Email: PIO@ocfl.net
Coronavirus Updates | October – December 2020
Latest news is displayed first.
For resources and information on the Coronavirus, visit www.ocfl.net/Coronavirus.
For the most recent updates, please visit www.ocfl.net/CoronavirusUpdates.
Watch the conference on the YouTube Video Stream or on Vimeo.
Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 12/28/2020
VACCINE UPDATES
At today’s news conference, Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings and Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer County received the COVID-19 Moderna vaccine.
Last week, Orange County received its first shipment of the COVID-19 vaccine, which included 16,000 doses of the Moderna vaccine. Since December 26, the County has been focusing on vaccinating its EMS workers in Orange County. For more information about this effort, visit the County’s newsroom.
For the next phase of the COVID-19 vaccination, the Florida Department of Health in Orange County is rolling out a strategy to vaccinate the 65+ population in Orange County. Stay updated:
- Visit ocfl.net/Vaccine
- Download the OCFL Alert app or text OCFLCOVID to 888777 to receive vaccine updates
- Follow Orange County Government on its social media channels and the local media
You can also provide your email address at ocfl.net/Vaccine to stay updated. Beginning Monday, Jan. 4, 3-1-1 will be able to help register residents and help those with language barriers register to make vaccination appointments.
For a snapshot of the latest COVID-19 statistics in Orange County, visit ocfl.net/Covid19Snapshot. The snapshot updates Monday through Friday.
COVID-19 EVICTION DIVERSION PROGRAM EXTENDED
The COVID-19 Eviction Diversion Program deadline has been extended to January 29, 2021. The County will keep the online application portal open until funds are depleted.
The tenant prescreen portion of the application process has been eliminated. The program will continue to operate in partnership with the Orange County Bar Association, Community Legal Services of Mid-Florida and other local legal assistance nonprofit agencies.
Visit ocfl.net/EvictionDiversion for a full list of eligibility criteria and required documents.
TESTING EXTENDED
Orange County Government’s Health Services Department has extended COVID-19 testing through January 30, 2021 at Barnett Park. The testing site will continue to operate 7 days per week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The site will be open on December 31, but closed on New Year’s Day, January 1, 2021.
Both PCR/molecular and rapid tests are available to residents at this site. Due to high demand for testing, entrance to the site usually closes prior 5 p.m. in order to accommodate all cars in line. Please plan to be in the vehicle waiting line prior to noon. Families who are being tested are asked to be in the same vehicle together.
For more information, visit ocfl.net/Testing and click on #1 on the testing map.
UNITED WAY COVID -19 SURVEY
Heart of Florida United Way is conducting a community-wide survey to understand how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted people throughout Central Florida.
Please complete the survey available online and which can be accessed directly at: HFUW.org/COVIDsurvey
THANK YOU FOR FOOD DONATIONS
A special thank you to the following sponsors for generously providing lunch to the Florida Department of Health staff working to administer the vaccine over the holidays to local EMS workers who are included in the state’s priority 1A distribution for the vaccine. Thank you to:
- Caribe Royale Orlando
- Universal Orlando Resort
- Hilton Orlando
- Mia’s Italian Kitchen
- Westgate Lakes Resort and Spa
- Buca di Beppo Italian Restaurant
Thank you also to Centerplate for providing refreshments to the staff.
Watch the conference on the YouTube Video Stream or on Vimeo.
Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 12/21/2020
COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS
For a snapshot of the latest COVID-19 statistics in Orange County, visit ocfl.net/Covid19Snapshot. The snapshot updates Monday through Friday.
GOALS OF THE WEEK
- We will continue to offer free COVID-19 testing through Orange County Health Services at Barnett Park. The state will continue free testing at the Convention Center site at least through the first quarter of 2021.
- Our Strike Teams will continue to inspect and work with Orange County businesses in order to comply with CDC pandemic standards.
- We will continue to provide updates on the vaccine distribution in our community.
CARES FOR SOCIAL SERVICES
Over $14 million in CARES Act funds has been allocated for social service programs to help some of our most vulnerable residents. Here is a breakdown of where the monies have gone:
- Over 89,000 residents have received mental health counseling services through various agencies.
- Over 5.8 million meals have been served during the pandemic through Second Harvest Food Bank and Coalition for the Homeless.
- CARES funding has helped house 161 homeless individuals and families and have kept another 238 families or individuals from homelessness.
If you need more information on the county’s social services programs, please go to ocfl.net/ResidentResources for more information.
TESTING
Orange County has extended COVID-19 testing through the end of January 2021.
For testing at Barnett Park, residents should try to be in the waiting line as early as possible as the line has been closing earlier to the overwhelming response for testing. The testing site operates daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Barnett Park will close on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. The site will reopen on December 26, 2020.
For more information visit, ocfl.net/testing
STRIKE TEAMS – Business Compliance
Orange County’s Strike Teams continue to inspect businesses and educate them about keeping patrons and employees safe. The teams have visited nearly 6,000 locations with a 98% compliance rate. Since the Executive Order was issued earlier this month, the teams have visited 406 businesses and have issued 35 warnings and 8 citations.
For more information, visit the County’s business resource page.
Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 12/17/2020
COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS
For a snapshot of the latest COVID-19 statistics in Orange County, visit ocfl.net/Covid19Snapshot. The snapshot updates Monday through Friday.
VACCINE TRAINING EMERGENCY RESPONDERS
Over the past two days, The Department of Health in Orange County have trained and certified roughly 50 paramedics to administer the COVID-19 vaccine if needed.
This includes a large group from Orange County Fire Rescue, as well as representatives from each local fire department in the County.
PPE EFFORTS
Assisted living facilities contain some of Orange County’s most vulnerable residents. Since day one of the pandemic, Orange County Government has made it a priority to ensure local assisted living facilities have the PPE they need to protect their residents and staff.
Orange County has delivered critical personal protective equipment to 175 assisted living and long-term care facilities in the County since March. That includes approximately 6.3 million PPE items, including N-95 masks, procedural masks, gowns, gloves and hand sanitizer.
In addition, Orange County provides free PPE to anyone tested at the Orange County Health Services test site at Barnett Park – open 7 days a week.
Visit ocfl.net/PPE to learn about the County’s PPE distribution efforts.
EVICTION DIVERSION
The program closed to new applicants on Wednesday, December 16, 2020. So far, nearly 2,400 families have been able to stay in their homes.
Orange County Government in partnership with the Orange County Bar Association, Community Legal Services of Mid-Florida and other local legal assistance nonprofit agencies has dispersed over $7.5 million dollars in assistance with an average payment of $3,149 for past rent (up to 3 months).
ORANGE COUNTY CARES FOR FAMILIES
Our Orange CARES for Residents program, which provides $1,000 grants to those impacted by COVID-19, is now closed for good.
For individuals and families who have applications approved, please allow up to 30 days to process the applications. More than $55 million in checks are in the mail or are in process through the Orange County Comptroller’s Office.
The County expects to spend the total CARES funding, $243.5 million dollars by the end of December 2020 supporting families, businesses, and nonprofits in the community.
In addition to the CARES funding, Orange County allocated $1.8 million dollars from the General Fund to support families.
TESTING
For Orange County Health Services testing at Barnett Park, residents should try to be in the waiting line as early as possible as the line has been closing earlier to the overwhelming response for testing. The testing site operates daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Barnett Park will close on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
For more information visit, ocfl.net/testing.
STRIKE TEAMS – Business Compliance
Orange County’s Strike Teams continue to inspect businesses and educate them about keeping patrons and employees safe. The teams have been in operation for 110 days. Since December 8, 2020, the teams have issued 24 warnings and 7 citations and have visited nearly 6,000 locations with a 98% compliance rate.
For more information, visit the County’s business resource page.
ORANGE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS UPDATE
Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) will have a COVID-19 notification link on its homepage at ocps.net to report any student or staff with a positive case over the winter break. Those reports will help the school system navigate a safe return for the second semester.
In regard to changing quarantine timeframes, Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) is now using the 10-day criteria, which was reduced from the 14-day as recommended by the Florida Department of Health.
In January, OCPS expects 20,000 students returning face-to-face for second semester.
OCPS Superintendent Dr. Barbara Jenkins stressed if any individual has symptoms of, or exposed to or if they test positive for COVID-19 over the break, they need to stay home until cleared to return.
Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 12/14/2020
COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS
For a snapshot of the latest COVID-19 statistics in Orange County, visit ocfl.net/Covid19Snapshot. The snapshot is updated Monday through Friday.
FINAL APPLICATION OPENING FOR ASSISTANCE FOR RESIDENTS
There will be one last opportunity to apply for the $1,000 grant payment for residents, negatively impacted by COVID-19 through the Orange CARES for Residents Program.
The final online application portal will open on Thursday, December 17, at 8 a.m. The portal will allow up to 10,000 users into the system.
The County is allocating $2 million in remaining funding to approved applications in the order they were received. All applicants will be notified of their status no later than the first week of January.
Please note that there is no guarantee for funding for everyone who applies.
If your application has been denied for documentation issues before, you may re-apply.
If you have previously applied for the program, and have not received an email with your status, you can apply again when the portal opens on December 17, 2020. If your application is approved, please allow up to 30 days for processing and mail delivery of your check.
Visit ocfl.net/OrangeCARES for more information and to read a helpful article about the top five reasons for denial and how to avoid.
EVICTION DIVERSION
The program will close to new applicants on Wednesday, December 16, 2020. Residents and landlords with applications pending will have until Thursday, December 24, 2020, to submit any outstanding documents.
Please note that there is not an income cap for the program, so if you are in imminent danger of eviction, please apply today.
Visit ocfl.net/EvictionDiversion for a full list of eligibility criteria and required documents.
TESTING
For testing at Barnett Park, residents should try to be in the waiting line as early as possible as the line has been closing earlier to accommodate all cars in line for testing. Today it closed at 2 p.m. to accommodate all cars in line. The testing site operates daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For families, please carpool to the site together and not separately.
Orange County’s Health Services testing site at Barnett Park will be closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Continued testing through 2021 will continue to be a priority. The state testing site at the Convention Center will offer free testing through at least the first quarter of 2021.
For more information visit, ocfl.net/testing.
TOY DRIVE THANK YOU
Thank you to all who contributed to the Mayor’s Toy Drive, more than 9,000 toys have been collected. That’s more than double from last year’s toy contributions. A special thanks to the organizations that participated in team toy drives:
- Ana G. Mendez University
- Valencia College
- Orlando Magic
- Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association
- True Health
- Florida Council on Crime and Delinquency
- Seretta Construction, Inc.
- Fanm Ayisyèn
- Jacobs Engineering Group
Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 12/10/2020
COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS
For a snapshot of the latest COVID-19 statistics in Orange County, visit ocfl.net/Covid19Snapshot. The snapshot is updated Monday through Friday.
EVICTION DIVERSION
The program will close to new applicants on Wednesday, December 16, 2020. It is important to note, residents and landlords with applications that have pending items will have until Thursday, December 24, 2020, to submit any outstanding documents.
Visit ocfl.net/EvictionDiversion for a full list of eligibility criteria and required documents.
TESTING
There will soon be on-site COVID-19 testing at the Orlando International Airport. The program is in collaboration with Advent Health Centra Care. The testing clinic is projected to open later in December and operations are scheduled to continue through the end of July 2021. For more information, visit the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority’s webpage.
For the county’s health services testing at Barnett Park, residents should try to be in the waiting line by early afternoon as the line has been closing earlier to accommodate all cars in line for testing.
Orange County does not have finalized plans to share yet for continued free COVID-19 testing in 2021, but the County intends to continue free testing a priority along with the State of Florida.
For more information visit, ocfl.net/testing.
TOY DRIVE
The Orange County Mayor’s Toy Drive online donation option is no longer available, in-person drop off is still an option at the following Orange County locations through December 14: The drop off locations are open daily until 5:00 p.m. As of today approximately 7,000 toys have been donated. In addition, 2,732 toys were donated through online sales.
Drop Off Locations:
- Back to Nature Wildlife Refuge
- Bear Creek Recreation Complex
- Bithlo Community Park
- Capehart Park
- East Orange District Park Rec Center
- Fort Gatlin Recreation Complex
- Goldenrod Recreation Center
- Meadow Woods Recreation Center
- Regional History Center
- Silver Star Recreation Center
- South Econ Recreation Center
- Tibet-Butler Preserve
- West Orange Recreation Center
Fire Stations:
For more information visit ocfl.net/ToyDrive.
Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 12/7/2020
COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS
For a snapshot of the latest COVID-19 statistics in Orange County, visit ocfl.net/Covid19Snapshot.
CARES FOR RESIDENTS OPENS TOMORROW
Orange County’s CARES for Residents Program’s online application portal will open tomorrow, Tuesday Dec. 8, 2020 at 8 a.m. The money is for individuals and families suffering from the pandemic, allowing Orange County residents to apply for $1,000 grants.
This may be the last time – or one of the last times – the application opens in order to make the spending deadline by the end of the year.
For those who were denied in the past, please read this article highlighting the “Top 5 Reasons for Denials and How to Fix Them the Next Time you Apply,” which can also be accessed at ocfl.net/OrangeCARES when you click on the “Residents” tab.
Applicants are urged to review all required documents, current eligibility criteria and frequently asked questions, by visiting ocfl.net/OrangeCares.
UPCOMING EVICTION DIVERSION DEADLINE
The application portal for the COVID-19 Eviction Diversion Program will close on December 16, 2020, and will not accept any new applications. However, applications will be processed until December 24, 2020.
The program has already helped more than 2,100 tenants be able to pay landlords in back rent in order to avoid eviction.
Free COVID-19 Eviction Diversion help sessions will be offered at The Kingdom Church, located at 800 N Pine Hills Rd, Friday, December 11 and Saturday, December 12. The Friday session will run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and the Saturday session will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
For more information about the program, visit ocfl.net/EvictionDiversion.
TOURIST DEVELOPMENT TAX OCTOBER REPORT
Orange County Comptroller Phil Diamond announced that the Tourist Development Tax (or “bed taxes”) collections received by Orange County for October 2020 collection month were, $7,701,500. That amounts to a decrease of 69% compared to October 2019.
September 2020’s collection month equaled $7,037,700, so the County is increasing Tourist Development Taxes comparatively from previous months this year.
PPE EFFORTS
Orange County’s Public Safety team helps ensure small businesses, residents and local organizations continue to get the personal protective equipment (PPE) they need to comply with CDC guidelines and the local Executive Orders.
Last week, Orange County provided free face masks and hand sanitizers to more than 4,300 Orange County-based small businesses.
In addition, Orange County provides free PPE to anyone tested at the Orange County Health Services test site at Barnett Park – open 7 days per week.
Visit ocfl.net/PPE to learn about the County’s PPE distribution efforts.
THE MAYOR’S TOY DRIVE
If you have toy donations for the Orange County Mayor’s Toy Drive, you can drop them off at more than 20 countywide locations – the deadline is December 14. Visit ocfl.net/ToyDrive for the locations.
The online donation deadline is midnight tonight (Dec. 7). Thank you to everyone – including businesses – that have participated in team drives and donated so far, it makes a huge impact. Nearly all the online donation requests for toys have been met, however the need is still great for drop-off donations.
LIBRARY OFFERS SOCIAL SERVICES SUPPORT
The Orange County Library System offers a free online tool – the Right Service at the Right Time – which is a public resource that is particularly useful to those who have had their income affected by COVID-19, providing a platform to easily find information on government-assistance and community-support programs.
With Right Service, customers have access to information about food stamps and temporary cash assistance, Medicaid, social security disability with the Social Security Administration, local food banks, and housing through Florida Housing Search, to name a few resources available on the site. Visit ocls.info/rightservice for more information.
Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 12/4/20
COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS
For a snapshot of the latest COVID-19 statistics in Orange County, visit ocfl.net/COVID19Snapshot. The snapshot is updated Monday through Friday.
CARES GRANTS FOR RESIDENTS
Orange County’s CARES for Residents program provides a one-time payment of $1,000 per adult resident negatively and financially impacted by COVID-19. The program now allows multiple applicants per household. New applicants in the same household can apply for funding. If you have already been approved for CARES Act funding from this program you are not eligible to apply.
The online application portal will reopen on:
- Tuesday, December 8, at 8 a.m. The portal will have a capacity of 20,000 users.
Please note, if you applied for Orange CARES on November 24, status updates for those applications will be emailed to you by the end of day, Monday, December 7. If you do not receive an update by that time, you may reapply on Tuesday, December 8.
