COVID-19: LSNYC Social Workers Resources and Responses

MOST RECENT UPDATE 4/16/20

In this document you will find:

GENERAL CITY COVID-19 RELATED UPDATES
CHILDCARE RESOURCES
EDUCATION/DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION RESOURCES
IMMIGRATION AND USCIS
PUBLIC BENEFITS
PUBLIC CHARGE AND COVID-19
APPLYING FOR HEALTH INSURANCE/SPEAKING WITH A NAVIGATOR REMOTELY
HOUSING AND HOUSING COURT
EMERGENCY FINANCIAL AID AND UNEMPLOYMENT
FINANCIAL COUNSELING
FOOD RESOURCES
MENTAL HEALTH & OPWDD RESOURCES
FREE INTERNET RESOURCES
UTILITIES--HEAT/HOT WATER/ELECTRICITY
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION & MTA
MEDICAL RESOURCES & INFORMATION
INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENCE/DOMESTIC VIOLENCE/VICTIM SERVICES
COMMUNITY SUPPORT SERVICES
PRICE GOUGING CONCERNS
OVS EMERGENCY SERVICES
TAX PREP INFO
RESOURCES FOR UNDOCUMENTED NEW YORKERS/SPANISH LANGUAGE RESOURCES
SOCIAL SECURITY INFORMATION
RESOURCES FOR PET OWNERS
VETERAN’S BENEFITS ADMINISTRATION

OVERVIEW

The intended use of this document is to be a place to share updates and resources, shared among LSNYC social workers, colleagues and community members. Everyone is welcome to add information, create new categories, etc. This will be a living document, for as long as we need it. If you’ve added new resources and information, please update this document to reflect the date of the most recept updates. Thank you.

1. GENERAL CITY COVID-19 RELATED UPDATES

General NYC.GOV Coronavirus Page: www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/coronavirus.page or call 311 for hospitals and other NYC resources.

NYS Department of Health: https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/home

Text COVID to 692-692 to get NYC COVID related alerts: closings, small business relief, new restrictions, opportunities (or see Notify NYC app or website).

Text COVIDESP to 692-692 for this same service above in Spanish.

Reliable News Source: http://wnylc.com/covid-19-state-policies-relating-to-legal-services-attorneys-and-clients/

For health tips, please go to CDC first: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html

Also, following Resources Lists are also helpful:

· NYC COVID 19 Services and Resources - https://www1.nyc.gov/site/em/resources/covid-19-services-resources.page

· New York State Youth Leadership Council (NYSYLC) resource google doc: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1qilwSmaqELoyPc9-a1ka82aXAq3HDlWvbYEzwsKNNL0/edit

· NYS Health Foundation - COVID-19 Resources for Nonprofits and Community-Based Organizations: https://nyshealthfoundation.org/resource/covid-19-resources-for-grantees/?utm_source=COVID-19+Resource+March+2020&utm_campaign=COVID-19+Resource+Page+March+2020&utm_medium=email

· NYC Help - https://www1.nyc.gov/site/helpnownyc/resources/covid-19-relief.page

NYC Dance, which includes funding sources: https://www.dance.nyc/for-artists/resource-pages/Coronavirus-Preparedness

2. CHILDCARE RESOURCES

Beginning March 23, the City will provide supervision to children of healthcare workers, first responders, and transit workers at Regional Enrichment Centers. More details can be found here: https://www.schools.nyc.gov/enrollment/enrollment-help/regional-enrichment-centers?fbclid=IwAR30MhHBzWRDOYCf4cZ2V9kSJ8l_s0S-4LAcPPQXpy8E3z72AxYn39y9R2k.

Enrollment form for Regional Enrichment Centers here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdDNFMOezuG9mCu99utf3dkloTpdEhzBB1ancwlaeT3ny7uEQ/viewform

***DIAPER ASSISTANCE: https://thehopeline.org/services/diapers/

3. EDUCATION/DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION RESOURCES

Cuomo ordered a two-week, state-wide shutdown of schools beginning 3/18/20 - 4/1/20

Instructions on signing up for DOE emergency alerts and newsletters: https://www.schools.nyc.gov/sign-up

DOE Coronavirus updates (includes translated versions of letters to families re: COVID-19; also has info on meals available to kids whose schools have closed): https://www.schools.nyc.gov/school-life/health-and-wellness/coronavirus-update

Updates from Advocates for Children: https://www.advocatesforchildren.org/covid-19-updates

Learn at home resources for parents: https://www.schools.nyc.gov/learning/learn-at-home

4. IMMIGRATION AND USCIS

Immigration Immigration Courts (until 5/1): Hearings in non-detained cases are postponed through May 1, 2020.
Filing of petitions and motions:

Any filings due during a court closure should be filed by March 30. Filing deadlines after March 30 remain in effect subject to the discretion of the immigration judge.

New York - Broadway OPEN FOR FILINGS ONLY

New York - Federal Plaza OPEN FOR FILINGS AND FOR DETAINED HEARINGS ONLY

New York - Varick OPEN FOR FILINGS AND FOR DETAINED HEARINGS ONLY

USCIS (until 4/7): All appointments are cancelled.

