Hello friends and neighbors,

Thousands of Delawareans have been vaccinated since our state dramatically expanded eligibility last week.

Nearly 25% of all Delawareans are now fully vaccinated, while close to 40% have received at least one dose – ranking Delaware in the top 20 of U.S. states. Even better is the fact that 65% of Delawareans older than 65 are now fully vaccinated while 83% of seniors have received at least one dose.

The Delaware Division of Public Health on Friday announced fewer large vaccination events will be available for people seeking first doses in April than previously planned due to a national shortage of the one-shot Johnson and Johnson vaccine causing a reduction in overall supply.

First-dose appointments are still available at participating pharmacies while supplies last, and Delaware’s large-scale vaccination clinics will begin scheduling first-dose appointments again as soon as supply increases.

While there is a light at the end of the tunnel, we are not through this pandemic yet and your vigilance is needed as much now as ever before.

COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations are on the rise nationally, particularly among younger people who have yet to be vaccinated but may be letting down their guard. Coronavirus variants that are able to spread more easily are also being recorded among positive cases here in Delaware.

Even as our public health officials work to vaccinate as many adults as possible, please remember to get tested regularly, practice responsible social distancing, wash your hands frequently and always wear a mask when out in public.

In this newsletter, you will find updates on:

• Delaware’s COVID-19 vaccination program
• Testing sites near us
• Food resources for Delawareans in need
• And more!

Be well and stay safe,

Nicole Poore
Senator, 12th District

DELAWARE COVID-19 VACCINE UPDATE

All Delawareans ages 16 and older are now eligible to receive COVID-19 vaccinations, although the availability of appointments still depends on supply.

There are two main ways to schedule your appointment:

1. Participating pharmacies
   Click here for a list of participating pharmacies.
   Appointments at those pharmacies will depend on supply.
   Please be patient. It may take a few weeks before you’re able to find an available time slot.
   
2. All Delawareans 16 and older can register on the State of Delaware’s COVID-19 vaccination waiting list.
   Click here to register or call 1 (833) 643-1715. Press option #2 for help. If you are 65 or older, or need accommodations based on a disability, press #1 or #3.
   Invitations to state-run vaccination events will be sent via email.
   Vaccinations will be prioritized based on age and other risk factors, including pre-existing medical conditions.

Delawareans ages 16 to 64 with moderate- and high-risk medical conditions and disabilities will continue to be able to receive vaccines from their primary care doctors, specialty providers, hospital systems and other medical providers. Click here to view a list of updated medical conditions to see if you are eligible to receive a vaccine from one of these providers.

Delawareans should take advantage of the first vaccine appointment available to them, regardless of who manufactures the vaccine. Remember, all three currently available vaccines are equally effective in preventing serious illness and death. If you get vaccinated at a local pharmacy, please be sure to remove yourself from the DPH waiting list by emailing vaccine@delaware.gov or call the DPH Vaccine Call Center at 1 (833) 643-1715.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

THE LATEST COVID-19 DATA IN DELAWARE

Delaware’s rolling 7-day average of new COVID-19 cases fell last week after climbing for nearly a month.

As of Sunday, the average number of new cases per day over the last week was 314, while 24.3% of people who got tested had a positive result, up from 23.6% a week earlier.

The cumulative number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Delaware reached 98,570 over the weekend – a 2.3% increase from one week ago. Statewide, the rate of infection is now 1,050.9 per 10,000 people.

Hospitalizations are down week over week. As of Sunday, there were 129 people hospitalized due to COVID-19 complications, down 18.4% from a week earlier. The number of people in critical condition rose to 21, however.

Delaware documented 12 additional Coronavirus-related deaths over the last week, bringing the total number of fatalities to 1,578. Of those total deaths, 47% were residents of long-term care facilities.

Visit Delaware’s Coronavirus Data Dashboard for all the latest information about COVID-19’s spread throughout the First State.

CLICK HERE TO SEE MORE STATE-LEVEL DATA

GET TESTED NOW, GET TESTED OFTEN

Fast, free and convenient testing sites are available in our area.

Click here for a full list of state-run and community testing sites in Delaware.

Click here to reserve a testing time at a local Walgreens.

Seniors and others in high-risk health categories can get test kits delivered to their homes. You will need to download Zoom to your smartphone or other electronic device to complete the test. Click here for more information.

New Castle County Pop-Up Testing Locations

Tuesday, April 13

11 a.m. – 7 p.m.: University of Delaware Hollingsworth Lot (61 North College Avenue, Newark, DE 19716) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com

Wednesday, April 14

• 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.: Henrietta Johnson Medical Center (601 New Castle Avenue, Wilmington, DE 19801) Register by calling 302-655-6187
• 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.: Middletown High School (120 Silver Lake Rd, Middletown, DE 19709) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
• 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.: ChristianaCare Hospital, Wilmington 601 Parking Lot (601 Delaware Ave, Wilmington, DE 19801) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com

Thursday, April 15

• 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.: Scott AME Zion Church (629 East 7th St, Wilmington DE 19801) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
• 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.: Merchant Square Shopping Center (Governor Printz) (4307 Governor Printz Blvd, Wilmington, DE 19802) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
• 1 p.m. – 7 p.m.: Henrietta Johnson Medical Center (601 New Castle Avenue, Wilmington, DE 19801) Register by calling 302-655-6187

Friday, April 16

• 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.: University of Delaware Laird Campus Lot #6 (David Hollowell Dr, Newark DE 19716) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
• 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.: Thomas Edison Charter School (Indoor Walk Up – 2200 Locust St, Wilmington, DE 19802) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com

Saturday, April 17

• 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.: Westside Healthcare (Indoor Walk Up –1802 W. 4th St, Wilmington, DE 19805) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
• 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.: University of Delaware STAR Campus (540 S College Avenue, Newark, DE 19713) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
• 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.: Ezion-Mount Carmel United Methodist Church (800 N. Walnut St. Wilmington 19801) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
• 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.: Henrietta Johnson Medical Center (601 New Castle Avenue, Wilmington, DE 19801) Register by calling 302-655-6187

FOOD RESOURCES AVAILABLE TO DELAWAREANS

The Food Bank of Delaware’s monthly drive-thru pantries are helping to keep food on the table for thousands throughout this pandemic. The next round of drive-thru pantries will be held in May.

A number of resources are also available to Delawareans in need until then.

COVID-19 RENTAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM AVAILABLE

The Delaware Housing Assistance Program is once again offering financial support to eligible renters impacted by COVID-19 through job losses, reduced hours or other circumstances.

