CNN | What we know — and what we don’t — about the UK coronavirus variant

(CNN) – The United Kingdom has identified a new, potentially more contagious coronavirus variant linked to a recent surge in cases in England.

The new variant is being called VUI-202012/01 — the first “Variant Under Investigation” in the UK in December 2020. While scientists hunt for more information about the variant, its impact is already being felt.

Multiple countries have now imposed restrictions on travelers from the UK. British Health Secretary Matt Hancock said Sunday that the variant was “out of control” and Prime Minister Boris Johnson was due to chair an emergency meeting Monday as his government tried to manage the fallout.

Here’s what you need to know.  —read more—

CNN | Here’s what’s in the second stimulus package

Washington (CNN)Leaders in the House and Senate reached an agreement late Sunday on a $900 billion pandemic relief bill that includes enhanced unemployment benefits and direct cash payments.

There were several changes made from a proposal put forward nearly two weeks ago by a bipartisan group of lawmakers. Direct stimulus checks were brought in at the last minute. Direct aid to states and liability protections for companies were left out.  —read more—

CNN | A guide to helping and getting help during the coronavirus crisis

The coronavirus pandemic is overwhelming, and one of the most excruciating parts for many people is the feeling of utter helplessness in the face of widespread suffering and hardship. CNN’s Impact Your World has compiled a list of donation opportunities and tips to help those affected by the crisis.

Click on a category or scroll down to browse a list of organizations, resources and ideas.

Need help?  —read more—

CNN health | The secrets of couples thriving right now in the pandemic

(CNN) – Before the pandemic, S. Nicole Lane said that much of her time with her boyfriend was spent going out, dancing and drinking.

“We both work pretty demanding jobs, so our days off were spent in a whirlwind,” she said. “I think many of our fights and arguments were fueled by alcohol.”

During pandemic lockdown earlier this year, the Chicago couple started hiking together, often covering as many as 20 miles in a single day on the trails. “I don’t think we went into hiking saying, ‘This will help our relationship,’ but it’s really brought us a lot closer and more comfortable with one another,” she said. —read more—

CNN BUSINESS | Black Millennials fueled a surprising 2020 home-buying surge for African Americans

New York (CNN Business) – Owning a home was never a priority for Kenyan immigrant Lynne Poole or her husband, Aaron prior to 2020. The newlyweds, like many Millennials, enjoyed the lifestyle that came with renting an apartment in a major city — in their case, Denver.

Lynne, 31, moved there in 2016 to earn her master’s degree in communications management before landing a marketing gig at Rental Kharma, a Denver-based company.

“We really liked the outdoors, eating out, nice restaurants close by,” Lynne told CNN Business. —read more—