Written by Dear Neighbors,
ANW is committed to building a safe, connected and informed community. This has been our mission since our founding in 2010, and the current situation reminds us of the significance of our core values. As we monitor the growing impact of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, we know our community will work together to get through these unprecedented times. Already we have received an overwhelming show of support from our community with offers of help.
First and foremost, we would like to remind our neighbors that the best way to keep our community safe is to follow the CDC guidelines to prevent the spread of the highly contagious COVID-19. Current guidelines for staying safe and containing the spread are outlined here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/prevention.html.
We recognize that social distancing measures and the need to self-isolate may place a significant burden on our most vulnerable community members. We would like to understand the needs of our neighbors and ask that anyone who may need assistance please complete the Aspinwall Community Needs Survey. Aspinwall businesses are also encouraged to complete this survey to help us understand how the community can best support our favorite local spots while observing social distancing measures.
If you are in need of urgent financial support, please look into the Hebrew Free Loan Association’s program for individuals, families, and small businesses to cover the financial impact of COVID-19. Additional information can be found here: http://hflapgh.org/hfl-unveils-loan-program-to-address-financial-impact-of-covid-19-pandemic/.
As the health and safety of our neighbors is of the utmost importance, ANW is taking the following measures:
- Community gatherings, such as our annual Earth Day Green Streets event, are under evaluation. Depending on CDC guidelines in place at the time, events may be canceled, rescheduled or changed to accommodate social distancing measures.
- Our soup making and delivery program is temporarily suspended while we evaluate how we can safely provide this service to our neighbors.
- ANW board and committee meetings will be held remotely.
- Should ANW recruit volunteers to help our neighbors, all volunteers will be required to follow strict guidelines to avoid the potential spread of COVID-19.
Finally, we encourage you to pick up the phone and reach out to your neighbors and friends. While social distancing measures may keep us physically isolated, there are so many ways to stay connected. Stay positive, stay healthy, stay kind — we know our amazing community is up for the challenge and we’re here for you!
ANW Board
- Jenny Ellermeyer, President
- Sarah Shaffer, Communications Chair
- Jean Stone, Treasurer
- Tina Petrusic Cooper, Member
