![](https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXfd7iiJ3X1-WtkaCH-WG79RyAsYVlywZBfCRJMvZUMjxMRvW6r_z8RM7u1Sk7OMXBhYh5RRnscgEJlxZff4V3BEGUOiq5uEHyINstbHTcesGQcJ0qBzvenrx3UMa5fu3E3u9DwMk370FoPpDkw?key=6I04Cj0UlWzoOZ9Cq7UU2w)
![](https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXc3xqXYwi3SynY5USDz1woBnjkwxssSHVtUXQUapFy5ChWxRsLZKeKRfUGr6Cg9U2CF8mdEIM4SRTHBKjUchnYqI8ha3tDMvoLUjjGLgDofaA7_F66BDqm8axgYiHzW3n4Wj5dtDBCZtklhByc?key=6I04Cj0UlWzoOZ9Cq7UU2w)
“And the people stayed home.
And read books, and
listened, and rested, and
exercised, and made art, and
played games, and learned
new ways of being, and were
still. And listened more
deeply. Some meditated, some
prayed, some danced. Some
met their shadows. And the
people began to think
differently.
And the people healed. And,
in the absence of people
living in ignorant,
dangerous, mindless, and
heartless ways, the earth
began to heal.
And when the danger passed,
and the people joined
together again, they grieved
their losses, and made new
choices, and dreamed new
images, and created new ways
to live and health the earth
fully, as they had been
healed.”
- Kity O’Meara (via Soul Alchemy)
Index (click on section to quickly navigate) |
Michigan Dept. of Health & Human Services 5
Communication access 5
Governor Whitmer, Shelter-in-place and more 6
If you feel sick 7
People at a higher risk for severe illness 9
Preparation 10
Shared spaces and community care 10
Hand hygiene, disinfectants, DIY face masks 11
Resources 12
Federal Stimulus (Tax Credit) 12
General 12
Workforce 12
Community-Specific 13
Service workers 14
Gig workers 14
Artists 15
City-Based 16
County-Based 17
Food assistance 17
Parents, guardians and students 19
Recursos Gratuitos Basados en Investigación - Recursos de Aprendizaje en Casa 19
Internet and mobile data 21
Housing 21
Utilities 22
Mental health and well-being 23
Community organizations and updates 25
Hotlines 25
Arts, activities, entertainment 26
Updated April 9th, 2020
The resources within this document are pulled from the CDC, WHO, and public health guidelines as much as possible. We also share information created by communities, such as those who survive with low-resources, live with chronic illness, and other community-care resources. We believe in the expertise of lived experience, and share these community-based resources in the belief that rapidly sharing information is empowering.
This document does not provide medical advice. Always consult directly with your medical care team on any concerns that you have regarding your health, healthcare decisions, or symptoms.
If you find anything out-of-date, have suggestions or edits to the resources provided, please email them to brayden@transcendthebinary.org. |
Communication accesspromote access to information |
Governor Whitmer, Shelter-in-place and moreinformation from the Governor |
April 9th, 2020 - Shelter in Place (SIP) extended and expanded - read more
- ***The data shows that SIP is being effective and these measures are to ensure the most effective, positive outcomes possible***
- Key highlights:
- SIP is extended until April 30th
- Expanded to include:
- Increased restrictions within stores to reduce foot traffic for non-essential items
- Prohibitions on businesses requiring workers (non-essential) from leaving home
- Adoption of social distancing policies and procedures for businesses
- Public and private gatherings outside of a single household are prohibited
- Request to minimize the number of individuals of a household running errands, and to minimize errands as much as possible
- Travel for vacation, or for any purpose outside of essential errands, is prohibited
- Still permitted: As before, people may engage in outdoor activities like walking, hiking, running, cycling, kayaking, canoeing, or any other recreational activity, consistent with remaining at least six feet from people from outside a person’s household and with other restrictions imposed by prior executive orders.
April 9th, 2020 - Gov. Whitmer established COVID Task Force of Racial Inequities - Read more here
- “This virus is holding a mirror up to our society and reminding us of the deep inequities in this country,” said Governor Whitmer. “From basic lack of access to health care, transportation, and protections in the workplace, these inequities hit people of color and vulnerable communities the hardest. This task force will help us start addressing these disparities right now..”
March 23rd, 2020 - Gov. Whitmer’s Executive Order for Shelter-in-Place - Read more here.
“Shelter In Place” essentially means, stay home unless you *need* to all still permitted. Otherwise, stay home! The following are examples of “essential” travel and are permitted. Be mindful of distance/space from others, and read the section on hand hygiene, and preparedness.
