September 14 Coronavirus Update
We here in the MetroWest, and particularly those in the Hopkinton community, are very proud to serve as the start of the Boston Marathon. This year’s 124th running of the Boston Marathon was a little different, postponed to September due to the COVID-19 pandemic and held “virtually,” with thousands of participants around the Commonwealth and around the country racing their own 26.2-mile courses in commemoration of this special event.
I want to congratulate all the runners who participated in this year’s race, as well as all the race officials, volunteers, public safety officials, and so many others who worked so hard to make this year’s unorthodox race a special one for all who competed. I certainly missed seeing the waves of runners cross the starting line in Hopkinton on Patriots’ Day, but I know that our marathon runners and marathon supporters kept the same “Boston Strong” spirit alive today and will continue to do so for years to come.
You can view a special marathon virtual celebration on WBZ/CBS tonight at 8pm on television and livestreamed at https://boston.cbslocal.com/, featuring the Governor, representatives of the Boston Athletic Association, and other local officials offering congratulations to the runners and reflections on this year’s race. Our ability to keep long-held community traditions alive throughout the pandemic is a testament to the creativity, resolve, and dedication of the countless individuals who work to adapt to our “new normal” and to keep all of us safe.
New Updates
Coronavirus Testing and Response
- Today, the state saw 235 new positive cases of COVID-19 in the Commonwealth, with 123,139 total cases and 9 reported deaths as of today at 4pm.
- The average new cases over the last 7 days is 299, and the average number of deaths is 12.
- The 7-day weighted average positive test rate in Massachusetts is 0.8%.
- 302 individuals are hospitalized with COVID-19 statewide, a decrease of 11 from yesterday.
- The Department of Public Health regularly releases a daily reporting dashboard containing detailed information on hospitalizations, demographic data, and county-by-county breakdowns of cases. To view the DPH dashboard, visit here.
Heath Care
- Hospital Capacity: As of 9/14, 38% of the Commonwealth’s 12,700 permanent and temporary hospital beds are available for new patients if needed. In the MetroWest region, 40% of the region’s 2,000 beds are available for new patients.
- Long-term care: As of 9/14, there are 383 long-term care facilities with at least one case of COVID-19 and 24,716 staff and residents in facilities who have tested positive for COVID-19. 5,909 COVID-19 deaths have been reported in long-term care facilities.
- For information on COVID-19 testing and guidance on whether you should get tested, how to get tested, and where to get tested, visit the COVID-19 testing portal at mass.gov/gettested.
Local Resources
All of the towns in the 8th Middlesex District now have centralized COVID-19 resource pages with resources, updates, and alerts regarding town services.
Holliston | Hopkinton | Southborough | Westborough
The Department of Public Health also releases weekly reports on town-by-town COVID-19 case numbers and rates, which can be found online here.
Resources for Residents Experiencing Job Loss or Loss of Income
COVID-19 is causing broad disruption to the economy which is affecting incomes of many residents and families. There are a number of State resources and supports available to support workers who may find themselves unemployed or otherwise income-constrained during this uncertain time.
Guide for job/income loss resources: https://carolyndykema.com/covid19-state-resources
Department of Unemployment Assistance: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/department-of-unemployment-assistance
Department of Transitional Assistance: https://www.mass.gov/dta-covid-19-resources-and-support
Statewide Information
Information on the state of emergency and related orders can be found here.
Reopening guidance can be found at mass.gov/reopening.
Information on COVID-19 testing can be found at mass.gov/gettested.
How You Can Help (updated)
Holliston Youth and Family Services requests your support of the Community Action Fund, which provides emergency assistance to those affected by COVID-19. Learn more or donate here.
Southborough’s Community Fund has supported local COVID-19 response efforts and families impacted by the pandemic, as well as other charitable organizations in Town. Learn more or donate here.
The Westborough Rotary Club has launched a COVID-19 Community Relief Fund to provide assistance to those affected by COVID-19. Learn more or donate here.
The American Red Cross is asking for blood donations, the need for which is significant due to blood drive cancellations. The need is dire due to the cancellation of hundreds of blood drives. People can donate at the Worcester American Red Cross Donor Center, 381 Plantation St. Worcester or call 1-800-RED CROSS. Some local donor sites, including the Natick Senior Center, are available for appointments as well.
Information on our local food pantries can be found below. The most pressing need right now is cash donations to ensure that food drop-off and delivery do not inadvertently contribute to the spread of the virus.
Holliston Pantry Shelf | Project Just Because | Southborough Food Pantry | Westborough Food Pantry
