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Here’s a list of Baltimore’s digital tech and biz resources to tap into amid COVID-19

Here's a look at tools to get information and communicate with others about health and business.

An infographic on social distancing from the Baltimore City Health Department. (Courtesy photo)

The COVID-19 pandemic is bringing lots of change all at once. For Baltimore’s tech and business community, that has meant big changes to event plans and adjustment to fully remote work.

It’s also bringing new tools and strategies as folks seek information, and look to communicate with others in uncertain times. Here’s a look at the digital resources that are being made available in Baltimore:

Johns Hopkins’ CSSE is tracking the spread of COVID-19

The Johns Hopkins Center for Systems Science and Engineering is updating a map where users can track coronavirus cases around the world. The dashboard includes data about confirmed cases, deaths and recoveries.

Maryland’s coronavirus map

The Maryland Department of Health has an online database where Maryland residents can keep track of the coronavirus outbreak. The site includes a map with the number of cases reported in the state, and information about where they are located. The database includes information about background about the virus, social distancing,  guidance for travelers and preparedness measures.Baltimore City Health Department meal access map

Despite the closure of schools, grab-and-go meals are still being distributed to children and food-insecure families at rec centers and 10 schools. The Baltimore City Health Department created an online map where city residents can access information about food distribution sites throughout the city.

Baltimore Together

The Baltimore Development Corporation launched the website to provide info on food access, plus resources for businesses and displaced workers. The site was developed by Canton-based creative agency Kapowza.

Baltimore COVID-19 Asset Map

Baltimore City Council President Brandon Scott put together an asset map of food distribution sites, senior lunch and grocery sites and primary care clinics for the uninsured.

Startup Soiree’s Small Business Forum

Startup Soiree recently launched a COVID-19 small business forum where small businesses can have space for dialogue and gather resources during the coronavirus pandemic. Access to the forum is available on the Startup Soiree website where users share concerns about certain industries and get access to resources and advice.

Tell the BDC about business impacts

The Baltimore Development Corporation is collecting information from businesses in Baltimore City and nonprofits who are impacted by COVID-19 in an online survey. The information will be provided to state and federal partners.

 

Jumpstart:HR has a free online course.

Baltimore-based Jumpstart:HR has a free online course for startups and people managers information on how to protect your business and employees during the coronavirus outbreak.. The online course gives information on how to manage requests and how to keep employees and others safe. Check out this post from Jumpstart:HR founder Joey Price on four questions businesses must ask amid the pandemic.

Maryland Department of Commerce’s resources

The Maryland Department of Commerce spun up a website with resources on how businesses around the state can handle COVID-19. The website has resources from federal and state agencies.

U.S. Small Business Administration resources

On the federal level, the U.S. Small Business Administration is providing resources during the COVID 19 outbreak.

Maryland was approved Thursday by the federal government to allow small businesses affected by the pandemic to apply for the economic injury disaster loan program. Applications for the low-interest disaster assistance loans are here.

The SBA also has guidance for businesses and employers which provides updated information from the CDC.

Baltimore City Health Department’s inforgraphics

With calls to stay home that can help flatten the curve, the Baltimore City Health Department wants residents to share their infographics on social distancing. They’re calling the campaign #stayhomehereoes.

CLLCTIVLY’s Black-led COVID-19 Response Survey

Cllcvtivly, which supports Black-led grassroots organizations and businesses, is collecting information on how the pandemic is affecting the community. Take the survey here. “Your input will help us better support one another as we chart new territory,” it said.

Baltimore County Food Distribution Map

Baltimore County has an online resource for residents to locate food distribution sites. The Food Distribution Sites Map has information about locations offering free meals for youth throughout the county. Users can search locations closest to where they live. The map will be updated as additional food resources become available for youth and other populations.

BaltCo To-GO

The County also has a map showing the restaurants and bars that are offering takeout and delivery in the midst of the pandemic. Businesses can add their name via this survey.

EcoMap Baltimore’s List of Businesses

There are hundreds of businesses in Baltimore that been impacted by COVID-19. EcoMap Baltimore’s database serves as a centralized listing of all the restaurants, small businesses, and small business employees who need your support and how you can help them.

Maryland Unites 

The office of Maryland Governor Larry Hogan launched an online database called Maryland Unites, where state residents can get information about volunteer opportunities at organizations like the Maryland Food Bank, American Red Cross and Meals on Wheels.

Enoch Pratt Free Library’s digital media

The Enoch Pratt Free Library is closed at branch locations. But online, it has a full elibrary of offerings to download. One resource is Hoopla Digital, where patrons can borrow free movies, music, ebooks, comics and TV shows. Kanopy also offers streaming films that are “educational, entertaining and enriching.” The library also has ebooks and e audiobooks for teens, adults, children and beginning readers.

Baltimore City COVID-19 Website

Baltimore City Mayor Bernard C.  “Jack” Young announced the launch today of new website https://coronavirus.baltimorecity.gov/ dedicated to COVID-19. The website includes information on food distribution, clinical guidance, for healthcare providers, and downloadable infographics that you can share on social media. The site also includes resources and links for city residents looking to volunteer or donate to people or organizations in need.

Maryland Responds 

Maryland Responds is an online registration system that allows residents to register as a responder willing to provide services during a disaster or emergency situation.

Updated 8:30 p.m., 3/23/20.

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