For those who were denied in the past or had a duplicate application and were denied, you are eligible to reapply. Please read this helpful article highlighting the “Top 5 Reasons for Denials and How to Fix Them the Next Time you Apply.”
Applicants are urged to review all required documents, current eligibility criteria and frequently asked questions, by visiting ocfl.net/OrangeCares.
EXECUTIVE ORDER ON BUSINESS ENFORCEMENT
Under the direction of Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings, Orange County Government has finalized an Executive Order, which allows the County to fine businesses in violation of COVID-19 safety regulations. Visit ocfl.net/ExecutiveOrders to view the Executive Order.
Since Orange County’s Business Compliance Strike Teams began its outreach, it has visited more than 5,600 local businesses – and most all have been in compliance on the first visit.
PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR VACCINE TRIALS
AdventHealth has been selected to participate in the Ensemble clinical trial. This is a Phase 3 trial of Janssen/Johnson & Johnson’s investigational COVID-19 vaccine.
Individuals 18 years of age or older, who are in good or stable health, may be able to participate. Those who are selected will be in the trial for up to 2 years and 1 month. A key aim of this trial is to enroll a diverse population of participants, including African American and Hispanic individuals.
For more information, visit AdventHealthVaccineTrials.com or call 844-422-2282.
FREE COVID-19 TESTING
Free COVID-19 testing options continue in Orange County. Barnett Park is open for testing 7 days per week, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. However, if the testing demand is high, the wait line will close earlier to accommodate all patients in line by 5 p.m. Visit ocfl.net/Testing for more information.
Leading up to the holidays, the community of Parramore will have four opportunities for free COVID-19 testing. No appointment is necessary and upcoming testing times and locations are:
- Saturday, December 5 from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church: 535 W. Washington St., Orlando 32810
- Saturday, December 12 from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church: 535 W. Washington St., Orlando 32810
- Tuesday, December 22 from 6 – 8 p.m.
Livingston Street Church of God: 910 W. Livingston St., Orlando 32805
- Saturday, January 9 from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Livingston Street Church of God: 910 W. Livingston St., Orlando 32805
Contact 407-850-8860 for more information.
FREE PET FOOD GIVEAWAY
Orange County Animal Services will distribute more than three tons of FREE pet food at the South Econ Recreation Center on Wednesday, December 9. The drive-thru pet food giveaway will begin at 12 p.m., and it is on a first-come, first-served basis. Events such as these are all part of a concerted effort by Orange County to assist residents who are being financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Thank you to the sponsors, including Don Mealey, of the local family of auto dealerships, and Paul Wean, founder of Pawsitive Shelter Photography.
For more information on the upcoming giveaway, visit Orange County Animal Services’ Facebook page.
Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 11/30/20
COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS
According to the Department of Health in Orange County, the rolling positivity rate is 7.5%.
The Department of Health does expect an increase in COVID-19 cases due to the holiday and urges everyone to stay vigilant by wearing your mask, watching your distance and washing your hands.
For a snapshot of the latest COVID-19 statistics in Orange County, visit ocfl.net/COVID19Snapshot. The snapshot is updated Monday through Friday.
ORANGE CARES GRANTS FOR RESIDENTS
The CARES for Residents Program has allocated more than $42 million in $1,000 grants to help 42,000 residents in need so far.
The deadline to spend the CARES money is December 30, 2020.
Orange County does plan to open the application portal again on December 8 at 8 a.m. This may be the last time the portal opens in order to meet the CARES spending deadline.
Please stay tuned to Orange County Government’s social media channels and on the Orange CARES webpage for the upcoming application date opening.
For a list of required documents, current eligibility criteria and frequently asked questions, visit ocfl.net/OrangeCares.
TESTING
Orange County Health Services continues to offer free 7-day per week COVID-19 testing from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Barnett Park. Both rapid/antigen and PCR/molecular testing are offered. Learn about the test differences at ocfl.net/COVID19TestTypes
Also, every resident tested at Barnett Parks is provided a packet of free PPE.
Recently due to holiday demand, Health Services has had to close the entrance to the site earlier to meet its 5 p.m. closing and accommodate all residents in the line. Orange County’s 311 hotline will be made aware of if and when a cut-off happens at the Barnett testing site.
For more information on testing, visit www.ocfl.net/Testing.
PPE FOR SMALL BUSINESSES FULL
Orange County Government’s free PPE (personal protective equipment) giveaway to Orange County small businesses has had all of its appointments filled this week. In total, 5,448 small businesses in Orange County booked appointments. Since the pandemic, the County has given free PPE away to more than 60,000 small businesses and has supported various municipalities with their outreach efforts.
For more information about the County’s PPE efforts and for future distributions, visit ocfl.net/PPE.
EVICTION DIVERSION TO CLOSE
Orange County’s Eviction Diversion Program will close to new applicants on Wednesday, December 16, 2020.
Visit ocfl.net/EvictionDiversion for a full list of eligibility criteria and required documents.
Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 11/23/2020
COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS
For a snapshot of the latest COVID-19 statistics in Orange County, visit ocfl.net/Covid19Snapshot. The snapshot is updated Monday through Friday.
INDIVIDUAL AND FAMILIES GRANTS REOPENS TOMORROW
The application portal for residents to apply for $1,000 grants will reopen tomorrow, Tuesday, November 24, 2020, at 8 a.m., with a capacity of 15,000 users. Once in the portal, residents will have adequate time to complete their application.
The program now allows other adult members of the same household to apply for financial assistance. That means, new applicants who reside at the same household address as a previously approved applicant can now also apply for the $1,000 grant program — whether you are a roommate or another adult family member living at the same address.
It is important to note that you:
- Must meet eligibility criteria and provide all required documents for the program
- Are not eligible if you already received the CARES Act for Individual and Families $1,000 grant
For a list of required documents, eligibility criteria and frequently asked questions, visit ocfl.net/OrangeCares.
PPE FOR SMALL BUSINESSES
Orange County Government is standing ready once again to give away free Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to small businesses located in Orange County to help them adhere to CDC guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The giveaway will take place December 1 through December 3, at the following locations:
Downey Park
10107 Flowers Avenue, Orlando, FL 32825
Cypress Grove Park
290 Holden Avenue, Orlando, FL 32839
West Orange Park
150 Windermere Road, Winter Garden, FL 34787
Orange County small businesses are required to pre-register at ocfl.net/PPE before visiting a pick up location. Small businesses must have fewer than 40 employees.
RAPID TESTING
Orange County Health Services is seeing an influx of testing before the Thanksgiving holiday. Residents are asked to be patient as wait times may be more than 60 minutes at Barnett Park, as well as the state-run testing site located at the Orange County Convention Center.
Both testing sites will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, and reopen Friday, November 27, 2020 at 9 a.m.
Visit ocfl.net/Testing and click on #1 on the map for more details.
EVICTION DIVERSION
Orange County’s Eviction Diversion Program provides relief to tenants in imminent danger of eviction who have experienced a loss or reduction of income due to the pandemic. Since August, the program has helped 1,960 families stay in their homes, which equates to more than $5.8 million.
The program will close to new applicants on Wednesday, December 16, 2020. It is important to note, residents and landlords with applications that have pending items will have until Thursday, December 24, 2020, to submit any outstanding documents.
Visit ocfl.net/EvictionDiversion for a full list of eligibility criteria and required documents.
SHORT-TERM TRAINING
Orange County Government is partnering with CareerSource Central Florida and Valencia College to offer a variety of short-term, vocational training courses at the Orange County Convention Center, beginning next week, Monday, November 30, 2020. Residents can apply for tuition assistance through CareerSource Central Florida’s “Help is Here” grant program.
To qualify, individuals must be at least 18 years old, a resident of Orange County and able to verify that they have lost their job or suffered reduced wages because of COVID-19.
For more information, visit CareerSourceCentralFlorida.com/HelpIsHere.
THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY
Residents are urged to continue to follow CDC guidelines and practice good hand hygiene during the upcoming Thanksgiving Holiday.
Visit the CDC’s website for recommendations on how to keep yourself, and your family, safe while celebrating Thanksgiving.
Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 11/19/2020
COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS
For a snapshot of the latest COVID-19 statistics in Orange County, visit ocfl.net/Covid19Snapshot. The snapshot is updated Monday through Friday.
