Here are some of mutual aid and information dispersion efforts going on in West Philly to help out folks in need during these trying times. People will need everything from food and basic supplies to ideas about educating or entertaining children to caring for elderly folks.

Now is the time to step up if you are able.  Continue Reading

The School District of Philadelphia has announced that all public schools will be closed starting Monday, March 16 through Friday, March 27.

The decision to close schools was made in light of Governor Wolf’s decision to limit non-essential travel for Delaware and Montgomery county residents that has created a significant staffing challenge for the School District.

“This is a difficult decision for the District and the City, and we do so in full recognition of the hardships this may cause for many families,” said Brian Abernathy, Managing Director for the City of Philadelphia. “The City is rapidly developing plans to provide comprehensive support to students and families who are challenged by the closure.”  Continue Reading

Bernie Sanders’ opening of his Philadelphia headquarters in West Philly tonight is going virtual.

The office will be located at 533 S. 52nd St. The official opening, which was scheduled to be an in-person event, will now be a webinar because of concerns related to COVID-19.

There will be a webinar on Friday at 7 p.m. (the link is here).

UPDATE: West Philadelphia High School and 62 other public schools will be closed tomorrow (Friday, March 13) due to staffing shortage after Governor Wolf’s announcement earlier today regarding measures to reduce the spread of the coronavirus in Montgomery County. Eleven percent of Philadelphia School District employees live in Montgomery County.

On Thursday, the School District of Philadelphia announced a plan that should help keep its students and staff safer as the COVID-19 (coronavirus) public health matter evolves. Beginning Friday, March 13, activities where large groups are gathered will be limited, including athletic contests, plays, concerts, as well as work-related travel for staff and school-sponsored trips through spring break.

Athletic practices will be permitted, but games will be postponed until further notice. All school-sponsored trips and work-related travel is postponed at this time unless approved by the superintendent.  Continue Reading

The Spruce Hill Community Association has canceled this year’s May Fair – scheduled for Saturday, May 16 in Clark Park – due to public health concerns associated with the new coronavirus (COVID-19). The decision was made based on the City of Philadelphia’s guidance to limit large gatherings in an effort to slow down the spread of the deadly virus.

“It’s not a decision we take lightly,” reads a statement from the May Fair Planning Committee. “May Fair has been a community tradition for 62 years and we hate to disappoint our neighbors, local organizations and businesses who look forward to this annual spring event. However, considering any emerging health risks, and our responsibility to the community, we feel this is the right decision.”  Continue Reading

UPDATE (Thursday, March 12, 2020): Councilwoman Jamie Gauthier has postponed all upcoming Community Conversation meetings (see below) due to increasing concern over potential spread of COVID-19 at social events. Stay tuned for updates once new dates are confirmed.

Community members in West and Southwest Philadelphia have a chance to meet newly elected City Councilmember (3rd District) Jamie Gauthier. She is organizing a series of community meetings, beginning this Wednesday (March 11) in Cobbs Creek. Residents are invited to share their thoughts on issues that are important to them and to help inform Gauthier’s legislative agenda. Food and childcare will be provided.

The following meetings have been postponed until further notice:  Continue Reading