Friends,
As the impacts of COVID-19 continue to unfold in our region, we’ve gathered information and resources to help tech workers stay informed and ensure social distancing strategies don’t completely upend community connections.
We’ll send updates at least weekly, highlighting stories about how the innovation economy in our region continues to lead in uncertain times. For more regular news, check out The Seattle Times, Geekwire and Crosscut.
HOW TECH COMPANIES ARE SUPPORTING OUR COMMUNITIES
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Amazon has announced a $5M fund to support small businesses in SLU, established the Amazon Relief Fund focused on supporting contract workers, and contributed $1M to the Seattle Foundation’s COVID-19 Response Fund.
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Tableau has launched a free resource page that includes relevant data visualizations about the spread of COVID-19 and the public health response.
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Uber is taking a number of steps to help keep communities safe.
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Several large tech companies, including Expedia and Amazon, are continuing to pay hourly support staff even as on-campus needs are significantly decreased.
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Facebook has given the World Health Organization unlimited free ads to help spread sound information on the platform.
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Google is making it easier for businesses and schools to stay connected by offering free access to advanced Hangouts Meet video-conferencing capabilities to all G Suite and G Suite for Education customers globally. Educators should also check out tips on the Google for Education blog for inspiration and ideas
WHAT YOU CAN DO
By now, we’ve all seen the videos and memes about washing our hands (you can even make your own), and read the best advice for staying healthy. Here are other actions you can take to support your community:
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Support small businesses — if you’re healthy, go to your favorite restaurants, coffee shops, and independent stores. The International District/Chinatown has been especially hard hit during this crisis. If you’re not comfortable eating out, consider getting take out/delivery or buying gift cards. Remember to tip generously!
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Volunteer and donate to local food banks — food banks are a lifeline for those experiencing food insecurity, they also collect and distribute hygiene products and accept financial donations.
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Donate blood — if you haven’t travelled to high-risk areas or had contact with an infected person, and meet other requirements, donating blood is a safe action.
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Join online community groups on Facebook and offer support to your neighbors.
MOST RECENT COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENTS
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On Wednesday, Governor Inslee placed further restrictions on King, Snohomish and Pierce Counties to slow the spread of the virus and flatten the curve.
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Thursday, the Governor ordered ALL K-12 schools in Pierce, King and Snohomish Counties to close between March 17 and April 24. Some higher education campuses are closed, as well.
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Mayor Durkan also announced the temporary closure of all Seattle Public Library locations and community centers.