Pa. unemployment claims spike as virus takes hold

Unemployment claims in Pennsylvania are surging after Gov. Tom Wolf ordered a statewide shutdown of nonessential businesses to try to curb the spread of the coronavirus. Plus, the state is mourning the loss of Carmine Fusco, 55, of Northampton County, who Wednesday was the first to die of the virus.

We're continuing to update a number of helpful guides for you, including a complete look at what's open, what's closed during the statewide shutdown, as well as a complete rundown of all the ways you might see relief from Pa. lawmakers. And we're answering your questions and posting them for all.

Finally, we're working nonstop to provide an essential public service to inform the public and help us all stay safe and healthy. We share our work at no cost with 25 different news organizations serving communities in all corners, from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh, Scranton to Erie, Towanda to New Castle.

We depend on reader support and now more than ever, we need your help. Make your gift today.