Fredericksburg Wants Neighbors To Say 'Hello' During Coronavirus

FREDERICKSBURG, VA — The City of Fredericksburg is asking residents to open their front doors at 6 p.m. on Friday and walk out and say "hello" to their neighbors from a distance. The City Council wants residents to incorporate "Step Outside, Say Hello!" into their daily routines at 6 p.m. as a way to stay in touch with neighbors, especially the elderly, during the coronavirus crisis.

"And remember that even though we have to practice social distancing, we continue to care for our community," the city said Friday. "We will be encouraging all residents to do this for the foreseeable future — check on your neighbors!"

If someone notices a neighbor has stopped saying hello at 6 p.m., "maybe it’s a good time to check on them to see if they are okay," the city said.

The City of Fredericksburg reported its first confirmed case of the coronavirus on Wednesday, bringing the total number of cases in the Rappahannock Area Health District to 15. Elsewhere in the area, there are 11 cases reported in Stafford County, two in Spotsylvania County and one in King George County.

As the coronavirus crisis increases concerns and anxiety among residents in the community, residents are encouraged to contact the Rappahannock Area Community Services Board if they need assistance. The organization has an emergency therapist available 24 hours a day. Residents should call the organization's emergency line at 540-373-6876 if they need help.

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