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Animal shelters pull out the stops to find pets homes during coronavirus outbreak

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TAVARES, Fla. – Ellie the cat and her feline friend Willa recently arrived at the Lake County Animal Shelter in Tavares, Fla. It was a long road — but you would never know it judging by their personalities.

“Both are very affectionate girls,” Whitney Boylston, director of the Lake County Animal Shelter, told Fox News. “They both love attention and snuggle times.”

Ellie (left) and Willa recently arrived at Lake County Animal Shelter in Tavares, Fla. (Jessica Albert, Fox 35 Orlando)

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Ellie was a stray, and Willa’s owner just passed away last week. Both ended up in the care of Boylston’s team, which on any given day has hundreds of animals in their shelter.

The Humane Society of the United States told Fox News that pet homelessness is always a concern, claiming that nationwide 6.5 million pets will go through shelters annually.

DOG, EXCITED BECAUSE OWNER IS ‘HOME FOR QUARANTINE,’ SPRAINS TAIL FROM TOO MUCH WAGGING

But as coronavirus continues to spread and shut down large parts of the country, animal experts fear that the nation will see an uptick in surrendered animals. If left unaddressed, shelters across the United States could be at risk of severe overcrowding.

“This is an issue all the time, but it becomes more acute during COVID-19,” said Kitty Block, the CEO and president of the Humane Society of the United States. “If people financially are running into difficulties caring for their animal, they’ll get surrendered to shelters. Or, if there are family members that become ill and can’t take care of their dog or cat or the pets they have in their home.”

Block added that the potential problem is amplified because the CDC is urging Americans to stay home, which makes in-person adoptions difficult or, in some cases, impossible.

So, many animal shelters are working to get ahead of the problem, and are trying new, more innovative tactics in order to find pet-loving homes for the animals in their care.

Lake County, for example, is now offering an online service to view and select pets. Prospective owners can then Facetime with the animal to see if it is a good fit, and if it is, the shelter will deliver right to the new owner’s door via the aptly named “cuddle shuttle.”

A Lake County Animal Shelter worker loads Ellie and Willa into the “cuddle shuttle” to be delivered to their new owner (Jessica Albert, Fox 35 Orlando)

These new approaches have made an impact, with dozens of animals finding new homes this month, including Ellie and Willa. Both went to a Lake County woman named Tawnya McDonie, who initially only planned to take one cat. But, after she heard the shelter’s call for help, she opted to take two.

“I’m a sucker!” exclaimed McDonie. “I would take every one if I could. But, in this time when people are dumping their animals, I decided to give two a home.”

Tawnya McDonie holding her new cat, Ellie, for the first time (Jessica Albert, Fox 35 Orlando).

For the time being, Lake County Animal Shelter is operating in a much better position.

“Our shelter census is actually lower today than it’s been in a very long time,” said Boylston.

Out in Arizona, Maricopa County Animal Care and Control is using similar innovative services, while also flooding social media with calls for foster homes and adoptions. As a result, over 400 animals have been placed and many of their kennels are now empty.

“I have never seen a community come together like this for the animals,” Mary Martin, the organization’s director told Fox News. “Hundreds of animals have gotten out of the shelter in the last week or so, to the point I have seen open buildings and open wings with just a few animals in them. It’s the first time we’ve ever seen this.”

Martin cautioned, however, that her team still has plenty of work to do because they are restricted as to what animals they can take in. Due to coronavirus, she said they are unable to take cats or surrendered dogs, and can only accept stray dogs, which coincides with the Arizona state mandate.

“We’re off to a wonderful start, but we’re not out of the woods yet,” said Martin. For the time being, she encourages residents who come across a stray animal to temporarily house it themselves if safe to do so.

RELATED: Coronavirus outbreak may cause more adoptable pets to be euthanized, animal advocates say

In the short term, the rate of animals entering foster care has skyrocketed as well. A report from the organization Petpoint, which aggregates data from 1,191 animal welfare organizations, shows a 93 percent increase in animals going to foster care compared to the week prior.

Best Friends Animal Society, an animal advocacy group that also operates adoption centers around the country, has seen this trend firsthand. Their office in Atlanta typically puts 10 animals into foster care a week, but placed 62 from March 16 to March 20.

