COVID-19 Information - April 2020

April 30, 2020

Acts of kindness and generosity permeate Mission Viejo

During this pandemic, the stories of acts of kindness and generosity continue to show the wonderful spirit of our community.

Take the Kiwanis Club of Mission Viejo, for example. The club recently donated $1,000 to South County Outreach to help stock the nonprofit's food pantry, which typically distributes nearly one million pounds of emergency, non-perishable and fresh food to an average of 9,000 families annually. The COVID-19 crisis has increased the number of people the pantry is serving. The Kiwanis Club also donated $500 to StandUp for Kids to help support homeless teens in our area.

In addition, Kiwanis Club of Mission Viejo president Jeff Badrtalei joined Anna Wu of the San Gabriel-based club for her donation of face masks to Mission Hospital to help keep medical personnel on the frontlines safe.

These efforts epitomize the fabric of this community and help keep Mission Viejo Strong.

April 30, 2020

Calling all Mission Viejo residents graduating from high school and college!

With the COVID-19 crisis forcing schools to close, we want to honor high school and college graduates missing out on their milestone events.

We will recognize the outstanding efforts and achievements of our graduates by featuring names and photos in a special video compilation for our @MissionViejoLife social media channels.

If you or your child live in our City and are graduating from high school or college, complete our submission form and attach a candid photo of the graduate online here: https://cityofmissionviejo.org/form/grad-submission.

Submissions are due by midnight Sunday, May 17, and the video will be posted the first week of June. For more information, email cr@cityofmissionviejo.org.

April 30, 2020

July 4th Street Faire canceled amid COVID-19 concerns, but fireworks show expected to go on

The 2020 July 4th Street Faire won't be held in Mission Viejo this summer because of ongoing concerns about the coronavirus and uncertainty over when the state may lift its ban on large events. However, the annual fireworks show is expected to go on.

The Mission Viejo Activities Committee, which hosts the popular event each year, always places the safety of the community as the top priority, and based on the current landscape, holding a street faire which attracts thousands of people would be extremely difficult with physical distancing restrictions.

The committee is still working toward hosting the fireworks show and will provide an update once it is confirmed. Stay tuned to mvactivities.com for more information.

April 29, 2020

Here's how to properly dispose of medications, sharps during COVID-19 crisis

If you're wondering what to do with your unused, expired medications or medical "sharps" during the quarantine, the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) developed a campaign for safely disposing medications at home.

The "Secure Your Meds" campaign calls for simply placing medications into a zip-lock bag; pouring in hot water, kitty litter, dirt or coffee grounds into the bag; and then sealing and mashing the mixture until pills are dissolved. After that, just toss the bag in your trash bin.

In addition, during the pandemic, the 24-hour pharmacy locations listed at this link are serving as medication drop-box sites. Call in advance to check the specific location and time.

For disposing sharps (syringes, catheters, etc.), you can place used and unused sharps in a durable plastic bottle (like a bleach bottle), place the lid on it and take the bottle to the closest Household Hazardous Waste site listed at this link.

April 28, 2020

City of Mission Viejo to host Give-and-Take Drive-Through Food Pantry May 2 & 4

In an effort to help residents impacted by the COVID-19 crisis and give others a chance to give back, the City is hosting a Give-and-Take Drive-through Food Pantry in May.

On Saturday, May 2, the City will collect food donations from 9-11 am at the Norman P. Murray Community and Senior Center. Donations sought include peanut butter, pasta and pasta sauce; cereal, rice; hearty soups; and other food items listed at this link. You can take part by placing food items in your trunk, driving up and simply popping your trunk for staff who will collect the items. You will stay in your vehicle, and social-distancing guidelines will be followed.

Then on Monday, May 4 from 9-11 am, the City will host the Drive-Through Food Pantry where people will pull up, pop their trunks and a bag of food will be placed in their trunks until the food runs out.

