Resources for Immigrants in B-N

Self-Management Handout: What to do if you might have COVID-19 (more language here)
Self-Isolation Handout: How to self-isolate for COVID-19 (more languages here)

Source: Health Design Studio via CUPHD

For Kids

Talking to Kids about COVID-19: Make time to talk to your children about the coronavirus. This affects them too. Be sure children know they can come to you when they have questions. Translations pending.
The Truth About Rona: A short story for little ones about the Coronavirus. Translations pending.

Source: CUPHD

STIMULUS CHECK

$1200 dollars for individuals who filed 2018 taxes

If you filed income taxes with the IRS last year or plan to file this year, you will receive a payment automatically as long as the US government has your correct address or bank account. Families receive more. If you made over $74,000, you will receive less.

More information here.

Source: NY Times

PUBLIC BENEFITS

FOOD STAMPS, CASH ASSISTANCE, & HEALTHCARE BENEFITS

All emergency food relief (SNAP), cash assistance (TANF) and healthcare benefit (Medicaid eligibility) applications will continue to be available online at ABE.illinois.gov or at 1-800-843-6154. Residency / immigration status eligibility rules have not changed.

Source: IL Department of Human Services

No SNAP Work Requirements During Emergency!

The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) temporarily suspended SNAP work requirements during the federal emergency declaration. This means that starting April 1, there will be no ABAWD (Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents) work requirements in Illinois. Info flyer here. Rolling updates on SNAP in Illinois available here. Residency / immigration status eligibility rules have not changed.
Source: Chicago Jobs Council via ICIRR

HOUSING ASSISTANCE

UNITED WAY COORDINATED ENTRY

Call 2-1-1 for connection and referral to all forms of assistance: housing, utilities, and more.

BLOOMINGTON HOUSING AUTHORITY

BHA provides low-income housing. Call Bloomington Housing Authority at 309-829-3360 or 309-310-4220. Immigration status eligibility rules have not changed.

CITY OF BLOOMINGTON TOWNSHIP (COBT)

Open to assist with General or Emergency Assistance. 309-828-2356

MID CENTRAL COMMUNITY ACTION

Mid Central Community Action offers: domestic violence, financial literacy, employment coaching classes, emergency financial aid, housing and utilities. Call 309-829-0691, Mon to Fri 8:00am - 4:30pm.

RENT AND MORTGAGE PAYMENTS

No Evictions: Per Illinois executive order 2020-10, all evictions in IL are suspended thru August.

Per CARES Act, landlords are prohibited evicting tenants for nonpayment of rent if the landlord’s mortgage is affiliated in any way by HUD, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, the rural housing voucher program, or the Violence Against Women Act of 1994.

No Foreclosures: Per CARES Act, no foreclosures on all federally-backed mortgage loans.

Relief for landlords: The CARES Act provides up to 90 days of forbearance for landlords who have experienced a financial hardship.

AIRPORT SCREENINGS

Q: Are airports in Illinois screening new arrivals from other countries?

A: In select major airports across the U.S., the CDC has implemented screening procedures for

passengers arriving from international destinations. According to the CDC, individuals should self-isolate for 14 days once they arrive home. If they begin to show symptoms, they should call their healthcare provider and inquire about their candidacy for testing. In an emergency situation, patients should call ahead to emergency rooms so that they can prepare for the patient’s arrival.
Source: Office of State Senator Scott Bennett

UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS

What is unemployment insurance? Unemployment insurance is a state-operated insurance program designed to partially replace lost wages when you are out of work. This is NOT a public benefit and does not count as one for public charge purposes.

Am I eligible for Illinois unemployment benefits? Please consult this FAQ (Legal Aid Chicago) for answers to questions like: Who is Eligible for Illinois Unemployment Benefits? How are Benefits Calculated? What is the Duration of Unemployment Benefits? How are Unemployment Claims Filed? What to do if a Claim is Denied?

Can DACA recipients qualify for unemployment insurance in illinois? Yes! Note: In order to qualify for benefits your work permit has to be current.
What if my work authorization expired? If you do not have an unexpired authorization to work, then you are deemed to not be legally available to work and therefore not eligible for unemployment insurance (see Illinois Administrative Code). For legal advice, contact The Immigration Project at 309-829-8703 or info@immigrationproject.org
You can also apply for emergency relief funds through Mid Central Community Action

How do I apply for unemployment benefits? Learn how to file an unemployment insurance claim here

Unemployment Filing Schedule

Online Filing Schedule:

If your last name begins with letters A-M: File your claim on Sundays, Tuesdays, Thursdays
If your last name begins with letters N-Z: File your claim on Mondays, Wednesday, Fridays.
Saturdays available to accommodate those who could not file during their allotted window.

