Por Diana Jacob<\/p>\n
Wildfire warning:<\/strong> In light of COVID-19, the county, Cal Fire, the Red Cross and others are revamping evacuation plans and other emergency protocols to bolster public safety during a major firestorm.<\/p>\n Residents under evacuation orders this year could be housed in a hotel or motel, or at multiple shelters with fewer than 50 people instead of a larger traditional shelter. The Red Cross is working with nearly 100 lodging businesses across the county to make rooms available in a crisis, and they have identified over 200 shelter locations to provide these safer options.<\/p>\n We\u2019re entering the riskiest part of the wildfire season while still being in the middle of an unprecedented health crisis. That is forcing us to rethink and retool our disaster-planning efforts.<\/p>\n Small business alert:<\/strong> Applications are still being accepted for the county\u2019s COVID-19 stimulus grant program.<\/p>\n The Board of Supervisors recently voted to establish the $17 million fund, setting aside $3.4 million for private for-profit and non-profit businesses in East County.<\/p>\n Many of our retail shops, restaurants and other businesses are in dire financial straits and need a financial lifeline. The grants will offer relief as we continue battle the virus and work to get our economy on track.<\/p>\n To apply, start here: sandiegocounty.gov\/stimulusgrant\/. The application deadline is August 15.<\/p>\n Helping seniors:<\/strong> At my urging, the county is moving to expand meal deliveries from local restaurants to seniors and other vulnerable populations.<\/p>\n The Board of Supervisors has agreed to tap into federal CARES Act money to ramp up the deliveries. In recent months, the county has been offering the meals through a program called Great Plates.<\/p>\n These deliveries are not only critical for seniors but are another way we can support restaurants that may be struggling for survival.<\/p>\n In the Zone:<\/strong> Just a reminder that the county\u2019s Cool Zone program is up and running again, but on a limited basis due to COVID-19. For the latest locations and hours, visit www.CoolZones.org<\/a>.<\/p>\n