DEHAP now provides up to 12 months of financial assistance for rent owed as far back as April 2020. An additional three months of extended help is also available under certain conditions.

Income restrictions apply and all payments will be made directly to landlords. Both landlords and tenants can apply for DEHAP, but they will need to work together to ensure proper documentation is provided by both parties.

Tenants who received DEHAP assistance in the past can participate, but will need to reapply since the eligibility requirements and program documentation have changed.

Click here to review income eligibility by county and other program requirements or call (866) 935-0407. A list of frequently asked questions and their answers also can be found here.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE

Weekly COVID-19 Press Briefing

Be sure to tune in for Governor John Carney’s weekly press briefing at 1:45 p.m. every Tuesday for the latest information and announcements.

You can watch by visiting his Facebook page or by visiting the State of Delaware’s livestream page.

COVID Alert DE App

More than 100,000 Delawareans have downloaded this free and anonymous app that will alert you when you’ve been exposed to someone who tested positive for COVID-19. The app works regardless of whether that person lives in Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, New York or Washington D.C.

JOIN DOLLY PARTON’S IMAGINATION LIBRARY

Thanks to Delaware’s participation in Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library program, children in the First State can receive a FREE book in the mail each month from birth to their 5th birthday.

More than 14,000 Delaware children are already signed up but thousands have an opportunity to develop a love of reading thanks to Dolly Parton, Delaware Libraries and First Lady Tracey Quillen Carney’s First Chance initiative.

CLICK HERE TO ENROLL IN THE IMAGINATION LIBRARY

Hello friends and neighbors,

This week, Delaware is entering a new phase in our fight against COVID-19.

Starting tomorrow, every Delaware resident ages 16 and older will be eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine at participating pharmacies, community vaccination sites and large-scale vaccination events hosted by the Delaware Division of Public Health.

Beginning at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, all First State residents old enough to drive can register on the State of Delaware’s COVID-19 waiting list at vaccinerequest.delaware.gov. Invitations to state-run vaccination events will be sent to people on the waiting list via email with priority given Delawareans based on age and pre-existing conditions.

In the meantime, participating pharmacies will be making appointments available to all Delawareans 16 and older, as supply allows.

Delawareans ages 16 to 64 with moderate- and high-risk medical conditions and disabilities will continue to be able to receive vaccines from their primary care doctors, specialty providers, hospital systems and other medical providers. Click here to view a list of updated medical conditions to see if you are eligible to receive a vaccine from one of these providers.

Please be patient. While eligibility does not guarantee you will be able to schedule an appointment right away, this step means DPH is moving rapidly to get you vaccinated soon.

Already, 34% of Delawareans have received an initial dose while nearly 20% of our state’s population is fully vaccinated.

Our progress has prompted Governor John Carney to ease restrictions on outdoor gatherings and youth sports, but we all have a responsibility to remain vigilant.

COVID-19 is still contagious, even for those who have been vaccinated. As cases continue to rise in more than half of U.S. states, experts are warning of a fourth surge.

Even if you have been vaccinated, please continue to avoid large gatherings, wear a mask in public, wash your hands frequently, practice responsible social distancing and stay vigilant.

In this newsletter, you will find updates on:

• Delaware’s COVID-19 vaccination program
• Recent State of Emergency changes
• Testing sites near us
• Food resources for Delawareans in need
• And more!

Be well and stay safe,

Nicole Poore
Senator, 12th District

DELAWARE COVID-19 VACCINE UPDATE

Governor John Carney and the Delaware Division of Public Health announced last week that all Delawareans ages 16 and older will become eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, starting Tuesday, April 6.

There are two main ways vaccines will be available:

• Participating pharmacies will make appointments available to all Delawareans 16 and older, starting on Tuesday, April 6.
  • Click here for a list of participating pharmacies.
  • Appointments at those pharmacies will depend on supply.
  • Please be patient. It may take a few weeks before you’re able to find an available time slot.

• Beginning at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, April 6, all Delawareans 16 and older also will be able to register on the State of Delaware’s COVID-19 vaccination waiting list.
  • Click here to register on April 6.
  • Invitations to state-run vaccination events will be sent via email.
  • Vaccinations will be prioritized based on age and other risk factors, including pre-existing medical conditions.

Delawareans ages 16 to 64 with moderate- and high-risk medical conditions and disabilities will continue to be able to receive vaccines from their primary care doctors, specialty providers, hospital systems and other medical providers. Click here to view a list of updated medical conditions to see if you are eligible to receive a vaccine from one of these providers.

Delawareans should take advantage of the first vaccine appointment available to them, regardless of who manufactures the vaccine. Remember, all three currently available vaccines are equally effective in preventing serious illness and death. Click here to compare the three vaccines.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

UPDATED STATE OF EMERGENCY ORDER

Governor John Carney issued two updates to his COVID-19 emergency order last week – both easing restrictions on outdoor activities.

OUTDOOR GATHERINGS

Up to 150 people can now freely attend most outdoor gatherings in Delaware, including outdoor weddings, funerals, concerts and sporting events. Outdoor events at venues with fire occupancy restrictions may be more limited.

Indoor gatherings or events remain limited to 25 people or 50% of stated fire occupancy limits, whichever is less. Food and drink establishments also remain at 50% of state fire occupancy, excluding employees.

Click here for more information about how these changes might affect you.

YOUTH AND AMATEUR SPORTS

Athletes participating in high-risk sports must wear a face covering at all times. High-risk sports include ice hockey, basketball, tackle football, boys’/men’s lacrosse, wrestling, boxing, rugby, competitive cheer, martial arts, ultimate frisbee and pairs figure skating.

Athletes participating in non-high-risk sports outdoors must wear face coverings, except when actively engaged in practice or game play while on the field.

Athletes from different households must adhere to social distancing and remain six feet apart, except when actively engaged in practice or game play while on the field.

All coaches, staff, and referees must wear face coverings at all times, including while addressing players or officials on or off the field, when coaching during the game, and during practices, trainings, and team meetings.

Masks continue to be required at all times for all indoor sports and activities. This applies to athletes, coaches, staff, and spectators.

Click here for more information about how these changes might affect you.

CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL EMERGENCY ORDER

THE LATEST COVID-19 DATA IN DELAWARE

Delaware’s rolling 7-day average of new COVID-19 cases continued to rise for a third week, along with at least 28 other states across the country.

As of Sunday, the average number of new cases per day over the last week was 335, while 23.6% of people who got tested had a positive result, up from 20.2% a week earlier.

The cumulative number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Delaware reached 96,376 as of this morning – a 2.5% increase from one week ago. Statewide, the rate of infection is now 1,029.2 per 10,000 people.

