morning hours for older Rhode Islanders and those with weakened immune systems to shop for supplies during this time.
ALDI 6:00am – 7:00am
Clements Marketplace 7:00am-8:00am
Shaw’s 7:00am – 9:00am (T/Th)
Stop & Shop 6:00am – 7:30am
3. Resources for Businesses:
Free Microsoft Office 365 for Businesses
Microsoft is allowing all businesses in Rhode Island to use Office 365 at no cost for six months in response to the increased need for remote work practices. To learn more click here.
Guidance for Newport County Businesses – From Connect Greater Newport
Connect Greater Newport has compiled a great list of resources for business owners in Newport County including restrictions impacting business, resources, and best practices.
4. On a lighter note
Newport Open Space Partnership has started a campaign to share joy in our social media feeds. Tag your nature photos (or anything that brings you joy during this time!) with #sharingjoyNOSP on social media.