As of March 18, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services temporarily suspended in-person services at its field offices, asylum offices, and Application Support Centers (ASCs) to help slow the spread of Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19). USCIS offices will reopen on April 7 unless the public closures are extended further. However, USCIS will provide emergency services for limited situations. To schedule an emergency appointment contact the USCIS Contact Center.

https://www.uscis.gov/about-us/uscis-response-coronavirus-2019-covid-19

ICE: NYC in-person check-ins are cancelled, telephonic check-ins are still happening. Waiting to hear back for Buffalo/upstate office.
Federal Courts: Citizenship Oath Ceremonies cancelled.
ICE has cancelled all visitation for those in ICE detention.
Immigration enforcement in the communities continues.
Detained cases are still being heard: to connect with an attorney during this crisis the detained individual should contact their local New York Immigrant Family Unity Project (NYIFUP) provider (Bronx Defenders, Brooklyn Defenders, Legal Aid etc.)*** Update: Verick St. is now closed. Detained cases are not being seen.
To check on the immigration case in immigration court, call or visit with A#:

1-800-898-7180 or https://portal.eoir.justice.gov/InfoSystem

Please be aware that the case status may not be updated until a week or two before 05/01/2020.

5. PUBLIC BENEFITS

All job centers are currently open

Folks are encouraged to apply for SNAP and cash assistance via Access HRA so as not to go in person
CAN NOW APPLY FOR CASH BENEFITS ONLINE!! But will still need to get docs to HRA.
**Folks need to upload their documents to the HRA document upload app NOT the access HRA app (photos of documents will suffice)
https://a069-access.nyc.gov/accesshra/
DHS is also operating as usual (shelters, PATH etc)

Important information about COVID-19 and your HRA benefits

If you need assistance, you don’t need to come to an HRA Office. You can:

NEW: Apply for Cash Assistance or Emergency One Time Assistance with the ACCESS HRA website and mobile app. An HRA staff member will call you to complete your eligibility interview.
Apply for SNAP online at www.nyc.gov/accesshra or by smart phone with the ACCESS HRA app. After you submit your application, complete your eligibility interview by calling 718-SNAP-NOW (718-762-7669) anytime between 8:30 AM and 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday.
Apply for a Special Grant online through ACCESS HRA if you are a Cash Assistance client.
Get food assistance at a food pantry near you. Call 311 for locations.
Use ACCESS HRA online or download the ACCESS HRA app to view your case information.
Apply for child support services by downloading an application at childsupport.ny.gov OR calling the NYS child support helpline at 888-208-4485 to have an application mailed to you.
Please only visit a job center if your needs cannot be met through ACCESS HRA or over the phone. Hours and locations may change. Call 311 for locations and hours.

For the safety of clients and staff, HRA is taking the following actions to avoid the need for New Yorkers to visit HRA Offices until further notice:

All in-person HRA appointments are cancelled. You will get a text or email from HRA letting you know your next steps.
If you were scheduled for a recertification interview you should submit your recertification form through ACCESS HRA and we will then call you for an interview.
Your Cash Assistance (CA) case will stay open even if you do not:

Go to an HRA appointment, including child support or child care services (assessments will be done over the phone, if possible).
Go to an HRA work or training assignment (even if you are or were sanctioned).
Submit your 6-month periodic report.

Your Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) case will stay open even if you do not:

Complete your eligibility interview in person if one was scheduled. You can still complete your eligibility interview by phone by calling 718-SNAP-NOW (718-762-7669) anytime between 8:30 AM and 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday.
Submit your 6-month periodic report. Please submit all required documents through the ACCESS HRA app’s mobile document upload feature.
Meet the Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) work requirements

Note: you should STILL return your completed CA and SNAP recertifications and can do so online at www.nyc.gov/accesshra or by mobile phone using the free ACCESS HRA app.
If proposed changes are approved by the Federal Government, your Medicaid case will stay open even if you do not:

Return a document or form, including your Medicaid Renewal form
Meet your Medicaid surplus

Really helpful PA assistance sheet with updates: https://cssny.s3.amazonaws.com/system/files/uploads/Coronavirus_-_Impact_of_on_Public_Benefits.pdf?fbclid=IwAR00xJiuqF-ykanXR2JUtsK0IjhdyfKV7fGP_LtmORuio1Uqf0eNJ8KBLzg

6. PUBLIC CHARGE AND COVID-19

https://www1.nyc.gov/site/immigrants/help/legal-services/public-charge.page

On March 13, 2020, USCIS posted an alert clarifying that seeking or using medical treatment or preventive healthcare services related to COVID-19 will NOT be considered under the public charge rule, even if the services are Medicaid-funded.

Please note* Unemployment Insurance Benefits (UIB) is not considered a benefit for public charge purposes.

Also, USCIS announced that COVID-19 medical care will not be considered for public charge purposes. https://www.uscis.gov/greencard/public-charge

7. APPLYING FOR HEALTH INSURANCE/SPEAKING WITH A NAVIGATOR REMOTELY

CSS Navigator Network at 1-888-614-5400: assists consumers apply for health insurance through the NYS of Health Marketplace, including Medicaid, Essential Plan, Child Health Plus and qualified health plans. They are enrolling and assessing for MA eligibility remotely.

8. HOUSING AND HOUSING COURT

NYCHA COVID-19 updates: https://nychajournal.nyc/update-from-nycha-chair-and-general-manager-on-covid-19-measures/

NYCHA residents that experience a loss of income may qualify for a rent reduction. Households that have experienced a complete income loss may qualify for the Zero Income Policy.

Zero Income Policy: Households that experience a complete loss of income may qualify for NYCHA’s Zero Income Policy. If a household reports zero income, they will participate in an interview with a NYCHA Housing Assistant and will complete a Zero Income Questionnaire. The interview can be held over the phone. If you need further assistance, please call your property management office or Customer Contact Center at 718-707-7771.

From Met Council:

As of 5 PM today, March 16 all eviction proceedings and pending eviction orders shall be suspended statewide until further notice.
No new eviction cases can be started
No marshal's notices can be carried out
Court will remain open for emergency repair cases, illegal lockouts, and post-eviction cases
If you have questions call our hotline: 212-979-0611
We remain committed to educating all tenants about their rights, especially in a time of economic uncertainty when many will be facing a loss of income and trouble making the rent.