Call Center Filing Schedule:

Those with last names beginning with letters A-M will be asked to call on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 7:30 AM – 6 PM.
Those with last names beginning with letters N-Z will be asked to call on Mondays and Wednesdays between 7:30 AM – 6 PM.
Fridays (7:30 AM – 6 PM) available for those who could not file during their allotted window.

NOTE: The day or time of day in which a claim is filed will not impact whether you receive benefits or your benefit amount. Additionally, claims will be back-dated to reflect the date in which a claimant was laid-off or let go from their job due to COVID-19. Online filing and claims applications will be unavailable every night from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. for daily claims processing. IDES recommends that even if you hear a busy tone to stay on the line. There will be an additional wait time once you’re connected.
For the latest information, visit the IL Department of Employment Security (IDES) website.

Sources: ICIRR, Champaign County Economic Development CorporationSMALL BUSINESS RELIEF

IL Business Relief: In response to the COVID epidemic, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity has instituted a Small Business Emergency Loan Fund, Downstate Small Business Stabilization Program, and a Hospitality Emergency Grant Program. Applications for these programs are available here.

Source: Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity

SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program: Illinois small businesses and non-profits can apply. Sign up for a webinar to learn more.

IL Small Business COVID-19 Relief Program: This impact investment loan program under which the State Treasurer would make up to $250 million in deposits available to financial institutions throughout the state, at near-zero rates. For more information and how to apply, visit here.

Source: Champaign County Economic Development Corporation

Paycheck Protection Program: Small businesses and nonprofits can apply for grant/loan money.

Up to 100% forgivable as long as employers keep paying their workers.

Employers can borrow up to 250% of their average monthly payroll (with max. of 10M)

Eligible if you are: sole proprietor, partnership, C-Corp, S-Corp, LLC, Independent contractor, Eligible self employed individual, 501c3 nonprofit, 501c19 veteran organization, tribal business of SBA

Apply at https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/top-priorities/cares-act/assistance-for-small-businesses

BUSEY BANK FINANCIAL RELIEF PROGRAM

Busey’s Financial Relief Program is designed to help customers alleviate some of the hardships they may face as a result of the pandemic itself or the resulting economic impacts. The program covers (1) Consumers and Retail Customers, (2) Personal Loan and Mortgage Customers, (3) Commercial Clients and Small Businesses, and (4) Online and Mobile Banking Transfers. For more information, visit here.
Source: Busey Bank Customer Experience Newsletter

TAXES

DEADLINE EXTENDED TO JULY 15, 2020

If you have not already filed your taxes, now is a good time to do so. You may be eligible for a tax refund. Simple tax returns can be filed for free at MyFreeTaxes.com. The federal income tax filing due date is automatically extended from April 15, 2020, to July 15, 2020.

Sources: United Way of Champaign County, IRS

OTHER ESSENTIALS

GROCERIES

GROCERY DELIVERY

No charge for errands to grocery stores, pharmacies, or other stores. You pay for your items. You are eligible if you are: Over 60, have a compromised immune system, underlying health conditions, limited mobility, are sick,

and do not have access to other local support. Leave a voicemail at (309) 839-9496.

GROCERY DELIVERY - ROBERT GARCIA EXP REALTY

We provide free groceries and basic supplies weekly for elderly, and disabled. (309) -24-HOMES

THE SALVATION ARMY

611 W. Washington St, Bloomington, IL

Food pantry - open on Monday’s from 1- 4 PM using the drive-thru/walk-thru system. Need mail and ID.

Community Meal, Household Referrals & Youth Programming - closed

SCHOOL STREET FOOD PANTRY

211 N School St, Normal, IL 61761

Students (from any local college/university with student ID) will still be able to pick up food on Friday afternoons (as well as from the Blessing Box outside, at any time)

CENTER FOR HOPE FOOD PANTRIES

Hope Pantry: 1308 E Empire, Bloomington, IL
Tuesdays from 9:30-11:30am

Temba Pantry: 4940 Old Colonial Rd, Bloomington, IL
Thursdays from 4:30pm-6:30pm

Families seeking food may either visit the Hope Pantry OR the Temba Pantry once every 30 days. Upon arrival, please practice social distancing. Leave 3-6ft between you and the next person. Do not come if you feel sick and please wash your hands before entering the pantry. Source: Hope Food Pantries

MINISTRY & MORE: 1107 W Empire St, Bloomington, IL

You must make an appointment by calling 823-9804. Appointments are scheduled every 15 minutes to keep individual patrons separated. Patrons can access the pantry once every two weeks. An ID is required. Source: Ministry & More

APOSTALIC PENTECOSTAL CHURCH

APC Food Pantry delivers food on the 2nd Saturday of the month at 1PM. Call 309-829-3936.

