LOS ANGELES – Coronavirus numbers are rising in Los Angeles County.

Pamela Jones has lived in Arlington Heights for more than five decades. Her mother has underlying health conditions, and she is bracing for the impact of another potential surge — stocking up at a Veteran’s Day food giveaway, and free COVID testing site hosted by Councilmember Herb Wesson.

“As you see, the rates are going up again. They just put out a big alarm last night about wearing your mask. So this is so much of a help to a lot of us in the community,” Jones said.

The Amber Alert-style message was sent out around 7p.m., Tuesday night, warning residents about the spread, and promoting free COVID testing.

“At first I thought it was an Amber Alert because that’s how the Amber Alerts go off. Then, when I read it, I’m like, this is serious,” Jones said.

Over 2,000 new cases were reported on Tuesday in L.A. County with the seven-day positivity rate in the state increasing to 4.3% on Wednesday.

Mayor Eric Garcetti said testing capacity would increase to over 30,000 available tests per day at city sites. 

Wilshire District resident Larry Williams shops in the area and decided to stop by and get a free test. He said that with so much uncertainty, he’s grateful testing and help are available to residents.

“More people need it. It is really sad to think about how people are starving right now. Families are starving. Older people are suffering, cannot get medical assistance and things of that nature. Those are the things that can really hurt a community,” Williams said.

As the holidays approach, 16% of Los Angeles residents suffer from food insecurity. District 10 Councilmember Herb Wesson is hoping to keep giving back as he nears the end of his current term.

His office has donated over 1.7 million pounds of food. He said now more than ever residents need to know someone is looking out for them. 

“At this point it’s about letting people know that somebody in government gives a damn, and that’s exactly what we’re doing,” Wesson said.

The uncertainty continues for communities, but Jones, who has been a part of her community for more than 50 years, encouraged her neighbors to listen to the alert and help stop the spread.

“Please everyone wear your mask, wash your hands, [and] keep your distance. We can get through this if we do it together,” Jones said.

She hopes communities will heed the warning.