Hospitalizations rose again last week. As of this morning, there were 158 people hospitalized due to COVID-19 complications, up 23.4% from a week earlier. The number of people in critical condition rose to 17.

Delaware documented 22 additional Coronavirus-related deaths over the last week, bringing the total number of fatalities to 1,566. Of those total deaths, 47% were residents of long-term care facilities.

Visit Delaware’s Coronavirus Data Dashboard for all the latest information about COVID-19’s spread throughout the First State.

CLICK HERE TO SEE MORE STATE-LEVEL DATA

GET TESTED NOW, GET TESTED OFTEN

Fast, free and convenient testing sites are available in our area.

Click here for a full list of state-run and community testing sites in Delaware.

Click here to reserve a testing time at a local Walgreens.

Seniors and others in high-risk health categories can get test kits delivered to their homes. You will need to download Zoom to your smartphone or other electronic device to complete the test. Click here for more information.
New Castle County Pop-Up Testing Locations

Tuesday, April 6
2 p.m. – 6 p.m.: Wilmington University Rt. 13 (320 N. Dupont Highway, New Castle, DE 19720) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
11 a.m. – 7 p.m.: University of Delaware Hollingsworth Lot (61 North College Avenue, Newark, DE 19716) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com

Wednesday, April 7
9 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.: Henrietta Johnson Medical Center (601 New Castle Avenue, Wilmington, DE 19801) Register by calling 302-655-6187
10 a.m. – 3 p.m.: Middletown High School (120 Silver Lake Rd, Middletown, DE 19709) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.: St. Joseph Church (1012 N French St. Wilmington, DE) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
12 p.m. – 4 p.m.: ChristianaCare Hospital, Portal 1 Parking Lot (4755 Ogletown Stanton Road, Newark, DE 19711) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com

Thursday, April 8
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.: St. Paul UAME Church (3114 N. Market St, Wilmington, DE 19802) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
11 a.m. – 3 p.m.: Wilmington University Athletic Complex (1365 Pulaski Hwy, Newark, DE 19702) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
1 p.m. – 7 p.m.: Henrietta Johnson Medical Center (601 New Castle Avenue, Wilmington, DE 19801) Register by calling 302-655-6187

Friday, April 9
2 p.m. – 6 p.m.: Thomas Edison Charter School (Indoor Walk Up – 2200 Locust St, Wilmington, DE 19802) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
10 a.m. – 6 p.m.: University of Delaware Laird Campus Lot #6 (David Hollowell Dr, Newark DE 19716) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com

Saturday, April 10
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.: Westside Healthcare (Indoor Walk Up –1802 W. 4th St, Wilmington, DE 19805) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
10 a.m. – 3 p.m.: University of Delaware STAR Campus (540 S College Avenue, Newark, DE 19713) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.: New Mount Olive Baptist Church (4412 Washington St, Wilmington, DE 19802) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.: Henrietta Johnson Medical Center (601 New Castle Avenue, Wilmington, DE 19801) Register by calling 302-655-6187

FOOD RESOURCES AVAILABLE TO DELAWAREANS

The Food Bank of Delaware’s monthly mobile food pantries are returning this week.

Drive-thru events are being held in each of Delaware’s three counties.

Advance registration is suggested, but not required.

Wednesday, April 7
11 a.m. – Dover International Speedway, 1131 N. Dupont Highway, in Dover
Pre-register: AprKentCountyFood.eventbrite.com

Friday, March 5
11 a.m. – Frawley Stadium, 801 Shipyard Drive, in Wilmington
Pre-register: AprNewCastleCountyFood.eventbrite.com

COVID-19 RENTAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM REOPENS

The Delaware Housing Assistance Program is once again offering financial support to eligible renters impacted by COVID-19 through job losses, reduced hours or other circumstances.

DEHAP now provides up to 12 months of financial assistance for rent owed as far back as April 2020. An additional three months of extended help is also available under certain conditions.

Income restrictions apply and all payments will be made directly to landlords. Both landlords and tenants can apply for DEHAP, but they will need to work together to ensure proper documentation is provided by both parties.

Tenants who received DEHAP assistance in the past can participate, but will need to reapply since the eligibility requirements and program documentation have changed.

Click here to review income eligibility by county and other program requirements or call (866) 935-0407. A list of frequently asked questions and their answers also can be found here.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE

Weekly COVID-19 Press Briefing

Be sure to tune in for Governor John Carney’s weekly press briefing at 1:45 p.m. every Tuesday for the latest information and announcements.

You can watch by visiting his Facebook page or by visiting the State of Delaware’s livestream page.

COVID Alert DE App

More than 100,000 Delawareans have downloaded this free and anonymous app that will alert you when you’ve been exposed to someone who tested positive for COVID-19. The app works regardless of whether that person lives in Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, New York or Washington D.C.

CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION BEGINS HERE

Raising and protecting strong, safe and resilient families takes a whole community.

The Senate last week passed a resolution recognizing April as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Delaware. We are also encouraging our neighbors to learn more about how to adopt stress-reducing behaviors, recognize the signs of abuse and neglect, and take action when a child might be at risk.

Follow these three steps to help protect the children in your life:

1. Click here to review useful tips for keeping your family strong.
2. Click here to learn how to recognize the signs of abuse and neglect.
3. Click here to report child abuse or neglect. You also can call the 24-hour hotline at 1 (800) 292-9582. Reports can be submitted anonymously. Be sure to also review what you should be prepared to share.

Hello friends and neighbors,

I’m thrilled to share that Delaware has reached a watershed moment in our fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

Starting April 6, every Delaware resident age 16 and older will be eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.

Even with expanded eligibility, priority will still be given to Delawareans based on age and pre-existing health conditions.

While eligibility does not mean you will be vaccinated immediately, all Delawareans will now be able to register to be vaccinated as supplies become available.

More details are included below.

Be well and stay safe!

Nicole Poore
Senator, 12th District

Governor John Carney and the Delaware Division of Public Health today announced that all Delawareans ages 16 and older will become eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, starting April 6.

There are two main ways vaccines will be available:

1. Participating pharmacies will make appointments available to all Delawareans 16 and older, starting on Tuesday, April 6.

• Click here for a list of participating pharmacies.
• Appointments at those pharmacies will depend on supply.
• Please be patient. It may take a few weeks before you’re able to find an available time slot.

2. Beginning at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, April 6, all Delawareans 16 and older also will be able to register on the State of Delaware’s COVID-19 vaccination waiting list.

• Click here to register on April 6.
• Invitations to state-run vaccination events will be sent via email.
• Vaccinations will be prioritized based on age and other risk factors, including pre-existing medical conditions.