They are asking that more follow suit.

“There are so many dogs and cats who would love to spend this time with you and your family, and the need to support our local shelters has never been greater,” said Julie Castle, chief executive officer for Best Friends Animal Society, in a statement issued to Fox News.

“For many people who are working remotely from home for the first time, the isolation may be difficult to adjust to. Having a pet for company can help make you happier, more comfortable and even more productive,” she noted.

Like Martin and Block, Castle believes that there is still more to be done. Her prediction is that if COVID-19 continues to hamper the economy, the need to place animals will continue to grow. That’s why her team will continue to find innovative ways to place pets and offset the demand as well.

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“Unfortunately, we’re already seeing the early signs of the economic ramifications around COVID-19, such as people losing their jobs or housing and having urgent surrender needs,” said Castle. “We are projecting that this is probably the bigger, longer-term threat.”

Hilarie Burton says she’s been sewing masks for health care workers, encourages fans to do the same

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Hilarie Burton knows exactly what her fans can do to help out amid the coronavirus outbreak.

The former “One Tree Hill” star shared her thoughts on Twitter on Wednesday, pleading with fans to create masks for health care workers.

EVANGELINE LILLY APOLOGIZES FOR ‘DISMISSIVE, ARROGANT’ CORONAVIRUS COMMENTS

“I just need to put this out there,” she began. “I have been sewing masks for healthcare workers in my community. And then posting instructions for others in my Instagram.”

Burton, 37, said she is “in tears” reading messages from health care workers “begging” for masks.

In a separate tweet, the actress asked fans to also sew masks.

CELEBRITIES PROVIDE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC RELIEF WITH DONATIONS

“If you have two hands and a needle? Sew god—n it!” she wrote. “You can use old t-shirts. Quit f–king around making dumb videos or trying to be funny or get attention for yourself.”

She added: “People need you. Step up. That’s my Ted Talk.”

As she said, Burton has been sharing information about sewing masks on her Instagram, even sharing the pattern she’s using.

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Burton posted several pictures on March 23, which featured step-by-step instructions on how to create a mask.

Individuals looking to help amid the coronavirus pandemic can also check out the video below for instructions from staff members at Deaconess Hospital in Evansville, Ind., on how to create masks.

The video explains the materials you need such as “100 percent cotton” and elastic. It also notes that it takes “about 15 to 20 minutes” to do.

As coronavirus spreads, aid groups work to get masks, gowns to health-care workers

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Doctors and nurses are getting sick. In New York City, reports say dozens of doctors are ill from coronavirus, including at least one physician intubated and on a respirator.

The helpers desperately need help themselves.

That is why several groups are working to get unused masks, gowns and other personal protection equipment [PPE]  items into the hands of the medical community by asking people for their unused items.

“I think it’s absolutely shocking that we aren’t able to support our health-care environment in this remarkably medically advanced nation,” said Danielle Butin, the founder and CEO of the Afya Foundation, which since 2007 has distributed medical supplies and humanitarian aid to 72 countries around the globe. Now, the focus has been here at home. “Afya” means “health” in Swahili, and that’s what the medical profession has needed right now.

“I’m getting emails that crack me in half from nurses and doctors who Afya loved to work with over 10 years, and they are saying, ‘what do you have and what can you help us with?’ Every single time one of those emails comes in, it’s heart-wrenching.”

Many people who normally wouldn’t think they had the in-demand supplies, actually do. Painters, contractors, construction companies, nail salons, auto-body shops and so many other professions have relied on gear that now could be put to use to protect the nation’s medical system. For example, The New York Historical Society donated all of its plastic gloves used by art handlers, to New York hospitals.

CORONAVIRUS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

On the other side of the country, in Oakland, Calif., two young entrepreneurs, Liz Klinger and Chloe Alpert, saw the sudden emergency — and launched Mask Match.

“It’s about getting masks [and] surgical masks out of people’s cabinets, their garages, their workshops and getting them directly into the hands of the front-line health-care workers as soon as we can,” Klinger told Fox News. She said she got the idea when her mother, a nurse, told her that the hospital had run out of masks.