OUR MUTUAL AID PROGRAMS ARE STILL OPEN:

Tenant Rights Hotline (English and Spanish) 212-979-0611

Mon & Wed 1:30 - 8 PM; Fri 1:30 - 5 PM

East Village Clinic - Will Operate Remotely - Call 212-979-0611

Tues 5:30 - 8 PM

→ → Any tips or specific resources for rental assistance? Many clients are facing drastic hour shortage that will impact whether they can earn enough for the month to pay rent….

U-Haul is offering free storage units for 30 days to college students who need to move and store their items.

9. FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE, UNEMPLOYMENT, INCOME SUPPORT

Assistance for undocumented workers/those ineligible for gov relief:

General information on benefits for undocumented workers:

https://pechmanlaw.com/blog/resources-for-undocumented-workers-in-ny-during-the-coronavirus-crisis?fbclid=IwAR1_qZBVG-gzdJhlbYWO4TVfmRprkxpaGyf4sR57pWVPCtGStXl7499B3_Y

Movimiento Cosecha is raising money for an Undocumented Worker Fund. Undocumented immigrants are eligible to apply once per household to receive up to $300 from the fund, and Movimiento Cosecha will be distributing funds until they run out. You may apply here if you are an undocumented immigrant in need of financial assistance.
Mixteca has created an Emergency Fund to help alleviate some of the economic stress that immigrant families are experiencing during this pandemic. Priority will be given to undocumented community members that cannot work, have lost their job partially or entirely due to coronavirus and cannot access federal funds. To access the application, click here. You can also call 646-470-5068 or 929-322-0605 to fill out the application by phone.
The Betancourt Macias Family Scholarship Foundation is raising funds to support undocumented families and individuals during these times of crisis. The amount that they can provide each person is based on the donations they receive and the amount of requests they receive. Click here to fill out the request form. You can also call Marilu at (360) 524-3664 and a representative will help you apply in English and Spanish.
Humanity Forward is delivering one-time, and recurring, basic income payments to individuals and families who stand to be most impacted by the coronavirus crisis. The initial target populations will primarily consist of Americans in lower income brackets who depend on wage work to support them and their families. Their first program will be launched in the Bronx, NY, and they aim to roll out similar initiatives in the coming weeks. Click here for the application.
National Domestic Workers Alliance Fund: https://domesticworkers.org/coronavirus-care-fund
Emergency Funds for Undocumented Youth and Families through NYSYLC (no new requests for now): https://www.nysylc.org/undocufunds?fbclid=IwAR2uNIK_jEadWGnugXMoQqX6d9hmgeDhNr7CETcxFepDm-F-GAm8LeBRnb

For Restaurant Workers:

Restaurant Workers’ Community Foundation established a COVID19 Crisis Relief Fund. Individuals seeking RWCF’s direct assistance should go to the Southern Smoke Application Form to submit their information and needs. Please note that Southern Smoke will evaluate each case based on the state of an applicant’s emergency, prioritizing issues like medical needs.
One Fair Wage Emergency Fund is providing cash assistance to restaurant workers, car service drivers, delivery workers, personal service workers and more. You can access their application here.
Undocu Workers Fund is a grassroots effort to provide monetary, immediate relief to individuals/families of undocumeted workers in the hospitality industry in mini-grants of $200. The application is currently on pause but will reopen. For updates click here.

Funds for bartenders out of work/reduced income due to COVID-19: https://www.usbgfoundation.org/beap
Emergency Relief for Sex Workers in NY: https://www.gofundme.com/f/z6w8v5?fbclid=IwAR0cxsC179p8a89E8Xar3PRKlNNqDvahBgqkEAp4oOy3hmylj7HIVGZsgdw. To apply to the relief fund, email brooklynswop@protonmail.com

NYC Mutual Aid Networks: https://mutualaid.nyc/groups/

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UNEMPLOYMENT

Unemployment Insurance/NY State Department of Labor: https://www.ny.gov/services/get-unemployment-assistance

YouTube video on applying for UIB in New York: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Z6ZdVSOFsc&t=1s&fbclid=IwAR1aIk9QUBsLQjiKV91QUsEkWPwAgRQiFdnNZOlCEoRzJu2xSXalIxEbq6o

Important Information for Unemployment Insurance Claimants:

NYS is waiving the 7-day waiting period for Unemployment Insurance benefits for people who are out of work due to Coronavirus (COVID-19) closures or quarantines.

If you are filing a new unemployment insurance claim, the day you should file is based on the first letter of your last name. If your last name starts with A - F, file your claim on Monday. For last names starting with G - N, file your claim Tuesday. For last names starting with O - Z, file your claim on Wednesday. If you missed your filing day, file your claim on Thursday or Friday. Filing later in the week will not delay your payments or affect the date of your claim, since all claims are effective on the Monday of the week in which they are filed.

Here is a step by step process to file a claim online:

TO APPLY OVER THE PHONE FOR UNEMPLOYMENT: 1-888-209-8124

We are extending telephone filing hours as follows:

Monday through Thursday: 8 am to 7:30 pm

Friday: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm

Saturday: 7:30 am to 8:00 pm

NEW YORK STATE PAID FAMILY LEAVE

Our low-wage worker clients often do not have employer-provided sick days or vacation time and will go to work while ill in order to maintain critically needed income or work sick because they fear job termination if they take unpaid sick days. Our low-wage clients could be eligible for NYS Paid Family Leave for up to ten weeks at about 60% of their salary with continued employer benefits, up to five (5) days at full salary under NYC Paid Sick Time; and NYS Unemployment Insurance for up to 104 days at about 60% of their previous salary with a maximum of $504 a week. It may be best to apply for programs that provide the most wage replacement initially and also maintain benefits such as health insurance.

