Like the rest of you, our team has been trying to quickly adapt to this new, disturbing landscape.

Have you noticed that the coronavirus threat is reminding us of things we should have remembered all along, like the importance of washing our hands and checking to see if our older neighbors need anything from H-E-B? And it's a stark reminder of the importance of strong public sector institutions, such as HHSC, DSHS, local health authorities, and the CDC, as well as strong public policies, such as efforts to reduce the state's uninsured rate before an acute public health crisis. As families juggle the many challenges they face in the days and weeks ahead, we will also try to remember that in addition to stimulating learning opportunities, kids need plenty of support and reassurances from caring adults and a reliable way to get three nutritious meals a day.

Many of us are also learning a new term, social distancing, as we try to do our part to slow the spread of the virus, "flatten the curve," and avoid overwhelming our health care system.

To help with social distancing, Texans Care for Children, like many of our partners, will have all staff working from home for at least a few weeks starting today.

We look forward to continuing to work with you on many of those same efforts that have been on our agenda and also adapting our work to respond to new challenges that Texas kids and families are facing as a result of coronavirus.

Stay safe — and keep looking out for each other!