Delawareans ages 16 to 64 with moderate- and high-risk medical conditions and disabilities will continue to be able to receive vaccines from their primary care doctors, specialty providers, hospital systems and other medical providers.

Click here to view a list of updated medical conditions to see if you are eligible to receive a vaccine from one of these providers.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

Hello friends and neighbors,

I’m pleased to share with you that Delaware is continuing to move steadily toward an end to the pandemic.

By the end of this week, close to 1 in 3 Delawareans will have received at least their first dose of the vaccine and more than 150,000 will be fully vaccinated.

All Delawareans ages 50 and older are now able to receive vaccinations at participating pharmacies, while anyone older than 16 who suffers from a high- or moderate-risk medical condition can get a vaccination from their healthcare provider or local hospital system.

Delawareans 50 and older also are now able to register and join the waiting list of people who can receive vaccinations at one of the upcoming Delaware Division of Public Health clinics held throughout the state. Those who do not have access to the internet can call (833) 643-1715.

Appointments with your local pharmacy or healthcare provider may still be scarce due to limited supplies. Please be patient and keep trying. Click here for a list of participating pharmacies. Click here to use the helpful CDC-backed Vaccine Finder tool to find appointments available near you.

Soon many of us also will be able to visit loved ones in a long-term care facility for the first time in nearly a year. The Delaware Department of Health and Social Services last week updated its guidance following recent federal recommendations allowing expanded visitation.

More information about the new guidelines are included in this newsletter.

Please remember that we’re not out of this pandemic yet. Even if you have been vaccinated, it’s important that you continue to avoid large gatherings, wear a mask in public, wash your hands frequently, practice responsible social distancing and stay vigilant.

In this newsletter, you will find updates on:

• Delaware’s COVID-19 vaccination program
• New guidance for long-term care facilities
• Small business assistance programs
• Food resources for Delawareans in need
• Housing assistance programs
• And more!

Be well and stay safe,

Nicole Poore
Senator, 12th District

DELAWARE COVID-19 VACCINE UPDATE

Now that Delaware’s supply of COVID-19 vaccines is ramping up, our state public health experts are shifting how we distribute those vaccines.

Delaware is moving away from phases of vaccinations toward a plan that focuses more on the groups who are eligible, based on age and underlying health conditions. The goal is to reach President Biden’s deadline of having everyone older than 16 eligible to receive a vaccine by May.

Right now, Delaware is making a strong push to vaccinate the remaining seniors older than 65, any remaining frontline workers who want a vaccine, and other vulnerable residents.

Read more below about how these eligible groups can get vaccinated:

Delawareans with high- and moderate risk conditions

Delaware is working to vaccinate people ages 16 and older with certain health conditions that may put you at a higher risk of experiencing severe COVID-19 symptoms.

For a list of qualifying high- and moderate risk conditions that could make you eligible for vaccination, click here.

DPH is encouraging providers to proactively contact qualifying patients. If your provider is offering vaccines but has not yet contacted you, it may be because they have patients who are more at risk and will get the vaccine first.

If your provider is not offering vaccinations, DPH is asking them to refer you to a nearby hospital system that is providing vaccinations. They will provide the hospital system with your name and information. The hospital system will then reach out when a vaccine appointment is available or help you sign up for their waiting list.

Delawareans ages 50+

While you are eligible to begin receiving vaccinations from area pharmacies, not all pharmacies are participating and those that are will only have appointments available based on supply.

Click here for a list of participating pharmacies.

Click here to use the helpful CDC-backed Vaccine Finder tool to find appointments available near you.

Delawareans 50 and older also can join the waiting list to receive vaccinations at one of the DPH mass vaccination clinics held throughout the state by clicking here. Those who do not have access to the internet can call (833) 643-1715.

1B-eligible workers

DPH is continuing to partner with employers to vaccinate frontline, 1B-eligible workers and begin moving into vaccinations for other essential workers.

Employers should email vaccineplanning@delaware.gov now to begin developing vaccination plans for their employees.

Seniors 65 and older

Delawareans ages 65 and older are still eligible to receive a vaccine.

Seniors can sign up for vaccination by emailing vaccine@delaware.gov or by calling (833) 643-1715.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

VISITATION GUIDELINES UPDATED AT LONG-TERM CARE FACILITIES

As Delaware’s vaccinations have increased and cases have declined, families of residents in nursing homes and assisted living-facilities are eager to visit their loved ones again.

Using new federal recommendations, the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services last week established new guidelines for the First State’s 86 long-term care facilities that will reunite families for the first time in months.

Outdoor visits are preferred even when the resident and the visitor are fully vaccinated, but facilities are now directed to also allow and support indoor visitation unless:

• The resident is unvaccinated, the nursing home’s COVID-19 county positivity rate is greater than 10 percent and fewer than 70 percent of residents in the facility are fully vaccinated;
• The resident has a confirmed COVID-19 infection;
• The resident is in quarantine.

Visitors should be encouraged to get tested before coming to a facility, but they should not be required to be tested or vaccinated as a condition of visitation.

Anyone who is restricted from visiting a loved one in a long-term care facility can file a complaint by calling (877) 453-0012 or by filling out a form here.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

THE LATEST COVID-19 DATA IN DELAWARE

Delaware’s rolling 7-day average of new COVID-19 cases continued to rise last week, along with many states across the country as travel resumes and restrictions continue to be lifted. The rolling average remains on pace with where we were in early November, just before the winter surge.

As of Thursday, the 7-day average for people who tested positive was 20.2%, up from 17.1% a week earlier.

The cumulative number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Delaware reached 94,062 as of this morning – a 1.9% increase from one week ago. Statewide, the rate of infection is now 1,003.7 per 10,000 people.

Hospitalizations have continued to increase over the last week. As of this morning, there were 128 people hospitalized due to COVID-19 complications, up 23% from a week earlier. The number of people in critical condition rose to 13.

Delaware documented 15 additional Coronavirus-related deaths over the last week, bringing the total number of fatalities to 1,544. Of those, 47% were residents of long-term care facilities.

Visit Delaware’s Coronavirus Data Dashboard for all the latest information about COVID-19’s spread throughout the First State.

CLICK HERE TO SEE MORE STATE-LEVEL DATA

GET TESTED NOW, GET TESTED OFTEN

Fast, free and convenient testing sites are available in our area.

Click here for a full list of state-run and community testing sites in Delaware.

Click here to reserve a testing time at a local Walgreens.

Seniors and others in high-risk health categories can get test kits delivered to their homes. You will need to download Zoom to your smartphone or other electronic device to complete the test. Click here for more information.

