COVID-19 Information and Resources
When the coronavirus first emerged in the United States, it quickly started one of the worst public health emergencies our nation, and our state, has ever experienced. Like many of you, I continue to mourn the thousands of lives lost in the Fifth District and throughout the country. In addition to the serious health impacts of this pandemic, Fifth District residents also struggled economically, with families having trouble making ends meet and small businesses being forced to close. That is why I worked hard in the 117th Congress with my colleagues to pass critical emergency COVID-19 legislation, including President Biden's American Rescue Plan, to extend essential lifelines to Marylanders who had been especially hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The American Rescue Plan secured robust investments for Maryland communities that contributed to greater vaccine accessibility, direct payments to families – including the enhancement of the Child Tax Credit - and kickstart our economic recovery. Congress worked swiftly to build on this progress in the 117th Congress by advancing President Biden's Investing in America agenda to help make child care more affordable, improve access to health care, and create more jobs for Maryland families. With the continuing relief provided under the American Rescue Plan and the promise of greater economic security under the President's agenda, we can continue our look forward toward a brighter future for the Fifth District and around the country.
If you need help with a federal agency, please complete a casework intake form on my website here or contact my district offices. Call 301-474-0119 if you live in Prince George's, Anne Arundel, or Calvert Counties. Call 301-843-1577 if you live in Charles or St. Mary's.
For more information about the coronavirus in Maryland, visit https://coronavirus.maryland.gov/.
For updated information about COVID-19, regularly check CDC guidance.
The American Rescue Plan provided significant funding to increase vaccine production and distribution. Maryland's vaccination efforts have allowed us to be one of the most-vaccinated states in the county, but it remains critical that we continue getting vaccinated.
What to Know About Vaccinations:
- The CDC has provided useful information about immunizations. Please continue to check their guidance regularly.
- 2024 Immunization Schedules are now available and effective immediately. Learn more from the CDC here.
Testing:
Use viral tests like PCR or rapid at-home tests to determine if you are sick with COVID-19. Learn more about testing here.
Other Resources
- Resources for Veterans
The VA is working to ensure veterans can access the health care services they need. I encourage veterans to visit the VA's website, where they can find a FAQ page. Veterans in crisis should call 1-800-273-8255.
Maryland veterans can also enroll in Operation Roll Call (1-877-770-4801) — a program that offers regular check-in calls and a chance to talk to someone who can offer support.
- Resources for Seniors
The Senior Call Check program is an important, free resource in Maryland to verify the well-being of those 65 years old and older in our communities during the coronavirus pandemic. Call 1-866-50-CHECK or register online here.
Every day a telephone call will be placed to a participant at a regularly scheduled time. These calls will take place between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. If the participant does not answer their first call, they will be tried two more times. If those calls go unanswered, additional calls will be made to notify an alternative person who is selected by the participant during program enrollment. Any Maryland resident who is 65 years of age or older who has a landline phone or cell phone is eligible to participate.
- Protect Your Mental Health
The coronavirus public health emergency can take its toll on our mental well-being.
Call or text 988, or chat online (988Lifeline.org) for 24/7 access to mental health, substance use, or suicide prevention support.
Resources are available through the CDC on how to keep your body and mind strong. Click here for more information.