"We designed this event to help the individuals and families struggling to put food on the table during this crisis as well as give our community the opportunity to help those in need," said Recreation and Community Services Manager Lydie Gutfeld.

The Norman P. Murray Community and Senior Center is located at 24932 Veterans Way. For more information about additional City food drives in May, contact 949-470-3061 or fitness@cityofmissionviejo.org.

April 24, 2020

City Golf Course reopening with COVID-19 guidelines in place May 1

With the Orange County Board of Supervisors' decision to allow golf courses to reopen with stringent COVID-19 guidelines set in place, the Casta del Sol Golf Course will resume modified operations at 6 am on May 1.

The following general guidelines apply to all courses in Orange County - including Mission Viejo:

Wear a mask and always practice social distancing (staying six feet apart) including with everyone in your group.
On-course restrooms are closed.
Walking only
Putting greens and all practices are closed.
All check-in areas take place outdoors.

Many other guidelines are in place, and marshals will be on the course to ensure golfers are following the guidelines. Folks who don't, will be asked to leave.

Find out details and more information about the course and reserving a tee time at osocreekgolf.org.

April 23, 2020

COVID-19 Senior Resources Guide full of essential information

To ensure older residents have the latest information and resources to help during this coronavirus crisis, the City of Mission Viejo continues to update its COVID-19 Senior Resources Guide.

The guide features a host of essential resources including information about agencies assisting seniors who may not have access to food and other necessities as they self-isolate to avoid exposure to COVID-19. Seniors will find detailed information about 211 Orange County, which can help them navigate their individual situations by matching them with the appropriate needs in the area.

Several local food pantries with hours of operation and instructions for obtaining food and other needs are listed including Saint Kilian's Food Pantry, Saddleback Church and Mercy Warehouse.

Seniors and adults interested in giving back will find volunteer opportunities like assembling and distributing meals through Age Well Senior Services, 211 OC and others.

Visit this link to see and download the guide today.

April 22, 2020

Beware of using unsafe practices in response to COVID-19 crisis

If you think spraying alcohol or chlorine on your body will kill the coronavirus, think again. The World Health Organization (WHO) and County Health Care Agency are warning residents to stay away from this practice.

The warning comes as reports of people using unfounded and unsafe practices to prevent the virus is increasing.

Spraying alcohol or chlorine all over your body will not kill viruses that have already entered your body. Spraying such substances can be harmful to clothes or mucous membranes (i.e., eyes, mouth).

According to the WHO, both alcohol and chlorine can be useful to disinfect surfaces, but they need to be used under appropriate recommendations.

For more information about novel coronavirus, visit https://occovid19.ochealthinfo.com.

April 22, 2020

Drop-and-Go Food Drive April 25 benefits South County Outreach

The City of Mission Viejo is hosting a Drop-and-Go Food Drive on Saturday, April 25 from 10 am to 1 pm at the Norman P. Murray Community and Senior Center, 24392 Veterans Way.

The event will benefit South County Outreach, which typically distributes nearly one million pounds of emergency, non-perishable and fresh food to an average of 9,000 families annually. However, the need for food is up 90 percent from 2019 and the organization's inventory is down 40 percent.

South County Outreach certainly needs your help. With social-distancing guidelines in place, the event will be quick and easy. Simply place your donation in your trunk, drive-up, pop the trunk, and staff will collect it. You will stay in your vehicle.

For more information, call 949-380-8144, ext. 203.

April 17, 2020

COVID-19 Public Information Hotline closes Saturday

The County is closing its COVID-19 hotline effective Saturday and will instead refer callers to the OC Health Referral Line.

Residents can continue to call 1-833-426-6411 for inquiries related to novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in the county.