New Castle County Pop-Up Testing Locations

Tuesday, March 30

• 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.: Wilmington University Rt. 13 (320 N. Dupont Highway, New Castle, DE 19720) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
• 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.: University of Delaware Hollingsworth Lot (61 North College Avenue, Newark, DE 19716) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com

Wednesday, March 31

• 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.: Henrietta Johnson Medical Center (601 New Castle Avenue, Wilmington, DE 19801) Register by calling 302-655-6187
• 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.: Middletown High School (120 Silver Lake Rd, Middletown, DE 19709) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
• 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.: ChristianaCare Hospital, Wilmington 601 Parking Lot (601 Delaware Ave, Wilmington, DE 19801) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com

Thursday, April 1

• 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.: Warner Elementary School (801 W. 18th Street, Wilmington, DE 19802) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
• 11 am – 3 p.m.: Merchant Square Shopping Center (Governor Printz) (4307 Governor Printz Blvd, Wilmington, DE 19802) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
• 1 p.m. – 7 p.m.: Henrietta Johnson Medical Center (601 New Castle Avenue, Wilmington, DE 19801) Register by calling 302-655-6187

Friday, April 2

• 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.: University of Delaware Laird Campus Lot #6 (David Hollowell Dr, Newark DE 19716) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com

Saturday, April 3

• 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.: Westside Healthcare (Indoor Walk Up –1802 W. 4th St, Wilmington, DE 19805) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
• 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.: University of Delaware STAR Campus (540 S College Avenue, Newark, DE 19713) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
• 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.: Henrietta Johnson Medical Center (601 New Castle Avenue, Wilmington, DE 19801) Register by calling 302-655-6187

COVID-19 RENTAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM REOPENS

The Delaware Housing Assistance Program is once again offering financial support to eligible renters impacted by COVID-19 through job losses, reduced hours or other circumstances.

DEHAP now provides up to 12 months of financial assistance for rent owed as far back as April 2020. An additional three months of extended help is also available under certain conditions.

Income restrictions apply and all payments will be made directly to landlords. Both landlords and tenants can apply for DEHAP, but they will need to work together to ensure proper documentation is provided by both parties.

Tenants who received DEHAP assistance in the past can participate, but will need to reapply since the eligibility requirements and program documentation have changed.

Click here to review income eligibility by county and other program requirements or call (866) 935-0407. A list of frequently asked questions and their answers also can be found here.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE

SMALL BUSINESS GRANTS AVAILABLE

After a difficult year for Delaware small businesses, the Division of Small Business is re-starting EDGE Grants, an innovative, competitive program to provide young Delaware companies with funds to help them expand their business.

EDGE (Encouraging Development, Growth and Expansion) grows Delaware’s economy by providing funding to promising early-stage businesses to level the playing field against larger, more established competitors.

Applications for the grant round will be accepted starting April 1 through 11:59 p.m. on April 30. Finalists will, as before, pitch their grant proposals to a panel of expert judges with winners announced in the early summer.

EDGE has been expanded. With this third round, the program has doubled the number of grants to non-science/tech-based companies.

The Division of Small Business will award 10 Entrepreneur Class grants of up to $25,000 each and five STEM Class awards of up to $100,000 each.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

FOOD RESOURCES AVAILABLE TO DELAWAREANS

The Food Bank of Delaware’s monthly mobile food pantries are returning next week.

Drive-thru events are being held in each of Delaware’s three counties.

Advance registration is suggested, but not required.

Monday, April 5
11 a.m. – Crossroad Community Church, 20684 State Forest Rd., near Georgetown
Pre-register: AprSussexCountyFood.eventbrite.com

Wednesday, April 7
11 a.m. – Dover International Speedway, 1131 N. Dupont Highway, in Dover
Pre-register: AprKentCountyFood.eventbrite.com

Friday, April 9
11 a.m. – Frawley Stadium, 801 Shipyard Drive, in Wilmington
Pre-register: AprNewCastleCountyFood.eventbrite.com

Weekly COVID-19 Press Briefing

Be sure to tune in for Governor John Carney’s weekly press briefing at 1:45 p.m. every Tuesday for the latest information and announcements.

You can watch by visiting his Facebook page or by visiting the State of Delaware’s livestream page.

COVID Alert DE App

More than 100,000 Delawareans have downloaded this free and anonymous app that will alert you when you’ve been exposed to someone who tested positive for COVID-19. The app works regardless of whether that person lives in Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, New York or Washington D.C.

Hello friends and neighbors,

Delaware made significant progress in its COVID-19 vaccination program last week with a major eligibility expansion that will mean thousands of additional people getting shots sooner than initially expected.

All Delawareans ages 50 and older can now begin receiving vaccinations at participating pharmacies, while anyone older than 16 who suffers from a high- or moderate-risk medical condition can get a vaccination from their healthcare provider or local hospital system. Non-paid caregivers may also qualify. Click here for a list of qualifying high- and moderate-risk conditions that could make you eligible for vaccination.

Appointments with your local pharmacy or healthcare provider may be scarce at first, depending on the statewide supply of vaccine doses. Please be patient and keep trying. Click here for a list of participating pharmacies. Click here to use the helpful CDC-backed Vaccine Finder tool to find appointments available near you.

Starting tomorrow, Delawareans 50 and older also will be able to register and join the waiting list of people who can receive vaccinations at one of the upcoming Delaware Division of Public Health clinics held throughout the state.

So far, roughly 1 in 4 Delawareans has received at least a first dose of COVID-19 vaccine and close to 125,000 of our neighbors are fully vaccinated, including nearly 75,000 seniors.

While more people are getting the vaccine, it is still far too early to let down our guard. Overconfidence is believed to be a contributing factor in the increase in COVID-19 cases recorded here in Delaware and 20 other states over the last week.

That is why, despite our progress, Governor John Carney last week formally extended the State of Emergency in Delaware for another 30 days.

Even if you have been vaccinated, please continue to avoid large gatherings, wear a mask in public, wash your hands frequently, practice responsible social distancing and stay vigilant.

In this newsletter, you will find updates on:

• Delaware’s COVID-19 vaccination program
• Testing sites in our area
• Housing assistance programs
• Small business assistance programs
• Food resources for Delawareans in need

Be well and stay safe,

Nicole Poore
Senator, 12th District

DELAWARE COVID-19 VACCINE UPDATE

Now that the supply of COVID-19 vaccine reaching Delaware is ramping up dramatically, our state public health experts are shifting how we distribute those vaccines.

