Trace key events in the outbreak of the novel coronavirus in Maine — and how officials are responding — using this interactive, multimedia timeline.
Coronavirus
A need for awareness
In a county with few mental health resources, community members are rallying to increase peer support and education around suicide.
Alone with the grief, alone with the pain
The Stewarts are just one family in Washington County forced to struggle with suicide in an area where demand for help far outweighs the number of mental health providers.
The crushing toll of a pandemic in Maine’s ‘forgotten county’
During a tragic winter that saw four suicides and prolonged isolation, Baileyville Police Chief Bob Fitzsimmons has served as a guardian, confidant and friend to the people in northeastern Washington County.
Homeschooling in Maine soared during pandemic
The number of registered homeschool students increased 71 percent this school year, but the long-term effects are not clear.
Hunger remained high throughout the winter, but federal aid staved off organizers’ worst fears
While Maine food banks distributed more meals since March 2020 than they did the year before the pandemic, demand for heat assistance slightly decreased.
Lawmakers look to rebalance power amid an extended state of emergency
Mainers have lived in a state of emergency for the past year — the longest period in at least 24 years. Republicans are now looking to change how governors can apply their emergency powers.
Local COVID-19 task forces offer new approach to public health
The rise of community-focused groups likely helped Maine maintain low infection rates. Their success could continue even after the pandemic.
Calls to domestic violence hotlines were more frequent — and dire — during pandemic
COVID-19 increased the stress and isolation that worsens abuse, making Maine survivors feel less safe at home. Violence against women is a “shadow pandemic.”
Long after the pandemic eases, the economic damage will remain
State and federal governments will feel the pinch of increasing debt well into the future.
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