INDIVIDUAL CARES PORTAL OPENS NOVEMBER 24
Individual and Families Grants – Orange County will reopen the application portal for residents to apply for $1,000 grants on Tuesday, November 24, 2020, at 8 a.m., with a capacity of 15,000 users. Adult members of the same household, including roommates and other family members, whose income has been negatively impacted by COVID-19 and are over the age of 18, are eligible to apply. For more information, visit ocfl.net/OrangeCares.
To date, Orange County Government has invested a total of $60 million into the program, and has processed nearly $40 million in payments, which has helped nearly 40,000 households.
RAPID TESTING NOW 7 DAYS A WEEK
Free and accessible testing continues to be a priority for Orange County Health Services. Drive-thru COVID-19 rapid testing at Barnett Park has been extended to 7 days a week, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., weather permitting.
Testing will be available until the end of the year. However, the site will be closed on Thanksgiving Day (11/25).
Both molecular (standard nasal swab/PCR) and rapid antigen tests are available.
- All ages are welcome
- No symptoms necessary
- No appointments necessary
Visit ocfl.net/Testing and click on #1 on the map for more details.
PPE FOR SMALL BUSINESSES
Orange County Government is standing ready once again to give away free Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to small businesses located in Orange County to help them adhere to CDC guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic.
PPE kit distribution – including disposable face masks and hand sanitizers – will take place from December 1 through 3 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the following locations:
- Downey Park
10107 Flowers Avenue, Orlando, FL 32825 - Cypress Grove Park
290 Holden Avenue, Orlando, FL 32839 - West Orange Park
150 Windermere Road, Winter Garden, FL 34787
Orange County small businesses are required to pre-register at ocfl.net/PPE before visiting a pick up location. Small businesses must have fewer than 40 employees.
BUSINESS GRANTS
Small Business and Home-Based Business Grants – As of November 16, 2020 at 12 p.m., both the Small Business Grant Program and the Micro-Grant Program for Home-Based Businesses closed its application portal for new applications.
Business owners who still have started, but have yet to complete their applications, need to complete and submit their application prior to Friday, November 20, at 5 p.m. to be considered eligible to receive grant funding. Applications that are not completed will not be considered for the grant.
TOY DONATIONS NEEDED
If you have toy donations for the Orange County Mayor’s Toy Drive you can drop them off during the program’s upcoming contactless, drop-off events on Monday, November 23, 2020, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the following locations:
- Downey Park
10107 Flowers Avenue, Orlando, FL 32825 - Silver Star Community Park
2801 N Apopka Vineland Road, Orlando, FL 32818
Participants will also receive a kit of free facemasks and hand sanitizer. For more information visit ocfl.net/ToyDrive.
Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 11/16/2020
COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS
For a snapshot of the latest COVID-19 statistics in Orange County, visit ocfl.net/Covid19Snapshot. The snapshot is updated Monday through Friday.
CARES ACT PROGRAMS
Small Business and Home-Based Business Grants
The Orange County CARES Act funding programs for small businesses and home-based businesses closed at noon today.
Teams continue to process applications, and both programs are nearing its maximum funding capacity.
To date, more than $67 million have gone back to small business owners in Orange County. ($64.4M for small business, 2.79M for micro grants for home-based businesses)
Individual and Families Grants
The application portal for the Orange County CARES Act Program for Individuals and Families reopened this morning at 8 a.m.
The portal reached its capacity of 15,000 users in approximately 30 minutes, which underscored the importance of this funding for many families.
As of 2 p.m. more than 10,000 applications were successfully submitted to the program.
The program team is currently reviewing the applicants, and the amount of available funding.
The next portal opening will be announced soon.
For a list of required documents, eligibility criteria and frequently asked questions, visit ocfl.net/OrangeCARES.
COVID-19 TESTING – FREE, FAST, FOR ALL AGES
NO APPOINTMENT REQUIRED
Orange County Health Services provided a total of 5,373 COVID tests last week. About 77% of the tests given last week were rapid and 22% were PCR/molecular. Residents are able to get either test or both.
Orange County Health Services continues to provide free drive-thru COVID-19 rapid testing at Barnett Park. They will be there from Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., weather permitting. The average wait time for testing is less than 20 minutes.
Testing will be available until the end of the year. However, the site will close on Thanksgiving (11/25), Christmas Eve (12/24), and Christmas day (12/25). Additional information for rapid testing at Barnett Park includes:
- Both molecular (standard nasal swab/PCR) and rapid antigen tests are available
- All ages are welcome
- No symptoms necessary
- No appointments necessary
Visit ocfl.net/Testing and click on #1 on the map for more details. You can also learn about the differences between the two tests.
STRIKE TEAMS
Orange County Strike Teams have visited to date, 4,910 businesses with a first-time compliance rate of 87%. The teams have been diligently working with business owners by providing safety guidelines for both employees and patrons. It is important to emphasize that the Orange County mask mandate and CDC guidelines are in effect. To learn about the mask mandate visit the county’s newsroom for an outline of the frequently asked questions along with social distancing guidelines.
For information about the Strike Teams, visit the Business Resource page.
Clerk’s Office Hosts Free Legal Forum: Evictions Update During COVID-19
Orange County Clerk of Courts Tiffany Moore Russell is offering a special virtual edition to all residents of the Legal Matters Forum Series – Evictions Update During COVID-19.
This educational forum will give an update to the community about the evictions process during this difficult time where tenants and landlords are trying to make ends meet. Representatives will be on hand to answer questions through the Q & A feature towards the end of their presentation.
What: Legal Matters Forum series- Evictions Update During COVID-19
When: Thursday, December 3rd, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Zoom platform
For more information, and to register for this legal forum, go to www.myorangeclerk.com.
Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 11/12/2020
COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS
For a snapshot of the latest COVID-19 statistics in Orange County, visit ocfl.net/Covid19Snapshot. The snapshot is updated Monday through Friday.
CARES ACT PROGRAMS
Small Business and Home-Based Business Grants – Orange County CARES Act funding programs for small businesses and home-based businesses will close on Monday, November 16, 2020, at 12 p.m. Both programs are nearing its maximum funding capacity. Businesses are urged to complete their applications as soon as possible as funding will cease when all the money has been allotted.
For a list of required documents, eligibility criteria and frequently asked questions, visit ocfl.net/OrangeCARES.
Individual and Families Grants – The application portal for the Orange County CARES Act Program for Individuals and Families will reopen on Monday, November 16, 2020, at 8 a.m. Once you are in the portal, you will have adequate time to complete your application.
The program now allows other adult members of the same household to apply for financial assistance. That means, new applicants who reside at the same household address as a previously approved applicant can now also apply for the $1,000 grant program — whether you are a roommate or another adult family member living at the same address.
It is important to note that you:
- Must meet eligibility criteria and provide all required documents for the program
- Are not eligible if you already received the CARES Act for Individual and Families $1,000 grant
For a list of required documents, eligibility criteria and frequently asked questions, visit ocfl.net/OrangeCARES.
COVID-19 TESTING – FREE, FAST, FOR ALL AGES
Orange County Health Services continues to provide free drive-thru COVID-19 rapid testing at Barnett Park, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., weather permitting. The average wait time for testing is less than 20 minutes.
Testing will be available until the end of the year. However, the site will be closed on Thanksgiving (11/25), Christmas Eve (12/24), and Christmas day (12/25). Additional information for rapid testing at Barnett Park includes:
- Both molecular (standard nasal swab/PCR) and rapid antigen tests are available
- All ages are welcome
- No symptoms necessary
- No appointments necessary
Visit ocfl.net/Testing and click on #1 on the map for more details.
DRIVE-THRU FREE FLU SHOTS
The Florida Department of Health in Orange County is providing free Flu shots to the general public on Saturday, November 14, 2020, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Flu shots are first come, first served, and will be administered while supplies last to everyone 6 months and older. No appointment necessary.
Colonial Promenade Mall
4308 E Colonial Drive
Orlando, FL 32803
The drive-thru event will make it possible for residents to roll in, roll up a sleeve and receive a Flu shot safely and quickly while remaining in their vehicles. Residents should wear clothing that is loose around the arm so that nurses can administer the Flu shot in the upper arm. Masks are required.
For questions, please call 407-723-5004.