The landscape is changing (hopefully quickly) to provide more relief than described below. Specifically, there is pending legislation that provides workers nationwide with paid family sick leave if they or an immediate family member are sick due to COVID-19 or under quarantine. The bill also includes paid family leave for an employee who must stay home to care for a child due to school closings because of COVID-19. Additionally, the pending legislation makes unemployment insurance easier to obtain for workers who are unable to work due to the COVID-19 Virus.

CLIENTS UNABLE TO WORK DUE TO THE COVID-19 VIRUS ARE ELIGIBLE FOR UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE BENEFITS (UIB):

UI is intended to be a partial wage replacement for employees who lost or are temporarily unable to work through no fault of their own; it was enacted in 1935 as a safety net during the Great Depression. The NYS Labor Department’s position is that workers unable to work because of the COVID-19 Virus should apply for UI. Clients denied UI can call the LSNYC intake line for an appointment. Clients can apply over the phone or online and are eligible for 104 days or 26 weeks of U with a maximum of $504 a week. The client can do the application over the phone in Chinese, Spanish, Russian, Italian, Haitian-Creole, Bengali, Korean and Polish.

For immigrant workers, under federal law, they must be in particular immigration categories in order to qualify for unemployment insurance. Under the law, the state will look at immigrants’ status at the time the work was performed, (the “base year”) and at the time that the worker applied for benefits, (the “benefit year”). This fact sheet explains the law: https://www.nelp.org/wp-content/uploads/Immigrants-Eligibility-for-Unemployment-Compensation.pdf

How to file a claim: https://labor.ny.gov/ui/how_to_file_claim.shtm.

PAID LEAVE

NEW YORK CITY PAID SICK LEAVE

CLIENTS UNABLE TO WORK DUE TO THE COVID-19 VIRUS MAY BE ELIGIBLE FOR 5 DAYS OF SICK PAY UNDER THE NYC PAID SICK LEAVE:

If clients are ill, they may be entitled to five paid sick days under NYC law if their employers provide no sick days. This law provides 5 days of wages. Unlike UI and NYS Paid Family Leave, NYC Sick Leave provides full salary. This may be the best first option and then applying for other programs, as long as it does not negatively impact eligibility for other programs. The client must have worked in NYC for more than 80 hours a year, and can earn up to 40 hours of safe and sick leave each year. For more information: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/dca/about/paid-sick-leave-law.page

NEW YORK STATE PAID FAMILY LEAVE ACT

CLIENTS UNABLE TO WORK BECAUSE A FAMILY MEMBER IS ILL WITH THE COVID-19 VIRUS MAY BE ELIGIBLE FOR UP TO 1O WEEKS OF SICK PAY UNDER THE NYS PAID FAMILY LEAVE ACT

If a family member (child, step-child, any child that is in your custody, spouse, domestic partner, parent, step-parent and parent in law) is seriously ill, the client may be entitled for up to ten weeks of NYS Paid Family Leave with continued employer-provided health insurance and a right to return to the job free from retaliation. As with NYC Sick Leave, there are minimum time-worked requirements to be eligible for NYS Paid Family Leave. Employees taking NYS Paid Family Leave receive 60% of their average weekly wage, up to $840.70 per week. For more information:

https://paidfamilyleave.ny.gov/

SHORT TERM DISABILITY BENEFITS

CLIENTS UNABLE TO WORK DUE TO THE COVID-19 VIRUS MAY BE ELIGIBLE FOR SHORT-TERM DISABILITY

New York State requires employers to provide disability benefits coverage to employees for an off-the-job contracted illness like COVID-19. Our clients may be eligible for short-term disability benefits. The weekly rate is about $170.00 and is taxable. For more information on short-term disability benefits, visit the Workers’ Compensation Board website.

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION REQUESTS UNDER ADA

HIGH RISK CLIENTS FOR CONTRACTING COVID-19 (UNDERLYING HEALTH CONDITION AND/OR OVER SIXTY (60)) WHO WANT TO CONTINUE WORKING MAY BE ENTITLED TO WORK FROM HOME AS AN ACCOMMODATION UNDER FEDERAL, STATE AND LOCAL LAW.

The EEOC states that working from home can be a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act. The reasonable accommodation can be anything that allows the employee to continue to work.

New York City Human Rights Law requires employers to engage in a “cooperative dialogue” when an employee requests an accommodation related to his or her religious beliefs, disability, pregnancy, childbirth or related condition, or because the employee was a victim of domestic violence, sexual violence or stalking.

Tip: The client should ask the employer for a reasonable accommodation; it is good to have this request supported by a medical letter. The letter does not have to detail the illness but should state why there is a medical need for an accommodation: Patient Z has an underlying medical condition and contracting COVID-19 puts the patient at risk for severe illness or death. Patient Z must significantly reduce exposure to many people.

10. FINANCIAL COUNSELING

Neighborhood Trust, who used to send financial counselors to our office, are still doing financial counseling by phone. Clients with concerns about their current financial situation and how to handle debt if they've been laid off, can still make appointments at https://www.neighborhoodtrust.org/what-we-do/nyc-financial-empowerment-centers/ or by calling 3-1-1

Coronavirus Financial Impact Loan Program (through HFLS):

https://hfls.org/loan-programs/coronavirusfinancialimpactloan/#1496865147632-7b27b785-f9fab2fb-9510

For Small Businesses: If you’re a small business owner in NYC affected by COVID-19, visit nyc.gov/covid19biz or call 311 for info on grants, updates & more.