- Groceries
- Gas
- Pharmacy
- Medical care
- Veterinary care
- Work (if non-essential employment)
- Go for walks outside! Hike, bike. Just maintain social distance, clean doorknobs, and wash hands diligently.
Questions
- Call 888.535.6136 for specific questions (8 am to 5 pm, every day)
![](https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXfM8NsvQSPR7s-9uRfk1KJsc5yS9Wwj2DN9L695MSvHtvGDMnXP-9CXuhWzk7DQ_XmIjlIIGKun8EK_FmhSyWNaYgqRDfFp4BeG6wx4XvKy_dYDIZDVKh-KjIHB3wBBkX1KzNwIKfOOIX2oqldN?key=6I04Cj0UlWzoOZ9Cq7UU2w)
[Image Description: Dark blue box with white lettering that reads “STAY HOME.” The “O” in home is a white, block-like depiction of a house. In this white house, a visual representation of the state of Michigan is cut out, leaving the dark blue background to depict the shape. The next line is emphasized by a white box, highlighting the dark blue text that says “Stay safe. Save lives.” The final line of text, in white, reads “Michigan.gov/coronavirus.”]
If you feel sickfrom the CDC |
Information around this outbreak is changing rapidly. The latest information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus.
This is not medical advice and you should always consult with your primary care doctor. The information within this document is a compilation of medical information and guidelines available at the time of creation and is subject to change. |
- Read about acetaminophen (versus the caution with ibuprofen)
![](https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXfCU220WcE54Jnjsge9Yq4vW4Yp6ovBeHO1D1M0pdsdLJW0ZYNjPDULpi7QaJKpAGRxKVXCor1IwwrgWPS6epoZzAn5Yz4SglPrOrZvejWfFbtmwyGY-JPZYiDXrrHhsq1NapmYUk29lbBXAEKN?key=6I04Cj0UlWzoOZ9Cq7UU2w)
[Image Text: Light blue box with text that describes symptoms. Light yellow box with exclamation alert with text that informs about contacting 911. Text as follows: get medical attention immediately if you develop emergency warning signs for COVID-19. Warning signs include difficulty breathing/shortness of breath, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion or inability to arouse, bluish lips or face. This is not an exhaustive list of symptoms. Please consult your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning. Call 911 if you have a medical emergency. Notify the operator that you may have COVID-19, if anyone in your shared residence is positive/presumptively positive.]
![](https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXfRz7drspsPu5bw07_KDj33SsWi5MQ-BnjZ3OnLTDHSZRv0ddFYYRu6Tb4jvpC0Go0GPounxQuBE9nx9_gH3Fe2bJN0-vTpOpRmJdeUZSdtxd1C7QrNAWNeTICEJ53y_TNOEFanpmAc4iRyEm7e?key=6I04Cj0UlWzoOZ9Cq7UU2w)
|
[image description: How to get tested for COVID-19, from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. For Michigan Residents: “I think I may need to be tested, or have a question about COVID-19.” Contact your health care provider to discuss symptoms. Call the COVID-19 Hotline for questions: 1-888-535-6136 daily 8 am to 5 pm. Michigan.gov/coronavirus
For healthcare providers, contact the local health department in the patient’s county of residence before testing. Healthcare providers also have the ability to request testing from a commercial laboratory.] |
##### Most importantly, call your doctor if you think you have been exposed to COVID-19 and develop a fever and symptoms, such as cough or difficulty breathing. Call your healthcare provider for medical advice. |
People at a higher risk for severe illnessfrom the CDC |
The full article by the CDC can be viewed here.
- People aged 65 years and older
- People who live in a nursing home or long-term care facility
- Other high-risk conditions could include:
- People with chronic lung disease or moderate to severe asthma
- People who have heart disease with complications
- People who are immunocompromised including cancer treatment
- People of any age with severe obesity (body mass index [(BM]I)≥40) or certain underlying medical conditions, particularly if not well controlled, such as those with diabetes, renal failure, or liver disease might also be at risk
- People who are pregnant should be monitored since they are known to be at risk with severe viral illness, however, to date data on COVID-19 has not shown increased risk
- Many conditions can cause a person to be immunocompromised, including cancer treatment, bone marrow or organ transplantation, immune deficiencies, poorly controlled HIV or AIDS, and prolonged use of corticosteroids and other immune weakening medications.