“She was working on the floors and she told me they weren’t providing her or her coworkers any masks for them as they were taking care of their patients. That got me worried, especially because she’s over 65, she has some preexisting conditions and where she lives in California, she’s supposed to be quarantined, basically, by the state government’s orders.”

The pair got Mask Match up and running in 48 hours to distribute masks and protective gear directly from donors to doctors, nurses and clinics. Its website has offered an “I need masks” request form for health-care workers, and an “I have masks” for donors. The focus has been on smaller towns and cities that the larger drives could overlook.

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“You have people in urgent-care clinics who are on their last masks, people who are stapling their N95 masks together to be able to use them through the end of the week. And also, smaller rural clinics, their office managers just don’t have the ability to order and make an order for masks for people in their community.”

Anyone who wants to help can go to Afya Foundation. Or, Mask-Match.com, or MasksForDocs.com.

Fox News’ Jennifer Oliva contributed to this report.

Companies offering parents free kids’ content to help relieve stress at home

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The work-from-home lifestyle that parents are currently facing doesn’t come without its own set of stresses — one being how to entertain kids while still getting work accomplished.

To help out struggling families amid the coronavirus outbreak, some media companies are offering free content for kids featuring entertainment and educational material.

CORONAVIRUS FORCES STARS TO WORK FROM HOME, CHANGE THE WAY CONTENT IS PRODUCED

Check out the options below:

Amazon Prime Video is offering free family shows from its library. Plus, access to certain PBS shows and over 80 family-friendly movies that are available watch free (but with ads) from IMDb TV.

Audible is offering free audiobooks for kids. The company’s pledge is “kids everywhere can instantly stream an incredible collection of stories, including titles across six different languages, that will help them continue dreaming, learning, and just being kids.”

This image released by PBS shows characters, Leo the wombat, from left, Andy the frog and Carmen the butterfly in a scene from the animated series “Let’s Go Luna,” aimed at children age 4 to 7.
(LATW Productions Inc./PBs via AP)

Nickelodeon has launched a new website featuring free content and educational material.

Noggin is a streaming service for preschool-aged kids that is now offering a three-month free subscription.

TIME for Kids is allowing its digital library to be accessed for free.

CORONAVIRUS: WHAT TO KNOW

Another solution that’s making the rounds in Hollywood is releasing the movies early on home entertainment — meaning they’ll be available sooner rather than later for either rental or purchase on services such as iTunes and Amazon. Most rentals and purchases are expected to run around $20.

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Some kid-friendly movies include “Frozen II,” which is currently out; “Trolls World Tour,” to become available on April 10; “Onward” already available; and “Sonic the Hedgehog,” which will be available early for digital release on March 31.

Fox News’ Nate Day contributed to this report.

How to help your community during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic

In times of uncertainty, pulling together to help is crucial to the health, well-being and stability of our local communities.

As the ongoing coronavirus pandemic has shown, some of our communities need help more than ever. And although it may seem daunting at first, there are plenty of ways to lend support, funds or even a helping hand in these trying times.

HOW TO HELP YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS STAY AFLOAT

Don’t know where to start? Here’s a few ideas to get you going.

Be responsible

One of the first and best ways to help your local community is to be mindful of federal, state or local guidelines aimed at preventing the spread of COVID-19. This means avoiding congregating in groups larger than 10, staying home when sick, maintaining safe distances (i.e., social-distancing) when in public, and being mindful of any other ordinances or orders issued by health or government officials.

Volunteer

Organizations that feed and run errands for the elderly or otherwise unable are always seeking volunteers.

Meals on Wheels America, for instance, has said some of its programs are “desperately seeking volunteers” amid the COVID-19 pandemic. (At the moment, the organization says it is focusing its efforts on assigning volunteers to communities in the most urgent need.)

Feeding America, too, is seeking volunteers to help pack and organize groceries at its food banks and pantries. Be sure to check with your local food banks and help hotlines to see how they could best use your help.

Check with your local food banks and help hotlines to see how they could best use your help.
(iStock)

Online communities are also cropping up in an effort to extend help where it’s needed most. By joining these online groups — sometimes called “caremongering” groups — community members can stay informed of the needs of neighbors, and offer to help where they can.