By calling the number, folks can be connected to the following resources:

"¢         Orange County Health Care Agency - Health Referral Line, Behavioral Health Resources
"¢         Orange County Social Services Agency - Public Assistance Benefits
"¢         Orange County Office on Aging - Resources for Seniors
"¢         Orange County District Attorney's Office - Scams, Price Gouging
"¢         Small Business Recovery
"¢         2-1-1 Orange County

For more information about novel coronavirus, visit www.ochealthinfo.com/novelcoronavirus.

April 16, 2020

Community Legal Aid SoCal offers free legal support

The COVID-19 crisis has created a lot of uncertainty in the community, and Community Legal Aid SoCal is here for free support and services to assist low-income people who are struggling with civil legal issues.

If you have questions about housing, custody, employment or other issues due to the coronavirus, please call its hotline at 800-834-5001 or visit https://www.communitylegalsocal.org.

April 16, 2020

Mission Hospital seeking donations and letters during pandemic

You can help support the doctors and nurses on the frontline by donating items to Mission Hospital during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

From special equipment to caring for the poor and vulnerable, your donation can help support the community as we face COVID-19 - together.

The hospital is seeking 3M, N95, KN95 and surgical masks
Disposable/protective gloves
Protective/safety goggles
Hand sanitizer
Paper towels
Toilet paper
Bleach wipes
Isolation gowns

Mission Hospital is also seeking monetary donations to support its efforts. Along with donations, you can show your appreciation for the healthcare superheroes at Mission Hospital by sending a drawing, photograph, video clip, card or note with words of encouragement or support.

All cards, notes, etc., must be sent electronically to MissionCares@stjoe.org. You can also tag Mission Hospital via social media.

April 15, 2020

Help your neighbors by donating much-needed hygiene products

As the COVID-19 crisis continues to impact our community, the City of Mission Viejo is seeking donations of hygiene items urgently needed for local charities helping people in need.

The most-needed hygiene items include:

Soap bars
Shampoo
Diapers and baby wipes
Toothpaste
Disposable razors and shaving cream
Feminine hygiene product
Laundry detergent; toilet paper
Umbrellas/rain products
Fast-food cards

(Please note: No clothing, shoes or blankets)

The City has designated two convenient weekly drop-off points with donation boxes at the front entrance of the Norman P. Murray Community and Senior Center (24932 Veterans Way) and Mission Viejo Civic Center City Hall lobby at 200 Civic Center. All donations will benefit the Orange County Rescue Mission and StandUP For Kids. See this flier for hours of operation.

For more information, contact 949-470-8412 or lmcdonald@cityofmissionviejo.org.

April 15, 2020

Governor says State will consider six critical indicators before changing stay-at-home orders

Governor Gavin Newsom this week unveiled six key indicators that will guide our state's thinking for when and how to modify the stay-at-home and other orders during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Governor noted the progress in flattening the curve; however, any consideration of modifying the stay-at-home order must be done using a gradual, science-based and data-driven framework.

He pointed out that until we build immunity to the virus, the state's actions will be aligned to achieve these objectives. The state's six indicators for modifying the stay-at-home order are:

The ability to monitor and protect our communities through testing, contact tracing, isolating and supporting those who are positive or exposed;
The ability to prevent infection in people who are at risk for more severe COVID-19;
The ability of the hospital and health systems to handle surges;
The ability to develop therapeutics to meet the demand;
The ability for businesses, schools, and childcare facilities to support physical distancing; and
The ability to determine when to reinstitute certain measures, such as the stay-at-home orders, if necessary.

There is no specific timeline for modifying the stay-at-home order, Governor Newsom said, but these six indicators will serve as the framework for making that decision.

Remember to do your part to flatten the curve.

For more information on California's response, visit covid19.ca.gov.

April 14, 2020

Latest list of restaurants serving up food during COVID-19 crisis

Since the COVID-19 crisis began shuttering local businesses, the City has continued to encourage residents to support restaurants still serving our community.

Many Mission Viejo restaurants continue to offer food for pick-up and delivery, and residents can do their part to help spare establishments and workers' jobs during the coronavirus by ordering food, which also ensures social distancing.

