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Envision Athens Working to Keep Community Connected

Envision Athens

Envision Athens is helping to keep the Athens community connected during the COVID-19 pandemic. Project Manager Erin Barger says the situation is particularly difficult for those who are on the margins or struggling financially.

“This pandemic is stressful for everyone, maybe in ways that folks don’t even realize yet,” according to Barger. “The reality is, it is more stressful and more challenging for people who were already underrepresented in terms of prosperity.”

Barger says it is important for residents to be aware of available resources.

“I see our community being so responsive to this reality and not turning a blind eye. The school district is doing a wonderful job, sharing food. The neighborhood leaders are working at the prosperity zone levels, so I want to be clear that I think the community is doing a great job.”

Even with the outpouring of support, she believes those inequalities in the community are becoming more pronounced.

“That is what concerns me most. That’s what provides me with some sleeplessness is just realizing that the disproportionality that impacted us before, and the disparities that we saw before with Athens Wellbeing Project data and other sources, I’m concerned that has only worsened.”

Envision Athens and the Athens Area Chamber of Commerce host weekly COVID-19 updates every Wednesday morning. Visit EnvisonAthens.com for more information.

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