As of today, libraries and museums in Philadelphia are allowed to reopen, according to the modified Green phase re-opening plan. However, the Free Library of Philadelphia’s 54 branches are not ready to reopen yet, until they are “able to create a safe environment for everyone,” according to today’s announcement by Free Library president and director Siobhan A. Reardon. The library will continue offering virtual programming to the public. Library patrons also have access to digital resources – ebooks, audiobooks, movies, TV, music, over 100 databases, and the New York Times online.

Library materials pickup and returns will soon be available at limited locations. All service updates will be posted on the Free Library’s COVID-19 resource page as they become available. Also, visit the Free Library’s blog for more information on available programs, services, and resources.

The School District of Philadelphia is working on a school reopening plan for the upcoming 2020-2021 school year and will be hosting several one-hour Virtual Town Hall sessions from Tuesday, July 7 to Thursday, July 9. Students, parents/caregivers and community members are encouraged to participate and provide feedback.

Sessions will be hosted by a District leader and focus on a key planning area such as health and safety, cleaning practices, school schedules, and curriculum and instruction. Here are the details:  Continue Reading

Small businesses in the state of Pennsylvania that have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic can apply for a state relief grant. The amount of the grant is between $5,000 and $50,000 depending on the business’ revenue, and applications are accepted until Tuesday, July 14. The annual revenue should be $1,000,000 or less and the number of full-time employees should be less than or equal to 25 to be eligible to apply.

For more information, including other eligibility requirements, and to apply, please visit the Enterprise Center website.

As was expected, the City of Philadelphia has postponed the Green coronavirus re-opening phase, which had been tentatively planned for July 3, after an uptick in new COVID-19 cases was reported in the city late last week. The new tentative date for the beginning of the Green phase, which includes indoor dining at restaurants and re-opening of gyms and fitness centers, is August 1st, according to City Health Commissioner Dr. Thomas Farley.

This Friday, the City will allow re-opening of libraries, museums, shopping malls and casinos, as part of a “modified restricted Green phase,” but no food or drinks will be allowed indoors.

Businesses that re-opened on June 26 – barber shops, salons and spas, as well as residential and private swimming pools – will remain open. Outdoor dining at restaurants will also continue to operate.  Continue Reading

The City of Philadelphia and Philadelphia Housing Development Corporation (PHDC) have announced a second phase of rental assistance for tenants affected by COVID-19. PHDC will begin accepting applications on Monday, July 6.

The first phase of rental assistance was able to assist more than 4,000 tenants. However, nearly 13,000 tenants applied to the program. Phase 2 will allow about 6,300 more renters to get help.

Funding for the program comes from the federal CARES Act. The Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency is distributing funds to each county in the state. Philadelphia’s share is $28.45 million.  Continue Reading

Masks or facial coverings should now be worn in all indoor public spaces and outdoors if you can’t keep safe distance (at least six feet) from others , according to a new order by Philadelphia officials. This new rule doesn’t have to be followed if you’re around people in your household and is not mandatory for children under 8 years old. Although it is a requirement, it will not be enforced by police, according to Philadelphia Health Commissioner Dr. Thomas Farley.

Philadelphia was expected to enter the Green coronavirus re-opening phase this Friday (July 3), however, this could now be delayed due to an increase in new COVID-19 cases in the city. Some 143 new cases were reported on Friday. Philadelphia officials said on Friday that there may be a second wave of the epidemic developing in the city and that they’re keeping an eye on it before announcing their plans on the Green re-opening phase this week.  Continue Reading