Thread by @PhillyMayor

Today's updates:
➡️Confirmed cases
➡️New @PHLPublicHealth drive-through testing site
➡️Change in free meal sites locations
➡️Update on #PHLCOVID19Fund
➡️Roundup of worker resources

The @PHLPublicHealth commissioner @DrTomFarley reported 23 new cases of the COVID-19 coronavirus, for a total of 67. Ten are healthcare workers.

The increase is due to both an increase in testing and the spread of the virus.

We expect that increase to continue.

Testing availability is improving. Most of the Philly area's large healthcare providers have set up testing sites. All sites are facing a shortage of kits, which is why they have criteria for who qualifies for a test.

Have symptoms? Call your provider, or the healthcare system that you last used.

If you cannot get tested through your provider, you may be eligible for the @PHLPublicHealth's new drive-through site in South Philadelphia

Criteria for new drive-through testing site:
✅Healthcare workers with symptoms, or
✅People over 50 with symptoms

If you meet this criteria *and* have been turned away from your provider, come to the site. Expect delays! We pulled this together very quickly.

Just this week, over 18,000 children received more than 42,300 free meals at sites around the city—and that doesn’t even include today.

Thank you, thank you, thank you to everyone who has pulled together this critical initiative to help keep our children healthy.

📅 New list and schedule for free meals.

While Philadelphia schools are closed, any student can pick up free meals at schools across the city.

Find a meal site near you ⬇ #PHLed bit.ly/2TPka2J

Yesterday we announced the new #PHLCOVID19FUND, which launched with $6.5 million in committed donations from organizations such as the @WilliamPennFdn.

I am thrilled to report that in just 24 for hours, it has raised an additional $67,000.

Donations came from 211 individuals and the Independence Foundation.

Learn more, and if you're able, consider supporting the fund: PHLCOVID19Fund.org

Just as important as philanthropy at such a difficult time is the need for faith.

On Sunday, March 22, we'll host faith leaders who will offer prayers for our city during this 1 p.m. daily briefing.

We recognize the significant impact that business closures have on workers in our city. Here are resources and information that can help people navigate this difficult time. phila.gov/2020-03-20-inf…

Lastly, if you can, please stay home. phila.gov/2020-03-18-phi…