Delaware is now moving away from phases of vaccinations toward a plan that focuses more on the groups who are eligible, based on age and underlying health conditions. The goal is to reach President Biden’s deadline of having everyone older than 16 eligible to receive a vaccine by May.

Right now, Delaware is making a strong push to vaccinate the remaining seniors older than 65, any remaining frontline workers who want a vaccine and other vulnerable residents.

The Division of Public Health also has expanded eligibility to people 50 and older, and those suffering from high- and moderate-risk health conditions.

Delawareans with high- and moderate risk conditions

Certain health conditions may put you at a higher risk of experiencing severe COVID-19 symptoms. For a list of qualifying high- and moderate-risk conditions that could make you eligible for vaccination, click here.

DPH is encouraging providers to proactively contact qualifying patients. If your provider is not offering vaccinations, DPH is asking them to help you schedule an appointment with an area hospital.

Delawareans ages 50+

While you are eligible to begin receiving vaccinations from area pharmacies, not all pharmacies are participating and those that are will only have appointments available based on supply.

Click here for a list of participating pharmacies.

Click here to use the helpful CDC-backed Vaccine Finder tool to find appointments available near you.

Starting Tuesday, Delawareans 50 and older also will be able to join the waiting list to receive vaccinations at one of the DPH mass vaccination clinics held throughout the state.

Eligible Workers

DPH is continuing to partner with employers to vaccinate frontline, 1B-eligible workers and begin moving into vaccinations for other essential workers.

Employers should email vaccineplanning@delaware.gov now to begin developing vaccination plans for their employees.

Seniors 65 and older

DPH will continue to focus on vaccinating Delawareans 65 and older who are registered on the state’s waiting list.

Any Delawarean who is age 65+ and not currently registered on the state’s vaccination waiting list should register at vaccinerequest.delaware.gov for an opportunity to be vaccinated.

Invitations for state-coordinated vaccination events are being sent to all seniors who remain on the waiting list.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

THE LATEST COVID-19 DATA IN DELAWARE

Delaware’s rolling 7-day average of new COVID-19 cases increased last week, similar to 20 other states across the country. A combination of overconfidence and rapid spread of COVID-19 variants is believed to be to blame for the sudden bump nationwide.

The cumulative number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Delaware reached 92,287 this morning – a 2.1% increase from one week ago. Statewide, the rate of infection is now 984.3 per 10,000 people. As of Thursday, the 7-day average for people who tested positive was 17.8%, up from 15.9% a week earlier.

Hospitalizations increased slightly over the last week. As of this morning, there were 104 people hospitalized due to COVID-19 complications, up 4% from a week earlier. The number of people in critical condition fell to 9.

Delaware documented 42 additional Coronavirus-related deaths over the last week, bringing the total number of fatalities to 1,529. Of those, more than 47% were residents of long-term care facilities.

Visit Delaware’s Coronavirus Data Dashboard for all the latest information about COVID-19’s spread throughout the First State.

CLICK HERE TO SEE MORE STATE-LEVEL DATA

GET TESTED NOW, GET TESTED OFTEN

Fast, free and convenient testing sites are available in our area.

Click here for a full list of state-run and community testing sites in Delaware.

Click here to reserve a testing time at a local Walgreens.

Seniors and others in high-risk health categories can get test kits delivered to their homes. You will need to download Zoom to your smartphone or other electronic device to complete the test. Click here for more information.

New Castle County Pop-Up Testing Locations

Tuesday, March 23

2 p.m. – 6 p.m.: Wilmington University Rt. 13 (320 N. Dupont Highway, New Castle, DE 19720) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com

11 a.m. – 7 p.m.: University of Delaware Hollingsworth Lot (61 North College Avenue, Newark, DE 19716) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com

Wednesday, March 24

• 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.: Henrietta Johnson Medical Center (601 New Castle Avenue, Wilmington, DE 19801) Register by calling 302-655-6187
• 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.: Louis L. Redding Middle School (201 New St., Middletown, DE 19709) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
• 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.: ChristianaCare Hospital, Portal 1 Parking Lot (4755 Ogletown Stanton Road, Newark, DE 19711) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com

Thursday, March 25

• 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.: Scott African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church (629 East 7th St., Wilmington, DE 19801) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
• 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.: Wilmington University Athletic Complex (1365 Pulaski Highway, Newark, DE 19702) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
• 1 p.m. – 7 p.m.: Henrietta Johnson Medical Center (601 New Castle Avenue, Wilmington, DE 19801) Register by calling 302-655-6187

Friday, March 26

• 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.: Thomas Edison Charter School (Indoor Walk Up – 2200 Locust St, Wilmington, DE 19802) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
• 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.: Delaware Park (777 Delaware Park Blvd, Wilmington, DE 19804) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com

Saturday, March 27

• 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.: City of Love Church at Brandywine (2200 N. Market St, Wilmington, DE 19802) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
• 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.: Westside Healthcare (Indoor Walk Up –1802 W. 4th St, Wilmington, DE 19805) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
• 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.: University of Delaware STAR Campus (540 S College Avenue, Newark, DE 19713) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
• 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.: Henrietta Johnson Medical Center (601 New Castle Avenue, Wilmington, DE 19801) Register by calling 302-655-6187

COVID-19 RENTAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM REOPENS

With $200 million in new funding from the federal American Rescue Plan Act, the Delaware Housing Assistance Program is once again offering financial support to eligible renters impacted by COVID-19 through job losses, reduced hours or other circumstances.

DEHAP now provides up to 12 months of financial assistance for rent owed as far back as April 2020. An additional three months of extended help is also available under certain conditions.

Income restrictions apply and all payments will be made directly to landlords. Both landlords and tenants can apply for DEHAP, but they will need to work together to ensure proper documentation is provided by both parties.

Tenants who received DEHAP assistance in the past can participate, but will need to reapply since the eligibility requirements and program documentation have changed.

To date, the Delaware State Housing Authority has approved nearly $15 million in rental assistance funding for 4,188 households since March 2020.

Click here to review income eligibility by county and other program requirements or call (866) 935-0407. A list of frequently asked questions and their answers also can be found here.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE

SMALL BUSINESS GRANTS AVAILABLE

Federal American Rescue Plan Act funding is beginning to flow to small businesses impacted by COVID-19. The aid includes $29 billion to struggling restaurants and bars through programs like H.E.L.P., $15 billion for the Economic Injury Disaster Loan grant program, $10 billion for state loan programs like DE Relief Grants, $1.25 billion for concert and other live-event operators and employee-retention tax credits.

The Delaware Division of Small Business is also working hard to inform our small business community about a number of other grant programs available to help support their shops.

