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In Harlan County Judge-Executive Dan Mosley’s most recent updates, locals were asked to stay out of Tennessee if possible due to the high number of COVID-19 cases being reported from the state. Mosley said although there are still zero confirmed cases in Harlan County, “It’s important that every day we do our job to keep this virus from spreading.”

“Today (March 30), Governor Andy Beshear announced restrictions on out-of-state travel. Beshear said out-of-state travel for work, healthcare, caring for a loved one, by order of a court or because you live closer to a grocery option in a neighboring state than you do in Kentucky, were the only exemptions for travel,” Mosley said, sharing a press release from the governor’s office.

In the press release, Beshear offered a 10-step plan to fight the spread of COVID-19 and limit out-of-state travel.

“Right now, we have more cases in other states,” Beshear said. “What it means is your likelihood of getting infected and potentially bringing back the coronavirus may be greater in other states than ours. You need to be home anyway.”

Beshear said officials are continuing efforts to expand the state’s health care resources. The Commonwealth currently has about 18,500 hospital beds, 1,300 ICU beds and 1,352 ventilators.

As of 5 p.m. on Monday, Beshear announced 42 new confirmed cases, raising the total number to 480. He also added there were two new deaths reported, placing the state’s toll at 11 related to COVID-19.

“This is a loss for all of us,” Beshear said, adding the Governor’s Mansion and Capitol Dome would be lit green to honor those who were lost.

Mosley said Tennessee’s governor has “not taken this virus as seriously as our governor has and their numbers reflect that with more than four times the amount of cases Kentucky has.”

“I am thankful Tennessee’s governor is not our governor. So, I echo Beshear’s call… Do not go to Tennessee unless it’s an absolute necessity!”

Mosley also announced Harlan County CAA is implementing a “wonderful service” related to shopping for essential needs for the elderly and most vulnerable, thanking Donna Pace and the rest of the staff with his announcement.

Harlan CAA is taking orders from seniors or persons with disabilities who are unable to shop for themselves or protect themselves during this time of physical distancing. Items include food, personal care and pharmacy drop-off/pick-up.

The organization said they will be able to shop once per week for each family and request that each household only ask for items needed for a week-long period.

“We will pay for the items up front with start-up funds. Clients will reimburse via cash or check, and there will be no charge for the service. We will not take and return EBT cards at this time. The assister will request two receipts – one for the client and one for CAA records.”

Harlan CAA also said clients will need to provide documentation to validate their senior or disability status. Assisters will deliver items in protective gear, such as masks and gloves and change each when appropriate.

Harlan CAA has set up a daily request schedule, with each district having a designated day to do so by calling 606-573-5335. To place an order, follow the schedule below:

• Monday – District 1 (Clark “Sparky” Middleton)

• Tuesday – District 2 (Bill Moore)

• Wednesday – District 3 (Paul Browning III)

• Thursday – District 4 (Jim Roddy)

• Friday – District 5 (James F. Howard)

“If you need shopping assistance but do not qualify for CAA’s assistance (because you are not elderly or disabled), please call Taco Holler at 606-273-8480,” Mosley said.