HOME SWEET HOME MISSION: 303 East Oakland Avenue, Bloomington

The Bread For Life food co-op remains open for shopping by current members but is not accepting new members. The soup kitchen is open to overnight residents only.

EASTVIEW CHRISTIAN CHURCH FOOD PANTRY: 401 Union Street Bloomington

New Food Pantry hours as of 4/6/21.

They will no longer have Tuesday evening hours.

The new hours will be Tuesdays from 1-3pm, Wednesdays from 10-12pm and 5:30-7:30 pm

- Guests may use the pantry every other week.

- Only one resident at each address can use the pantry. Children, spouses, family members, and friends may not shop with resident.

-MUST bring documents required.

(1) A photo ID.

(2) A piece of mail within last 60 days showing household address.

MEALS

DELI: 2136 Village Lane Bloomington IL

Free sack lunch to any child from 11 am - 1 pm Monday through Friday.

BLOOMINGTON SCHOOL DISTRICT 87

D87 will provide grab-and-go meals to any student at several locations on April 2 from 12-2 pm or until food runs out. Other dates will be announced online. For the updated list of days and locations, visit D87.

UNIT 5 SCHOOLS

Unit 5 will provide grab-and-go meals to any student at several locations using buses on April 6 and April 8. Other dates will be announced online. For the updated list of days and locations, visit Unit5.

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF BLOOMINGTON-NORMAL: 1615 Illinois St, Bloomington

Food boxes will be available for families to pick up at the M-F from 3-5pm while supplies last.

OTHER ESSENTIALS

HOUSING

PATH HOMELESSNESS OUTREACH

Open with extra screening. Call (309) 827-4005

SALVATION ARMY SAFE HARBOR SHELTER: 208 N Oak St, Bloomington

Open with extra screening. (309) 829-7399 or https://www.salvationarmy.org/

BLOOMINGTON HOUSING AUTHORITY

Public housing accepting applications by phone only, offices closed. (309) 829-3360

HOME SWEET HOME MINISTRIES HOMELESS SHELTER: 303 E Oakland Ave, Bloomington

Open with extra screening. (309) 828-7356

MID CENTRAL COMMUNITY ACTION (MCCA)

Open to assist with employment, financial, and housing goals. 309-834-9242

UTILITIES

AMEREN

Ameren is not doing any utility shut offs at this time due to COVID-19 to help relieve stress and financial struggle. Ameren customers have until May 1 to pay their bills. No late fees will be applied to any bill.

NICOR GAS

No service disconnections until May 1. Will waive late payment charges until May 1. See website.

LIHEAP ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

One-time energy assistance payments are available to qualifying households once per year, with additional benefits available to families who qualify for emergency assistance and weatherization efforts. For LIHEAP information or inquiries, please call 309-834-9200 or see website. Open through June 30th!

INTERNET

COMCAST INTERNET ESSENTIALS

Comcast is taking immediate steps to help connect low-income families to the Internet at home. New Internet Essentials customers will receive two free months of Internet service, which is available to all qualified low-income households for $9.95/month plus tax. Apply here Source: Comcast

TRANSPORTATION

CONNECT TRANSIT

Local Bus Services and Disability Related Transportation. No fares. For schedule see website.

SHOWBUS

General paratransit/community ride programs. No fares charged. For schedule see website

SUPPORT SERVICES

THERAPY

MCLEAN COUNTY CENTER FOR HUMAN SERVICES

Community Mental Health Center & Crisis Intervention by phone 309-827-5351

CHESTNUT HEALTH SYSTEMS

Substance use treatment center available by phone (309) 827-6026

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

Meetings online at http://aa-intergroup.org/directory.php

FAMILY / CHILD RESOURCES

DAYCARE AT YMCA OF BLOOMINGTON-NORMAL: 602 S Main St, Bloomington

Emergency daycare (K-5) for those working families in desperate need. (309) 827-6233. Capacity 50 kids.

CENTER FOR YOUTH AND FAMILY SOLUTIONS: 502 S Morris Ave, Bloomington

Diapers, baby food, parent visitation facilitation, pregnancy & other crisis counseling. Must call: (309) 820-7616

PROJECT OZ RUNAWAY/ YOUTH SHELTER & YOUTH OUTREACH

Immediate crisis assistance through Safe Place network. Every fire dept in B-N is a Safe Place location.We will meet you there. Or text the word “safe” and your current location 4HELP (44357) for nearest location. Reply with “2chat” to text interactively with a trained counselor

DAYCARE AT YWCA YOUNG WONDERS

Open and serving children 6 weeks to 12 yrs. Please call 662-7826 to enroll your child.

