Maricopa County remains under the official declaration of a local emergency due to the COVID-19 pandemic, while the State of Arizona is under a “Stay Home” order until April 30, 2020. The Maricopa County Joint Information Center (JIC) is compiling a weekly list of resources for County residents to manage the physical, economic, social and emotional impacts of this declaration. Residents are encouraged to visit maricopa.gov/COVID-19 for the most up-to-date information.
Stay-at-Home Order
The Governor’s Office released additional guidance on essential services and recreational activities on Friday, April 3.
This one-minute video explains 5 Things to Know about the “Stay Home, Stay Healthy, Stay Connected” order. Additional information can be found here.
Operations Impact
Changes to county operations continued this week with new guidelines from our regional parks, changes to elections and recording functions, and elimination of most in-person proceedings at Justice Courts.
In general, customers are encouraged to conduct business online whenever possible. See a complete list of county services impacted.
Personal Health and Well-Being
Public Health has updated its website to include new information for people who are sick or who are worried they might have COVID-19. There’s information about when to seek medical attention and when to simply stay home and rest. There’s also specific guidance for those who may have been exposed to someone with COVID-19 or those who may be caregivers for someone who has COVID-19.
The CDC also recommends these self-care practices as you deal with the stress and uncertainty involved with COVID-19:
- Take breaks from screen time
- Take care of your body
- Do activities you enjoy
- Connect with others (from a distance)
You may also call 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746 to speak to a trained crisis counselor.
Community Assistance
Arizona Together: If you need financial or emotional support related to the COVID-19 pandemic, visit arizonatogether.org, a collection of resources from the state aimed at connecting those who need help with the programs and people who can provide it.
Business Guidance: Public Health has issued new guidance and updated resources for businesses related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Donations: In response to the shortage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Public Health has activated a donation management program. Please note which donations will be accepted at this location and which should be given to charity.
Human Services: Maricopa County can connect residents to rental assistance, food assistance, mental and physical health resources, and employment opportunities. Much of this is being coordinated through the Maricopa County Human Services Department.
Libraries: County libraries are closed but the Maricopa County Library District is still providing critical services to the public, including digital resources. Adults or children can take advantage of livestream content or electronic media connecting them to thousands of books, magazines, movies, and songs.
Schools: The Office of the School Superintendent has created an interactive map to help County residents find the closest school locations providing meals to children.
Public Inquiries
Members of the public can get the latest information on the county response to COVID-19 by visiting maricopa.gov/COVID19. You may also want to follow Maricopa County and Maricopa County Public Health on social media. There are updates available in both English and Spanish.
Twitter: @maricopacounty @maricopahealth / @condadomaricopa @saludmaricopa
Facebook: @maricopacountyaz @MCDPH / @condadomaricopa @saludpublicamaricopa
For community partners looking to share approved messaging to help stop the spread, we have a COVID-19 Communications Toolkit. There are multi-language flyers, FAQs related to the virus, and downloadable graphics designed to share on social media.