CORONAVIRUS - WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW - UPDATES
Due to the continued spread of the current Pandemic, we want to assure you that in House of Peru the Board of Directors continue monitoring the latest information every day and we are also trying our best to continue helping and supporting our community as much as we can, because in House of Peru the most important is YOU ! We care about our people and our community, so we will continue finding ways to continue helping and supporting all those who are in need. Now more than ever we need to stay together and stronger to battle this situation. We thought we could provide you with some useful information. Si necesitas la información en español, por favor no dudes en escribirnos al correo: presidenthouseofperu@gmail.com
Here is what you need to know:
In accordance with the guidelines announced by the Governor of California: Newsom, constituents over the age 65, and people with chronic disease, should stay home and not report to work.
EMBASSY OF THE US IN LIMA-PERU: https://pe.usembassy.gov/
As of April 04th, the U.S. Embassy has repatriated approximately 4,680 U.S. Citizens. Flights are repatriating Americans from different parts of Peru. They are aware of U.S. Citizens who remain in Lima, Iquitos, Arequipa and other parts of Peru. They are exploring many options. They will continue to facilitate flights. Confirmed passengers will receive a repatriation flight confirmation e-mail with a copy of a transit letter. Travelers should print and use this letter to get to their designated meeting point for the flight. In addition, due to COVID-19 concerns, all passengers will be required to sign an assumption-of-risk waiver prior to boarding.
The U.S. Embassy in Peru is reduced to emergency services only. Any non-emergency appointments are canceled indefinitely, including visas, passports, consular reports of birth abroad, notarial appointments, and general services related to American Citizen Services. Please continue to check their website for when appointments will open. They continue to address U.S. Citizen emergencies, including repatriation requests, via email (LimaACS@state.gov) or phone (618-2000). Although telephone hold times may be long due to the volume of calls.
SENIOR MEAL SERVICES
Seniors ages 65 and older are more likely to get very sick from COVID-19, which is why the state of CA is recommending older adults at elevated risk remain at home until further guidance is issued. If you fall into this group and do not have someone who can pick up groceries on your behalf, please reach out to the following San Diego organizations for assistance:
ServSafe is providing FREE training for the industry focused on food safety and COVID-19 precautions. FREE Food Handler Training can be accessed here: https://www.servsafe.com/access/ss/Catalog/FreeFoodHandlerProducts
CRISIS HOTLINES (24/7)
If you or someone you know is feeling overwhelmed or hopeless about their situation, you can contact a crisis worker at the below numbers.Crisis Text Line (https://www.crisistextline.org/):
Finding the Right Help During the COVID-19 (coronavirus) Outbreakhttps://www.benefits.gov/news/article/393?utm_source=govdelivery&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=dr374
Paycheck Protection Program LOAN
An Small Business Administration loan that helps small businesses keep their workforce employed during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis. SBA will forgive loans if all employees are kept on the payroll for eight weeks and the money is used for payroll, rent, mortgage interest, or utilities. Learn more: https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/coronavirus-relief-options/paycheck-protection-program-ppp
COVID $10k GrantDisaster Loan Assistance: https://covid19relief.sba.gov/#/
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON THE VIRUS FROM JOHNS HOPKINS HOSPITAL
The following is from Irene Ken physician, whose daughter is an Asst. Prof in infectious diseases at Johns Hopkins University.
* The virus is not a living organism, but a protein molecule (DNA) covered by a protective layer of lipid (fat), which, when absorbed by the cells of the ocular, nasal or buccal mucosa, changes their genetic code (mutation) and converts them into aggressor and multiplier cells.
* Since the virus is not a living organism but a protein molecule, it is not killed, but decays on its own. The disintegration time depends on the temperature, humidity and type of material where it lies.
* The virus is very fragile; the only thing that protects it is a thin outer layer of fat. That is why any soap or detergent is the best remedy, because the foam CUTS the FAT (that is why you have to rub so much: for 20 seconds or more, to make a lot of foam). By dissolving the fat layer, the protein molecule disperses and breaks down on its own.
* HEAT melts fat; this is why it is so good to use water above 25/80 degrees C/F for washing hands, clothes and everything. In addition, hot water makes more foam and that makes it even more useful.
* Alcohol or any mixture with alcohol over 65% DISSOLVES ANY FAT, especially the external lipid layer of the virus.
* Any mix with 1 part bleach and 5 parts water directly dissolves the protein, breaks it down from the inside.