VOCATIONAL JOB TRAINING FOR AFFECTED RESIDENTS
Orange County Government is partnering with CareerSource Central Florida and Valencia College to offer a variety of short-term, vocational training courses at the Orange County Convention Center, beginning Monday, November 30, 2020. Residents can apply for tuition assistance through CareerSource Central Florida’s “Help is Here” grant program.
Some of the courses being offered include:
- IT/network support specialist
- Medical office specialist
- Carpentry
- Masonry
- Commercial truck driving
To qualify, individuals must be at least 18 years old, a resident of Orange County and able to verify that they have lost their job or suffered reduced wages because of COVID-19.
For more information, visit CareerSourceCentralFlorida.com/HelpIsHere.
Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 11/9/2020
MAYOR DEMINGS’ GOALS OF THE WEEK
- Offer free rapid COVID-19 antigen testing through Orange County Health Services to anyone who needs it.
- Reopen our portal to expand eligibility to serve more individuals and families.
- Continue to offer financial assistance to small businesses, landlords and non-profits.
COVID-19 UPDATES/NUMBERS
Total Confirmed Cases in Orange County October 25 to November 7, 2020
HEALTH SERVICES RAPID TESTING ANNOUNCED
Starting November 9, 2020 through the end of the year, Health Services will offer FREE drive thru rapid testing at Barnett Park, 4801 w. Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808. Testing is available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Both molecular (PCR) and antigen (rapid) tests will be available at the Barnett Park testing site.
Information about which FREE test may be the best choice for you is available on the County’s website.
For more information, visit www.ocfl.net/Testing and click on #1 on the map.
CARES PROGRAM INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES
Orange County will reopen the application portal for Individual and Family Assistance Program with new criteria on Monday, November 16, 2020 at 8 a.m. Residents can access the portal directly at ocfl.net/CaresForResidents. Information on the webpage ocfl.net/OrangeCARES is updated to reflect the latest information.
- New eligibility criteria will now include other adult members, over the age of 18 that live in the same household, to apply as individuals for the financial assistance.
The system will allow up to 15,000 users inside the application portal on the reopening day to submit their documentation for a $1,000 grant. Residents need to review the eligibility criteria, and prepare all required documents before applying.
Orange County Government has invested an additional $30 million into the Individual and Family Assistance Program. This reopening will be the third round of financial assistance offered to Orange County residents.
STRIKE TEAMS
Orange County Strike Teams have visited over 4,600 county businesses with a first time compliance rate of 87%. The teams have re-inspected 558 businesses with a compliance rate of 81%. For more information, visit the county business resource page.
Tourist Development Tax SEPTEMBER Report
Orange County Comptroller Phil Diamond announced today that the tourist development tax collections received by Orange County for the September 2020 collection month were, $7,037,700. Which equals a 60.4% decrease from September 2019. See the attached news release and comparison chart.
CAMPAIGN SIGNS RECYCLING
With voting complete in Orange County, it is important that campaign signs be recycled.
Residents, candidates, political parties and campaigns are encouraged to gather political signs and drop them off at one of five designated recycle sites.
The sites are:
- Cady Way Trail
- Mead Botanical Garden
- Winter Park Fire-Rescue Station 64
- First Unitarian Church of Orlando
- Broadway United Methodist Church
This recycling initiative will run through Sunday, November 22.
For the complete addresses for the recycling sites, or for more information, visit the Orange County League of Women Voters’ website at lwvoc.org.
Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 11/6/2020
COVID-19 STATS
For a snapshot of the latest COVID-19 statistics in Orange County, visit ocfl.net/Covid19Snapshot. The snapshot is updated Monday through Friday.
RAPID COVID-19 TESTING – FREE, FAST, FOR ALL AGES
Free drive-thru COVID-19 rapid testing begins at Barnett Park on Monday, November 9, 2020. Barnett Park will serve as a consistent location for rapid and PCR COVID-19 testing offered by Orange County’s Health Services Department.
Both rapid and PCR testing are available each week, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The site will be open until the end of the year, weather permitting. The site will not be open on Thanksgiving or Christmas day.
All testing at Barnett Park is free. Residents are asked to bring their insurance card. However, no co-pay will requested, and all uninsured patients will still be tested. Additional information for rapid testing at Barnett Park includes:
- Both molecular (standard nasal swab/PCR) and rapid antigen tests are available.
- All ages are welcome.
- No symptoms necessary.
- No appointments necessary.
Visit ocfl.net/Testing and click on #1 on the map for more details.
ARTS IN PUBLIC PARKS
Orange County Government has earmarked $5 million in CARES Act funding for its Arts in Public Parks initiative.
Part of this program includes an investment made by the County to create social distancing-compliant performance spaces at select Orange County Parks for residents to enjoy performances and activities hosted by local arts and culture community.
- District 1 – West Orange Park, 150 Windermere Rd, Winter Garden, FL 34787
- District 2 – Clarcona Horse Park, 3535 Damon Rd, Apopka, FL 32703 (400 max. capacity)
- District 3 – Cypress Grove Park, 290 Holden Ave, Orlando, FL 32839
- District 4 – Meadow Woods Park, 1751 Rhode Island Woods Circle, Orlando, FL 32824
- District 5 – Ft. Christmas Park, 1300 Fort Christmas Rd, Christmas, FL 32709
- District 6 – Barnett Park, 4801 W Colonial Dr., Orlando, FL 32808
For more information about the initiative, bookings or pricing information, visit www.ocfl.net/ArtInPublicParks.
OPERATION GREEN LIGHT
The Orange County Clerk of Courts will host its virtual driver license reinstatement initiative next week, from Monday, November 9, 2020, to Friday, November 13, 2020.
The initiative will provide Orange County customers who have outstanding traffic tickets and criminal fines the opportunity to pay overdue court obligations while saving the 25 percent collections agency surcharge. Additionally, customers can inquire about payment plans, as well as how to have their driver license reinstated.
For more information visit myorangeclerk.com
EMPLOYMENT CONNECTIONS WITH GOODWILL INDUSTRIES
Goodwill Industries of Central Florida will host several free online webinars for job seekers in Central Florida. The webinars are part of Goodwill’s latest series of virtual presentations on effective job search techniques. Upcoming webinars include:
- Friday, November 13, from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.: Job Searching 101
- Wednesday, November 18, from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.: Creating a Resume for Success
- Friday, November 20, from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.: Career Exploration
Interested residents must register in advance.
COVID-19 CLINICAL RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY: ADVENT HEALTH
AdventHealth has been selected as a testing site for the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson’s Phase 3 clinical research study, in order to evaluate the safety and efficacy of its COVID-19 vaccine candidate.
AdventHealth has a goal to enroll 4,500 participants in Central Florida over an 8-week period.
For more information on enrollment, visit AdventHealthVaccineTrials.com or call 844-422-2282.
GOALS FOR THE WEEK
- Continue to offer free COVID-19 testing through Orange County Health Services to anyone who needs it.
- Continue to offer crisis assistance to individuals, families, landlords and businesses.
- Continue to inspect and assist businesses to make sure they are keeping patrons and employees
COVID-19 STATS
For a snapshot of the latest COVID-19 statistics in Orange County, visit ocfl.net/Covid19Snapshot.
The snapshot updates daily Monday through Friday.
CARES ACT FUNDING FOR INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIESThe $1,000-grant program will reopen its application portal on Wednesday, November 4, 2020, at 8 a.m. with a capacity for 15,000 users.
Applicants do not need to be unemployed to qualify for the program. However, only one application is taken per household.
For a list of required documents, eligibility criteria and frequently asked questions, visit ocfl.net/OrangeCARES.
EVICTION DIVERSION
The Eviction Diversion program continues to receive applications from business and property owners in need of assistance. Orange County has assisted 1,174 families allowing them to remain in their homes.
The program provides relief to tenants in imminent danger of eviction who have experienced a loss or reduction of income due to the pandemic. This is not a rental assistance program.
For the full eligibility criteria, required documentation and application visit, ocfl.net/EvictionDiversion.
STRIKE TEAMS
Orange County teams have visited 4,278 county businesses assisting with workplace guidelines and procedures. The compliance rate remains steady at 87%. Overall, business owners are receptive and willing to make certain they are ensuring employee and patron safety.
For more information, visit ocfl.net/BusinessResources.
FREE ACCESS TO TESTING CONTINUES
Access to free testing is a priority for the Orange County Health Services Department. All testing facilities operated by Orange County Government provide tests to individuals who are 12 years and older. Each individual tested will receive a kit of free facemasks and hand sanitizer. Results are usually available within 48 hours.
