Coronavirus News: Mount Vernon stay-at-home advisory takes effect amid surging COVID cases
COVID-19 News and Information
MOUNT VERNON, Westchester County (WABC) -- Mount Vernon has issued a stay-at-home advisory amid surging COVID-19 cases, with the new guidelines taking effect Monday.
The city has experienced a double-digit increase in daily coronavirus cases, with a total of 84 new cases so far in November.
As of Saturday, the total number of cases is 124.
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Residents are strongly advised to stay home unless traveling for work, school, or essential items.
The Mount Vernon COVID taskforce will continue to enforce social distancing regulations and say they will shut down businesses that fail to follow proper guidelines.
Residents are urged to report COVID-19 issues by calling 914-665-2626 or 914-665-2500.
Additionally on Monday, Goya Foods donated 15,664 pounds of food to The Friends of Recreation at the Doles Center | Mount Vernon Community Center in preparation for Thanksgiving.
A socially distanced "Grab and Go" distribution of grocery bags filled with Goya products like chick peas, rice, beans, nectars, meat and canned vegetables were set up for families impacted by the pandemic in the Mount Vernon area.
"So anybody who is putting this together, I mean, ah...I can't estimate it. We thank them for everything," said Mount Vernon resident Tony Ajogboro.
The pandemic has led to an unemployment rate in Mount Vernon of 20-25%. The loss of income has a profound impact on the ability to make ends meet.
Free food on the table means families can re-direct money to other expenses like rent, bills and medication.
"This is really, really good, you know. I appreciate everything that I get and it's a blessing - everything that I get," said Mount Vernon resident Eloisa Tejada.
Mount Vernon Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard said before the pandemic there was food insecurity across the community, and now COVID has demonstrated how much more of a need there is.
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