Here is the latest list of eateries (reportedly) providing delivery, pick-up and/or take-out services. Because many business owners are altering their hours as they evaluate profitability, please contact your favorite establishment for more information on their specific services.

Albertaco's Mexican Food
All Star Pizza
Aloha BBQ
Antonucci's Italian and Seafood Restaurant
Bagels & Brew
Bahar Restaurant
Baja Fish Tacos
Ball Park Pizza
Baskin Robbins - Marguerite Parkway & Trabuco Road
Big Chopsticks
Bravos California Fresh
Broken Yolk Cafe
Buffalo Wild Wings
Cafe Au Lait
California Pizza Kitchen (CPK)
Casa Franco
Cheesecake Factory
Chili's Grill & Bar
Chipotle
Chocobean
Cicero's Pizzeria
Claim Jumper
clubElevate
Coco's Bakery Restaurant
Cosmo's Italian Kitchen
Del Taco on Marguerite
Delizie Ristorante
Denny's on Alicia
Diho Siam on Marguerite
Don Gustavo's Mexican Grill
Dublin 4 Gastropub
Eat Street Kitchen
Eat Thai Restaurant
Einstein Bros. Bagels
Empanada Maker
Epic Wings
Five Guys Burgers & Fries
Flame Broiler - Marguerite Parkway
Flippin' Pizza NY Pies & Slices
Grill Hut Greek Restaurant
Hacienda on the Lake
Harmony Tea Bar
Hatam Restaurant
High Ground Coffee House
High Park Tap House
I Love Bagels
Islands
It's a Grind Coffee House
Jersey Mike's Subs
Lakeside Chinese
Las Golondrinas
Little Caesars
Little France Bakery
Menchie's Frozen Yogurt
Mulleady's Sports Pub & Grill
Nori Sushi
Oggi's
Olamendi's
P.F. Chang's China Bistro
Panera Bread
Panini Kabob Grill
Paul's Pantry
Pho King Way
Pho the Bowl
Piccolino Ristorante
Pizza Hut
Poke Wave
Pub-32
Riptide Sushi & Teppan
Rocco's Pizzeria
Ronaldo's Taco Shop
Round Table Pizza
Royal Donuts & Burgers
RTE
Rubino's Pizza
Rubio's Coastal Grill
Sabatino's Italian Bistro
Samurai Sushi
Santora's Pizza, Subs and Wings
Savour Bakery
Shish Taouk Lebanese Mediterranean Cuisine
Skimmer's Panini Grill
Sno2Go
Sol Agave
Sonic Drive-In
Stacks Pancake House - Santa Margarita & Marguerite Parkways
Surfin Souvlaki
Sushi Plantation
Taco Mesa
Tacos & Company on Marguerite & Santa Margarita Parkways
Taqueria De Anda
Terra Sushi
The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf
The Flame Broiler - Marguerite & Alicia Parkways
TK Burgers
Togo's
Wineworks For Everyone
Yama Sushi on the Lake
Yuda's
Zenko Sushi
Zpizza

April 13, 2020

Remember to call 9-1-1 in an emergency

Residents should remember to seek immediate health care or call 9-1-1 if experiencing a medical emergency, County officials said today, emphasizing it's safe to visit a hospital when in need.

"I want to assure Orange County residents that our hospitals are fully operational and that it is safe to seek emergency medical care for themselves and their loved ones," said County Health Officer Dr. Nichole Quick.

While it's reported that more than 80% of people who contract COVID-19 will experience mild to moderate symptoms and recover, the same can't be said for folks suffering from heart attack, stroke and other life-threatening medical emergencies.

The reminder comes as doctors have seen instances of patients delaying needed care for life-threatening issues for fear of COVID-19 contamination in crowded emergency rooms.

