During 2020 we’ve seen some things that rattled us to the core, and [should have] defeated us.
But like so many Detroiters have learned from enduring other hardships, we get up from that place of despair and forge ahead. During COVID-19 we’ve seen and experienced first-hand what this pandemic has done to communities, businesses, and families here and around the world.
But how does winter and COVID-19 mix? What could economic relief look like for this season especially with an increase in the number of businesses shut down during the recent extensions? Will these vaccines solve the answers [and will people be ready to take it]? And how do we keep mentally afloat during a time already known for seasonal depression, particularly when everyone is socially distanced?
Things might be looking dismal but some are pushing through from a place of optimism and hope.
A Mental Moment
Detroit-based counselor Patrece M. Lucas said that when it comes to mental health, the Black community, typically, bears the brunt of things.
“African/Black Americans globally suffer at a higher rate than non-Blacks on good days and on bad days,” Lucas said. “When white people catch a cold, Black people get pneumonia. What this speaks to is the greater impacts on our community because of how our community is already suffering in oppressive conditions.”
Lucas said that as a result the Black community at-large will need to continue to elevate their mental health to continue to survive despite grieving, quarantining, and more.
Here’s how:
- Acknowledge what is presently impacting your health.
- Eat nutritionally dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts, lean meats, whole grains, etc.)
- Exercise (in fun and easy ways like walking or dancing).
- Rest/relax by getting adequate sleep, doing breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, stretching or praying.
- Connect with others via social media, calling/texting, joining online support groups, writing letters to friends and family.
Find Lucas on Facebook for more tips.
A Vaccine on the Way
On Dec. 10 Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed Executive Order 2020-193 enacting the bipartisan Protect Michigan Commission within the Department of Health and Human Services to educate Michigan residents on the safety and efficacy of an approved COVID-19 vaccine to protect the health of the citizens.
“Right now, we are on the brink of great breakthroughs when it comes to a safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine, and we must begin to educate Michiganders about how important it is that we all get vaccinated so we can eradicate this virus once and for all. That’s what the Protect Michigan Commission is all about,” Whitmer said.
On Dec. 10, the Food and Drug Administration Panel approved the COVID-19 vaccine, the Wall Street Journal reported. The recommendation would allow for the regulatory agency to approve emergency authorization, which happened over two weeks ago.
Pfizer and Moderna have submitted official requests for emergency use authorization through the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The two-dose vaccination will be made available first to frontline workers and employees of health agencies. Vaccinations for the general public are expected to be distributed in early spring 2021. Still, residents are urged to begin consulting with their healthcare provider and to continue doing their part in stopping the spread.
Chief Medical Executive and MDHHS Chief Deputy for Health Dr. Joneigh Khaldun agrees. “As we get closer to distributing a safe and effective vaccine, think about how you can play a role in ending this pandemic. Wear your mask now so you can prevent the spread, and avoid indoor gatherings. 2021 will be the year when Michigan beats back this pandemic, we just have to stay the course,” she said. In a recent call with the Michigan Chronicle, she expressed understanding reservations Black people might have with the vaccine, but she urges the community to take it once it becomes available. “We will be working on being as transparent as possible [providing information to] the communities so people can make good choices. We don’t want communities of color to miss out on this tool.”
Good for Business
Detroit’s economy is getting some much-needed love after Whitmer announced a nearly $100 million financial relief program to support Michigan businesses, including minority-owned businesses, through the Michigan Small Business Restart Program. Over 14,000 eligible small businesses across the state can apply for this program that is supported by federal funds.
The Michigan Small Business Restart Program was created to support small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 crisis through $10 million in grants and nearly $10 million in loans across all 83 counties in the state.
To learn more about MEDC’s COVID-19 response programs and the impact they are having on economic recovery efforts, visit michiganbusiness.org/covid19response.
Even closer to home, Wayne County recently unveiled a ‘Shop Small’ campaign to support local businesses, especially during the holidays. The Economic Development Department announced the new initiative last month to help small and independent retailers during the pandemic.
Businesses may sign up to be a part of the Shop Small campaign on WayneCounty.com or through bit.ly/ShopWayneCounty. Once a business joins, their address, hours and other pertinent information including special promotions and contact information will be included on a sharable public database available on the County website and social media channels.
Over 100 businesses are already registered. Contact smallbusiness@waynecounty.com for more information.
In the city, a new Decked Out Detroit Campaign is creating a safe outdoor winter retreat during COVID-19.
Bedrock, Detroit’s largest commercial real estate company, announced on Dec. 10 the initiative in partnership with the Rocket Community Fund. The four-month plan will support businesses and the community during Michigan’s coldest months by providing memorable and safe shopping, dining and entertainment experiences in downtown Detroit, according to a press release.
Happening now, downtown restaurants will feature heated open-air pergolas for safe outdoor dining, and downtown parking will be complimentary at Bedrock lots and garages, with validation. Other large-scale, family-friendly activities will be announced later this winter. To stay up-to-date on the latest news visit deckedoutdetroit.com.
“Despite the pandemic, many businesses in downtown Detroit have shown incredible resilience and continued to support the local community with innovative new programs. Decked Out Detroit is designed to build on that momentum by creating safe ways for the public to mask up, get outside and enjoy their city,” said Kofi Bonner, CEO of Bedrock.
Staff Writer Megan Kirk contributed to this report.