LOS ANGELES (CNS) - City Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez announced her office has provided COVID-19 care kits to the Los Angeles Fire Department to distribute when they respond to coronavirus-positive patients living in multi- generational households.

Rodriguez, who represents the northeast San Fernando Valley, called her district "ground zero for the pandemic."

"Many in this community are essential workers who do not have the luxury or means to stay home or purchase items that protect them," Rodriguez said. "Further adding to the risk, many of these households are multi- generational families living in crowded conditions."

Firefighters responding to households with COVID-19 patients will leave the kits for their family members.

Rodriguez said she hopes the kits will minimize the risk for people who have not contracted the virus but are isolating in the same home. Along with personal protective equipment, the kits include instructions for keeping family members safe.

According to Rodriguez' office, more than 1,500 kits have been distributed within her district through partnerships with Service Employees International Union Local 2015, Olive View UCLA Medical Center, Chicas Moms and People in Action for the Community.

Rodriguez said the partnership with the Los Angeles Fire Department will expand the reach and allow kits to be distributed where they are most needed.

"Firefighters witnessing these circumstances in response to COVID- related calls in the area now have a new resource to leave with families, giving them a fighting chance against the spread of COVID-19," she said.