Be aware, however, that help should always be given in accordance with local, state and federal safety guidelines (and especially those concerning visits to the elderly, or those that might breach any “shelter-in-place” orders) to prevent putting people at further risk of illness.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

Donate money, food or blood

If you’re unable to donate your time, many of those same organizations in your community will gladly accept financial support. Find reputable organizations in your neighborhood that are helping where it’s needed most. Your local food banks, too, are likely welcoming donations of canned or non-perishable items, as well as basic necessities.

Your nearby blood banks and hospitals are also in need of donations, according to a recent call from the U.S. Surgeon General.

“Social distancing doesn’t mean social disengagement,” Surgeon General Jerome Adams said in a press conference at the White House on Thursday. “So give blood today, you’ll feel good about it.”

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Patronize your local restaurants

Restaurants are being hit hard amid the outbreak, with dozens of states banning in-person dining altogether — leaving some eateries struggling to pay bills and keep staff employed. In mid-March, the National Restaurant Association reported that the industry could lose nearly half of its 15.6 million workers and a quarter of annual sales during the COVID-19 crisis.

A sign indicating take out and delivery services are available is displayed in a window of a restaurant in the University District of Seattle, Wash., on March 18.
(Chona Kasinger/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

To help ensure your favorite local dining spot is safe, be sure to continue to patronize it in any way you can, by ordering takeout, delivery or even purchasing gift cards (if available) for a future date. Chefs and foodies have also organized petitions to ask the government to “Save America’s Restaurants” with emergency employment benefits for the nation’s food-service workers, among other relief efforts.

Your community may also be included in localized efforts to organize direct financial assistance for your favorite dining establishments.

CLICK HERE FOR FOX NEWS’ CONTINUING CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE

Support essential workers

While non-essential workers may be working from home, or temporarily on leave, the essential workers who continue to trudge into work, day in and day out, need our support more than ever. Medical personnel, truck drivers, drive-thru workers, supermarket staffers, delivery drivers, social workers — these people are continuing to work for the benefit of our communities. Ask if they could use a meal, some coffee, a bus pass you no longer need — even a few kind words can go a long way.

How to help your community during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic

In times of uncertainty, pulling together to help is crucial to the health, well-being and stability of our local communities.

As the ongoing coronavirus pandemic has shown, some of our communities need help more than ever. And although it may seem daunting at first, there are plenty of ways to lend support, funds or even a helping hand in these trying times.

HOW TO HELP YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS STAY AFLOAT

Don’t know where to start? Here’s a few ideas to get you going.

Be responsible

One of the first and best ways to help your local community is to be mindful of federal, state or local guidelines aimed at preventing the spread of COVID-19. This means avoiding congregating in groups larger than 10, staying home when sick, maintaining safe distances (i.e., social-distancing) when in public, and being mindful of any other ordinances or orders issued by health or government officials.

Volunteer

Organizations that feed and run errands for the elderly or otherwise unable are always seeking volunteers.

Meals on Wheels America, for instance, has said some of its programs are “desperately seeking volunteers” amid the COVID-19 pandemic. (At the moment, the organization says it is focusing its efforts on assigning volunteers to communities in the most urgent need.)

Feeding America, too, is seeking volunteers to help pack and organize groceries at its food banks and pantries. Be sure to check with your local food banks and help hotlines to see how they could best use your help.

Check with your local food banks and help hotlines to see how they could best use your help.
(iStock)

Online communities are also cropping up in an effort to extend help where it’s needed most. By joining these online groups — sometimes called “caremongering” groups — community members can stay informed of the needs of neighbors, and offer to help where they can.

Be aware, however, that help should always be given in accordance with local, state and federal safety guidelines (and especially those concerning visits to the elderly, or those that might breach any “shelter-in-place” orders) to prevent putting people at further risk of illness.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

Donate money, food or blood

If you’re unable to donate your time, many of those same organizations in your community will gladly accept financial support. Find reputable organizations in your neighborhood that are helping where it’s needed most. Your local food banks, too, are likely welcoming donations of canned or non-perishable items, as well as basic necessities.