* Oxygenated water helps long after soap, alcohol and chlorine, because peroxide dissolves the virus protein, but you have to use it pure and it hurts your skin.
* NO BACTERICIDE OR ANTIBIOTIC SERVES. The virus is not a living organism like bacteria; antibodies cannot kill what is not alive.
* NEVER shake used or unused clothing, sheets or cloth. While it is glued to a porous surface, it is very inert and disintegrates only:
- between 3 hours (fabric and porous), - 4 hours (copper and wood) - 24 hours (cardboard) - 42 hours (metal) and - 72 hours (plastic).
But if you shake it or use a feather duster, the virus molecules float in the air for up to 3 hours, and can lodge in your nose.
* The virus molecules remain very stable in external cold, or artificial as air conditioners in houses and cars. They also need moisture to stay stable, and especially darkness. Therefore, dehumidified, dry, warm and bright environments will degrade it faster.
* UV LIGHT on any object that may contain it breaks down the virus protein. For example, to disinfect and reuse a mask is perfect. Be careful, it also breaks down collagen (which is protein) in the skin.
* The virus CANNOT go through healthy skin.
* Vinegar is NOT useful because it does not break down the protective layer of fat.
* NO SPIRITS, NOR VODKA, serve. The strongest vodka is 40% alcohol, and you need 65%.
* LISTERINE IF IT SERVES! It is 65 % alcohol.
* The more confined the space, the more concentration of the virus there can be. The more open or naturally ventilated, the less.
* You have to wash your hands before and after touching mucosa, food, locks, knobs, switches, remote control, cell phone, watches, computers, desks, TV, etc. And when using the bathroom.
* You have to HUMIDIFY HANDS DRY from so much washing them, because the molecules can hide in the micro cracks. The thicker the moisturizer, the better.
* Also keep your NAILS SHORT so that the virus does not hide there.
* The more confined the space, the more concentration of the virus there can be. The more open or naturally ventilated, the less.
Free Meals
Packaged and prepared meals will be distributed by Feeding San Diego (https://feedingsandiego.org/) at drive-thru/walk-up stations at designated schools throughout the San Diego Unified School District. Children will need to be present to receive meals, and each child ages 18 years and younger can take one lunch and one breakfast for the next day. All food will be consumed off site. The following serving locations will distribute meals for San Diego Unified students between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.:
Sick or Quarantined
State Disability Insurance - If you're unable to work due to having or being exposed to COVID-19 (certified by a medical professional), you can file a State Disability Insurance claim by clicking here: https://www.edd.ca.gov/disability/sdi_online.htm. The governor has issued an Executive Order to waive the one-week waiting period, so you can collect DI benefits for the first week you are out of work. If you are eligible, the Employment Development Department processes and issues payments within a few weeks of receiving a claim.
Price Gouging
Californians shouldn't have to worry about being cheated while dealing with the effects of coronavirus. Our state's price gouging law protects people impacted by an emergency from illegal price gouging on medical supplies, food, gas, and other essential supplies. We encourage anyone who has been the victim of price gouging, or who has information regarding potential price gouging, to immediately file a complaint through The Attorney General's website, call (800) 952-5225, or contact your local police department or sheriff's office.
Tax Filing
The governor's Executive Order also delays the deadline for state tax filing by 60 days for individuals and businesses unable to file on time based on compliance with public health requirements related to COVID-19 filings. That means you will have until July 15th, 2020 to file your taxes.
Reduced Work Hours
Workplace Closed - If your hours have been reduced or your employer has shut down, you can file an Unemployment Insurance (https://www.edd.ca.gov/unemployment/) claim. This Unemployment Insurance provides partial wage replacement benefit payments to workers who lose their job or have their hours reduced through no fault of their own. Eligible individuals can receive benefits that range from $40-$450 per week.
Caregiving - If you're unable to work because you are caring for an ill or quarantined family member with COVID-19 (certified by a medical professional), you can file a Paid Family Leave (https://www.edd.ca.gov/disability/paid_family_leave.htm) claim. This provides up to six weeks of benefit payments to eligible workers who have a full or partial loss of wages because they need time off work to care for a seriously ill family member or to bond with a new child. Benefit amounts are approximately 60-70 percent of wages (depending on income) and range from $50-$1,300 a week.
One thing you should know about those Insurances, there is a long list of people applying everyday, so you may want to start the process right away.
Utilities
San Diego Gas and Electric (SDG&E) and Southern California Edison (SCE) will not shut off services due to inability to pay during this month (March).
