These are unprecedented times for the YMCA, the nation, and the world. As the coronavirus pandemic continues to evolve, the YMCA of Western North Carolina is adapting to adjust operations. Effective Monday, March 16, all YMCA of WNC centers will close to the public for at least two weeks. These locations are the Asheville YMCA, Black Mountain YMCA, Corpening Memorial YMCA, Ferguson Family YMCA, Hendersonville Family YMCA, Reuter Family YMCA, Woodfin YMCA, YMCA at Mission Pardee Health Campus, and YMCA Youth Services Center at Beaverdam. All YMCA programs, including wellness programs, youth sports, and swim lessons, are also suspended. “The YMCA has a strong history of adapting to meet our community’s needs,” said President and CEO Paul Vest. “During this time of need, we are working with community partners to support our neighbors and to help them stay healthy in spirit, mind, and body.” Emergency child care programs Some parents must work and cannot stay home. We are here for them. Because the majority of our afterschool programs take place in schools that will be closed for the next two weeks, we are not able to run those programs. The Y will not charge families for afterschool care while schools are closed. Any payments that were made in advance have been credited to future weeks when our afterschool program resumes. We are in discussions with county emergency management officials, and are preparing to offer child care to healthcare providers and first responders in our centers while schools are closed. We are supporting our afterschool families by sending daily emails with fun activities, including active play ideas (scavenger hunts, kids yoga, kids Zumba and more), character development work, and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) projects for all ages. To help us assess community child care needs, we encourage area parents to complete this brief survey. Ensuring food security Starting March 16, our mobile food markets will hand out prepackaged bags for our neighbors to pick up at scheduled market sites. As always, there’s no charge for this service, and no questions are asked. We are also working with local school systems to deliver food to children in need. Starting Monday, March 16, we will serve packaged take-home dinners at Oakley, Estes, Black Mountain, Pisgah, West Buncombe, and Weaverville from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. alongside Buncombe County Schools lunch service. If anyone is quarantined and needs food resources, they can reach out to 828 775 7081 for assistance. Maintaining connections We realize this is an uncertain and anxious time, and that our members and participants depend on us for programs that support their health and well-being. Many of our evidenced-based health intervention classes, such as our Diabetes Prevention Program, are being held virtually. We are also pleased to offer our members access to a variety of free online workouts and group exercise classes to help them stay fit during this time of social distancing. These options offer high-quality workouts via TV, computer, tablet, and smartphone: MOSSA Move is free to Y members for 60 days. Y360 group exercise classes are also free to members for a limited time. “The Y is the leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community by connecting all people to their potential, purpose, and each other,” said Vest. “We have received an incredibly supportive response from our members and the community, with many members deciding to continue their membership dues to help us ensure vital services that preserve and protect community.” Those who need assistance with membership may call the Y Business Center at 828 210 5910. Providing emergency relief The community need for child care and food security is great. Please help us continue to provide these essential services by donating to our Community Emergency Response Fund. To volunteer to provide these services to the community, please see our volunteer signup page.

Asheville Area Arts Relief Fund Survey We are looking into starting an arts relief fund, but donations are hard to come by right now. Please complete this very short survey to help us determine how we can work together to support our local arts community during this pandemic. Take the Survey Americans for the Arts Economic Impact of Coronavirus (COVID-19) on the Arts and Cultural Sector Survey This survey is designed to collect information about the financial and human impacts that the spread of the coronavirus has had on arts and cultural organizations. The survey also collects basic information about the participating organizations so that the data can be parsed by specific geographic regions, artistic disciplines, and budget categories. Take the Survey

Until we reopen to Members and visitors, we invite you to check out the different ways you can interact with us online! • Explore the Collection and exhibitions virtually on our website. • Get to know our staff and volunteers, take deeper dives into artwork with our Works of the Week and more on the Museum blog. • Relive the grand reopening parties, check out artist interviews, and learn about the history of Pack Square on our YouTube channel. • Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. We’ve created a Museum From Home page on our website that we’ll update with virtual tours, children’s activities, and more.