Your nearby blood banks and hospitals are also in need of donations, according to a recent call from the U.S. Surgeon General.

“Social distancing doesn’t mean social disengagement,” Surgeon General Jerome Adams said in a press conference at the White House on Thursday. “So give blood today, you’ll feel good about it.”

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK FOR MORE FOX LIFESTYLE NEWS

Patronize your local restaurants

Restaurants are being hit hard amid the outbreak, with dozens of states banning in-person dining altogether — leaving some eateries struggling to pay bills and keep staff employed. In mid-March, the National Restaurant Association reported that the industry could lose nearly half of its 15.6 million workers and a quarter of annual sales during the COVID-19 crisis.

A sign indicating take out and delivery services are available is displayed in a window of a restaurant in the University District of Seattle, Wash., on March 18.
(Chona Kasinger/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

To help ensure your favorite local dining spot is safe, be sure to continue to patronize it in any way you can, by ordering takeout, delivery or even purchasing gift cards (if available) for a future date. Chefs and foodies have also organized petitions to ask the government to “Save America’s Restaurants” with emergency employment benefits for the nation’s food-service workers, among other relief efforts.

Your community may also be included in localized efforts to organize direct financial assistance for your favorite dining establishments.

CLICK HERE FOR FOX NEWS’ CONTINUING CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE

Support essential workers

While non-essential workers may be working from home, or temporarily on leave, the essential workers who continue to trudge into work, day in and day out, need our support more than ever. Medical personnel, truck drivers, drive-thru workers, supermarket staffers, delivery drivers, social workers — these people are continuing to work for the benefit of our communities. Ask if they could use a meal, some coffee, a bus pass you no longer need — even a few kind words can go a long way.

Coronavirus outbreak: How seniors can get help with groceries, meals, medicine

For those who are older, but unable to cook for themselves or order supplies, Meals on Wheels has changed its model to offer “no contact” delivery.
(iStock)

Amid the ongoing coronavirus outbreak, our everyday routines have been drastically affected — and that might mean some Americans in the most vulnerable groups are struggling to get basic needs met, such as feeding themselves, or just talking to someone during self-isolation.

During this stressful time, there are a few resources that can help.

CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE

Those over 60 years old, or anyone with underlying health problems, have been advised to self-isolate, which can potentially disrupt everyday life when it comes to tasks like grocery shopping or getting medication.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

If you need groceries, but are unable to go to the supermarket – even during one of the designated times certain chains have set aside for vulnerable populations – there are delivery options available. Target, Whole Foods and Walmart are among the chain retail stores that offer delivery.

Pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS have also waived delivery fees, and are offering one- or two-day deliveries for free, even from telehealth screenings, so seniors are not forced to travel to pick up medication if they are sick.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

For those who are older, but unable to cook for themselves or order supplies, Meals on Wheels has changed its model to offer “no contact” delivery to limit contact between volunteers and those receiving the meals.

“We serve a frail and vulnerable population and we want to ensure that they remain safe, but still receive the food that is so vital for their health,” said Meals on Wheels People CEO Suzanne Washington in a press release.

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK FOR MORE FOX LIFESTYLE NEWS

And for those who want a more neighborly touch, communities across Canada (and some in the U.S.) have started a viral movement called “caremongering,” where those in need can utliize social media for help with grocery runs, emergency supplies and other errands, or even just a phone call to check in.

In addition to shopping during senior hours and getting no-contact delivery, the CDC recommends washing hands frequently, avoiding touching your face, nose and mouth, and cleaning and sanitizing high-touch areas in your home often.

Though all of these precautions are intended to keep the most vulnerable populations from getting sick, if you do suspect you have coronavirus, it is recommended to stay home and call your doctor ahead of time, instead of showing up at the hospital first. Seniors, too, are now able to access medical care online or via telephone, which can help potentially diagnose or explain next steps.

“It’s this idea that you can interact with your doctor, your care facility without increasing your exposure to the virus. Medicare is even paying now for telehealth services,” Jason Young, senior vice president of media relations for AARP said.

