Businesses across the state are responding to the coronavirus outbreak. See below for COVID-19 resources for Washington state employers, public health resources, information about response funds, and how to help.
Washington State Official COVID-19 Website:
The state’s Coronavirus Response portal links to official information from a variety of trusted sources. The website provides links to resources for families, businesses, and workers, including how to get help with finances, food, housing, and childcare. You can also visit the site for news, how to help others during this time, government emergency actions, health recommendations, guidance for schools, and more.
Governor Inslee’s Stay Home/Stay Healthy Order:
- The governor’s “Stay Home/Stay Healthy” order issued on March 23 is in effect through April 6. It requires non-essential businesses to close and prohibits public and private gatherings.
- Essential Business: What is Open, What is Closed
COVID-19 Resources for Employers:
- Washington State: Resources for Businesses and Workers
- Employment Security Department: COVID-19 Newsroom
- Perkins Coie: Coronavirus (COVID-19) Guidance for Business
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employers
Public Health Resources:
- Washington State Department of Health
- Washington State Department of Health Q&A
- Seattle & King County Public Health Department
- Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department
- Thurston County Public Health & Social Services
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- World Health Organization
- Washington State Local Health Departments and Districts
Ways to Help:
- #AllinSeattle: This group is quickly deploying resources directly to proven non-profits who can deliver it to those most in need. At launch on March 23, they’ve raised over $27 million to contribute directly to these non-profits. Join by donating to the organization of your choice at allinseattle.org.
- Seattle Foundation COVID-19 Response Fund: The COVID-19 Response Fund, hosted by the Seattle Foundation, is focused on providing flexible resources to organizations working with communities who are disproportionately impacted by coronavirus and the economic consequences of the outbreak. It is designed to complement the work of public health officials and expand local capacity to address all aspects of the outbreak as efficiently as possible. Currently the fund has raised $11 million and is finalizing criteria for distribution of funds. They plan to have two-thirds of the funds distributed by the end of March. You can get additional information or donate here.
- Coronavirus Response Fund for Snohomish County: Hosted by the Community Foundation of Snohomish County, the Coronavirus Response Fund will provide flexible resources to regional organizations working with communities who are disproportionately impacted by coronavirus and the economic consequences of this outbreak. The first round of funding awarded $250,000 to nonprofits providing immediate, safety-net services to families, seniors, and individuals. To learn more or donate, see here.
- COVID-19 Response Fund for Eastern Washington: A coalition of philanthropic, government, and business partners have joined forces create an Eastern Washington COVID-19 Response Fund, hosted by Innovia. In the coming weeks, the fund will begin to provide grants to community-based organizations at the frontlines of the region’s coronavirus outbreak in Eastern Washington. See here to donate or get additional information.
- BloodWorks Northwest Needs Donors: There is an ongoing need for blood donors to maintain a safe and reliable blood supply during this time. For the safety and care of current and future patients, Bloodworks Northwest is urging the community to step up to donate and spread word of the need. Please consider scheduling an appointment to donate blood and encourage your colleagues, family, and friends to do the same. More information is available here.
- Donate to Food Banks: In light of the economic impacts of COVID-19, organizations working to solve hunger need support. Northwest Harvest provides meals to food banks across the state, and Food Lifeline distributes food to Western Washington food banks.
Updated 3/25/20.