Dial Back at ECRAC
The ECRAC Office is open by appointment only.
With the rising public health concerns and cases in Region 7E of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), the East Central Regional Arts Council (ECRAC) is committed to the health and wellness of our constituents, panelists, board members, and employees.
We are paying close attention to the national and local news about COVID-19, so that we can stay informed and provide a supportive, responsive, and safe environment for our community.
What is COVID-19?
According to the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that are estimated to cause about a third of all cases of the common cold. COVID-19 is a strand of the coronavirus causing respiratory illnesses that have not been found in people before. Because COVID-19 is so new, there is much unknown about the virus, and currently no vaccination to prevent or cure it.
The minute-by-minute updates can raise awareness but can also cause anxiety and fear- not just about the virus, but about who may have it and is spreading the disease. It is important to remember that COVID-19 is not racially or culturally specific.According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the most vulnerable populations are the elderly and those with underlying health conditions.
What we know about COVID-19 in Minnesota
As of this morning, 82 people have been tested and there are 2 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), both cases are travel-related. The first case was confirmed to have, “no community exposure concerns” meaning the person self-quarantined to prevent any spread of the virus. They were reported to be “stable, at home, and doing well.” The second case is still under investigation. Testing is ongoing including people residing in East Central Minnesota.
What is ECRAC doing?
Currently ECRAC is following Governor Walz's orders and we are temporarily closed again until December 18, 2020, at least. We are hopeful that COVID-19 will be contained soon, so we can get back to our daily lives!
We are also working our regular hours - remotely! All grant information sessions, grant deadlines, and meetings are online. We have initiated an easy grant to assist constituents: Artists Resiliency Grant and Resiliency Grant for Arts Organizations
We are here for questions or to talk. Regular grant deadlines and grant payments continue.
Please continue to take care of yourselves and each other. We at ECRAC will continue to do our best to respond accordingly and proactively.