By Kathy Chouteau
Richmond Main Street Initiative (RMSI) is stepping up during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in an effort to support the city’s downtown, as well as the community as a whole.
In response to the pandemic and the ensuing shelter-at-home order, the nonprofit has launched an online Community Resources Directory that offers one-stop-shopping for key local resources.
The directory is an evolving “work in progress” and “is intended to assist in sharing information about resources available to individuals and businesses in relation to the current coronavirus (COVID19) pandemic,” RMSI said in a statement.
Directory categories include: Local, State, Federal Health & Safety Updates; Health & Safety Guidelines for Employers & Small Businesses; Food Access Resources; Housing, Utilities & Internet Assistance; School Closure Info & Support for Students & Youth; and Emotional Support & Physical Wellbeing.
RSMI gathered its directory info from a variety of sources ranging from the City of Richmond, Supervisor John Gioia’s office, Contra Costa Health Services, Building Blocks for Kids, Fresh Approach and others. According to the statement, the info is updated daily.
Also in a statement on its website, RMSI remained focused on its mission of promoting Richmond’s downtown businesses whenever possible during the shelter-at-home.
“Spend your dollars at downtown businesses, especially restaurants,” the nonprofit stated. “Many will remain open for to-go and delivery service.”
RSMI’s Business Directory is updated frequently and has the latest info about businesses that are still able to provide services amidst COVID-19 closures.
Richmond residents who spot blight issues were also encouraged by RMSI to report them to the City of Richmond on its website or app via their device’s relevant app store.
While RSMI’s office is currently closed due to COVID-19, its staff are working remotely and can be contacted at [email protected]. For more info about RMSI, visit the nonprofit’s website here.