Preparationfrom various sources |
Emotional organization
- Getting Emotionally Organized in a Crisis - (link)
Developing a plan
Food storage
- Food Safety - storage / freezer guidelines for cold food - (link)
Community-specific
Shared spaces and community care from the CDC; QueerCare; and more |
Co-residence, shared space, caregivers |
This information is beneficial for co-residence, shared space, caregivers, or being near those who are at higher risk for severe illness. |
Community care and mutual aid |
Doing mutual aid work Food and resource distribution (mutual aid) |
Hand hygiene, disinfectants, DIY face masksfrom the CDC and US General Surgeon |
- No sewing required! From the US General Surgeon, a video tutorial (LINK HERE)
- Best materials to use (LINK HERE)
- CAUTION: Vacuum Bags can have fiberglass which this Washington Post article cautions against
- Hand Washing is more effective (+)
- Hand Sanitizers must be:
- 60% alcohol-based (hard to DIY this)
- Used correctly - the correct volume and allowed to dry
- At max, used on slightly soiled hands (or else ineffective)
![](https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXfDY6uyQrTXgdYLNsIqcEJ9-xiC-eBHQ0jalEHPrz-LA0aZMS39fiu3h1xfzDwnb6WomES-Z-Es7_KslVaA-J_iHo6kE5FpB7ofwGoW6EoKkMChJcgMbDbQpcyInAC8EQP8yJ63rcIW7areqC5h?key=6I04Cj0UlWzoOZ9Cq7UU2w)
- Q: Is wearing rubber gloves while out in the public effective in preventing the new coronavirus infection?
- A: No. Regularly washing your bare hands offers more protection against catching COVID-19 than wearing rubber gloves.
Federal Stimulus (Tax Credit) |
Tax credits in the form of checks or direct deposit in the amount of:
- $1,200 per adult and $500 per child to individual filers earning less than $75,000 annually
- $1,200 per adult and $500 per child to joint filers earning less than $150,000 annually
- Lesser amounts will be provided to those individual filers earning more than $75,000 and less than $99,000, and those joint filers earning more than $150,000 and less than $198,000
- Use the Washington Post’s stimulus payment calculator to see how much you will receive.
No action is needed for qualified individuals to receive this benefit. The payments will be made automatically to people who have filed their 2018 or 2019 tax returns, with no application process required.
If you have received your tax returns from the IRS within the last two years through a direct deposit, you will likely receive your payment electronically to the same account linked with your direct deposit within a month. |
- People should begin receiving the payments via direct deposit in April, and mailed checks may take longer to arrive.
- Beware of scams; the IRS will not contact you to gather personal information in order to process the direct payments.
- More information from the IRS FAQ
- State representative —can direct you to local resources. Find your state senator and your representative.
- 2-1-1 — Call 2-1-1 from any phone to be connected to a list of statewide resources for everything from food and diapers to rental assistance and bus fare. You can also search their online database.
- MI Bridges — information about state benefits that you may qualify for (link here). Here is a list of resources; scroll down halfway to see localized resources all throughout the state of Michigan (link here). Benefits have been increased for March and April.
- Julie’s List — there are comprehensive resources posted regularly on Facebook (link here). Website has an outdated look, but relevant/up-to-date resources (link here).
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED SUPPLEMENT University of Michigan’s Pandemic Resource Guide walks through the specific eligibility of various state programs and is a highly recommended supplement to this guide. Released by Poverty Solutions. (LINK HERE) |
Workforce |
Unemployment Workforce organizing - ADA and pandemic preparedness in the workplace (link here)
- Organize in your workplace - complete form for assistance from the DSA
- Networking with Gig Collective Workers may be beneficial too; see below in Gig/Freelance resources
Childcare for essential workers Remote jobs that are hiring (this is an unvetted list) - link to google drive |
Community-Specific |
- LGBT Older Adults - SAGE’s National Resource Center on LGBT Aging (Link to complete info)
- Trans Sistas of Color Project (Detroit) - providing care packages, and emergency resources to trans women within Detroit, prioritizing sex workers, contractual laborers, and those within our community most impacted/de-stabilized by COVID-19. Reach out to Lilianna Reyes, Executive Director of TSOC.