Food Bank
The San Diego Food and Diaper Bank is continuing normal operation hours and is taking necessary precautions to help make sure that food and products remain safe. The normal distribution sites will remain open. There will be no immigration consequences for using these resources. If you are in need of food assistance, please call 2-1-1 from your phone, and a 2-1-1 operator will provide you with the location of your nearest food distribution site. You can also call the Food Bank’s toll free number: 1-866-350-FOOD (3663) or visit their website: https://my211.force.com/s/service-directory?code=BD
San Diego Worker Assistance InitiativeThe United Way of San Diego has always been there for those who need additional support, and the current health crisis of COVID-19 is no different. They are hosting the San Diego Worker Assistance Initiative as part of the greater San Diego COVID-19 Community Response Fund, to provide flexible resources to individuals impacted by layoffs and reduced working hours implemented by employers. They plan to support our community in response to crisis situations and emergencies now and in the future. This program is designed for low-wage workers who need support for a limited but undetermined length of time. The help they receive goes to utilities and rent/mortgage payments. Click on this link: https://uwsd.org/covid19/ to find out more information and to apply.
National Emergency in Peru
The President of Peru has declared a national emergency and ordered the closing of all the borders of Peru (sea, land and air), therefore there are no flights coming in or out to/of Peru. The Peruvian Government has established a protocol for all Peruvians who are “stuck” in the US to report to the nearest Peruvian Consulate or Embassy and register in their database, so the Government can take proper steps to help them during the Quarantine in Peru. So if you know family members or friends who may need help in this regard, please tell them to call the Consulate in Los Angeles: 213 235-6490 or just let us know immediately so we can direct them properly.
We know this is a lot of information but we thought it may be helpful to some of you and maybe some of your friends or acquaintances. We will continue doing our best to help and support our community, especially those who are in need.
Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns
Stay Safe and Healthy -
Board of Directors of House of Perú
Here is what you need to know:
In accordance with the guidelines announced by the Governor of California: Newsom, constituents over the age 65, and people with chronic disease, should stay home and not report to work.
EMBASSY OF THE US IN LIMA-PERU: https://pe.usembassy.gov/
As of April 04th, the U.S. Embassy has repatriated approximately 4,680 U.S. Citizens. Flights are repatriating Americans from different parts of Peru. They are aware of U.S. Citizens who remain in Lima, Iquitos, Arequipa and other parts of Peru. They are exploring many options. They will continue to facilitate flights. Confirmed passengers will receive a repatriation flight confirmation e-mail with a copy of a transit letter. Travelers should print and use this letter to get to their designated meeting point for the flight. In addition, due to COVID-19 concerns, all passengers will be required to sign an assumption-of-risk waiver prior to boarding.
The U.S. Embassy in Peru is reduced to emergency services only. Any non-emergency appointments are canceled indefinitely, including visas, passports, consular reports of birth abroad, notarial appointments, and general services related to American Citizen Services. Please continue to check their website for when appointments will open. They continue to address U.S. Citizen emergencies, including repatriation requests, via email (LimaACS@state.gov) or phone (618-2000). Although telephone hold times may be long due to the volume of calls.
SENIOR MEAL SERVICES
Seniors ages 65 and older are more likely to get very sick from COVID-19, which is why the state of CA is recommending older adults at elevated risk remain at home until further guidance is issued. If you fall into this group and do not have someone who can pick up groceries on your behalf, please reach out to the following San Diego organizations for assistance:
- San Diego Food Bank's Senior Food Program : https://sandiegofoodbank.org/programs/senior-food-program/
- Meals on Wheels is continuing deliveries with COVID-19 precautions in place. METRO SAN DIEGO SERVICE CENTER: ((619)) 295-9501; SOUTH COUNTY SERVICE CENTER: ((619)) 420-2782
- Jewish Family Services is distributing pre-bagged food via drive-thru on their main campus located at 8804 Balboa Avenue. Monday-Friday; 11 a.m.-1 p.m. They are also delivering meals for homebound seniors who are self-isolating. For more information, contact: (858) 637-3210.