Hello, We hope you and your family are coping with this unprecedented situation. The City and Development Services Department (DSD) recognize the essential importance of construction activity to the well-being of our community. In order to serve you during this time, we need your help! To ensure that permits and inspections are completed efficiently- and most importantly, safely– please read the messages below. Thank you! Important inspection safety update: Click here to review our modified operations policy for inspections. Online permitting is easy! You can now apply for any type of permit online through the Development Portal, as well as submit revisions and amendments, check permit status, pick up plan review comments and approved permits and schedule inspections. Use the “All other permit types” button on the Development Portal! Finally, a few reminders: DSD’s physical location is closed to the public. There are bins to drop off and pick up paper plans and permits if absolutely necessary. Permits submitted using the Development Portal will be prioritized for processing and routed for staff review more quickly. Customers may call and email staff as usual. Our main number is 828-259-5846. Please have patience with us, as there may be a higher-than-normal call volume. Additional contact information is available on this page. Staff remain available for pre-construction and early assistance meetings by remote video conference. Use the buttons on the Development Portal to sign up. Please check the DSD home page often for updates! https://www.ashevillenc.gov/department/development-services

Asheville Development Services Department to continue business, but will close doors Hello, we want to inform you of the latest news from the Development Services Department regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. The City recognizes the essential nature of construction activity and its impact on the lives of our community. We are continuing to do business, but with significant changes. First, the Department’s physical location at 161 S. Charlotte Street will be closed to the public indefinitely starting Tuesday, March 17. All inspections will take place as scheduled, but with social distancing precautions. Customers are encouraged to submit permit applications or other requests electronically using the Development Portal. We will make other online options available very soon. Customers may drop off paper plans when necessary at the building. A drop-off box will be made available at the north entrance of the building. You may call and email staff as usual. Our main number is 828-259-5846. Additional contact information is available on this page.  Please have patience with us, as there may be a higher-than-normal call volume. Please check our home page often for updates!

https://ashevillegrown.com/covid-19?utm_source=Farm+General+Interest&utm_campaign=ad50dba514-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_25_12_35&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_c6a6d890c6-ad50dba514-34117913

We are all in this together! Asheville Grown has put together a fantastic list of resources to assist the public with issues arising from the COVID-19 outbreak. From filing for unemployment to volunteering at Manna Food Bank, this list is helpful to anyone who is in need of support, or who has extra time, energy and resources to support others.

Supporting local businesses and workers is one thing each of us can do right now. We’ve set up this page with resources, key information, creative initiatives and contacts.

Statement from Asheville Mall Regarding Planned Events and Easter Photo Operations

The health and well-being of the community we serve, our customers, employees, and retail partners is our top priority. Out of an abundance of caution and based on guidelines for public meetings and events from the CDC and other governmental agencies, we have made the decision to cancel or postpone all planned events, which includes our seasonal Easter Bunny photo program.

We will continue to monitor updates from the CDC as well as local health officials and governmental agencies and will resume our event schedule as soon as it is appropriate.

Old Europe downtown will offer a free breakfast pastry and juice to any school-aged child from 7 a.m.-noon.

The door will be open for walk-in or call for curbside pickup, said an employee at the store.

“We hope this can help our community and reduce any struggles of replacing a school meal,” said the owners on Facebook. 13 Broadway St., 828-255-5999.

White Duck Taco Shop: One free regular priced taco for school-age children per day, Monday-Friday for lunch or dinner.

Baked Pie Company: Brown bag lunches will be available for school-age children, Tuesday-Saturday. Available at the Arden location, 4 Long Shoals Road from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Call ahead for curbside pickup: 828-333-4366.

Biscuit Head Biltmore: This popular biscuit shop has shifted to take-out only at its Biltmore location, with the request that customers call in orders. The West and South Asheville locations are now closed.  Call 828-505-3449. Pick up at 417 Biltmore Ave., suite 4F.

ConoSur: This Mills River restaurant will serve one free burger and fries to kids while schools are closed. Children have to be present. This restaurant has shifted to takeout only. 4195 Haywood Road, Mills River. www.conosurasheville.com. 828-513-1731.

Strada Italiano: Now through the end of March, this restaurant will offer a free slice of cheese or pepperoni pizza to grade-school students during weekday lunch.

The offer is available for curbside service only. The restaurant opens at noon. Call 828-348-8448 to order. 27 Broadway St.

Copper River Grill: Through April 3, this restaurant offers a complimentary lunch for school-aged children from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Order anything from the kids’ menu, no purchase necessary. 1302 Hendersonville Road. Call ahead: 828-210-8999.

Sand Hill Kitchen: Call 828-633-6868 to request a free bagged lunch. Lunches include peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, an apple, house-fried chips and pickles. Pick up in the drive thru at 491 Sardis Road.

Pescado’s Burritos: This Brevard restaurant offers free tacos for kids in need while schools are closed.

“If you or someone you know has children who may go hungry without a meal please come by and grab a taco, with chips and salsa,” they posted on social media. “No questions asked.”

The restaurant is asking diners to “pay it forward by and donating what you can spare. We can’t do this ourselves, the whole community needs to come together during this time of need.” 265 N Broad St., Brevard 828-884-5559.

