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Mecklenburg County cancels large-crowd events to help prevent spread of coronavirus

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Mecklenburg County is canceling county-run events that 100 or more people were expected to attend.

The measure, announced Friday night, follows guidelines by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to help stop the spread of the new coronavirus, COVID-19, county officials said.

Starting Monday, the Mecklenburg County Department of Social Services will suspend all congregate meal services until further notice.

“We realize that these services are important, but we also know that those served in these programs are the most at risk for serious complications,” County Manager Dena Diorio said in a statement. “Safety is our number one concern.”

DSS staff has contacted participants in the service to determine their need for the meals and will deliver them to their homes if necessary, officials said. Anyone with questions can call 704-432-1111.

Also to curb the spread of coronavirus, the county announced that:

The Homeless Resource Center at 618 N. College St. is closed and has shifted from congregate dining to boxed meal distribution. Signs announcing the change are posted at the Urban Ministry Center, Men’s Shelter of Charlotte and the Salvation Army Center of Hope.

Also starting Monday, all Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation senior centers will be closed, and senior programs will be suspended until further notice.

“For the 30 days, all activities and events at Park and Recreation facilities that anticipate more than 100 people in attendance will be canceled,” according to the county’s announcement. “Organizers and event registrants will be notified by Park and Recreation staff.”

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Joe Marusak
The Charlotte Observer
Joe Marusak has been a reporter for The Charlotte Observer since 1989 covering the people, municipalities and major news events of the region, and was a news bureau editor for the paper. He currently reports on breaking news. Support my work with a digital subscription
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