Coronavirus outbreak: How seniors can get help with groceries, meals, medicine

For those who are older, but unable to cook for themselves or order supplies, Meals on Wheels has changed its model to offer “no contact” delivery.
(iStock)

Amid the ongoing coronavirus outbreak, our everyday routines have been drastically affected — and that might mean some Americans in the most vulnerable groups are struggling to get basic needs met, such as feeding themselves, or just talking to someone during self-isolation.

During this stressful time, there are a few resources that can help.

CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE

Those over 60 years old, or anyone with underlying health problems, have been advised to self-isolate, which can potentially disrupt everyday life when it comes to tasks like grocery shopping or getting medication.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

If you need groceries, but are unable to go to the supermarket – even during one of the designated times certain chains have set aside for vulnerable populations – there are delivery options available. Target, Whole Foods and Walmart are among the chain retail stores that offer delivery.

Pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS have also waived delivery fees, and are offering one- or two-day deliveries for free, even from telehealth screenings, so seniors are not forced to travel to pick up medication if they are sick.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

For those who are older, but unable to cook for themselves or order supplies, Meals on Wheels has changed its model to offer “no contact” delivery to limit contact between volunteers and those receiving the meals.

“We serve a frail and vulnerable population and we want to ensure that they remain safe, but still receive the food that is so vital for their health,” said Meals on Wheels People CEO Suzanne Washington in a press release.

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK FOR MORE FOX LIFESTYLE NEWS

And for those who want a more neighborly touch, communities across Canada (and some in the U.S.) have started a viral movement called “caremongering,” where those in need can utliize social media for help with grocery runs, emergency supplies and other errands, or even just a phone call to check in.

In addition to shopping during senior hours and getting no-contact delivery, the CDC recommends washing hands frequently, avoiding touching your face, nose and mouth, and cleaning and sanitizing high-touch areas in your home often.

Though all of these precautions are intended to keep the most vulnerable populations from getting sick, if you do suspect you have coronavirus, it is recommended to stay home and call your doctor ahead of time, instead of showing up at the hospital first. Seniors, too, are now able to access medical care online or via telephone, which can help potentially diagnose or explain next steps.

“It’s this idea that you can interact with your doctor, your care facility without increasing your exposure to the virus. Medicare is even paying now for telehealth services,” Jason Young, senior vice president of media relations for AARP said.

Coronavirus pandemic triggers spike in gun sales

ATLANTA – Gun sales are on the rise in America, but it may take you longer to get one as the coronavirus pandemic continues due to the increased pressure on the background check system.

Jay Wallace has worked in the gun industry for more than 40 years. He says he usually sells about 100 guns a day at his store in Georgia Adventure Outdoors.

“We’re selling five times that amount right now. Our staff is pushed to the limits. There are more firearms being sold right now probably than ever before” Wallace said.

Jay Wallace, CEO of Adventure Outdoors, prepares for the busy season. 

Wallace believes gun sales are up because, he says, “People more than ever are feeling personally responsible. They feel like it’s at their doorsteps and they’ve never experienced that before.”

Individual completes the necessary paperwork to purchase a firearm. 

While gun purchases are increasing, the national instant criminal background checks system (NICS) is working to keep up with the demand.

Lawrence Keane, the senior vice president of firearms and ammunition industry trade association, says he has seen a surge in the sale of firearms and ammunition across the country.

“The NICS center, where they do the background checks, they’ve confirmed that they have seen what they describe as astronomical increases,” Keane said.

According to NICS, it has completed over 2 million background checks each month in 2019 and the trend has continued into 2020. However, this month’s statistics won’t be released until the end of April.

NICS statistics show that they have completed over 2 million background checks each month in 2019 and 2020. 

“We’re having a lot more delays and it’s taking longer. They’re doing the best they can, but they weren’t ready for this either; none of us were,” Wallace said.

The FBI said in a statement, “The FBI’s NICS section remains fully operational and will continue to process requests. The NICS section appreciates the public’s patience during this period of national emergency.”

“If a check goes into delay status, those are going to take a while to get sorted out because they just don’t have the resources to do both the checks that are coming in as well as investigations for delayed checks,” Keane said.

According to Keane, this isn’t the first time the gun industry has seen an uptick in sales: Past situation like September 11 and Katrina also saw an increase.