11. FOOD RESOURCES

DOE Grab N’ Go Meals: 3 meals/per day for ANY New Yorker who is hungry can be picked up Monday through Friday

7:30am-11:30am children/families

11:30am-1:30pm adults

Find location closest to you: https://www.schools.nyc.gov/school-life/food/free-meals

How to Pick Up a Meal

No registration, ID, or documentation required.
All three meals a day may be picked up at the same time.
No dining space is available, so meals must be eaten off premises.
Parents and guardians may pick up meals for their children‎.
Does not matter which school child is enrolled in
Do not need to be enrolled in school

NeON Nutrition Kitchen: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/neon/programs/nutrition-kitchen.page

NYC Food Delivery Assistance (see website for eligibility and enrollment):

https://cv19engagementportal.cityofnewyork.us/#/display/5e7555117ad6750216160409

Hunger Solutions (updates on school meals, CACFP, and SNAP): https://hungersolutionsny.org/covid-19/?mc_cid=06f473afb2&mc_eid=d729234253

FOOD HUB: https://sites.google.com/foodeducationfund.org/foodhubnyc

NYC Mutual Aid Networks: https://mutualaid.nyc/groups/

NYC Food Bank (pantry, soup kitchen, etc. locator):

Local Food Pantries are Open as Essential Services--Please call first as day/hours are changing!

Find the list here: https://www.foodbanknyc.org/get-help/

In Jamaica, Queens - List of Food Pantries

Church of God in Christ

157-22 South Rd (Tuskegee Airmen Way), Jamaica, NY

Wednesday, March 25th 10AM (EVERY WEDNESDAY)

Brooks Memorial UMC

143-22 109 Avenue, Jamaica, NY

Thursday, March 26th11AM-1PM

First Presbyterian Church

89-60 164 Street, Jamaica, NY

Tuesday, March 24th/Wednesday, March 25th 9AM (ALL DAY)

Presentation Church

88-19 Parsons Blvd., Jamaica, NY

First & Third Tuesday of every month 4PM

SENIOR CITIZENS/ELDERLY

NYC Senior Citizen Centers are closed but still offering grab and go meals to participants.

Citymeals on Wheels is still delivering emergency meals to homebound seniors/elderly. They have been overwhelmed with new referrals, expect the referral/intake process to take longer.

City Harvest Mobile Food Pantries (borough specific, getting ramped up as of 3/18/20): https://www.cityharvest.org/programs/mobile-markets/

If a senior citizen is homebound (which at this juncture they should be), and they don’t have Meals on Wheels or a connection to a Senior Center, they should contact Aging Connect Unit Hotline at 212-244-6469.

Info on FreshDirect donations: https://foresthillspost.com/400-boxes-of-groceries-a-day-will-be-sent-to-queens-residents-in-need

12. MENTAL HEALTH/OPWDD RESOURCES

NY State Office of Mental Health (OMH) Emotional Support Line: 1-844-863-9314 (includes option in Spanish)

The Emotional Support Line provides free and confidential support, helping callers experiencing increased anxiety due to the coronavirus emergency. The Help Line is staffed by volunteers, including mental health professionals, who have received training in crisis counseling.

National Suicide Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255

NYS OMH Tips for Tips for Mental Wellness (offered in several languages here): https://omh.ny.gov/omhweb/covid-19-resources.html

Institute for Parenting WarmLine: Call the Adelphi Warmline at 516-515-1948 with questions regarding babies and young children’s development and wellbeing, especially in times of high stress. We welcome non-emergency calls from care-givers,teachers, parents etc with questions about children 0-6. Call and leave a message. Your call will be returned by a childhood specialist (English and Spanish speaking clinicians)

WHO article on mental health considerations for providers and general population during COVID-19: https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/coronaviruse/mental-health-considerations.pdf?sfvrsn=6d3578af_2

NYC Well is still up and running, but wait times might be long: NYC Well is your connection to free, confidential mental health support. Speak to a counselor via phone, text, or chat and get access to mental health and substance use services, in more than 200 languages, 24/7/365.

1-888-NYC-WELL

Text Well to 65173

NYSTART: https://www.yai.org/services/nystart-systemic-therapeutic-assessment-resources-treatment

13. FREE INTERNET RESOURCES

SPECTRUM (not the bronx, see below)--If children live in a home without internet to do their homework (or just don’t have Spectrum internet), they can get free internet for 60 days from Spectrum. Installation fees will also be waived. Call 1-844-488-8395 and choose the option to set up a new service. As long as the family is in the Spectrum service area, they should be good.

**Update** we do not know if Spectrum will provide free internet for folks who already are receiving services and are unable to pay/have existing unpaid bills. They are currently only providing free services for folks who enroll now. Please let us know if you hear otherwise!

For Bronx residents: Spectrum is not offered in the Bronx. Optimum/Altice is offering something for households with K-12 students in their coverage areas, called Altice Advantage, which is supposed to be free for 60 days. Here's a link: https://www.alticeadvantageinternet.com/#/

14. UTILITIES--HEAT/HOT WATER/ELECTRICITY

CON EDISON:

During this incredibly challenging time, we know you’re counting on your power. We are not expecting any interruptions of your service because of the coronavirus (Covid-19). Please know you will not lose your power now because you’re having trouble making payments.

Here’s how we’re trying to help:

• Your service will not be shut off for non-payment.

• Waiving new late-payment fees.

• Suspending no-access fees if we can’t read your meter.

• No fees for making payments with credit cards or debit cards.

• Suspending fees for refusing smart meter installations

• Most customers can arrange for payment extensions and agreements online through My Account.

Please note these other changes to our operations:

• Walk-in centers are closed as of Wednesday, March 18. The best way to do business with us is through My Account on conEd.com. Our call center is open, but wait times may be longer than usual. You can reach us at 1-800-75-CONED (1‑800‑752‑6633).