Barnett Park
4801 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808
Wednesday, November 4 & Thursday, November 5, 2020
8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
To book an appointment at Barnett Park, visit ocfl.net/Testing and click on #1 on the testing map.
Rapid antigen testing is available by the state at the Orange County Convention Center.
FREE Animal Services Spay Neuter Program
To assist low-income Orange County residents with spay/neuter costs, Orange County Animal Services announced a new voucher program making these free services available.
The initial funding for the program comes from a $20,000 grant awarded to Orange County Animal Services from Florida Animal Friend. Animal Services has established partnerships with three local spay/neuter clinics to carry out this program – the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando, Snip It and Spay N Save. The funds from the grant will cover the costs of approximately 300 pet sterilizations at these clinics.
To obtain a voucher for a free spay or neuter service visit, www.ocnetpets.com for program details.
Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 10/29/2020
COVID-19 STATS
For a snapshot of the latest COVID-19 statistics in Orange County, visit ocfl.net/Covid19Snapshot.
The snapshot is updated Monday through Friday.
CARES ACT FUNDING FOR INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES
The $1,000-grant program will reopen its application portal on Wednesday, November 4, 2020, at 8 a.m., with a capacity for 15,000 users.
As a reminder, applicants must upload an additional document to verify your Orange County residency. The address on your photo I.D. must match the Orange County address that will be used on the application. Examples of acceptable documentation include a utility bill, voter registration card, current lease, insurance bill, benefits or a bank statement.
Applicants do not need to be unemployed to qualify for the program. However, only one application is taken per household.
For a list of required documents, eligibility criteria and frequently asked questions, visit ocfl.net/OrangeCARES.
EVICTION DIVERSION
There is approximately $11.7 million of funding available for Orange County’s COVID-19 Eviction Diversion Program. The federal funds used for this program will have to be spent or allocated before December 30, 2020. Since August, the program has helped 1,038 families stay in their homes, which equates to more than $3.2 million. You do not have to be unemployed to qualify for this program.
For a list of required documents and eligibility criteria, visit ocfl.net/EvictionDiversion.
FREE ACCESS TO TESTING CONTINUES
Access to free testing is a priority for the Orange County Health Services Department. Next week, teams will continue testing at Barnett Park on Wednesday and Thursday. All testing facilities operated by Orange County Government provide tests to individuals who are 12 years and older. Each individual tested will receive a kit of free facemasks and hand sanitizer. Results are usually available within 48 hours.
Barnett Park
4801 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808
Wednesday, November 4-5, 2020
8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
To book an appointment at Barnett Park, visit ocfl.net/Testing and click on #1 on the testing map.
RAPID TESTING
Rapid antigen testing is now available at the state-run testing facility located at the Orange County Convention Center. Pre-registration for testing is recommended to decrease wait times. To register, visit PatientPortalFL.com.
HALLOWEEN SAFETY
Many traditional Halloween activities can be high-risk for spreading COVID-19. There are several safer, alternative ways to participate in Halloween. If you may have COVID-19 or you may have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, you should not participate in in-person Halloween festivities.
Learn more from the CDC.
Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 10/26/2020
The total number of COVID -19 cases in Orange County is 45,242. This is an increase of 208 cases since yesterday.
VOTING
One week from tomorrow is Election Day. So far, 134,239 Orange County residents have voted in person and 208,817 residents have chosen to vote by mail. Statewide, 2.2 million Floridians have voted in person and 3.8 million Floridians have voted by mail.
For Orange County residents, visit https://www.ocfelections.com/ to find your polling place.
GOALS OF THE WEEK
The three goals for the week continue to focus on slowing the spread of COVID-19.
- We will continue to offer free COVID-19 testing through Orange County Health Services to anyone who needs it
- We will continue to offer crisis assistance to individuals, families, landlords and businesses
- We will offer crisis assistance to non-profit arts organizations
COVID-19 NUMBERS
Visit ocfl.net/Covid19Snapshot.
TESTING
Barnett Park
4801 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808
Wednesday, October 28 – Thursday, October 29, 2020
8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
All testing facilities operated by Orange County Government provide free coronavirus tests to individuals who are +12 years old, hand out free facemasks and hand sanitizer to those tested, and do not ask for insurance. To book an appointment visit ocfl.net/Testing and click on #1 on the testing map for details.
CARES INDIVIDUAL AND FAMILY ASSISTANCE GRANT PORTAL
The portal opened this past weekend for a new round of distributing $30 million dollars in funding to individuals and families. Successful applicants will receive $1,000.00 per household.
A total of 8,714 applications have been received.
For more information, visit ocfl.net/OrangeCARES.
EVICTION DIVERSION
Our Eviction Diversion program is still available to qualified landlords and tenants. Orange County has approximately $12 million dollars available.
CARES funded program has helped 857 families avoid being kicked out of their homes.
Over $2.66 million dollars in rent payments have been sent to the Comptroller’s office.
You can find out how to receive assistance by visiting www.ocfl.net/EvictionDiversion.
CARES ACT MONIES FOR THE ARTS
Nearly 10,000 local events have been cancelled and 4,300 local arts-related jobs have disappeared, that has translated into $3.9 million dollars in lost wages.
Orange County has $5 million dollars in CARES Act monies to help arts groups recoup monies they had to spend for such things as Personal Protective Equipment, coronavirus testing, distance barriers and signage. The grant monies will be distributed through United Arts.
ARTS IN PUBLIC PARKS
Orange County has created the Arts in Public Parks Initiative.
We plan to open up a group of Orange County Parks to create CDC compliant performance spaces for both arts groups and audiences to enjoy.
For more information, we ask that arts groups contact Mr.Terry Olson at Terry.Olson@ocfl.net
Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 10/22/2020
COVID-19 NUMBERS
Visit ocfl.net/Covid19Snapshot.
TESTING
Free COVID-19 Testing Provided by Orange County Health Services
Barnett Park
4801 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808
Wednesday, October 28 & Thursday, October 29, 2020
8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Free testing available to those who are ages 12 and up. Appointment booking at ocfl.net/BarnettPark, but walk-ups also welcome. Test results in about 48 hours.
For more free testing locations throughout the County, visit ocfl.net/Testing
CARES Individuals and Family Assistance Grant portal
The next portal opening will be on Saturday, Oct. 24, 2020 at 8 a.m. and will have a 15,000-user capacity.
Individuals who applied on October 12 should receive their application status via email by the end of the day on October 23. If there were any issues with documentation, residents must re-apply on the October 24 date.
A reminder, if your household – as in anyone at residing at your address – has received grant funding already you are ineligible.
For more information, visit ocfl.net/OrangeCARES
STRIKE TEAMS
As of today, the Orange County Strike Teams have visited 3,778 businesses with an overall compliance rate of 97%.
- There have been 464 follow-up inspections.
- The team will be out over the weekend
- The team is planning on re-visiting theme parks in the next several business days.
For more information about the Strike Team, visit the County’s Business Resources page.
Orange County Clerk’s Office Hosts Clerks Against Domestic Violence
The virtual Clerks Against Domestic Violence Workshop in partnership with Harbor House of Central Florida, the Victim Service Center, and the Orlando Police Department, will be held on October 29, 2020 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. live on the Zoom platform.
To register for the event, visit the Clerks Against Domestic Violence Workshop page.
FREE DRIVE-THRU FOOD DRIVE
Holden Heights Community Center
1201 20th Street, Orlando 32805
October 24, 2020 at 10 a.m.
Event can provide food up to 300 vehicles.
Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 10/19/2020
COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS
Visit ocfl.net/Covid19Snapshot.
MAYRO DEMINGS’ GOALS FOR THE WEEK
- Continue offering crisis assistance to individuals and families
- Continue offering crisis assistance to small businesses
- Prioritize easy access to free COVID-19 testing
FREE COVID-19 TESTING
Orange County Health Services will offer free COVID-19 testing at Barnett Park on Wednesday and Thursday of this week. Residents who would like to book an appointment may visit ocfl.net/BarnettPark, although walk-up and bike-up testing is available. Residents who are tested will receive free facemasks and hand sanitizer.
Barnett Park
4801 W Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808
Wednesday October 21 and Thursday October 22, 2020
8 a.m. – 1 p.m.