CLICK HERE FOR A LIST OF GRANT PROGRAMS

FOOD RESOURCES AVAILABLE TO DELAWAREANS

The Food Bank of Delaware’s monthly drive-thru pantries have helped to keep food on the table for thousands throughout this pandemic. The next round of drive-thru pantries will be held in April.

In between those events, a number of resources are also available to Delawareans in need.

Weekly COVID-19 Press Briefing

Be sure to tune in for Governor John Carney’s weekly press briefing at 1:45 p.m. every Tuesday for the latest information and announcements.

You can watch by visiting his Facebook page or by visiting the State of Delaware’s livestream page.

COVID Alert DE App

More than 100,000 Delawareans have downloaded this free and anonymous app that will alert you when you’ve been exposed to someone who tested positive for COVID-19. The app works regardless of whether that person lives in Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, New York or Washington D.C.

ONE-STOP SHOP FOR FAMILIES IN NEED

Direct one-on-one help finding employment or getting enrolled in various Delaware assistance programs is just a few clicks away.

The Delaware Department of Health and Social Services’ Community Partner Support Unit is partnering with Delaware Libraries to provide help with:

• Completing the ASSIST application for health and social service programs
• Applying for food benefits and locating food pantries
• Medicaid sign-up and solving issues
• Finding long-term nursing care
• Finding and paying for childcare
• Home energy assistance

CLICK HERE TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT

Delaware State Senate

Friends and neighbors,

Governor John Carney and the Delaware Division of Public Health this morning announced a major expansion of our state’s COVID-19 vaccination effort that will reach thousands of additional Delawareans sooner than initially expected.

Starting 3/17/2021:

• Anyone over the age of 16 suffering from an identified high- and moderate-risk medical condition can begin receiving vaccinations from their healthcare providers, including major hospital systems. Non-paid caregivers of Delawareans with high- and moderate-risk medical conditions may also qualify.
• All Delawareans ages 50 and older can begin receiving vaccinations at participating pharmacies.

Starting Tuesday, March 23:

• Delawareans 50 and older will be able to add their names to the waiting list for vaccinations at one of DPH’s mass vaccination clinics.

More details are included below.

Be well and stay safe!

Nicole Poore
Senator, 12th District

Delawareans with high- and moderate risk conditions

Certain health conditions may put you at a higher risk of experiencing severe COVID-19 symptoms. For a list of qualifying high- and moderate risk conditions that could make you eligible for vaccination, click here.

DPH is encouraging providers to proactively contact qualifying patients. If your provider is not offering vaccinations, DPH is asking them to help you schedule an appointment with an area hospital.

Delawareans ages 50+

While you are eligible to begin receiving vaccinations from area pharmacies on Wednesday, not all pharmacies are participating and those that do will only have appointments available based on supply.

Click here for a list of participating pharmacies.

Click here to use the helpful CDC-backed Vaccine Finder tool to find appointments available near you.

Starting Tuesday, March 23, Delawareans 50 and older also will be able to join the waiting list to receive vaccinations at one of the DPH mass vaccination clinics held throughout the state.

1B-eligible workers

DPH is continuing to partner with employers to vaccinate frontline, 1B-eligible workers and begin moving into vaccinations for other essential workers.

Employers should email vaccineplanning@delaware.gov now to begin developing vaccination plans for their employees.

Seniors 65 and older

DPH will continue to focus on vaccinating Delawareans 65 and older who are registered on the state’s waiting list.

Any Delawarean who is age 65+ and not currently registered on the state’s vaccination waiting list should register at vaccinerequest.delaware.gov for an opportunity to be vaccinated.

Invitations for state-coordinated vaccination events are now being sent to all persons remaining on the waiting list.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

Hello friends and neighbors,

Last week, we marked one year since Delaware recorded its first case of COVID-19.

The past 12 months have been difficult, but there is light at the end of the tunnel.

More than 100,000 Delawareans are now fully vaccinated and nearly one in five have received at least a first dose. Our public health officials are working as fast as they can to get the three approved vaccines out to as many Delawareans as possible.

Thousands of Delaware’s school teachers and child care workers were inoculated over the weekend at Dover International Speedway. Walgreens also is scheduling appointments for educators, school staff and child care workers through March, which will bring Delaware close to meeting President Biden’s pledge to vaccinate those essential workers by the end of the month.

More than 2,000 people living in senior high rises have been vaccinated and mini-clinics are being scheduled with churches and senior centers across Delaware. Hundreds of our state’s poultry workers are also receiving doses now, and the Delaware Division of Public Health will soon begin scheduling clinics for workers at other businesses in the 1B category.

More first and second doses are also being sent to local pharmacies for seniors 65 and older. Click here to see what pharmacies near you have both available vaccines and available appointments.

We are all eager for Delaware to advance to Phase 1C as quickly as possible. My colleagues and I are in regular communication with the administration as they finalize plans for vaccinating Delawareans under 65 with high-risk health conditions and more essential workers. I will continue to share real time updates as the state moves toward those next steps.

In the meantime, I am happy to report that the next round of stimulus checks is on its way now that President Biden has signed the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.

Most individuals will receive $1,400, plus additional support for each dependent. But the size of your check may be reduced – or eliminated – if you earn above certain income limits. Click here to check on the status of your stimulus check.

The American Rescue Plan also includes a tax break for unemployed workers. The law waives federal income taxes on up to $10,200 in federal unemployment insurance benefits for people who earn less than $150,000 a year. The Delaware General Assembly passed similar tax relief on the state portion of unemployment taxes back in early February.

As always, please reach out to me with any issues or concerns you may have regarding DPH’s vaccination program, and I will work with DPH to get you answers as quickly as possible.

In this newsletter, you will find updates on:

• Delaware’s COVID-19 vaccination program
• Testing sites in our area
• Food resources for Delawareans in need
• Delaware’s new Mobile ID

Be well and stay safe,

Nicole Poore
Senator, 12th District

DELAWARE COVID-19 VACCINE UPDATE

With more than 30 million people – or roughly 10% of the total U.S. population – now fully vaccinated, the Centers for Disease Control last week issued its first set of guidance on the activities fully vaccinated people can resume.