COVID-19: Health and Safety Changes

VISIT WEB SITE FOR REFUND INFORMATION: https://www.biltmore.com/coronavirus-covid-19-update/

Blue Ridge Humane Society will remain closed to the public for the immediate future due to the ongoing developments of the spread of COVID-19 and at the recommendations of local and national experts. The closures will continued to be evaluated by BRHS staff to determine a safe return to public operation.

Adoptions are still ongoing by appointment only. Interested adopters can view available animals online and fill out the adoption application in order to set up a meeting. The Administrative Office and Blue Ridge Humane Society Thrift Store are closed entirely to the public at this time.

Blue Ridge Humane is still in need of help from our community however. Your support through fostering, donations, supplies, and adoptions means the world!

BRHS asks that the public monitor its website, www.blueridgehumane.org, and their social media channels for regular updates, as the reduction in services is subject to change based on guidance received from local and national public health officials.

With a potential decrease in staff due to risk of exposure, a probable increase in animals entering shelters, and reduction in income, Blue Ridge Humane asks for the community’s help in the following areas:

• Foster homes needed: We are seeking foster families who are willing to house animals during a time when our Adoption Center might not be fully staffed to do so. Please consider opening your heart and home to a homeless during this pandemic. We provide food, supplies, and medical care. You provide your lifesaving home and love. Social distancing doesn’t exist when you’re spending your time with a pet in need! Contact [email protected] for more information.

• Supplies needed: When shopping for supplies, consider adding an extra bag of pet food, a bottle of hand sanitizer, or a package of paper towels for our Adoption Center to your Amazon order. We need them daily to function and are feeling the effects of the surge in their demand. You purchase items from our Amazon Wish List or send a gift card!

• Adopt: Help us clear our Adoption Center. We currently have amazing pets in our care looking for a home. If you’ve considered adding a four-legged member to your family, now is a great time!

• Donate: As our revenue stream is limited during this time, consider a monetary donation to help ensure the continuation of animal care of Blue Ridge Humane now only now but in the future.

For more tips on preventing the spread of COVID-19 and preparing a care plan for your pet read our Emergency Plan Preparedness post or for a list of community resources in place to help pet owners during this time read Pet Resources Available.

If you believe in our cause, consider making a donation or learning how to volunteer by visiting the Blue Ridge Humane Society’s website at www.blueridgehumane.org or call (828) 692-2639.

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According to experts, outdoors might not be much safer as far as this fast-moving virus is concerned. Maintaining a distance of at least 6 feet from others, no matter indoors or outdoors, is the recommended practice during this pandemic.

 the Blue Ridge Parkway closed its year-round Visitor Center in Asheville, at Milepost 384 near the U.S. 74A entrance, out of safety concerns for staff, volunteers and visitors.

“Other year-round facilities on the parkway managed by local partners will remain open at this time,” according to a statement from the National Park Service. “These sites include the Folk Art Center at Milepost 382 and the Museum of NC Minerals at Milepost 331.”

The parkway motor road and all accessible trails will also remain open where not otherwise closed due to weather. Decisions regarding planned seasonal, spring openings, such as park campgrounds and visitor centers, will be made at a later date.

Similarly, Great Smoky Mountains National Park announced March 17 that Sugarlands, Oconaluftee, and Cades Cove visitor centers are closed until further notice for public safety.

Seasonally open park campgrounds, picnic areas, roads, trails and restroom facilities located adjacent to visitor centers remain open and accessible to the public.

Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site temporarily closed the Sandburg Home and Barn on March 17. This includes Sandburg Home tours, the park store, access to the goats and farm animals, all special events, all volunteer shifts, and in-park and off-site programs. Park grounds, except for the barn area, trails, and restrooms will remain open.

All nonessential, public-facing functions are closed. Essential operations — including emergency services, Public Health and Health and Human Services mandated services, sheriff’s office, permitting, solid waste, and Transportation — will continue.

“Since this is a rapidly evolving situation, we will reevaluate these changes as more information becomes available and provide more detailed information at buncombecounty.org,” said Day.

Until further notice, Buncombe is taking the following measures until further notice:

• Some nonessential employees will temporarily telecommute and/or be in emergency on-call status.
• For essential employees unable to work remotely, increasing physical working space between employees and modifying operations are among the options being evaluated.
• Public access to county facilities that house nonessential functions will be restricted or closed.
• All public libraries will be closed.
• All County parks will be closed.
• Permitting Office will be closed, but permitting remains available.