- Black Trans Futures CV19 Fund - This money will be redistributed to Black intersex, non-binary, trans & gender non conforming people that need material support during this pandemic.(link to DONATE)
- National Center for Trans Equality - guidelines for the trans community, specifically (link here)
- Chest Binding - important information about binding during COVID-19 pandemic (link here)
- Sex worker Harm Reduction & Resources - tons of helpful information (link to guide)
- Resources for Domestic/Sexual Violence Survivors, as well as other financial aid and worker resources
- Mutual Aid Fund for LGBTQI+ BIPOC Folks - The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the particular vulnerability of queer, transgender, non-binary and/or intersex Black, Indigenous folks and other LGBTQI+ people of color (QTIBIPOC folks). Due to our community disproportionately experiencing a lifelong arc of violence and discrimination, many of our community members are impoverished and housing unstable.Many folks in our community are self-employed or in the service economy, and living with disabilities, chronic illnesses, and/or compromised immune systems. Link to gofundme with information on contacting the organizers.
- BIPOC - Black Girl Magik - global resource guide (link)
- Sex worker Harm Reduction & Resources - tons of helpful information (link to guide)
- Undocumented Communities - comprehensive list of resources for members of our communities/beyond that are undocumented (link here).
|
Restaurant/bar workers
Hospitality
Cosmetology / hair stylists
Retail
Domestic workers | in-home care workers, nannies, house cleaners
- The Coronavirus Care Fund (CCF) provides $400 in emergency assistance for qualifying home care workers, nannies and house cleaners who are experiencing financial hardship due to the coronavirus pandemic. Assistance from the Fund is to help you stay home and stay safe during the pandemic.
- El Fondo para Cuidados por el Coronavirus (CCF por sus siglas en inglés) proporciona $400 en ayuda de emergencia para trabajadoras de cuidado en el hogar, niñeras y limpiadoras de casas quienes califican y están experimentando dificultades económicas debido a la pandemia del coronavirus. La ayuda que provee el Fondo es para ayudarte a quedarte en casa y mantenerte segura durante la pandemia.
Gig workers |
If you work for a large “gig economy” company, check their policy updates. The policies of large gig economy employers affect millions of workers. Here’s an overview of some of those policy updates (LINK HERE) from the biggest players, in case you or someone you know can benefit from these corporate responses to the pandemic. - Postmates announced an “emergency fleet relief” fund to help cover its couriers’ medical expenses
- Uber is providing two-weeks of compensation (paid sick-leave) to any driver or delivery person who is diagnosed with COVID-19 or has been asked to self-isolate by a public health authority.
- Like Uber, Lyft will provide funds to drivers diagnosed or asked to self-isolate by a public health authority and can provide documentation for either.
- Instacart is introducing a new, accrual-based sick-pay policy that covers part-time employees.
- Organize in your workplace - complete form for assistance from the DSA
Instacart Activist-Workers created the GIG WORKERS COLLECTIVE. This is super rad. Gig Workers Collective, which formed just last month, aims to help gig workers effectively organize, file grievances and advocate for themselves. (link to website) - “We want to be the first responders that, whenever gig workers find out there is a pay cut or some type of issue, they’ll feel comfortable coming to us,” Clarke previously told TechCrunch .This new tool falls into the Collective’s mission. Whether it’s assisting each other with filing for benefits or running errands, the aim is to support each other and let workers decide how they want to use it.
- Sign up here for a private one-on-one call with Gig Workers Collective and a member can help you find and access resources in your area. It can be tailored to each individual persons' needs. For example, we can help you sign up for unemployment or connect you with resources that are specific to your area. We know many people are also feeling isolated right now, and we can offer emotional support.
- Instacart is planning a strike for additional benefits including $5+ per delivery hazard pay, access to personal protection equipment (PPE), disinfectant supplies, and benefits for immunocompromised workers. (link to article, here)
^^^ Note the GOOD springing from this crisis, as activists organize for workers’ rights / social justice ^^^ |
Musician relief funds
- The Michigan Artist Relief Fund aims to raise $100,000 in donations which will be used to distribute payments to musicians who apply for funding help and meet specific criteria.
- Donations are being accepted now online at michiganmusicalliance.org, and the fund will begin taking applications from musicians on Friday (March 20).
- Artists who live in Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska and Leelanau counties can apply for assistance online at crosshatch.org/emergency.
