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Welcome to the BIC newsletter!

Thank you for subscribing to the 411GR newsletter! 
411GR is the Black Impact Collaborative’s informational hub that is committed to advocating on behalf of and facilitating essential resources that help meet the needs of Black People in Greater Grand Rapids.

COVID-19 Updates

COVID-19 Cases In Kent County

December 7th Epidemic Order

Visit Michigan.gov/Coronavirus for the most recent information on the vaccine in Michigan

BIC In The Community

Thanksgiving Basket Giveaway
On November 25th we had the opportunity partner with NAACP Grand Rapids to provide 200 families with a FREE Thanksgiving food box. The YMCA and Spectrum Health provided FREE pre-packaged bags of fresh produce. Thank you to all of the volunteers who came out and made the event a success!

Free COVID-19 Testing
Participants were able to get a test, a flu shot, and a PPE kit with information from the Kent County Health Department masks, hand sanitizer, soap, and a thermometer. 157 Covid tests and 30 flu shots were given! 

Elders Yard Clean Up
The BIC provided complementary yard clean up for Black elders in the community. 

COVID -19 Community Conversation
The community conversation provided engaging questions about the Ensemble Study that Cherry Health is leading. If you missed the conversation it is still available to watch via Facebook.

Events

The ice skating season at Rosa Parks Circle kicks off at noon, Friday, Dec. 18. The rink, 135 Monroe Center St. NW, is open through Feb. 21, weather permitting. New protocols will be in place to reduce public health risk amid COVID-19.

For more information on hours, admission and the new safety guidelines, CLICK HERE.

GRNow Outdoor Dining Guide

We know how hard it can be to connect with each other safely now that winter is here. GRNow created a comprehensive of restaurants with outdoor dining.  

News

Pure Michigan Small Business Relief initiative grant is live!
There is $10 million available to support small businesses disproportionally impacted by COVID-19 crisis, recent DHHS epidemic orders

· Application live on www.michiganbusiness.org/relief and reviewed on a "first-in" basis

· Small businesses encouraged to review materials, including application questions and tutorial, before applying

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