Fully vaccinated people can:

• Visit with other fully vaccinated people indoors without wearing masks or physical distancing.
• Visit with unvaccinated people from a single household who are at low risk for severe COVID-19 disease indoors without wearing masks or physical distancing.
• Refrain from quarantine and testing following a known exposure if asymptomatic

For now, fully vaccinated people should continue to:

• Take precautions in public like wearing a well-fitted mask and physical distancing.
• Wear masks, practice physical distancing, and adhere to other prevention measures when visiting with unvaccinated people who are at increased risk for severe COVID-19 disease or who have an unvaccinated household member who is at increased risk for severe COVID-19 disease.
• Wear masks, maintain physical distance, and practice other prevention measures when visiting with unvaccinated people from multiple households.
• Avoid medium- and large-sized in-person gatherings.
• Get tested if experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.
• Follow guidance issued by individual employers.
• Follow CDC and health department travel requirements and recommendations.

Seniors can still register for a first dose of the vaccine. Click here if you are 65 or older and would like to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Seniors without computer access can call the COVID-19 Vaccine Call Center at 1 (833) 643-1715 to register.

Seniors seeking a first dose also have options when it comes to scheduling their vaccination:

Vaccination events: To participate in an upcoming drive-thru or walk-up vaccination event, you must first register your willingness to receive the vaccine.

Click here to register today! Seniors without computer access can call the COVID-19 Vaccine Call Center at 1 (833) 643-1715 to register.

Pharmacy-based vaccinations: Seven pharmacy chains in Delaware are now offering vaccines to seniors by appointment only.

All scheduling must be completed online. No walk-ins or phone scheduling is currently available. For a list of participating pharmacies and links to their online scheduling, click here.

Medical-provider vaccinations: Some primary-care and specialty-care providers have vaccines available for their own patients, while some may invite the public to request appointments. For a list of participating medical providers, click here.

THE LATEST COVID-19 DATA IN DELAWARE

Delaware’s COVID-19 cases numbers began declining again last week, after 7 days of rising cases the week before. Overall, the number of cases remains elevated in comparison to the fall.

A second COVID variant also has been discovered in Delaware. The so-called South African variant was detected in a New Castle County adult in their 50s. This discovery follows 12 confirmed cases of the UK variant being found here among 11 adults and one child in New Castle and Kent counties.

The cumulative number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Delaware reached 88,354 as of this morning – a 1.8% increase from one week ago. Statewide the rate of infection is now 942.1 per 10,000 people. As of Thursday, the 7-day average for the percentage of people who tested positive was 19.2%, down from 20.9% a week earlier.

Hospitalizations are improving. As of this morning, there were 104 people hospitalized due to COVID-19 complications, down nearly 27% from a week earlier. The number of people in critical condition fell to 13.

Delaware documented 51 new Coronavirus-related deaths over the last week, bringing the total number of fatalities to 1,473. Of those, 48% were residents of long-term care facilities.

Visit Delaware’s Coronavirus Data Dashboard for all the latest information about COVID-19’s spread throughout the First State.

CLICK HERE TO SEE MORE STATE-LEVEL DATA

GET TESTED NOW, GET TESTED OFTEN

Fast, free and convenient testing sites are available in our area.

Click here for a full list of state-run and community testing sites in Delaware.

Click here to reserve a testing time at a local Walgreens.

Seniors and others in high-risk health categories can get test kits delivered to their homes. You will need to download Zoom to your smartphone or other electronic device to complete the test. Click here for more information.

New Castle County Pop-Up Testing Locations

Tuesday, March 16

• 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.: University of Delaware Hollingsworth Lot (61 North College Avenue, Newark, DE 19716) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
• 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.: Wilmington University Rt. 13 (320 N. Dupont Highway, New Castle, DE 19720) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com

Wednesday, March 17

• 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.: Henrietta Johnson Medical Center (601 New Castle Avenue, Wilmington, DE 19801) Register by calling 302-655-6187
• 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.: Middletown High School (120 Silver Lake Rd, Middletown, DE 19709) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
• 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.: ChristianaCare Hospital, Wilmington 601 Parking Lot (601 Delaware Ave, Wilmington, DE 19801) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com

Thursday, March 18

• 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.: Warner Elementary School (801 W. 18th Street, Wilmington, DE 19802) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
• 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.: Wilmington University Brandywine Campus (10 Beaver Valley Rd, Wilmington, DE 19803) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
• 1 p.m. – 7 p.m.: Henrietta Johnson Medical Center (601 New Castle Avenue, Wilmington, DE 19801) Register by calling 302-655-6187

Friday, March 19

• 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.: University of Delaware Laird Campus Lot #6 (David Hollowell Dr., Newark DE 19716) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
• 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.: Thomas Edison Charter School (Indoor Walk Up – 2200 Locust St, Wilmington, DE 19802) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
• 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.: Henrietta Johnson Medical Center (601 New Castle Avenue, Wilmington, DE 19801) Register by calling 302-655-6187

Saturday, March 20

• 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.: Westside Healthcare (Indoor Walk Up –1802 W. 4th St, Wilmington, DE 19805) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
• 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.: University of Delaware STAR Campus (540 S College Avenue, Newark, DE 19713) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
• 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.: St. Joseph’s Church (371 E. Main Street, Middletown, DE 19709) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com
• 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.: Henrietta Johnson Medical Center (601 New Castle Avenue, Wilmington, DE 19801) Register by calling 302-655-6187

Sunday, March 21

• 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.: University of Delaware STAR Campus (540 S College Avenue, Newark, DE 19713) Register: delaware.curativeinc.com

FOOD RESOURCES AVAILABLE TO DELAWAREANS

The Food Bank of Delaware’s monthly drive-thru pantries have helped to keep food on the table for thousands throughout this pandemic. The next round of drive-thru pantries will be held in April.

In between those events, a number of resources are also available to Delawareans in need.

Weekly COVID-19 Press Briefing

Be sure to tune in for Governor John Carney’s weekly press briefing at 1:45 p.m. every Tuesday for the latest information and announcements.

You can watch by visiting his Facebook page or by visiting the State of Delaware’s livestream page.

COVID Alert DE App

More than 100,000 Delawareans have downloaded this free and anonymous app that will alert you when you’ve been exposed to someone who tested positive for COVID-19. The app works regardless of whether that person lives in Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, New York or Washington D.C.

DELAWARE DMV ANNOUNCES MOBILE ID APP

Licensed drivers and ID cardholders in the First State can now use their smartphones as a form of identification thanks to the new Delaware Mobile ID app launched by the Delaware DMV last week.

Mobile ID is a significant step in the fight against identity theft. In addition to uploading an image of your physical ID, the app also requires users to take a live selfie for comparison. After approval, users can unlock the app using their face or fingerprints, ensuring only they can access their ID.

Mobile ID also allows users to verify they are of legal age while hiding other information, such as their street address.

Download the app today at the App Store or Google Play.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

Delaware State Senate Virtual Session Schedule

Week 5 – Mark 16-18