COVID-19 Measures

Dear community members,

As of yesterday we are in a shelter-in-place mode across the San Francisco Bay Area until April 30*. Please do not leave your house unless it is for essential needs. At any time, let us know if you need any help, we are all here to support one another at all times especially during a crisis and a never-seen/experienced one. 

Even though you might assume that you are young and/or are not vulnerable to COIVD-19 you might put others at risk by spreading the virus, you might also be a carrier and not show symptoms, you then are risking others lives.

We are at a very serious circumstance, please take this seriously. We realize that the timing is during our cultural holidays, again we ask you to stay-in-place, practice social distancing as much as it might be hard at this time, it is crucial. All counties in the San Francisco Bay Area have issued orders of shelter-in-place, when with others remaining 6-feet apart from one another with no more than 10 people at a place at a time. 

If you are in the at-risk category (older adults and people with chronic diseases) and are unable to shop for essential items and/or need any help at this time, please let us know. We need to come together as a community and help one another to get through these tough times. 

These essential services will remain open:

  • Gas stations

  • Pharmacies 

  • Food: Grocery stores, farmers markets, food banks, convenience stores, take-out and delivery restaurants 

  • Hardware stores/plumbers

  • Banks

  • Community benefit organizations on a case-by-case basis

  • Laundromats/laundry services

What can't you do?

  • You cannot engage in group activities in person with others. 

  • You cannot have dinner parties. You cannot invite friends over to your home to hang out. 

  • You cannot go to bars or nightclubs.

  • You cannot go to a nail salon or get your hair cut by a stylist or barber.

  • You cannot go shopping for non-essential goods.

  • You cannot take unnecessary trips on public transport or in your car or motorbike.

Where does this apply?

This is in effect across the Bay Area, including in Marin, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Contra Costa, and Alameda Counties and the City of Berkeley.  

Is this mandatory or is it just guidance?

It is mandatory. This Order is a legal Order issued under the authority of California law. You are required to comply, and it is a misdemeanor crime not to follow the order (although the intent is not for anyone to get into trouble). 

It is critical for everyone to follow the Order to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and protect themselves, their loved ones, friends, neighbors and the whole community. 

All persons, businesses, and other entities are required to comply if they do not fall within the exemptions that are specified in the Order.

Social distancing requirements

  • Avoid groups.

  • Stay at least 6 feet away from others.

  • Reduce the time you are around others outside the home, even when at least 6 feet away.

The best way to reduce their risk of getting sick, as with seasonal colds or the flu, still applies to prevent COVID-19:

  • Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

  • Cover your cough or sneeze.

  • Stay home if you are sick.

  • Avoid touching your face.

  • Get your vaccinations.

  • Keep 6 feet of distance between you and others in a line.

  • When that isn’t possible for short periods, keep the duration short. Be sure when you are in line that you don’t sneeze or cough onto people. If needed, cough or sneeze into your shirt or into an elbow with clothing on.

For more information please refer to CDC, World Health Organization, or your local government sites.

In the meantime, please reach out if you need anything! 

* UPDATED.