We have been monitoring the spread of COVID-19 closely. We are in uncharted waters, and we need to continue to take swift action to assist all Virginians through this crisis. I am in communication today with the Governor to see how the state can assist our citizens and businesses through this extraordinary time. I am asking the Governor to provide meaningful relief and stand ready to return to Richmond if measures are needed beyond his executive powers. I would like to thank the Governor for his leadership during this time and encourage everyone to follow CDC guidelines and practice safe social distancing. With the closures of schools and many workplaces, some community services are adapting or offering additional resources during this time. For more information on COVID-19 and what you can do to be safe, please visit the Virginia Department of Health’s website  or the CDC website.

Below are just a few options and announcements affecting District 25 residents. We will update this list as we receive more information.

Regarding School Closures

We understand that the sudden closures of schools creates food insecurity for students on free or reduced lunch programs. Each locality is handling this differently. Please monitor your local school systems’ website and Facebook page to see current plans as they are updating frequently. Some school systems have not finalized their plans yet, but are anticipating something soon.

• Albemarle County: Student Meal Service During School Closure
• Alleghany County: Alleghany County Public Schools
• Buena Vista City: Buena Vista City Public Schools
• Charlottesville City: Neighborhood Meal Delivery During Closure
• Covington City: Coronavirus Updates
• Highland County: COVID-19 Emergency Food Program
• Lexington City: Official Website – City Schools
• Nelson County: Health and Wellness Update
• Rockbridge County: COVID-19 Information

Local Assistance

• If you are a member of the UVA community and are unable to leave grounds, UVA Food Pantry provides food and toiletries in the SAC building (1st floor of Newcomb Hall)
• SupportCville has a cultivated list of ways to provide and get help, including monetary, delivery of supplies, and legal concerns
• Rockbridge Area Relief Association will still be accepting help applications via phone and email. They will also be operating their food pantry on a drive-up basis. If you are low-risk, please consider volunteering

Do you know of an organization providing additional services during this time? Do you have opportunities for volunteering? Send us an email at [email protected].

We will do our best to provide updates and new information on social media.

“We, the people, are the boss, and we will get the kind of political leadership, be it good or bad, that we demand and deserve.”
— John F. Kennedy, Profiles in Courage

While the 2016 Presidential Election is dominating much of the news cycle and social media feeds, Virginians are set to vote tomorrow, November 3, on many state and local races. In addition to the 140 seats in the Virginia General Assembly on the ballot, we will elect constitutional officers, school board members, city councilors and supervisors.

If you have not already made plans to vote, please do so. You can check whether your registration is current, locate your polling place, and view your ballot at the Department of Elections website.

Take a friend. Remind your neighbors.

Also, please remember that voters must provide photo identification at the polls. A voter who forgets his or her ID can cast a provisional ballot.

Four years ago, less than 30 percent of Virginians came out to vote for state and local races. Yet, voter turnout exceeded 70 percent the following year in the Presidential election. In Virginia, voting is an annual responsibility.

It is an honor to serve in the Senate of Virginia, and I appreciate so much the support from residents of the 25th District and beyond. For those who live in the 25th, I ask for your vote tomorrow.

Best,

Creigh

P.S. Polls are open from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. I hope to see you out there!