"The current reality is that, despite dire warnings, our emergency rooms are exceptionally orderly and possibly the safest places one can venture, particularly when emergency care is required," said Dr. Michael Brant-Zawadzki from Hoag.

Seek immediate medical attention, call 9-1-1 or go to an emergency room if you or a household member experiences any of the following:

"¢   Wheezing, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
"¢   Chest pain
"¢   Displaced or open wound fractures
"¢   Fainting
"¢   Sudden numbness or weakness
"¢   Bleeding that cannot be stopped
"¢   Abdominal pain - especially intense localized pain
"¢   Fever with convulsions or any fever in children under 3 months
"¢   Confusion or changes in mental status
"¢   Coughing or vomiting blood
"¢   Severe headache or head injury, especially if the individual is on aspirin or blood thinners
"¢   Blood in the urine, or bloody diarrhea
"¢   Sudden inability to speak, see, walk or move

For questions related to COVID-19, contact 1-833-426-6411 or visit http://www.ochealthinfo.com/novelcoronavirus.

April 9, 2020

City printing ear guards to help medical professionals

In an effort to support local medical professionals during the ongoing pandemic, City staff members are putting the Mission Viejo Library's 3D printer to good use.

Staff members have been using the printer to make "ear guards," which help alleviate the discomfort and strain on ears caused by over-ear elastic masks. As reported, masks are crucial for curbing the spread of COVID-19, particularly among medical personnel. However, when you wear a mask all day, it puts pressure on the head and causes friction against the ears. City staff is working to get the ear guards into the hands of local doctors and nurses as quickly as possible.

"This is a great way to make use of our grant-funded technology to help support our community while the library is closed," said Genesis Hansen, Director of Library & Cultural Services.

April 9, 2020

Banners designed to help local businesses

As businesses struggle with the fallout from COVID-19, the City is working with the Chamber of Commerce to help keep Mission Viejo "Strong."

The City has distributed "Stay Mission Viejo Strong! We're Open" banners to restaurants and other essential businesses to help inform residents which establishments remain open and to encourage community support.

The first 50 banners were distributed over the weekend, with another 50 handed out today. Bright and bold, the banners are easily noticeable.

"The businesses have been thrilled to receive their banners, and we're hoping the community can come together and help our businesses continue to thrive," said Elaine Lister, Director of Community Development.

April 9, 2020

Essential workers and residents should wear face coverings

Orange County Health Officer Dr. Nichole Quick today issued a recommendation strongly encouraging all employees at essential businesses to wear a face covering while at work and all residents engaged in essential activities outside the home to do the same.

The recommendation is in line with guidance issued by the California Department of Public Health and is designed to help slow the spread of COVID-19 by folks who are asymptomatic.

"Residents can make their own face coverings at home from a variety of materials and should refrain from purchasing personal protective equipment that is critical and in short supply for our healthcare workers such as N95 and surgical masks," Dr. Quick said.

A face covering is material that covers the nose and mouth. It can be secured to the head with ties or straps or simply wrapped around the lower face. Face coverings can be factory-made as well as folded or sewn and can be improvised using household items like scarfs, T-shirts, sweatshirts or towels.

"Face coverings are an additional tool that may help protect staff and patrons from COVID-19, but they are not a substitute for proven protective measures like frequent hand washing, keeping your hands away from your face, practicing social distancing and staying home," said Dr. Quick.

April 9, 2020

Did you know Mission Viejo Animal Services officers are first responders?

If you or your kids are looking for something fun to do while staying at home, consider sending a written letter or hand-drawn photo to animal services officers working in the trenches.

Animal caregivers and animal control officers are essential personnel who are reporting to work seven days a week to care for the pets in our shelter as well as work in the field to help people and animals. Sometimes, they're called on by Mission Viejo Police Services to assist them with various situations.

"We are asking today if you would be willing to have your kids (or you, of course) write our animal services officers a letter or draw them a picture showing your care and support," said Volunteer Coordinator Giselle Leal-Pelayo "We think this would bring smiles to their faces."