- National City Nutrition Center is continuing its Home Delivered Meals Program. The center's lunch program has changed to pick-up ONLY. - https://www.nationalcityca.gov/government/community-services/facilities/nutrition-center
ServSafe is providing FREE training for the industry focused on food safety and COVID-19 precautions. FREE Food Handler Training can be accessed here: https://www.servsafe.com/access/ss/Catalog/FreeFoodHandlerProducts
CRISIS HOTLINES (24/7)
If you or someone you know is feeling overwhelmed or hopeless about their situation, you can contact a crisis worker at the below numbers.Crisis Text Line (https://www.crisistextline.org/):
- Text HOME to 741741
- A crisis worker will text back immediately and continue to talk with you.
- 1-800-273-8255
- 1-888- 724-7240
Finding the Right Help During the COVID-19 (coronavirus) Outbreakhttps://www.benefits.gov/news/article/393?utm_source=govdelivery&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=dr374
Paycheck Protection Program LOAN
An Small Business Administration loan that helps small businesses keep their workforce employed during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis. SBA will forgive loans if all employees are kept on the payroll for eight weeks and the money is used for payroll, rent, mortgage interest, or utilities. Learn more: https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/coronavirus-relief-options/paycheck-protection-program-ppp
COVID $10k GrantDisaster Loan Assistance: https://covid19relief.sba.gov/#/
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON THE VIRUS FROM JOHNS HOPKINS HOSPITAL
The following is from Irene Ken physician, whose daughter is an Asst. Prof in infectious diseases at Johns Hopkins University.
* The virus is not a living organism, but a protein molecule (DNA) covered by a protective layer of lipid (fat), which, when absorbed by the cells of the ocular, nasal or buccal mucosa, changes their genetic code (mutation) and converts them into aggressor and multiplier cells.
* Since the virus is not a living organism but a protein molecule, it is not killed, but decays on its own. The disintegration time depends on the temperature, humidity and type of material where it lies.
* The virus is very fragile; the only thing that protects it is a thin outer layer of fat. That is why any soap or detergent is the best remedy, because the foam CUTS the FAT (that is why you have to rub so much: for 20 seconds or more, to make a lot of foam). By dissolving the fat layer, the protein molecule disperses and breaks down on its own.
* HEAT melts fat; this is why it is so good to use water above 25/80 degrees C/F for washing hands, clothes and everything. In addition, hot water makes more foam and that makes it even more useful.
* Alcohol or any mixture with alcohol over 65% DISSOLVES ANY FAT, especially the external lipid layer of the virus.
* Any mix with 1 part bleach and 5 parts water directly dissolves the protein, breaks it down from the inside.
* Oxygenated water helps long after soap, alcohol and chlorine, because peroxide dissolves the virus protein, but you have to use it pure and it hurts your skin.
* NO BACTERICIDE OR ANTIBIOTIC SERVES. The virus is not a living organism like bacteria; antibodies cannot kill what is not alive.
* NEVER shake used or unused clothing, sheets or cloth. While it is glued to a porous surface, it is very inert and disintegrates only:
- between 3 hours (fabric and porous), - 4 hours (copper and wood) - 24 hours (cardboard) - 42 hours (metal) and - 72 hours (plastic).
But if you shake it or use a feather duster, the virus molecules float in the air for up to 3 hours, and can lodge in your nose.
* The virus molecules remain very stable in external cold, or artificial as air conditioners in houses and cars. They also need moisture to stay stable, and especially darkness. Therefore, dehumidified, dry, warm and bright environments will degrade it faster.
* UV LIGHT on any object that may contain it breaks down the virus protein. For example, to disinfect and reuse a mask is perfect. Be careful, it also breaks down collagen (which is protein) in the skin.
* The virus CANNOT go through healthy skin.
* Vinegar is NOT useful because it does not break down the protective layer of fat.
* NO SPIRITS, NOR VODKA, serve. The strongest vodka is 40% alcohol, and you need 65%.
* LISTERINE IF IT SERVES! It is 65 % alcohol.
* The more confined the space, the more concentration of the virus there can be. The more open or naturally ventilated, the less.
* You have to wash your hands before and after touching mucosa, food, locks, knobs, switches, remote control, cell phone, watches, computers, desks, TV, etc. And when using the bathroom.
* You have to HUMIDIFY HANDS DRY from so much washing them, because the molecules can hide in the micro cracks. The thicker the moisturizer, the better.
* Also keep your NAILS SHORT so that the virus does not hide there.
* The more confined the space, the more concentration of the virus there can be. The more open or naturally ventilated, the less.