- Musicares:Music industry professionals may apply for basic living assistance (rent or mortgage). Initial grant requests can be made up to $1000 to compensate for cancelled work that was scheduled and lost. www.grammy.com/musicares/get-help/covid-19-relief-fund-faq
- Equal Sound: Here is a fund you can apply for if you are a musician who has lost income due to a cancelled gig as a result of the Coronavirus / Covid-19 outbreak. They have had a large influx of applications and interest and are currently updating and evaluating their foundation.
https://equalsound.org/musicians-corona-relief-fund-application/ - AGMA: If you are a member of the American Guild of Musical Artists and have been affected by the coronavirus, you can apply here: https://agmarelief.org/eligibility/
Artist relief funds
- CERF - If you are an artist working on a craft discipline, you may qualify for a grant. Craft discipline is defined as the creation of original objects through the skillful manipulation of materials. These materials were traditionally considered to be clay, fiber, metal, wood, or glass. However, today’s artist working in a craft discipline may also employ concrete, plastic, synthetic fibers, recycled materials and other non-traditional materials, and may self-identify as a maker, designer, potter, ceramicist, mixed media artist, etc. CERF+ broadly defines eligible artists to be inclusive of all materials-based artists regardless of whether they use “craft” to describe themselves.(link here)
- Foundation for Contemporary Arts - Created in 1993 to further FCA's mission to encourage, sponsor, and promote work of a contemporary, experimental nature, Emergency Grants provide urgent funding for visual and performing artists who meet the following criteria. (link here)
- Have sudden, unanticipated opportunities to present their work to the public when there is insufficient time to seek other sources of funding
- Incur unexpected or unbudgeted expenses for projects close to completion with committed exhibition or performance dates
- These grants range from $500 to $2,500
- Additional lists of resources
Online exhibitions
- yngspc, an online exhibition platform created by Kate Mothes is utilizing the yngspc website for BFA/MFA thesis exhibitions that are not going forward at universities.(link)
- I Like Your Work, a podcast and online exhibition platform created by Erika Hess will be posting artwork by artists (especially BFA/MFA students) whose artwork was supposed to be exhibited in an exhibition that was cancelled. (link to "I Like Your Work")
- Social Distance Gallery is an instagram platform that will be hosting BFA and MFA thesis exhibitions virtually. (link to Social Distance Gallery)
- Femme Art Review is a publication providing space for women and LGBTQ2+ voices that aims to reflect on art and culture in a dynamic, engaging way. If you are an artist that is immunosuppressed, consider sending them your work through instagram.(link here)
- Digital Tools for Artists to Run a Remote Career During Coronavirus
Please also check out this link from MI Bridges for additional, regionally-based resources. ( MI Bridges)
- Grand Rapids Area: COVID-19 Mutual Aid Form - link
- Grand Rapids Area: Mutual Aid Spreadsheet - link
- Lansing: Lansing MI Mutual Aid Offerings for COVID-19
- Oakland County Help Hotline – 248-858-1000
- Address non-health needs of the general public such as food or housing assistance
- Call a Nurse at 800-848- 5533
- Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Visit Oakland County Health Division’s Coronavirus website regularly for updated information to this evolving situation.
- www.oakgov.com/health
- Twitter / Facebook ⇒ @publichealthOC
General needs: call 2-1-1
Feeding America - Nationwide network of 200 food banks and 60,000 food pantries. They help food banks across the country support the most vulnerable communities affected by the pandemic. You can donate here or find your local food bank here.
Income-scarcity
- For those with SNAP benefits, this can be expanded to provide access to “essential goods” through Expensify. All charitable funds through Expensify have been redirected to COVID-19 relief. (link here)
- SNAP recipients that are not currently receiving the maximum amount allowed per household size will receive an additional amount to raise benefits to the maximum for March and April.
- March benefits will be issued by March 30th.
- April benefits will be issued the day after you regularly receive benefits.
- To check the balance on your Bridge Card, call EBT customer service at 1-888-678-8914.
Older Adults
- Contact your Area Agency on Aging (AAA) and register for home delivered meals (commonly referred to Meals on Wheels).
- You can search for your AAA here or call 1-800-677-1116
- Canton senior grocery delivery
- Detroit National Action Network will start free grocery, medication delivery service through March 21. The service is available to senior citizens and homebound individuals. Grocery items must be paid for with a debit or credit card. 313-288-8433
Students
- Students Food Service Program, Michigan Department of Education
- Expansion of the Summer Food Service Program which ensures that families of lower resources/income scarcity, can ensure that their children have access to food.
- Interactive map showcasing pick-up locations for meals (link here)
- Detroit Public Schools Community District will distribute “grab and go” breakfast and lunch meals at 17 school locations. Breakfast, Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.; lunch from 10:30 a.m.- 1 p.m. Click here for the list of schools.
- Downtown Boxing Gym is offering meals, care packages, online tutoring and training. Text DBGFAMILY to 44321 to donate and volunteer.
- Mighty Wings, 20131 Greenfield Rd., is offering free pancake and bacon breakfasts from 8 to 11 a.m. daily for kids.