In addition, the State Regional Drive-Thru Testing Facility at the Orange County Convention Center is currently offering free rapid antigen testing, with results in about 15 minutes. Insurance cards are requested, but you do not need insurance to be tested. Online appointments are encouraged, and can be reserved by visiting PatientPortalFL.com.
For these and other testing locations throughout the County, visit ocfl.net/Testing.
CARES ACT PROGRAMS
Individual and Families – The Orange County CARES Act funding for Individuals and Families Program will reopen its application portal on Saturday, October 24, 2020, at 8 a.m., with a capacity for 15,000 users.
As a reminder, applicants must upload an additional document to verify your Orange County residency. The address on your photo I.D. must match the Orange County address that will be used on the application. Examples of acceptable documentation includes a utility bill, voter registration card, current lease, insurance bill, benefits or bank statement.
For a list of required documents, eligibility criteria and frequently asked questions, visit ocfl.net/OrangeCARES.
Small Businesses and Home-based Businesses – Orange County grant programs for Small Businesses and Home-based Businesses are open. Businesses that have received funds from the federal Payroll Protection Program of up to $100,000 (up from the previous limit of $75,000) are now eligible to apply for funding.
For a list of required documents, eligibility criteria and frequently asked questions, visit ocfl.net/OrangeCARES.
EARLY VOTING
Early voting in Orange County is from October 19 through November 1. There are 15 days until Election Day on November 3, 2020. Residents are urged to make a plan to vote – whether by mail, early voting, or in person. Below are early voting location in Orange County. You can vote at any early voting location during the early voting period.
Alafaya Library
12000 E. Colonial Dr., Orlando, FL 32826
South Creek Library
1702 Deerfield Blvd., Orlando, FL 32837
Amway Center – Disney Atrium
400 W. Church St., #200, Orlando, FL 32801
Southeast Library
5575 S. Semoran Blvd., Orlando, FL 32822
Apopka Community Center
519 S. Central Ave., Apopka, FL 32703
Southwest Library
7255 Della Dr., Orlando, FL 32819
Chickasaw Library
870 N. Chickasaw Trail, Orlando, FL 32825
Tibet-Butler Reserve
8777 County Rd. 535, Orlando, FL 32836
Fairview Shores Library
902 Lee Road, Suite 26, Orlando, FL 32810
UCF – The Garden Room at Live Oak Event Center
4115 Pyxis Lane, Orlando, FL 32816
Hiawassee Library
7391 W. Colonial Dr., Orlando, FL 32818
Washington Park Library
5151 Raleigh St., Suite A, Orlando, FL 32811
Marks Street Senior Recreation Complex
99 E. Marks St., Orlando, FL 32803
Water Conserv II Distribution Center
17498 McKinney Rd., Winter Garden, FL 34787
Meadow Woods Recreation Center
1751 Rhode Island Woods Cir., Orlando, FL 32824
West Oaks Library
1821 E. Silver Star Rd., Ocoee, FL 34761
Orange County Supervisor of Elections
119 W. Kaley St., Orlando, FL 32806
Winter Garden Library
805 E. Plant St., Winter Garden, FL 34787
Renaissance Senior Center
3800 S. Econlockhatchee Trail, Orlando., FL 32829
Winter Park Library
460 E. New England Ave., Winter Park, FL 32789
More voting information can be found at ocfelections.com, or call 407-836-VOTE.
Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 10/16/2020
COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS
Visit ocfl.net/Covid19Snapshot.
FREE COVID-19 TESTING
Orange County Health Services will offer free COVID-19 testing at Barnett Park next week. Residents who would like to book an appointment may visit ocfl.net/BarnettPark, although walk-up and bike-up testing is available.
Barnett Park
4801 W Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808
Wednesday October 21 and Thursday October 22, 2020
8 a.m. – 1 p.m.
All testing facilities operated by Orange County Government provide tests to individuals who are 12+ years old. Residents who are tested will receive free facemasks and hand sanitizer. For more testing locations throughout the County, visit ocfl.net/Testing.
CARES ACT PROGRAMS
Individual and Families – Approximately $1.5 million have been distributed to residents since the program reopened earlier this week. The Orange County CARES Act funding for Individuals and Families Program will reopen its application portal on Saturday, October 24, 2020, at 8 a.m., with a capacity for 15,000 users.
For a list of required documents, eligibility criteria and frequently asked questions, visit ocfl.net/OrangeCARES.
Small Business and Home-Based Business – Both Orange County CARES Act funding programs for small businesses and home-based businesses will reopen on Monday, October 19, 2020, at 9 a.m. Approximately $7 million for small businesses, and $700,000 for home-based businesses is left to be disbursed. Businesses that have received funds from the federal Payroll Protection Program of up to $100,000 (up from the previous limit of $75,000) are now eligible to apply for funding.
Since the program opened in June 2020, more than $60 million has been allocated to business owners in Orange County, with 67 percent going to minority or women-owned businesses.
For a list of required documents, eligibility criteria and frequently asked questions, visit ocfl.net/OrangeCARES.
STRIKE TEAMS
The goal of Orange County’s Business Compliance Strike Teams is to help businesses keep both patrons and employees safe. Strike Teams will be out again this weekend, to assist Orange County businesses, as well as following up with businesses that are not in compliance. Data for Strike Team visits is below:
- 3,542 sites have been visited
- 87 percent of business are in compliance during the first visit
- 440 follow up inspections
- 83 percent compliance rate after follow up inspections
CENSUS
The count for the 2020 Census ended on Thursday, October 15, 2020, according to a recent Supreme Court hearing.
Orange County has a 64.5 percent self-reporting rate. That is ahead of the 2010 number which was 62 percent. With the included reporting from local Census enumerators, Orange County Mayor Demings hopes that at least 70 percent of all residents are counted.
Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 10/12/2020
GOALS OF THE WEEK
Mayor Demings’ goals of the week continue to focus on slowing the spread of COVID-19.
- Offer crisis assistance to individuals and families in need.
- Continue to offer free COVID-19 testing and flu shots.
- Continue to offer business compliance assistance and inspections to help keep employees and patrons safe.
COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS
Visit ocfl.net/Covid19Snapshot.
FREE COVID-19 TESTING
Orange County Medical Clinic
101 S. Westmoreland Drive, Orlando, FL 32805
Thursday, October 15 – Friday, October 16, 2020
8-11 a.m.
All testing facilities operated by Orange County Government provide tests to individuals who are +12 years old, provide residents who are tested free facemasks and hand sanitizer, and do not ask for insurance. To book an appointment visit www.ocfl.net/OCMedicalClinic.
For more testing locations throughout the County, visit ocfl.net/Testing.
FREE FLU VACCINATIONS
With flu season on the horizon,Orange County Health Services Department will provide free flu vaccinations. Getting a flu vaccine is more important than ever during a pandemic because it can save resources for the care of patients with COVID-19. Teams will be at the following location this week:
Barnett Park (FLU SHOTS)
4801 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808
Wednesday, October 14 – Friday, October 16, 2020
8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
To book an appointment, visit ocfl.net/FluShots.
CARES ACT FUNDING FOR INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES
The application portal opened today at 8 a.m. for a new round of distributing $30 million dollars in funding to individuals and families. Successful applicants will receive $1,000.00 per household. This was the sixth time our portal opened and we have already paid out nearly $30 million in funding that has helped nearly 30,000 residents.
The next portal opening will be on Saturday, Oct. 24 at 8 a.m. and will also have a 10,000 user capacity.
For more information, visit ocfl.net/OrangeCARES
CENSUS EXTENDED
A friendly reminder: The deadline for the 2020 Census was extended to October 31, 2020. It is not too late for you to make sure your household is counted.
For more information and to complete the questionnaire please go to my2020census.gov.
Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 10/9/2020
COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS
Visit ocfl.net/Covid19Snapshot.
CARES ACT PROGRAM FOR INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES
Orange County’s CARES Act program for Individuals and Families will open on Monday, October 12, 2020, at 8 a.m. with a capacity for 10,000 users. This means there will be a very limited window of time for the portal being open. Once that capacity is reached, the application portal will close for processing.
Residents who are applying are urged to have their required documents ready for when the portal opens.
For a list of required documents, eligibility criteria and frequently asked questions, visit ocfl.net/OrangeCARES.
The application portal will reopen again on Saturday, October 24, 2020, at 8 a.m., accepting the same capacity.