You can email letters or photos to animalinfo@cityofmissionviejo.org; mail them to 28095 Hillcrest or tag us with your photos via social media (@MissionViejoLife).

April 9, 2020

What residential tenants should know about protection from eviction

The Fair Housing Council of Orange County has compiled a comprehensive summary of protections for residential tenants who are can't pay rent because of the COVID-19 national state of emergency.

The summary includes information about Governor Gavin Newsom's recent orders as well as emergency rules adopted by the California Judicial Council. The summary is designed to help residents preserve their rights and fulfill their obligations. In addition, the City of Mission Viejo adopted emergency regulations in the interest of public peace, health and safety, which are detailed in this ordinance.

The Fair Housing Council works to protect the quality of life in Orange County by ensuring equal access to housing opportunities, fostering diversity and preserving dignity and human rights.

April 8, 2020

Remember to follow State guidelines to flatten the COVID-19 curve

Orange County topped 1,000 reported COVID-19 cases today, with a cumulative case count of 1,016 and 91 new cases. The first case of COVID-19 in the county was reported on January 25. To date, there have been 17 deaths.

County reporting labs have tested 11,791 people - 8.6 percent of which were confirmed positive with COVID-19, County officials said today.

To flatten the curve, the State ordered residents to shelter in place except for folks who work in essential functions or for essential activities like grocery shopping.

The OC Health Care website now includes a hospitalization chart showing cases over time, so the community can access historical data on the number of people hospitalized with COVID-19.

"While we want to provide information that best educates our community during this pandemic, it's important to understand that hospitalization numbers capture a point in time and will fluctuate daily," said County Health Officer Dr. Nichole Quick. "Looking at historical data over a period of weeks can give us a better understanding of trends in our community."

For questions related to COVID-19, contact 1-833-426-6411 or visit http://www.ochealthinfo.com/novelcoronavirus.

April 8, 2020

City provides alternate meal options for Mission Viejo's seniors

While residents follow state guidelines of staying home to limit exposure to COVID-19, the City is reminding seniors if they're unable to grocery shop or have food delivered to their homes from grocery stores, the City is here to help.

For more than two decades, the City has hosted the Meals on Wheels program, a home-delivery service through Age Well Senior Services. Volunteers deliver meals weekdays - either three or five days a week - between the hours of 10:30 am and 1 pm. The City's Senior Meal Program also provides curbside grab-and-go lunches available from 11 am to 1 pm Monday through Friday from the Norman P. Murray Community and Senior Center. Both programs for seniors 60 and older continue to operate while the center is closed to the public during the pandemic.

To apply or for more information, call 949-470-3063. For additional senior services, visit our detailed Senior Resource Guide.

April 6, 2020

Resources to help folks stay safer at home

With the state's directives for staying at home to stop the spread of COVID-19, not everyone is safer at home. In fact, recent reports suggest domestic abuse cases are on the rise. However, there are many resources and organizations to help residents experiencing domestic, child and elder abuse.

Here are some to keep in mind:

Domestic Violence

Laura's House - Hotline: 866-498-1511 If you are unable to call, text HEART to 949-484-8440 Monday through Friday from 8 am - 5 pm
Human Options - Hotline: 877-854-3594
National Domestic Violence - 800-799-7233

Child Abuse

Child Protective Services (CPS) 24-hour hotline 800-207-4464; http://ssa.ocgov.com/abuse/child
Casa Youth Shelter 24-hour hotline: 800-914-2272
Crisis Assessment Team 866-830-6011
Children of the Night/Rescue 800-551-1300
National Runaway Safeline 800-786-2929
National Sexual Assault Hotline: 800-656-4673

Elder Abuse

Age Well Senior Services (Care/Case Management) 949-380-0155
Council on Aging - Advocacy & Protection 714-479-0107
Office on Aging 800-510-2020
Adult Protective Services 24-hour hotline 800-451-5155

Dial 2-1-1 for additional services for all ages and find more information in the City's complete resource guide at this link.

