As the situation with the coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to develop, we are ready to support you.

We are taking steps to help you through this challenging time.

Childcare Support

The governor has announced that schools will be closed for at least 8 days. Some school districts like Blaine and Forest Lake have extended that time. Schools may remain closed for the remainder of the school year.

Therefore, we are facilitating childcare cooperatives for our residents. We will open our community spaces for childcare. Parents can take turns watching each other’s kids. Parents will meet each other and the volunteers before the cooperative begins. Tenants who do not have school age children but would like to help with this effort are also welcome.

If you would like to volunteer with the childcare cooperative, please contact us at (651) 464-5908.

Increased Sanitation

We are increasing our sanitation efforts including regularly disinfecting commonly touched surfaces. Please remember to follow good sanitation practices. Here are a few important steps to take.
• Clean your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home if you are sick.
• Cover coughs and sneezes.
• Wear a facemask if you are sick.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily.
To learn more visit the CDC website at cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV.

Rent Payment Support

We don’t offer support for rent payments directly. But there are a number of services available to ensure you have the funds to pay your rent. It’s important to act promptly if you find yourself with reduced income.

Unemployment Insurance

You may be eligible for unemployment benefits if your hours are reduced below 32 hours per week. Make sure to apply for unemployment benefits during the first week you are laid off because you cannot backdate the application. You could lose benefits if you wait to apply. The Minnesota Unemployment website is https://www.uimn.org/.

Sick Pay

The federal government is working on emergency legislation. Under the current proposal, employers would be mandated to offer pay to employees unable to work due to COVID-19. The government would then reimburse employers for the cost. This legislation may pass this week. Work with your employer to ensure you get the benefits you may be entitled to.

County Housing Assistance

Counties aid residents who are unable to pay rent. Here are the links to their resources:
• Washington County – https://www.co.washington.mn.us/2962/Homeless-Services
• Anoka County – https://www.anokacounty.us/199/Emergency-Programs

Local Charities

There are a number of local charities that assist residents with their rent. This includes local churches, Goodwill, Salvation Army, Helping Hands, and Family Pathways. You can also contact United Way at (800) 543-7709 or https://www.211unitedway.org/ for additional help finding assistance programs.

Additional Support

If we can help in any other way, please let us know! We understand these times can be challenging, and we are here to help. By working together, we’ll get through this difficult time!

Sincerely,
Mike Kaeding
President
Norhart