COVID-19 TESTING IN YOUR COMMUNITY
Access to free testing is a priority for the Orange County Health Services Department. Next week, teams will be located at the following location:
Orange County Medical Clinic (COVID-19 TESTING)
101 S. Westmoreland Drive, Orlando, FL 32805
Thursday, October 15 – Friday, October 16, 2020
8-11 a.m.
All testing facilities operated by Orange County Government provide tests to individuals who are +12 years old, provide residents who are tested free facemasks and hand sanitizer, and do not ask for insurance. To book an appointment visit www.ocfl.net/OCMedicalClinic.
For more testing locations throughout the County, visit ocfl.net/Testing.
FREE FLU VACCINATIONS
With flu season on the horizon, Orange County Health Services Department will provide free flu vaccinations. Getting a flu vaccine is more important than ever during a pandemic because it can save resources for the care of patients with COVID-19. Next week, teams will be located at the following location:
Barnett Park (FLU SHOTS)
4801 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808
Wednesday, October 14 – Friday, October 16, 2020
8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
To book an appointment, visit ocfl.net/FluShots.
STRIKE TEAMS
Orange County Strike Teams have been working during the past six weeks, visiting more than 3,300 sites to help ensure businesses are following CDC guidelines, as well as and providing them with necessary resources. The vast majority of businesses that have been visited are in compliance, and are working diligently to keep their guests and employees safe.
Unfortunately, Strike Teams have encountered a very small group of businesses that have been visited and revisited four times – and are still not in compliance.
Orange County Strike Teams may look into the possibility of instituting fines for businesses that remain in noncompliance. For more information on the Strike Teams, visit ocfl.net/BusinessResources.
Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 10/5/2020
MAYOR DEMINGS’ GOALS OF THE WEEK
- Slowing the spread of COVID-19.
- Continue to offer free testing to any Orange County resident who wants it.
- Offer crisis assistance to individuals and families.
- Continue to slowly reopen Orange County facilities as our coronavirus numbers stabilize.
COVID-19 UPDATES/NUMBERS
- There are now a reported 41,055 cases. That is an increase of 112 cases since yesterday.
- We have lost 483 Orange County residents to the coronavirus. That is an increase of four deaths from the weekend.
- Our two week positivity average is 4.4%. Our average since the beginning of the pandemic in March is 11.4%. That is still below the statewide positivity average of 13.25%
TESTING
This week, testing will be offered at the following sites:
Mexican Consulate
2550 Technology Drive, Orlando, FL 32801
Tuesday, October 6, 2020 only
8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Kelly Park
400 E Kelly Park Road, Apopka, FL 32712
Wednesday October 7 – Thursday, October 8, 2020
8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
All testing facilities operated by Orange County Government provide tests to individuals who are +12 years old, provide residents who are tested free facemasks and hand sanitizer, and do not ask for insurance.
To book an appointment at either location, or for more testing locations throughout the County, visit ocfl.net/Testing.
CARES PROGRAM INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES
Earlier this year, Orange County invested $30 million dollars in federal funding to help individuals and families. The program assisted close to 30,000 households.
Mayor Demings has announced another $30 million dollars will be available for our Orange CARES for Individuals and Family Assistance Program.
The program will provide a one-time payment of $1,000 per household for residents affected by COVID-19 to help bridge financial gaps. Residents who have already received funding from the previous Individual and Family Assistance Program, are not eligible to apply.
The application portal will open on:
- Monday, October 12, 2020 at 8 a.m.
- Saturday, October 24, 2020 at 8 a.m.
- Only one address per household can receive funding. That means if there are multiple people living in one household, only one person in that household can apply and get funding.
- You cannot use PO Boxes to apply for the funding. You must use a physical address where you reside—and not a family member’s address.
Updated information will be available at www.ocfl.net/OrangeCares later this week.
CENSUS
Orange County is following the new U.S. Census deadline of October 31, 2020.
Complete your short Census questionnaire today at my2020Census.gov.
For residents who do not have access to the internet, or are not comfortable using a computer, visit ocfl.net/CommunityAction to find a Census Kiosk at their nearest Orange County Community Center. The Centers are open Monday through Wednesday; from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Kiosks will be cleaned after each use.
PARKS AND RECREATION
Orange County Parks & Recreation is announcing a phased re-opening for picnic pavilions, adult athletics, splash pads, and group camping effective Saturday, October 10.
Please note, there will be limitations on the number of people at pavilions and we all must still follow the CDC guidelines and the face-covering mandate still in effect. For our splash pads, they will be at 50% capacity.
Indoor facilities and outdoor basketball courts remain closed.
NINTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COURT OF FLORIDA
Jury Trials
Significantly smaller groups of jurors are summoned at a time and have arranged the jury room to assist with social distancing. The numbers of people in courtrooms are limited and personal sanitizer and specialized masks for jury panelists will be provided. Face shields and gloves will be provided upon request.
If you have been impacted financially or suffered a hardship because of COVID-19, you may request a 6-month postponement of your jury service. Jurors directly affected by COVID-19, experiencing symptoms or at high risk, may be eligible for an excusal from serving. Please carefully review the jury summons or information on the Circuit’s website if you have any questions.
For updates, please visit the circuit’s website – www.ninthcircuit.org. And follow us on Facebook or Twitter @NinthCircuitFL.
Key Takeaways: Orange County’s News Conference 10/01/20
For the latest COVID-19 numbers, visit www.ocfl.net/covid19snapshot.
EVICTION DIVERSION AND EVICTION MORATORIUM
Yesterday, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis declared that the state’s local executive order limiting evictions and foreclosures would expire on October 1, 2020. The Federal order from the CDC to halt COVID-related evictions through the end of the year is still active.
Residents must be proactive and file the necessary paperwork with their landlord for the federal program, as they do not automatically qualify. Visit ocfl.net/HousingFAQs for a list of frequently asked questions and additional resources.
The County’s Eviction Diversion Program is still open and funding is available. The program has a total capacity of $20 million to help families stay in their homes and avoid eviction. Currently, more than $500,000 has been allocated to 192 households. Visit ocfl.net/EvictionDiversion for a full list of eligibility criteria and required documents.
ADDITIONAL CARES ACT FUNDING FOR INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES
Orange County Government plans to re-open its CARES Act funding program for Individual and Families. The grants, which provide $1,000 to eligible households, have already served 29,236 households, distributing nearly $30 million back to residents.
An announcement will be made early next week when the program will re-open.
STRIKE TEAMS AND PPE FOR BUSINESSES
Businesses are now responsible for enforcing CDC guidelines, including social distancing, to keep their employees and customers safe.
The majority of businesses visited by Orange County’s Strike Teams have been in compliance – upwards of 95 percent. The teams are here to help businesses stay open safely.
To help facilitate this, Strike Teams have provided assistance, guidance and resources – such as PPE and guidance posters to local businesses. Businesses in need of resources can call Orange County’s 3-1-1 service to request a visit.
COVID-19 TESTING IN YOUR COMMUNITY
Access to free testing is a priority for the Orange County Health Services Department. Next week, teams will be located at the following locations:
Mexican Consulate
2550 Technology Drive, Orlando, FL 32801
Tuesday, October 6, 2020
8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Kelly Park
400 E Kelly Park Road, Apopka, FL 32712
Wednesday October 7 – Thursday, October 8, 2020
8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
All testing facilities operated by Orange County Government provide tests to individuals who are +12 years old, provide residents who are tested free facemasks and hand sanitizer, and do not ask for insurance.
To book an appointment at either location, or for more testing locations throughout the County, visit ocfl.net/Testing.
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE RESOURCES
Today marks National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
The Orange County Domestic Violence Commission and Community Legal Services of Mid-Florida will host a free housing webinar on Tuesday, October 6, 2020, at 2 p.m. for domestic violence survivors and entities serving this population. For details, visit Orange County Domestic Violence Commission’s web page at ocfl.net/DVC.
Please find all previous updates on the previous Coronavirus Updates page.
About Orange County Government: Orange County Government strives to serve its residents and guests with integrity, honesty, fairness and professionalism. Located in Central Florida, Orange County includes 13 municipalities and is home to world-famous theme parks, one of the nation’s largest convention centers and a thriving life science research park. Seven elected members make up the Board of County Commissioners, including the Mayor, who is elected countywide. For more information, please visit www.OCFL.net or go to Orange County Government’s social media channels.