The county also offers the following online resources:

• Apply for Pistol Purchase Permit:  https://buncombeso.permitium.com/
• Pay Property Tax:  https://www.billpayit.com/buncombeconctax
• Request Birth, Death, Marriage Certificate: https://payonline.buncombecounty.org/RoD/Default.aspx
• Records: https://www.buncombecounty.org/Governing/Depts/register-of-deeds/recording/default.aspx
• Building Permits, Planning, Septic, Well, Water Testing Portal (account registration required, only “simple” permits can be applied for online):  https://onlinepermits.buncombecounty.org/CitizenAccess/Default.aspx

North Carolina Business Relief Resources

For all general questions, call Business Link North Carolina (BLNC) at 800.228.8443. BLNC staff are available Monday through Friday, 8:30 am – 4:00 pm. BLNC staff will connect your business to the appropriate organization for assistance. All inquiries will receive a response from a confidential business counselor within three (3) business days. “Se Habla Español.”

Is your business experiencing supply chain disruptions due to the impact of COVID-19?
Find the Manufacturer or Supplier your business needs at ManufacturedNC:

• This database of suppliers contains every kind of thing produced in NC. Whether you’re a manufacturer who wants to localize your supply chain or a business searching for packaging suppliers, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for here.
• If you are a N.C. manufacturer, please register your business with ManufacturedNC here. Other businesses may be looking for you!

Looking for funding resources that can provide low interest lending options?
North Carolina is home to a variety of non-profit lenders that can provide access to the capital your business needs. Each of these organizations is a Certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI). These include (in alpha order):

Carolina Community Impact, Inc.
919.861.5321
Carolina Community Impact, Inc. provides access to credit building and asset building techniques and services through financial education and small-dollar consumer loans.

Carolina Small Business Development Fund
(formerly known as The Support Center)
919.803.1437
Founded in 1990 to promote economic opportunity for all, the Carolina Small Business Development Fund is passionate about supporting small businesses. Because those who go into business for themselves should
never be left by themselves. Offices are located across the state.

N.C. Community Development Initiative
919.828.5655
Initiative Capital, the N.C. Community Development Initiative’s lending arm, provides strategic lending and investment for community economic developers and businesses that create jobs, promote economic growth
and facilitate the development of affordable housing and community revitalization, particularly in low-resource areas of the state.

Self-Help Credit Union
Lending Office: 800.476.7428
Business Loan Webform
Self-Help’s mission is to create and protect ownership and economic opportunity for all. They do this by providing responsible financial services; lending to individuals, small businesses and nonprofits; developing real estate; and promoting fair financial practices. Branch locations are in Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia.

Thread Capital
919.212.4950
[email protected]
Launched in June 2018 by the N.C. Rural Center, Thread Capital gives N.C.’s small businesses and entrepreneurs access to the resources they need to thrive. Thread Capital provides small business loans up
to $50,000 to traditionally underserved entrepreneurs in North Carolina. Thread Capital also provides disaster recovery loans up to $250,000. Rapid Recovery loans provide immediate cash to businesses to keep
their doors open in the aftermath of a natural disaster. Resilient Recovery loans are designed to help small businesses be better prepared for future disasters.

Do you need business counseling services, including layoff aversion strategies?

Business Edge Services
919.814.0400 or Toll Free: 800.562.6333 (Choose Option 2 – Business Services)
[email protected]
Business Edge is a series of layoff aversion strategies and activities designed to help North Carolina employers prevent or minimize job losses. Through Business Edge, workforce partners collaborate with
business leaders to assess the needs of, and options for, “at-risk” firms, and to deliver services that address those needs.

Small Business and Technology Development Center
919.715.7272 or Toll-Free: 800.258.0862
The Small Business and Technology Development Center provides management counseling and educational services to small and mid-sized businesses, including those in distress. Most of the SBTDC’s services are free of charge, and all are confidential. Offices are located across the state.

Small Business Center Network
Find your local office at a community college.
The Small Business Center Network is here to assist you and your business with resources and assistance related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The SBCN works in partnership with Federal, State and Local organizations to provide the information and strategies to help your business move forward. Offices are across the state in your local community colleges.

Do you need to file an Unemployment Insurance claim?

N.C. Division of Employment Security
888.737.0259
If you have lost your job or been laid off, file an Unemployment Insurance (UI) claim. If you are not eligible for UI benefits, the business owner and/or employee may be eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA). DUA is a federal program that provides temporary payments to people in a federally declared disaster area whose employment has been lost or interrupted as a direct result of the disaster. Business owners that are self-employed, farmers, or commercial fishermen, who are unemployed as a direct result of the disaster may be eligible.

Looking for other helpful government resources?

N.C. Dept. of Health and Human Services: COVID-19 Recommendations for Businesses and Employers

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employers

U.S. Small Business Administration: Coronavirus (COVID-19): Small Business Guidance & Loan Resources (Please note: North Carolina has not received a federal disaster designation yet.)