Detroit (all ages)
- Soup Kitchen, 22201 Fenkell, Detroit, 313-255-0312, Meals served 2 to 4 p.m. Tuesdays and noon to 2 p.m. Saturdays. Takeout only.
- St. Christine Christian Services has a food pantry and soup kitchen that will open with limited services (carryout bags only). Food pantry, 22303 Fenkell, Detroit. 313-543-1527
- SW Detroit food pantry list
- (Detroit) National Action Network food and medicine delivery for seniors and vulnerable citizens in Detroit. Their hotline is: (313) 288 - 8433 or email nationalactionmi@gmail.com
- We the People, a community coalition group, will distribute water in the Detroit area. Click the map for water drop-off locations.
Pet Food Assistance
- New Beginnings Animal Rescue, 2502 Rochester Rd., is offering free pet food to qualifying pet owners for up to three months. Hours of operation are noon to 2 p.m. every Sunday, except on holiday/holiday weekends. Click here to apply and for more information.
- Michigan Humane Society, 7887 Chrysler Drive, Detroit, is offering free pet food to qualifying pet owners in need. To apply, contact any of the Michigan Humane Society’s three Centers for Animal Care to apply for the program.
Parents, guardians and students |
Home school and activities |
- Free Research-Based Education Toolkits - At home learning (link)
- Crowdsourced among folks who are actually using these resources
- Virtual tours, etc.
- Activity ideas
- Tons of online videos, education materials
- Online learning games
- Ideas for online activities for kids (virtual book clubs, etc.)
- Ideas for movement/physical activity (like a virtual karate class!)
- Meditation
- Scholastic, Learn at Home modules- (link)
- The public educational company Scholastic came up with a way to keep kids busy and learning while school closures keep them home during coronavirus pandemic.
- Scholastic set up a ‘Learn From Home’ website with four categories: PreK and Kindergarten, Grades 1 and 2, Grades 3-5, and Grades 6+. Each section is already equipped with one week of content for students with 15 additional days on the way
- Additional educational resources
|
At-home activities |
- Move and Learn - Good Energy at home (link to website)
- Audible is free for youth (link here)
- Draw with Rob - new draw-along videos uploaded every Tuesday (link here)
- Blockly Games - a series of educational games that teach programming. It is designed for children who have not had prior experience with computer programming. By the end of these games, players are ready to use conventional text-based languages.
- 275+ activity ideas to keep kids occupied
- Check out aquariums (good for meditation, too!) ⇒ live webcam of aquariums
- List of Education companies offering free online subscriptions during school closures - linked here
- Interesting & educational videos at thekidshouldseethis.com/
|
Childcare for Essential Workers |
|
Support |
- Trevor Project and LGBTQ youth Coping with Covid-19 which includes information, text/chat/hotline
- Child Mind telehealth and mental health resources for children and adolescents: 212-308-3118 or childmind.org
- Headspace free access (adults and youth-based meditation audio) - link here
- How to set healthy boundaries (tips and worksheets) positive psych and healthline
- Dealing with toxic family members - link
- How to talk to family and friends about your mental health needs - link
- How to get alone time when at home with family - link and - link
|
College students / student loans |
- U-Haul offers 30 days/+ free for storage for students that have to move out of the dorms (LINK)
- The U.S. Department of Education -
|
Internet providers |
Comcast | Free or low cost internet; you may qualify if you are eligible for public assistance programs such as the National School Lunch Program, Housing Assistance, Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, and others. https://www.internetessentials.com/ Internet and cable will not be suspended.
Comcast is providing free Xfinity hotspots, unlimited data, and no disconnects or late fees for all customers experiencing hardship over the next 60 days. Comcast is also offering a free Internet Essentials internet plan for all new customers for 60 days. |
Comcast/ Spectrum | Offering free internet to those students without WiFi due to COVID-19 closures. (Link to article) |
AT&T | Offering free internet access to new customers for two months and low-income households can continue to subscribe for $10/month. All public WiFi hotspots are open to anyone. AT&T will not terminate service of any customer due to an inability to pay and all late payment fees will be waived. Click here to learn more. |
- The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development authorized the Federal Housing Administration to implement an immediate foreclosure and eviction moratorium for single family homeowners with FHA-insured mortgages for the next 60 days.
- Statewide Moratorium on Evictions
- The Program: Michigan is prohibiting evictions from residential properties, including mobile homes, during the coronavirus pandemic.
- Eligibility Requirements: The eviction moratorium applies to residential properties, but not businesses.
