JIC RELEASE NO. 143 - Emergency Food Distribution Program Update; Expanded Testing Continues; Limited Use of Public Parks and Beaches Remains in Effect

To date, there have been 166 cases confirmed through COVID-19 testing provided with 5 deaths and 138 released from isolation. As this is an evolving situation, information is subject to change with little to no notice. For updated information on COVID-19 cases on Guam, visit the COVID-19 Dashboard and Situation Report at http://dphss.guam.gov/covid-19/. 

Emergency Food Distribution Program Update, Piti Distribution Site Closed
The Guam Department of Education (GDOE), State Agency for the Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) under the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food Nutrition Service (FNS), in collaboration with Pacific Unlimited Incorporated and Matson, Guam, will be issuing USDA Families to Farmers food boxes and Disaster Household Distribution (DHD) food commodity bags at two new locations this week. Effective immediately, the distribution site at the GDOE Piti warehouse is now closed. 

On Wednesday, May 27, 2020, commodities distribution will take place at the Tiyan Upper Baseball Field from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. Only 2,000 food bags and boxes will be distributed on a first come, first served basis. Commodities distribution may end early if all 2,000 bags are distributed before 10 a.m.

On Friday, May 29, 2020, the GDOE in collaboration with Pacific Unlimited Incorporated and Matson, Guam, will be issuing USDA Families to Farmers food boxes and DHD food commodity bags at two sites: 

• Tiyan Upper Baseball Field from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m.  
• Dededo Farmer’s Market from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. 

Only 2,000 food bags and boxes will be distributed at each site on a first come, first served basis. Distribution may end early if all available resources are distributed before 10 a.m.

Recipients will receive one bag of TEFAP-DHD food commodities and one Farmers to Families food box of fresh fruits or vegetables. Food commodities include items such as fresh apples and oranges, juices, beans, rice, canned fruits, sauces, tuna, salmon, pork, beef and chicken, while supplies last.

The public is encouraged to monitor future announcements as commodities distribution sites may change or be re-routed to different sites in the future. Additionally, participants should follow the following program guidelines:

• Please be patient;
• Follow instructions and have valid identification ready;
• Wear a mask at all times;
• Remain in your vehicle;
• Proceed with caution; and
• Follow traffic directions and signage.

The GDOE thanks the Guam Police Department, Mayors’ Offices, and all community partners who have assisted with the TEFAP-DHD distribution. 

Expanded Testing for Homeless Population
The Department of Public Health and Social Services (DPHSS) in collaboration with the Government of Guam (GovGuam), private, and federal agencies continue expanded testing this week. Please bring an I.D., if one is available. The expanded testing schedule follows:

• Tuesday, May 26, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. at the Tamuning Gym

  • Free and open to unsheltered homeless population

  • Catered meals will be provided after testing

• Wednesday, May 27, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. at Paseo, Hagatna

  • Free and open to unsheltered homeless population

  • Catered meals will be provided after testing

• Thursday, May 28, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. at the Ypao Main Pavilion

  • Free and open to unsheltered homeless population

  • Catered meals will be provided after testing

• Friday, May 29, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. at 125 Iglesia Circle, Dededo (old fire station)

  • Free and open to unsheltered homeless population

  • Catered meals will be provided after testing

If you are experiencing symptoms consistent with COVID-19, please call your health care provider. If a patient does not have a regular health care provider, they can call any of the Community Health Centers or the DPHSS Medical Triage Hotline Phone Numbers listed below to report symptoms and obtain guidance from clinicians, or call 311.

• (671) 480-7859
• (671) 480-6760/3
• (671) 480-7883 
• (671) 687-6170 (ADA Dedicated Number)

Reminder: Limited Use of Public Parks and Beaches Remains in Effect in PCOR 2
In accordance with Executive Order 2020-14 Section 1(e), all GovGuam parks and beaches continue to be closed to all activities except for individual use for purposes of exercise, both physical and mental, subject to social distancing mandates.

Social gatherings, such as beach parties and beach gatherings, regardless of the number of participants, are still prohibited at this time. Individuals who engage in physical or mental exercise activities at GovGuam parks and beaches must still adhere to social distancing, face mask use and proper hygiene and cough etiquette. Beach and park use is not recommended for individuals who are experiencing illness or exhibiting signs of illness.

Residents and visitors are reminded to adhere to the social distancing directives issued by law enforcement or law enforcement partners to include representatives from the Mayors Council of Guam who assist in the enforcement of the mandates in effect. The community should also adhere to any closure signs or barricades.

For inquiries on COVID-19, contact 311 through a local number, or call the Joint Information Center at (671) 478-0208/09/10.