The NRA said in a statement, “Our nation has seen an uptick in firearm and ammunition sales whenever people feel threatened. We’re seeing it now because Americans know that, during times like these, first responder resources may be limited, and their safety is ultimately in their own hands.”

Nonessential stores across the country are closing to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, but gun stores are still open.

“License firearms retail is an essential business because it’s how people exercise a fundamental constitutional right. I don’t think even in this time of crisis we should be surrendering our constitutional rights,” Keane said.

Gun store owners said customers should expect delays when purchasing a gun during this time while NICS is working to keep up with the growing demand.

How to help your favorite restaurants during the coronavirus outbreak

The coronavirus pandemic has drastically altered daily life across the country, with many restaurants, bars and other food service establishments seriously suffering due to temporary government closures and self-isolation efforts from the public.

Earlier this week, the National Restaurant Association reported that the industry could lose nearly half of its 15.6 million workers and a quarter of annual sales during the COVID-19 crisis. The organization, which advocates for over 500,000 restaurants in the U.S., has asked the White House and congressional leaders for at least $455 billion in aid to help keep businesses afloat during this difficult time

For now, foodies can help turn the tables by thinking globally and acting locally to support favorite restaurants in these ways.

HOW IS CORONAVIRUS TRANSMITTED?

Order takeout or delivery

Foodies can help turn the tables by thinking globally and acting locally during the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak.
(iStock)

Many establishments have majorly modified their business practices in response to COVID-19, closing dining rooms altogether and limiting orders to drive-thru, takeout or delivery, among other health and safety protocols.

As the United States Department of Agriculture and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have said there is no evidence to suggest the virus can be spread through food or food packaging, help your favorite local haunt survive the pandemic by ordering take out or delivery for your household. Don’t forget to leave a generous tip, too.

As the virus is mostly spread by person-to-person contact, aim to limit potential exposure by opting for no-contact delivery. To be safe, it is recommended to discard any packaging the takeout order comes in, and transfer it into another dish.

Buy gift cards

A sign indicating take out and delivery services are available is displayed in a window of a restaurant in the University District of Seattle, Wash., on March 18. 
(Chona Kasinger/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

Even if you’re still cooking through your pandemic food supply, buy a gift card for your favorite eatery. Not only is this one of the easiest ways to support the restaurant, but it also helps practice social distancing.

Now is also a great time to finally splurge on extra merchandise, like a T-shirt or cookbook from your go-to local spot.

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Sign a petition

celebrity chefs are supporting a Change.org petition calling for government leaders to take “swift action” to help food-serving establishments everywhere survive these trying times.” src=”https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2020/03/640/320/iStock-1132292925.jpg?ve=1&tl=1″>

Many celebrity chefs are supporting a Change.org petition calling for government leaders to take “swift action” to help food-serving establishments everywhere survive these trying times.
(iStock)

In a rallying cry for the industry, many celebrity chefs are supporting a Change.org petition calling for government leaders to take “swift action” to help food-serving establishments everywhere survive these trying times. The “Save America’s Restaurants” appeal had received more than 174,000 signatures as of Friday morning.

Acknowledging that needs greatly vary, the plea calls for emergency employment benefits to be granted to workers laid off or otherwise affected by the pandemic.

The petition also called for waiving payroll tax, endorsing rent and loan abatement for employees, urging coordination with state liquor officials to allow restaurants offering delivery and take-out to also sell or deliver alcohol by the bottle, and waiving zoning restrictions to allow eateries to use their space for alternative purposes to continue paying staff and supporting purveyors.

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Directly donate to funds

A pedestrian walks by a closed sign on the door of a restaurant on March 17 in San Francisco. 
(Justin Sullivan/Getty Images))

During the pandemic, nonprofits and grassroots groups are also coordinating direct financial contributions to benefit bars and restaurants.

According to Eater, groups like Dining Bond Initiative, Southern Smoke Foundation and Give Local are coordinating direct financial assistance for restaurants, while the United States Bartenders Guild is working to help bartenders affected by the COVID-19 crisis.

Fox News’ Alexandra Deabler contributed to this report.