Wakefield to Receive $50,000 in COVID-19 Spending Grant
BOSTON – Representative Kate Lipper-Garabedian, Representative Donald Wong, and Senator Jason Lewis were proud to secure a $50,000 authorization for the Town of Wakefield to help fund nursing staff in the Town’s health department to support efforts associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, including for the purpose of contact tracing.
The funding authorization, initially sponsored by Representatives Lipper-Garabedian and Wong, was included in House Bill 4808, An Act making appropriations for the fiscal year 2020 to authorize certain COVID-19 spending in anticipation of federal reimbursement, that Governor Baker signed on July 24.
“Six months ago, the responsibilities of state and local governments and corresponding budget projections and plans were remarkably different from those today,” said Representative Lipper-Garabedian. “I am glad to be in a position to work with Town Manager Maio to draft the funding authorization included in the recently enacted COVID-19 spending bill. With federal reimbursement, these monies can used to enhance Wakefield’s ongoing activities to support residents during this public health pandemic.”
“The state delegation is happy to announce this grant for $50,000 for the Wakefield health department nursing staff, which is much needed at this time with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic,” said Representative Donald Wong. “This shows what local government working with the state delegation can do for the community and I am proud to be a part of supporting local efforts in these unprecedented times.”
“The public health emergency, economic recession, and uncertainty about the future facing our cities and towns make it more important than ever for state and local leaders to work together closely and effectively,” said Senator Jason Lewis. “I’m proud that the legislative delegation was able to secure this important funding and support the community during this challenging time.”
“Once again, we owe our thanks to our legislative delegation for securing this assistance,” said Town Manager Stephen Maio. “As the economy and schools continue to open up the importance of contact tracing in controlling this pandemic is certainly highlighted. This appropriation will go a long way in supporting our efforts to provide the best service we can to our residents, employees and guests.”
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