Dear James City County community members,
During this difficult time, many concerned citizens are asking what they can do to help their neighbors. James City County local government has been working with our community partners to ensure the continued delivery of essential services, particularly for the most vulnerable members of our community. As you know, we are all in this together, so here is a list of ways that you can help one another:
- Consider temporary closure of neighborhood playgrounds. We urge homeowners associations (HOAs) and neighborhood organizations to consider temporarily closing neighborhood parks and sports courts. The Department of Parks & Recreation has made the difficult decision to close public playgrounds, basketball, tennis and pickleball courts in accordance with guidance from the Governor and the Virginia Department of Health and we encourage neighborhoods to consider closing areas that could spread the virus or bring groups of people close together. With so many children currently out of school, this is understandably challenging. However, this may be one of our best options to try to limit disease transmission.
- Practice social distancing as a form of community service. We are social creatures, and during times of crisis, good people are often eager to roll up their sleeves. During this highly unusual situation, however, one of the best things you can do to limit disease transmission is to temporarily maintain physical distance from others.
- Help us spread the word about helpful resources for those in need.
- Peninsula Health District Call Center: 757-594-7069
- Virginia Department of Health: 757-ASK-VDH3
- James City County Public Information Line: 757-564-2140
- James City County Department of Social Services: 757-259-3100
- United Way Community Resource Center: 757-229-2222
- Support local businesses. Even as we practice social distancing, many local businesses offer services such as curbside pickup, product delivery, carry out, drop boxes, and a variety of online options. Call or visit business websites or social media pages to discover how local businesses are adjusting to continue serving their customers.
- Shop responsibly. With large numbers of people stocking up on supplies like hand sanitizer and cleaning products, retailers nationwide are having difficulty keeping these high-demand products on store shelves. This is especially challenging for those who face barriers, such as lack of transportation to stores or no internet access. While everyone is strongly encouraged to take proper precautions to limit disease transmission, taking only what your household needs will help to ensure that supplies are available for everyone.
For more information about Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19), please visit the County’s website, jamescitycountyva.gov. Thank you for your concerns and your patience as we work through these unprecedented circumstances.