Free Meals
Packaged and prepared meals will be distributed by Feeding San Diego (https://feedingsandiego.org/) at drive-thru/walk-up stations at designated schools throughout the San Diego Unified School District. Children will need to be present to receive meals, and each child ages 18 years and younger can take one lunch and one breakfast for the next day. All food will be consumed off site. The following serving locations will distribute meals for San Diego Unified students between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.:
- Clark Middle School
- Cherokee Point Elementary
- Sherman Elementary
- Zamorano Fine Arts Academy
- Kearny High School
- O'Farrell Charter
- Farb Middle
- Walker Elementary
Sick or Quarantined
State Disability Insurance - If you're unable to work due to having or being exposed to COVID-19 (certified by a medical professional), you can file a State Disability Insurance claim by clicking here: https://www.edd.ca.gov/disability/sdi_online.htm. The governor has issued an Executive Order to waive the one-week waiting period, so you can collect DI benefits for the first week you are out of work. If you are eligible, the Employment Development Department processes and issues payments within a few weeks of receiving a claim.
Price Gouging
Californians shouldn't have to worry about being cheated while dealing with the effects of coronavirus. Our state's price gouging law protects people impacted by an emergency from illegal price gouging on medical supplies, food, gas, and other essential supplies. We encourage anyone who has been the victim of price gouging, or who has information regarding potential price gouging, to immediately file a complaint through The Attorney General's website, call (800) 952-5225, or contact your local police department or sheriff's office.
Tax Filing
The governor's Executive Order also delays the deadline for state tax filing by 60 days for individuals and businesses unable to file on time based on compliance with public health requirements related to COVID-19 filings. That means you will have until July 15th, 2020 to file your taxes.
Reduced Work Hours
Workplace Closed - If your hours have been reduced or your employer has shut down, you can file an Unemployment Insurance (https://www.edd.ca.gov/unemployment/) claim. This Unemployment Insurance provides partial wage replacement benefit payments to workers who lose their job or have their hours reduced through no fault of their own. Eligible individuals can receive benefits that range from $40-$450 per week.
Caregiving - If you're unable to work because you are caring for an ill or quarantined family member with COVID-19 (certified by a medical professional), you can file a Paid Family Leave (https://www.edd.ca.gov/disability/paid_family_leave.htm) claim. This provides up to six weeks of benefit payments to eligible workers who have a full or partial loss of wages because they need time off work to care for a seriously ill family member or to bond with a new child. Benefit amounts are approximately 60-70 percent of wages (depending on income) and range from $50-$1,300 a week.
One thing you should know about those Insurances, there is a long list of people applying everyday, so you may want to start the process right away.
Utilities
San Diego Gas and Electric (SDG&E) and Southern California Edison (SCE) will not shut off services due to inability to pay during this month (March).
Food Bank
The San Diego Food and Diaper Bank is continuing normal operation hours and is taking necessary precautions to help make sure that food and products remain safe. The normal distribution sites will remain open. There will be no immigration consequences for using these resources. If you are in need of food assistance, please call 2-1-1 from your phone, and a 2-1-1 operator will provide you with the location of your nearest food distribution site. You can also call the Food Bank’s toll free number: 1-866-350-FOOD (3663) or visit their website: https://my211.force.com/s/service-directory?code=BD
San Diego Worker Assistance InitiativeThe United Way of San Diego has always been there for those who need additional support, and the current health crisis of COVID-19 is no different. They are hosting the San Diego Worker Assistance Initiative as part of the greater San Diego COVID-19 Community Response Fund, to provide flexible resources to individuals impacted by layoffs and reduced working hours implemented by employers. They plan to support our community in response to crisis situations and emergencies now and in the future. This program is designed for low-wage workers who need support for a limited but undetermined length of time. The help they receive goes to utilities and rent/mortgage payments. Click on this link: https://uwsd.org/covid19/ to find out more information and to apply.
National Emergency in Peru
The President of Peru has declared a national emergency and ordered the closing of all the borders of Peru (sea, land and air), therefore there are no flights coming in or out to/of Peru. The Peruvian Government has established a protocol for all Peruvians who are “stuck” in the US to report to the nearest Peruvian Consulate or Embassy and register in their database, so the Government can take proper steps to help them during the Quarantine in Peru. So if you know family members or friends who may need help in this regard, please tell them to call the Consulate in Los Angeles: 213 235-6490 or just let us know immediately so we can direct them properly.
We know this is a lot of information but we thought it may be helpful to some of you and maybe some of your friends or acquaintances. We will continue doing our best to help and support our community, especially those who are in need.
Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns
Stay Safe and Healthy -
Board of Directors of House of Perú