By State Senator Jeff Howe
Thank you to my constituents who have reached out to me during these difficult times. I wanted to give my heartfelt blessing and wishes to all as we celebrate Passover and Easter in the coming days. It may not be a typical holiday celebration for us, but enjoy times with friends and family, even if it is just in spirit. This will all pass in time making our reunions even better.
I hope you stay safe and healthy. God bless!
Community notes
Many people are stepping up and looking for ways to give back to their communities during the COVID-19 outbreak, while still making sure that the precautions are taken to keep Minnesotans safe.
I want to thank the people who continue to support our local restaurants. We need to continue to support our area businesses to help them weather the effects of the State shutdown. I also encourage others to participate in ways that help give back to your community during these difficult times.
Fare for All
Piloting a drive-thru model at St. Joseph, from 3:30-5:30 p.m. Monday, April 20, at Resurrection Lutheran Church.
Fare for All is a budget-stretching program that allows people
to save up to 40 percent off fresh fruits, vegetables and frozen meats. We are open to everyone who wants to stretch their grocery dollar. Cash, credit, debit cards, and EBT cards are accepted. For more information please visit fareforall.thefoodgroupmn.org/.
Two programs for veterans
On March 26, the Minnesota Legislature created two new programs to assist Veterans who may be financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Disaster Relief Grants and Special Needs Grants both have been activated specifically in response to mitigate the economic effects COVID-19 is having on our veterans and their families. Full information can be found at mn.gov/mdva/blog/?id=1066-425565.
New insulin option
A new, low-cost option is available for people who are having trouble affording insulin. Eli Lilly and Company pharmaceuticals has introduced the Lilly Insulin Value Program, allowing anyone with commercial insurance and those without insurance to fill their monthly prescription of Lilly insulin for $35. Lilly indicates in a press release that the program was motivated by the COVID-19 pandemic, and also says it has no plans for discontinuing the program in the future. Call the Lilly Diabetes Solution Center at (833) 808-1234 from 7 a.m. to
7 p.m. weekdays, or read the story at www.lilly.com/news/stories/covid19-
crisis-lilly-introduces-35-
dollar-copay-insulin.
Disaster Loans For Farmers
The Minnesota Disaster Recovery Loan Program is now accessible to farmers who are suffering financial damages related to the COVID-19 outbreak after the Legislature expanded access to the funds. The Minnesota Department of Agriculture indicates program dollars can be used to “replace livestock or flocks, make building improvements, or cover the loss of revenue. Loan proceeds may also be used to repair or replace septic and water systems, and replace destroyed agricultural buildings.” More can be found at the MDA website, or by calling (651) 201-6666.
Social media
You’re invited to follow me on social media! Be sure to follow me on my Facebook page for the latest news from the Capitol and District 13. You’ll find legislative updates, constituent photos, events, video updates, and more.