Muskegon Sun

Following multiple executive orders from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, all businesses and services that are not necessary to sustain or protect life have been suspended. Residents are asked to stay at home, unless performing essential work-related activities or gathering supplies, and proper social-distancing practices are to be observed at all times.

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic and restrictions imposed by the state, many Michigan residents are having a hard time making ends meet, and many of Michigan's most vulnerable citizens are looking to their communities for extra support.

Muskegon County residents and businesses are doing their part to support their communities. Home-delivered meals are still available to students in need. Services remain available to seniors, including drive-through meal pickups. Food pantries and charities, such as the Salvation Army, are still taking donations and offering curbside pickup of prepackaged food boxes for those in need.

State Rep. Greg VanWoerkom (R-Norton Shores) is doing his part to keep the public informed on his Facebook page with news about unemployment insurance, meal programs for vulnerable citizens, access to small business loans, confirmed cases of COVID-19 within the state, and answering any questions that people of Muskegon County may have.

"Lives and livelihoods are at stake as we all do our part to stay healthy and prevent the spread of the virus," said VanWoerkom in a statement on Michigan House Republicans. "We knew Muskegon County would not be immune, but I am proud to see us working together to flatten the curve and support our health providers and small businesses so that we can make a strong comeback."

As of April 8, Muskegon County has 42 cases of COVID-19 and 4 deaths, according to Michigan.gov.