Mayor Ras J. Baraka and Director of Health and Community Wellness Dr. Mark Wade, M.D. addressed Newark residents yesterday via a Facebook LIVE video stream to provide an update on the developments in Newark amid the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19) and the City of Newark’s response.
As of Friday, March 20, 2020 there are 26 confirmed cases of Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Newark. Essex County has recorded 73 cases so far, and the State of New Jersey has 890 cases confirmed. This represents a doubling of confirmed cases in Newark.
Dr. Wade expressed concern for the homeless population in Newark and the measures that the City is taking to support them. The homeless are strongly encouraged to get off the streets and into shelters. Masks and gloves are provided for personnel of outreach and engagement organizations, homeless shelters, and Integrity House. Quarantine facilities are being established for the homeless population as well.
Mayor Baraka also announced a fund that the City of Newark is establishing for small businesses to help address revenue losses to COVID-19. “I know that my executive order to close down businesses at 8pm has had an impact on Newark business owners – particularly small businesses and families. And we’re going to help them to reopen, and when the time comes, try to compensate them for some of their losses,” Mayor Baraka said.
The full video can be seen here:
