Dear [firstname],

El Paso is experiencing one of the darkest moments we have ever had to face. Our hospitals are full, our health care workers are overwhelmed and exhausted, our morgues have run out of space, and we’ve lost over 900 El Pasoans. Just in the last week, we’ve lost more than 100 lives and our hospitals and healthcare workers are beyond overwhelmed because of the catastrophic surge of COVID-19 cases in our community.

The finite resources we currently have may be allocated elsewhere if other communities across the country begin to experience the grim reality we are in. I’m terrified that our health care system will be unable to keep up with the devastation COVID-19 is creating.

This Thanksgiving feels very different than any other. Many are dealing with loss, financial hardship, and isolation from loved ones. These unprecedented times have taken a physical, mental, and emotional toll on all of us, but we can’t lose sight of what our community needs from us to overcome this crisis. 

While many federal, state, and local leaders have surrendered to the virus – leaving our frontline heroes and families without any hope – we can’t afford to do the same. It’s now on each and every one of us to stop the spread and save lives.

As difficult as it is to be apart from our loved ones this holiday season, it is absolutely necessary. We must listen to our health experts and stay home this Thanksgiving to protect ourselves and our loved ones. The CDC released new guidance as we enter the holiday season and I want you to be aware of the latest information. It’s important everyone be aware of the latest resources available to El Pasoans, so please feel free to share this information with your family and friends.

To ensure you don’t miss any of my newsletters, click here.

Thanksgiving 

More than 1 million COVID-19 cases were reported in the United States over the last 7 days. As cases continue to dangerously increase in El Paso and across the country, the safest way to celebrate Thanksgiving this year is to celebrate at home with the people you live with. If you’re planning on traveling, the CDC recommends you make other plans, such as hosting a virtual gathering or delaying your travel. 

If you choose to attend a gathering, here are some additional steps to take:

• Wear a mask with two or more layers that covers your nose and mouth.
• Stay at least 6 feet away from others who do not live with you.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Bring your own food, drinks, cups, and utensils. 

For more information and tips to make your Thanksgiving safer, click here. 

Taking Care of Your Mental Health 

The stress and uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic is deeply impacting our mental health. Fear and anxiety about the virus and financial hardships can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children. Additionally, isolation from our loved ones can also increase anxiety and loneliness.

Without an end in sight, it’s extremely important to take care of your mental health. Here are some healthy ways to cope with stress and anxiety:

• Know what to do if you are sick and are concerned about COVID-19.
• Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including those on social media.
• Take care of your body.
  • Take deep breaths, stretch, or meditate.
  • Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals.
  • Exercise regularly.
  • Get plenty of sleep.
  • Avoid excessive alcohol and drug use.
• Make time to unwind. Try to do some other activities you enjoy.
• Connect with others. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling.

For more tips, click here.

Here are some resources available to you and your loved ones for immediate help in a crisis:

• Call 911
• Disaster Distress Helpline
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
• National Domestic Violence Hotline
• National Child Abuse Hotline
• National Sexual Assault Hotline
• Veteran’s Crisis Line

For additional and local mental health resources available to you and your loved ones, click here.

COVID-19 Resources Available to El Pasoans

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted everyone in El Paso. Our community has overcome and recovered in the face of hardship before, and this is no different. I want to share some resources that are available to El Pasoans with you. 

Thanks to the CARES Act, El Paso received over $145 million that has worked its way through our local governments and organizations to assist you and your family.

The City of El Paso approved $10 million in federal funds for a Rental Assistance Program to help tenants who are at risk of eviction as a result of the direct financial impact caused by COVID-19. For more information on how to apply, please click here. Individuals can also apply for General Assistance from El Paso County, which includes assistance with rent, mortgage, or utilities. To learn more, click here.

El Pasoans who need help paying for groceries or providing meals for their families can contact the El Pasoans Fighting Hunger Food Bank at (915) 298-0353 to learn more about their food pantry programs throughout the city. El Pasoans can also apply for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) if they meet certain eligibility requirements. Please dial 2-1-1 or 877-541-7905 or click here to learn more about SNAP. 

If you own a small business and need financial assistance, please click here to learn more about available loans, grants, and assistance as well as information about how to keep employees and customers safe.

The fight against COVID-19 is far from over, and this is not the time to let our guard down. We have to do our part and stay home unless we absolutely need to leave for an essential activity. We all have a role to play in slowing the spread and protecting ourselves, our family, and our community. 

New information about COVID-19 is coming out daily, please visit my resource page on my website for the latest updates, recommendations from the CDC, and a Frequently Asked Questions section to know the latest. Additionally, visit the sites below to stay up to date.

The CDC provides updates on the virus and safety information for the public and healthcare professionals, as well as Frequently Asked Questions available here. 

The City of El Paso has a hotline for residents to call for more information regarding COVID-19. The number is 915-21-COVID, or 915-212-6843.

If you need to get tested because you believe you’ve been exposed to COVID-19 or are experiencing symptoms, please get tested. The City of El Paso also offers mobile testing centers throughout the city that are now open and are free of charge for any symptomatic or asymptomatic person. So, whether you are exhibiting symptoms or not, you can get tested! For more information on locations and operating hours, please click here. 

The Texas Department of State Health Services provides updates on the disease's spread within the state.

The safety and well-being of you and your loved ones is of the utmost importance. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact my office via email at Veronica.Escobar@mail.house.gov or by phone at 915-541-1400.

Sincerely,

Veronica Escobar
Member of Congress