• Your meter will still be read if it’s outside or in an uninhabited building space. If you have an indoor meter, you can report your usage online

NATIONAL GRID Current Conditions – Services Continuing

Emergency response – As always, our customers should contact us for all gas and electricity-related emergencies, such as outages, downed power lines and gas leaks.
Electricity and gas service -- We do not anticipate any service disruption to our customers at this time. We have a comprehensive emergency response plan in place to keep the lights on and the gas flowing for customers.
Customer-requested service – We will continue to respond as usual to essential customer needs, such as turning on or off gas or electric services (i.e. for a customer move), subject to municipal permitting and work restrictions.
Regular billing and ability to make payments – Our regular billing process will continue. Customers are encouraged to manage their National Grid accounts online. We offer a variety of payment and billing options designed to make transactions easy and convenient. Our call center representatives remain at the ready to assist customers, but those calling in may experience longer than usual wait times.
Payment assistance – We encourage customers who are struggling to pay their National Grid bill to contact us as soon as possible for assistance. Customers needing assistance, can click here for more information or call to speak with one of our Customer Advocates. Note: Call wait times may be longer than usual.

Current Conditions – Services Temporarily Paused

Collections activities & disconnections – We have temporarily suspended collections-related activities, including service disconnections, to lessen any financial hardship caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. These policies will remain in effect at least until the end of April, when we will evaluate their continued need. Customers looking for more information on payment assistance programs in general can click here.
Non-essential planned electric outages – We know many individuals are working from home and children are home from school. We are limiting planned service interruptions during this time.
Non-essential electric & gas related services – Planned maintenance and services such as manual meter reads, oil-to-gas conversions, gas service upgrades, and meter changes, may decrease the ability to keep social distance. Therefore, they will be paused. In the case of manual meter reads, this could result in estimated bills for some customers.
Energy efficiency on-premise services – We are temporarily suspending all energy efficiency service activities, provided by our valued partners, that require home or business visits, such as energy audits.
New York City and Long Island walk-in payment offices - Our National Grid downstate New York payment offices are temporarily closed. Payment options for customers include:

Online: Visit ngrid.com/billpay to pay online via bank account or credit card, or sign up for convenient bill pay options, such as paperless billing, automated payments, the budget plan or assistance programs.
Pay by phone – Have your account number ready, and you can pay over the phone with a credit or debit card or bank account. Fees may apply. In New York City, call 1-718-643-4050; Long Island, call 1-800-930-5003.
Pay by mail – Use the convenient return envelope included with your bill.
Pay by bank website – Contact your bank to see if they offer this service.
Pay at a local Western Union – A location listing is available here.

15. PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION & MTA

Sign-up for MTA alerts re: changes to mass transit: https://mymtaalerts.com/LoginC.aspx

16. MEDICAL RESOURCES & INFORMATION

If you have questions about health insurance coverage for COVID-19 testing or treatment, call the Office of the Attorney General's Health Care Hotline: 1-800-428-9071.

Locate you local county health office for information on COVID-19 related services (including testing): https://www.nysacho.org/directory/

Information on mobile testing facilities (3/18/20): Gov. Cuomo noted that those looking to get tested cannot just show up at the mobile testing facility. Call 888-364-3065 to set up a testing appointment.

Info on COVID-19 precautions and testing: https://www.talktomira.com/post/where-to-get-tested-for-coronavirus-covid-19-in-nyc

17. INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENCE / DOMESTIC VIOLENCE / VICTIM SERVICES / SAFETY PLANNING

***If you have a temporary order of protection and your court appearance was cancelled due to COVID-19, your order of protection is likely still in effect. If you are seeking a new order of protection, it is still possible to get one REGARDLESS OF FAMILY COURT CLOSURES. Please reach out to one of the victim services providers below for more information.

FAMILY JUSTICE CENTERS

Message from the Family Justice Centers:

Our Buildings May Be Closed, But We Are Here For You: With the situation quickly evolving, we must all do our part in stopping the spread of COVID-19. Today, we are taking the next step to protect the safety of our community, including our families, our staff, and our clients. Effective immediately, our Family Justice Centers (FJC) are temporarily closed. During this difficult time, we are here for you. Please reach out. You may be asked to leave a message, and someone will get back to you as quickly as possible, with guidance on immediate safety planning, shelter assistance, and community resources, including FJC updates.

See here for contact information for FJC updates and contact info: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/ocdv/get-help/covid-19-update.page

FOR A LIST OF DV AND IPV PROVIDERS AND THEIR CURRENT AVAILABLE SERVICES PLEASE CHECK HERE: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/12H74uzOMR_mn6iOrh7eP5W2EsTA3E-559agFOaNw-a4/edit#gid=0

LEGAL SERVICES NYC

For legal advice related to domestic violence, and to do a phone intake, call 917-661-4500, Monday - Friday, 10am - 4pm.

SAFE HORIZON SERVICES

Safe Horizon updates re: COVID-19: https://www.safehorizon.org/emergency/
Updated Information on our Programs and Status of Specific Sites
All Domestic Violence Shelters are operating. Please call our Domestic Violence Hotline: 1- 800-621-HOPE (4673)
All Streetwork Project locations for homeless young people are operating. Click here for more information.
All Family Justice Centers are closed. (See below for more FJC information)
All Family Court Programs are closed. Staff are working remotely. Click here for contact numbers and information.
All Criminal Court Programs are closed. Staff are working remotely. Click here for contact numbers and information.
All Supervised Visitation Programs are closed.
All Court Program Children’s Centers are closed.
Safe Horizon Anti-Trafficking Program office is closed. Staff are working remotely. Please call our Intake Line and leave a message. We are checking this number multiple times a day: 718-943-8652. Or you could also call 646-438-1730.
Safe Horizon Domestic Violence Law Project office is closed. Staff are working remotely. Please call our Intake Line and leave a message. We are checking this number multiple times a day: 718-834-7430 ext. 1101. Or you can send an email to christine.perumal@safehorizon.org
Safe Horizon Immigration Law Project office is closed. Staff are working remotely. Please call our Intake Line and leave a message. We are checking this number multiple times a day: 718-943-8632
Safe Horizon Restitution sites are closed. Staff are working remotely. Please call 646-628-6953.
Safe Horizon Counseling Center office is closed. Staff are working remotely. We are working on providing a contact number for this service.
Safe Horizon Community Program offices are closed. Staff are working remotely. Please call the Helpline: 1-855-234-1042