April 6, 2020

Local Grocery Stores offering special hours for seniors

As health officials recommend residents, especially seniors, stay home to avoid contracting COVID-19, some Mission Viejo grocery stores can be accessed online (Ralphs, Albertsons, Pavilions) and are offering delivery service. Wait times and fees vary by store.

For seniors who must occasionally venture out, here is a list of stores offering special hours in place to help the most vulnerable population stay safe from COVID-19. Note hours may change without notice so please check with individual stores for the most updated information.

In Mission Viejo:

Ralphs (all locations) is open daily from 6-7:30 am for seniors 60 and older.
Pavilions is open from 6-7 am Monday - Friday for 60 and older.
Trader Joe's is open daily from 8-9 am for seniors 60 and older.
Albertsons is open from 6-7 am Monday - Friday for seniors 60 and older.
Smart & Final is open from 6-8 am Tuesday & Thursday for seniors 60 and older.
Target is open from 8-9 am Tuesday & Wednesday for seniors 65 and older.
Outside Mission Viejo:
Costco Laguna Niguel offers senior hours every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 8-9 am for seniors 60 and older.
Walmart in Rancho Santa Margarita (RSM) is open for seniors 60 and older on Tuesdays from 6-7 am.
Gelson's (RMV) is open daily from 7-8 am for seniors 60 and older.
Whole Foods in Laguna Niguel is open daily from 7-8 am for folks 60 and older.

The City does offer a home delivered meal program for Seniors that can be accessed by calling 470-3063. "Take-out" meals can also be picked up in-person at the Norman P. Murray Community & Senior Center through this program.

For any of your needs you can call the Murray Community & Senior Center at 470-3062. Voicemails will be returned promptly. Or you can email staff directly at: rcs@cityofmissionviejo.org.

April 3, 2020

New County COVID-19 Hotline hours starting Saturday

Beginning April 4, the County's COVID-19 Public Information Hotline and Health Referral Line will take calls from 8 am to 3 pm on Saturday and from 8 am to 5 pm during the week.

Through the hotline at 1-833-426-6411, callers can ask questions and be connected to the following resources:

Orange County Health Care Agency - Health Referral Line, Behavioral Health Resources
Orange County Social Services Agency - Risk Benefits
Orange County Office on Aging - Resources for Seniors
Orange County District Attorney's Office - Scams, Price Gouging
County of Orange Emergency Operations Center Hotline - Non-Medical Questions
Small Business Recovery
2-1-1 Orange County

Residents can find the latest information about the crisis in Orange County at https://occovid19.ochealthinfo.com.

April 3, 2020

Eliminate standing water and don't flush wipes while staying home

While you're staying home to stop the spread of COVID-19, remember to also prevent the spread of mosquito-borne diseases.

The Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District says recent rains have created cryptic mosquito-breeding sources around our homes, and while mosquitos do NOT transmit COVID-19, they do transmit West Nile virus. Taking simple actions like eliminating all standing water from around your house can help to prevent the spread of mosquito-borne illnesses.

Speaking of water, our local water districts are reminding everyone to save water and be mindful of what you flush down the toilet. Wipes are a great substitute during the "toilet paper shortage" - just don't flush them. Even flushable wipes can clog pipes. Flushing any materials other than toilet paper can result in backups and home plumbing problems.

In addition, while following the recommended 20-second COVID-19 guideline for washing your hands, be sure to turn off the faucet while doing so. Twenty seconds of running water can waste almost a gallon of water each time. For more information, visit http://www.bewaterwise.com.

April 3, 2020

New COVID-19 Economic Development Webpage for Businesses & Residents

The City of Mission Viejo has launched an economic development resource webpage to help businesses and residents impacted by the ongoing COVID-19 crisis.

