“All across this country in small towns and big cities alike, clerks and election officials are hard at work to take their part in this essential American tradition, but they need us to demand that our elected leaders give them the tools to do the job. We still have time to get this right. But the clock is ticking.”

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s stay-at-home order, originally issued March 24, 2020, was extended until April 30. The order was originally intended to expire April 13.

Violators are subject to fines up to $1,000, increased from the original maximum of $500 and jail sentences up to 90 days via a misdemeanor charge. Businesses that defy the order will be subject to penalties determined by their licensing agencies.

On Sunday, April 5, a group of approximately 15 new volunteers joined returning volunteers Jo Barton and Josh Williams for training, prep work, and setup at the Three Rivers Food Site.

The food site initially decided to close its doors because the majority of its volunteers are seniors or have underlying health issues that put them at higher risk of contracting COVID-19.