URBAN RESOURCE INSTITUTE (URI) (info from URI)

At URI, the health, safety, and wellness of our clients and staff is our top priority every day. We are actively monitoring the situation and adhering to guidfance from health experts and City officials. We recognize that continuity in serving NYC’s vulnerable populations seeking safety and shelter is critical at this time.

URI’s programs for domestic violence victims, homeless families, and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities remain open and ready to serve you.

If you are a domestic violence victim seeking safety, please call 1-800-621-HOPE or 911. If you are homeless and seeking shelter, please call 311.

For more information about Coronavirus (COVID-19), please call 1-888-364-3065.

Update from Jennifer DeCarli (ENDGBV/FAMILY JUSTICE CENTERS) 3/16/20:

The Brooklyn FJC was temporarily closed as of today due to the Brooklyn DA’s Office decision to close their building. The Queens, Manhattan, Staten Island and Bronx FJC will be temporarily closed as of tomorrow since those DA offices are also moving to only having a skeletal/small number of staff on-site at their respective offices. At each of our Centers, we will continue to do the following to support our current clients and survivors who are continuing to reach out to us for help during this incredibly confusing and overwhelming time:

o We will be working closely with the DA’s offices to ensure they know how to connect survivors who may show up on site to find the buildings and each Center closed. The DA’s security staff and DV Bureau Chiefs and Counseling Unit Chiefs will be able to reach each Center’s FJC administrative staff in order to refer high risk cases to us for support through our partner networks.

o We will be answering each Center’s main client phone lines during the day (9am --5pm) in order to triage high risk cases, connect new clients to our partner agencies for legal consultations, connect current clients back to the partner agencies they’ve been working with, answer questions clients may have regarding upcoming Family and Criminal court appearances, connect clients to emergency shelter, NYPD, back to the DA’s offices etc.

o We will be taking high risk case referrals from NYPD’s DV Unit and from each borough’s precincts.

o We will be posting signs at each of the FJC’s directing clients to our main FJC client phone lines during the day (9am – 5pm) and to the Safe Horizon hotline during the night and weekends. We will also be messaging this through our office’s social media outlets as well and are closely coordinating with Safe Horizon regarding their program operations including the hotline.

o The Directors in each Center will continue to be in touch with their on-site partner staff regularly to figure out how we can best work collaboratively together during this time to support and advocate for clients virtually and ensure that they are connected to the resources and support they need.

Resources Guide on Safety Planning from Sanctuary for Families: https://sanctuaryforfamilies.org/safety-planning-covid19/

18. COMMUNITY SUPPORT SERVICES

Volunteer network citywide offering delivery of supplies/groceries/meds for elderly/vulnerable folks:

https://www.invisiblehandsdeliver.com/

Mutual Aid Groups on Facebook are forming:

NYC Mutual Aid for Covid-19

Search for your area, they get pretty micro!

19. PRICE GOUGING CONCERNS

If stores in clients’ communities are increasing prices for items in short supply, call 311 or report it at NYC.gov/dcwp.nixle.us/BPEE8

20. OVS EMERGENCY SERVICES

OVS is still processing emergency awards as of 03/16/2020. This is the list of emergency awards: OVS EA - includes medical equipment and moving awards. This may be especially important for victims of domestic violence who are currently living with their abusers and may need to get out as tensions rise during quarantine.

21. TAX PREP INFO

The deadline to pay any taxes due is also extended to July 15, 2020. The IRS made that announcement a few days ago.
If taxpayers are unable to file by July 15 and the deadline is not extended again, automatic extensions of time to file are available and easy to apply for: see IRS form 4868 (www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-4868) and NY Tax Department (no form, apply online at www.tax.ny.gov/pit/file/ext.htm)
All in-person services of the IRS have been suspended.
NYC Consumer Affairs has announced that NYC Free Tax Prep / VITA services have "reduced the number of in person sites and hours." Those attending such sites should probably be prepared to drop off their paperwork, make sure to bring copies, and make sure that the providers have correct contact information. www1.nyc.gov/site/dca/consumers/file-your-taxes.page or call 311
Online free filing services are still available for those with internet access and adjusted gross income (AGI) under $69,000. There are many options to choose from, but taxpayers should carefully check the eligibility requirements and income limits for free service, whether state returns are included, and whether mobile devices are supported. Beware of upselling to paid extra services. apps.irs.gov/app/freeFile/ or call (800) 829-1040
Always double-check bank account numbers (for payment or direct deposit of refund) and keep copies of the returns.
Refund status can be checked at www.irs.gov/refunds and www.tax.ny.gov/pit/file/refund.htm