- How to Access: Residents do not need to take any action in order to avoid eviction. Tenants are still responsible for rent owed.
- Program End Date: The eviction moratorium took effect March 20, and it will last until 11:59 p.m. April 17.
- More Information: Read Gov. Whitmer’s executive order prohibiting evictions
- Reach out to your local municipalities/representatives to see what they are doing to help with housing security during COVID-19. See resource section.
Emergency Relief: Home & Utilities
- Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, in response to COVID-19, has updated the State Emergency Relief (SER) policy in order to allow for faster processing of emergency requests and to make access to benefits easier to Michigan’s most vulnerable households. Link here
DTE Energy and Consumers Energy announced on March 16 they will suspend electricity and natural gas shutoffs during the coronavirus pandemic.
- Eligibility Requirements: Shutoffs due to non-payment are suspended for people with low incomes and senior citizens.
- How to Access: DTE customers impacted by COVID-19 — those with a sudden loss of income or medical condition — as well as vulnerable seniors can call 800-477-4747 to determine eligibility for payment assistance. Consumers customers affected by COVID-19 can call 800-477-5050.
- Program End Date: Both companies said their shutoff suspension will last through April 30, and that timeframe could be adjusted. Customers in either company’s Winter Protection Program already had their end dates extended through May 3, without any additional action required.
- More Information: Learn more about the companies’ response plans online: DTE Energy, Consumers Energy
This is taken from the U-M resource guide:
Mental health and well-being |
![](https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXf-BVOTPAoiPDgk31Oc9s26kACjiiWRyFm_noXXUKdNj3Fo313HS8zHLpYSIHNzQXGgzGSy_o3zc5jyuCcyne99G3F_3o0LLTWHf0G_GIZyD7Nj3oiyRatANwHRBrmb8ours49U3lixXcy4Pwsm?key=6I04Cj0UlWzoOZ9Cq7UU2w)
| [image description: Yellow sticky note with writing that reads “daily quarantine questions: 1.) What am I grateful for today? 2. Who am I checking in on or connecting with today? 3.) What expectations of “normal” am I letting go of today? 4.) How am I getting outside today? 5.) How am I moving my body today? 6. What beauty am I creating, cultivating, or inviting today?]
|
Mental organization & stress management
Meditation
Tips on Avoiding Burnout With weeks and months of the coronavirus pandemic ahead, it is important to have down time. Mind recommends continuing to access nature and sunlight wherever possible. Do exercise, eat well and stay hydrated. Practice the "Apple" technique to deal with anxiety and worries. - Acknowledge: Notice and acknowledge the uncertainty as it comes to mind.
- Pause: Don't react as you normally do. Don't react at all. Pause and breathe.
- Pull back: Tell yourself this is just the worry talking, and this apparent need for certainty is not helpful and not necessary. It is only a thought or feeling. Don't believe everything you think. Thoughts are not statements or facts.
- Let go: Let go of the thought or feeling. It will pass. You don't have to respond to them. You might imagine them floating away in a bubble or cloud.
- Explore: Explore the present moment, because right now, in this moment, all is well. Notice your breathing and the sensations of your breathing. Notice the ground beneath you. Look around and notice what you see, what you hear, what you can touch, what you can smell. Right now. Then shift your focus of attention to something else - on what you need to do, on what you were doing before you noticed the worry. (leverage guided meditations from the section above!)
|
Transcend the Binary -- we have used telehealth, HIPAA-compliant software since 2017. All of our services continue to be available during shelter-in-place restrictions via video appointments.
Visit transcendthebinary.org to enroll in our free program. |
NEW APP! Our Fitness Advocate, Morgan, has designed at-home exercises for all levels of experience/workout goals.
Get some movement in! (LINK HERE) | ![](https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXc4LFRzwjWAGF_7MMmKc7guAG19e5nKpE72Sby4GRHCN24cgsyym9CAM3iTc3Msuu5AJM5EJPInrRSAzPhemedfRJhXXn8yAVNxk3Ts05BckqQ6M2BTaEAjQ7gfybFD3_JIlAlaaeTd0qh00g-o?key=6I04Cj0UlWzoOZ9Cq7UU2w)
| ![](https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXeFn-5h6WyUvGKTMnK4trgMUZiMZgImT94T98lFrRJwA6Se9c8nZ-bHCLPpyQdPn7wlwh4x5eZASv6ODFPmZV3Szfp8SMzsBkO-4mapAKg5bWYSXV1JNcTnmWDGSqYi4YZU9GkL5GT2KyI6rly5?key=6I04Cj0UlWzoOZ9Cq7UU2w)
|
Community organizations and updates |
- Affirmations - link (check out virtual meetings/groups)
- Ruth Ellis Center - link
- How REC is supporting youth during the COVID-19 pandemic (MUST READ!)
