The City of Petersburg received 20,000 pieces of COVID-19 PPE to distribute amongst vulnerable areas throughout the community from the Health Equity Pilot Program.
The program aims to increase equitable access to personal protective equipment (PPE) in underserved communities that may be most adversely impacted by the virus.
“Virginia is committed to ensuring equitable access to healthcare resources and comprehensive support to help our most vulnerable communities combat COVID-19,” said Governor Northam. “We will continue to encourage and enhance these efforts as we move through the various phases of reopening our Commonwealth.”
Petersburg has divided the PPE to distribute among the City’s public housing communities, senior residents, Petersburg City Public Schools, and throughout multiple areas around the community.
“The City has continued to prioritize the health and safety of our residents and we’re excited about this partnership with the Health Equity Pilot Program,” said Petersburg City Manager, Aretha R. Ferrell-Benavides. “We have also created a robust local resource guide to accompany the PPE that includes vital information pertaining to food assistance, crisis assistance, and COVID-19 health and safety information.”
The distribution was done with the Petersburg Sheriff’s Office, Petersburg Senior Program, the Petersburg City and Schools Partnership, Petersburg Police, Petersburg Fire, and community volunteers who went door-to-door in various neighborhoods. Residents received masks, hand sanitizer, and the local resource guide.
Auxiliary Deputies Alberta Royster (at the car) and Charles Pyer (organizing bags for seniors)
Auxiliary Deputy Alice Pye
Sheriff Vanessa R. Crawford
The Petersburg Sheriff’s Office handed out bottles of hand sanitizer and face masks to the citizens of Petersburg.