The webpage features a cornucopia of information including:

Financial Assistance
Economic & Business Recovery
Unemployment Insurance Work-Sharing
Grants & Funding
Family Assistance
Credit Card Payment Leniency
Residential and Mortgage Assistance
FAQs and More.

For more information, contact cd@cityofmissionviejo.org or 949-470-3053.

April 2, 2020

Wellness Checks Call Program for seniors and people with disabilities

In an effort to support Mission Viejo seniors, the City is launching new "Wellness Checks" for seniors and people with disabilities.

The program includes a scheduled weekly call to check-in, provide resources, answer questions, share ideas or simply say "hello." City staff will call seniors and people with disabilities every Monday through Friday on their preferred day and time between 9 am and 5 pm. A relative can request the service on behalf of someone, but the participant can opt-out at any time, if desired.

"During these unprecedented and scary times, we are working to ensure our residents, especially the most vulnerable populations, have the support they need," said Community Services Manager Drew Fine. "Therefore, we hope folks will take advantage of this program and stay connected."

If you have a disability or are 65 and older, you could receive a call from City staff, so please don't hang up! City staff will NEVER ask for personal information, and if you do receive such a call, it's likely a scam.

To take part in the Wellness Checks or register a loved one, call 949-470-3062.

April 2, 2020

County following state guidelines for wearing face coverings in public

The County of Orange will follow new state guidelines calling for people to wear face coverings in public.

The California Department of Public Health says people who must leave their homes to conduct essential activities should wear face coverings, if they feel comfortable doing so, and practice strict hand washing before and after touching and adjusting the covering.

Using face coverings can help reduce infectious particles from folks who could be infected but are asymptomatic. It is not recommended for residents to use N-95 or surgical masks, which should be reserved for healthcare workers and first responders.

"Wearing a cloth face covering when leaving the house for essential activities may help reduce the spread of COVID-19 by residents who are positive but don't have any symptoms," said Dr. Nichole Quick, County Health Officer. "However, it's important for community members to remember that face coverings are not a replacement for prevention measures like social distancing and frequent hand washing, which continue to be the best way to protect yourself."

The best defense against COVID-19 is:

Staying at home and physical distancing
Washing hands frequently
Avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands
Avoiding being around sick people
Staying home if you're sick

State health officials define face coverings as material such as cotton, silk or linen that covers the mouth and nose. Coverings can be homemade or improvised from everyday items such as scarfs, bandanas, T-shirts, sweatshirts or towels. For more information, visit https://www.cdph.ca.gov/.

April 2, 2020

New Virtual Activity Center is the perfect one-stop-shop for all ages

To benefit people of all ages, the City developed a one-stop-shop for you to find virtual options to stay fit, active and entertained while quarantined at home.

The Virtual Activity Center (VAC) features an array of areas updated daily with new activities, videos and links to resources. From Fitness, Arts and Crafts, Cooking and Outdoor/Indoor Games to Mad Science, Education, Exploration, Seniors 50+, and Library options, the VAC offers countless fun and safe social-distancing activities perfect for all ages!

"The Virtual Activity Center was developed by our very own Recreation and Community Services and Library staff as a fun innovative way for our community to stay connected and active in mind and body," said Community Services Manager Lydie Gutfeld.

Since its launch on March 30, the VAC has received positive feedback from the community.

Access the VAC at this link and be sure to tag us via social media with photos of activities using the hashtag #virtualmv.

April 1, 2020

Mission Viejo City Council adopts Urgency Ordinance to protect renters during COVID-19 crisis

In the interest of public peace, health and safety, the Mission Viejo City Council on March 20 adopted emergency regulations banning the enforcement of eviction orders for residential and commercial renters affected by COVID-19 through May 31, 2020. The temporary moratorium prohibits landlords from evicting tenants for nonpayment of rent and prohibits enforcement of evictions by law enforcement or courts. Read the full Urgency Ordinance here.