- Trans Sistas of Color Project - Detroit - link
- Gender-Identity Network Alliance - link
- TGMI - link
- FTM Detroit - link
- FTM Ypsi/A2 - link
Any additional to list?
- For trans people of all ages, Trans Lifeline (click here) provides a peer support hotline and microgrants for trans people in need. You can call their hotline at 877-565-8860.
- For LGBTQ youth, Trevor Project (click here) provides access to counselors by phone call (1-866-488-7386), online chat, or text (text START to 678678). They also provide an online community for LGBTQ youth ages 13-24.
- Alzheimer's Association of Michigan has free online support groups to offer caregivers and those living with Alzheimer's disease and dementia with social interaction, educational information and support. Dial-in support groups are 6 to 7 p.m. March 25, 10 to 11 a.m. April 15 and 6 to 7 p.m. April 22. The dial-in number is 312-757-3121 and the access code is 294-847-693.
- Talk and be heard at the SAGE LGBT Elder Hotline. We connect LGBT older people who want to talk with friendly responders who are ready to listen. If you are an LGBT elder or care for one, call the free SAGE Hotline, toll-free, at 877-360-LGBT (5428). The Hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, in English and Spanish, with translation in 180 languages and managed by SAGE’s partner, United Way Worldwide.Call the SAGE Hotline at 877-360-LGBT (5428)
- Fenway Health (click here) runs an LGBT Helpline and a Listening Line, which people can call from across the country. Call 888.340.4528 for adults 25+. Call 800.399.PEER for those under age 25.
Recovery, mental health resources Online meetings Drug Policy Alliance | ![](https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXfRwNZSKFjrSF8CO2hGefT0aV0pSyz05I3lV0aCdYoHMly-UQNOV-piKRhTfSJ-Td706276AywrW8CNUnnrDvdjs2RYn9SAYNiFPpz_afmmW91BcfZOFWGVRcLPUFox8biQKdaI-KhzB33M2II?key=6I04Cj0UlWzoOZ9Cq7UU2w)
[image description: flyer, that states: If you are at home sick and need a meeting, “Pause A While” will host a free conference call for AA meetings. 2 pm Every Day. Dial-in number: 425.436.6360 Access: 422932#; please share this announcement. We also need host volunteers to chair the phone meetings please email pauldart@pauseawhile.org] |
Arts, activities, entertainment |
Foster dogs/cats during the quarantine! (link here)
- “Animal shelters across the country are having to deal with an increase of dogs and cats in need of homes because fewer people are visiting shelters right now, and in some cases, shelters are having to temporarily close to the public,” Castle added. “Some animal shelters are already seeing an increase in intake, and many are bracing themselves for the possibility of fewer adoptions and fewer foster homes, and are concerned about limited space.”
![](https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXf0pNpiHIJ9I2rW0Gl9PnnswMrdkdAOXNKg2Y-_9ZwHe-aa_NZ6ERn77f5Z2Py5M1ohqVIHbshcmd36SToRszPzOLIXZis_JI_IUeedVmH9oKaNacpbHendAxvj1zrvJwa1RzPr_MG3ipJPoOc?key=6I04Cj0UlWzoOZ9Cq7UU2w)
Transcend the Binary
Saturdays with multiple segments (Midday Anime, Queer Cine, Pose, Euphoria)
additional events schedules
Check out FB for updates - link
FB / IG
@TranscendtheBinary
Promoting fundraiser for Trans Sistas of Color for emergency funds for our sisters in Detroit
CashApp: $LiliannaReyes the Executive Director of TSOC, and Director of Youth Drop-In at Ruth Ellis Center
Request movies/films, or collaborate:
brayden@transcendthebinary.org
![](https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXd-SHjI0CwO424hYdQYKtf2xpNxj0oUYh3BfXA5J4NJ2uvsQbjdLmTcfms55SDqxBlhUnavOnQ7QxNK2adYiYTOAse7ZGOW8oW8gdfxVhjJZHoMrOoumGiKiexTtuh2QZft8qcXKqcvSY6dcreo?key=6I04Cj0UlWzoOZ9Cq7UU2w)
Photo of local activists taken at the Won’t Be Erased Rally for Trans Rights in Detroit - Solidarity