22. RESOURCES FOR UNDOCUMENTED NEW YORKERS

Red de Pueblos Spanish Language Resource guide https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/e/2PACX-1vSSVHAWNi3pQErst2KzXoc6e6okuzpoC9---HC7LlPWrFhTYu164pa_mvbXOstv0Q/pub?start=false&loop=false&delayms=3000&slide=id.p1
Updates on access to healthcare for immigrants and their families https://www.nilc.org/issues/health-care/update-on-access-to-health-care-for-immigrants-and-their-families/
Updates from Make the Road NY (including possible financial relief funds for undocumented invididuals): https://maketheroadny.org/coronavirus/
UNDOCUMENTED RESOURCE LIST (CITYWIDE): https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/u/0/d/18p9OSlLpSYanIoUC-gEbhVbRMYVUfw4wyrixa9ekGdc/htmlview?usp=gmail_thread#gid=
NEW YORK STATE YOUTH LEADERSHIP COUNCIL:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1qilwSmaqELoyPc9-a1ka82aXAq3HDlWvbYEzwsKNNL0/edit

New York Immigration Coalition COVID-19 Community Resources

https://www.nyic.org/our-work/campaigns/responding-to-covid-19-new-york-united-campaign/covid-19-community-resources/

Spanish Language resource doc https://docs.google.com/document/d/1rzCfe-FUG5EyaN-hLAoRqVPW8uq0OXT1oyB44-qCEew/edit?fbclid=IwAR1YmsZTAvfdiQ_dBoO4S_rY6j3vS9S9b2zms9VtoaLpO4Jm13SBGZGwrXA

23. SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION

www.ssa.gov.coronavirus.com, Toll free number 1-800-772-1213, Monday-Friday from 7am-7pm

a. Office of Hearings Operations- no in person hearings, hearings by only telephone or adjournments

b. Field Offices- no in persons

c. Appeals Council- no new info

d. Federal Courts- https://www.nysd.uscourts.gov/covid-19-coronavirus

As of: March 18, 2020

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are extending our deadlines wherever possible.

•If we asked you to contact us by a certain date, please do not come to the office. You can contact us once our offices reopen to the public or you can mail your documents to us. We will follow up with you once the COVID-19 public health emergency subsides.

•We are providing maximum flexibility in applying our good cause policy. This policy allows us to extend the time limits for submitting appeals and taking other actions during this public health emergency.

What workloads is SSA not doing during the COVID-19 pandemic?

•We have suspended the following workloads until further notice:

•We will not start or complete any current medical continuing disability reviews. If you have a medical continuing disability review pending, please do not request medical information from your doctors at this time. We will follow up with you for any medical evidence once the COVID-19 public health emergency subsides.

•Where possible, we are suspending our processing and collection of overpayments.

•We are not conducting organization or individual representative payee accountings.

•We will not be able to process a third party requests for information, except from appointed representatives and representative payees

•We will not process any Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests.

SSA SCAM WARNING: INSPECTOR GENERAL WARNS PUBLIC ABOUT NEW SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFIT SUSPENSION SCAM

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 20, 2020

The Inspector General of Social Security, Gail S. Ennis, is warning the public about fraudulent letters threatening suspension of Social Security benefits due to COVID-19 or coronavirus-related office closures. The Social Security Administration (SSA) will not suspend or discontinue benefits because their offices are closed.

The Social Security Office of the Inspector General has received reports that Social Security beneficiaries have received letters through the U.S. Mail stating their payments will be suspended or discontinued unless they call a phone number referenced in the letter. Scammers may then mislead beneficiaries into providing personal information or payment via retail gift cards, wire transfers, internet currency, or by mailing cash, to maintain regular benefit payments during this period of COVID-19 office closures.

As of Tuesday, March 17, 2020, local SSA offices are closed to the public due to COVID-19 concerns; however, Social Security employees continue to work. Social Security will not suspend or decrease Social Security benefit payments or Supplemental Security Income payments due to the current COVID-19 pandemic. Any communication you receive that says SSA will do so is a scam, whether you receive it by letter, text, email, or phone call.

Social Security will never:

-threaten you with benefit suspension, arrest, or other legal action unless you pay a fine or fee;

-promise a benefit increase or other assistance in exchange for payment;

-require payment by retail gift card, cash, wire transfer, internet currency, or prepaid debit card;

-demand secrecy from you in handling a Social Security-related problem; or

-send official letters or reports containing personally identifiable information via email.

If you receive a letter, text, call or email that you believe to be suspicious, about an alleged problem with your Social Security number, account, or payments, hang up or do not respond. We encourage you to report Social Security scams using our dedicated online form, at https://oig.ssa.gov. Please share this information with your friends and family, to help spread awareness about Social Security scams.

pdf icon View the PDF

24. RESOURCES FOR PET OWNERS

ASPCA CAT/DOG FOOD PANTRIES

Distribution is BY APPOINTMENT ONLY, so please call the ASPCA hotline at 800-738-9437 between 8am and 8pm to request an appointment.

As part of the ASPCA's Relief and Recovery Initiative, we're offering free dog and cat food for NYC residents impacted by COVID-19. Services are being provided subject to eligibility and availability.

CLIENT INFORMATION:

- Open to residents of New York City

- No same-day appointments.

- One hour window for pick-up.

- Please bring a photo ID.

- Be prepared to carry supplies.

- Transport not provided.

- Do not bring more than 2 people.

- Do not bring pets.

- Do not arrive early.

- Call the hotline if you are running late.

- Please do not come if you are symptomatic. You may send a different family member in your place.

25. VETERAN’S BENEFITS

The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) Regional Offices will be closed to the public starting March 19.

Regional offices will remain open, but will no longer accept walk-ins for claims assistance, scheduled appointments, counseling and other in-person services. This decision protects our older Veterans and those with underlying conditions as well as our employees.

Veterans can continue to get information about benefits or file a claim for benefits by visiting our website at www.va.gov. Veterans with claims specific or other questions may request information via Inquiry Routing & Information System (IRIS) or telephone at 1-800-827-1000.

VBA benefits and services provided to Veterans, families, and survivors will continue to be delivered throughout the duration of COVID-19 impacts.

Please continue to check www.va.gov for updates. You also may follow us on Facebook and Twitter.