Normally there is an editorial from Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone in this space, but this week the City is instead sharing important information and updates about COVID-19.

 On Tuesday, March 31, Gov. Charlie Baker extended the closure of non-essential businesses and the state’s stay-at-home advisory until Monday, May 4. While these measures are important to help control the spread of COVID-19, they also come with financial impacts to many people. If you or someone you know is facing housing issues, food insecurity, or other issues, help is available.

Housing

On Saturday, March 28, Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone and the Somerville Board of Health announced an Emergency Order Establishing a Moratorium on Eviction Enforcement in the City of Somerville for the duration of the COVID-19 emergency. The order, which applies to both residential and commercial evictions, prohibits the physical act of eviction within the city limits so as to provide for the health, safety, and stability of those who live in and serve our community.

The Somerville Eviction Moratorium prohibits the physical removal of persons and belongings, but it does not protect residents or businesses from eviction or foreclosure once the public health emergency is over. It’s important, to the extent possible, that tenants and homeowners continue to make payments or work out payment plans with their landlords or lenders. The order does not clear any tenant or homeowner of owed rent or mortgage debt.

If you are being physically evicted, call 311 (617-666-3311) to be connected to Office of Housing Stability staff (for residential tenants or homeowners) or Economic Development Division staff (for commercial tenants). The Office of Housing and Stability may also be able to provide rental and mortgage assistance.

Food Access

There are several resources available to anyone experiencing food insecurity:

• The City of Somerville/Food for Free Supplemental food pantry has been established for the COVID-19 crisis. Sign up for the week at bit.ly/SOMFoodPantry and receive a bag of non-perishable items, plus fresh fruit and vegetables. Please note: If you anticipate needing a weekly bag, you will need to sign up again as needed.
• The Somerville Food Security Coalition is maintaining an updated list of food resources at www.somervillefoodsecurity.org during COVID-19. Call an organization before visiting in person as they may have new procedures to follow.
• Project Bread offers a FoodSource Hotline at (800) 645-8333 (TTY line: 1-800-377-1292) to help callers find food resources.
• The Somerville Public Schools are continuing to provide breakfasts and lunches to students and families in need. Meals can be picked up between 9 and 11 a.m., Monday through Friday, at the following locations:
  • East Somerville Community School, 50 Cross St.
  • Healey School, 5 Meacham St.
  • West Somerville Neighborhood School, 177 Powder House Blvd.
  • Winter Hill Community Innovation School, 115 Sycamore St.
• You can also call 311 any time if you’re concerned about food access and they will connect you with local resources.

Staying Informed During COVID-19

The City’s COVID-19 website, www.somervillema.gov/coronavirus, is updated frequently with public health information as well as resources and supports. On the website you can find information about applying for unemployment; the CARE Act, a new federal law that directs $2 trillion in funding to COVID-19 relief efforts; low-cost internet access; and more.

Here are some additional ways you can stay informed:

• Sign up for City alerts at www.somervillema.gov/alerts or by calling 311. You can choose to get phone, text, and/or email alerts.
• Tune in to City Cable (RCN channel 13, Comcast channel 22) for information and updates.
• 311 is available 24/7 to answer questions and provide information.