DAYCARE AT CHILDREN’S HOME+AID

Open. Must call (309) 834-5210 first. (All other Home+Aid programs closed)

EMERGENCY CHILD CARE

CRISIS NURSERY

Call 217-337-2730 to reach Crisis Nursery staff, available 24-hours a day
At this time, we are limiting in-person services to the highest level of crises due to the need for social distancing and health concerns. Our priority is to maintain support to families whose children are at-risk of immediate harm as a result of domestic violence, homelessness, or extreme parental stress. Family Specialists are working remotely and will stay connected to as many families as possible through phone calls, virtual home visits, and virtual groups.
Source: Crisis Nursery

COMMUNITY BUILDING OPPORTUNITIES

Bloomington Public Library / Club de Lectura en Español

Únase a nosotros en línea a través de Zoom para una conversación en español sobre El cuento do la criada de Margaret Atwood.

Lea el libro antes de la fecha de la discusión grupal. Las copias del libro estarán disponibles para su lectura un mes antes de la discusión. Para obtener una copia del libro, comuníquese con el mostrador de servicios para adultos de la Biblioteca al 309.590.6168 o reference@bloomingtonlibrary.org. Si no tiene una tarjeta de biblioteca, visite bit.ly/bplgetacard o póngase en contacto con la biblioteca para obtener ayuda para registrarse para obtener una tarjeta de biblioteca.

Este programa está patrocinado por Conexiones Latinas de McLean County (conexiones-latinas.squarespace.com) en cooperación con Bloomington Public Library y está abierto a adultos y adolescentes hispanohablantes de todos los niveles.

El registro en línea para este programa se puede completar en bit.ly/bplespanol052021 o llame al 309.560.6168.

Thursday, May 20
7pm; online via Zoom

IMMIGRATION INFORMATION

USCIS

For up to date information, visit the USCIS website at: www.uscis.gov

What’s going on with my immigration appointment? USCIS suspended in-person services until at least April 30, 2020, including all interviews and biometrics appointments. You will receive a rescheduled date.

Can I still submit an immigration application? Filings can still be submitted to USCIS via mail. If you have a filing deadline you still need to submit by the deadline.

What if I have a pending immigration application such as Citizenship, DACA, or others?

USCIS staff will continue to perform duties that do not involve contact with the public. However, if you were scheduled to appear for an appointment, your appointment will be rescheduled by the service.

Sources: NIJC, CLINIC, ICIRR

Need immigration legal assistance? Call The Immigration Project at (309) 829-8703

COVID-19 & PUBLIC CHARGE

What if I need medical treatment if I am experiencing possible COVID-19 signs or symptoms?

USCIS announced March 13, 2020, that testing, treatment, and preventative care (including vaccines) for COVID-19 will not be considered as part of a public charge determination... even if such treatment is provided or paid for by public benefits (Medicaid).

What are my rights? Doctors care about your health, not your immigration status. Your personal information is private. ICE avoids action in hospitals, clinics, and doctors’ offices. See Know Your Rights; Protect Your Health

Do I qualify for Emergency Medicaid? If an individual has COVID-19 signs or symptoms, they should take the necessary steps to be tested and treated. This may include seeking care in an Emergency Department.

Immigrants who seek care at an ER may be eligible for Emergency Medicaid. Emergency Medicaid is not a negative factor toward public charge. Getting Emergency Medicaid does not affect immigration status.

Emergency Medicaid Eligibility Criteria: Noncitizen who does not meet regular federal Medicaid criteria but is:

Age 19 and older and meets all other factors of eligibility
Low-income uninsured immigrants who are not eligible for regular Medicaid are likely to be eligible.
Persons who are living in the U.S. temporarily are not eligible.

Those not eligible may qualify for charity. Charity receipt is not a negative factor for public charge.

Need assistance understanding Public Charge? Call The Immigration Project at (309) 829-8703

DETAINEE RELIEF

The ACLU is filing for habeas relief for medically vulnerable people in ICE detention facing a risk from COVID-19. Email cromer@aclu-il.org ASAP if you know someone in immigration detention in Illinois who is over 50 OR is a high medical risk .

IMMIGRANT RESOURCES

CHURCH WORLD SERVICE

Coronavirus Resources for Refugees and Immigrants specific to refugees, but may be useful for others.

ILLINOIS COALITION FOR IMMIGRANT AND REFUGEE RIGHTS (ICIRR)

Resources for Immigrants during the COVID-19 Crisis: A guide for immigrants and refugees in Illinois.

IMMIGRANTS RISING

Tangible Support for Undocumented Communities During COVID-19 guide for undocumented immigrants

EMERGENCY HOTLINES

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Hotline and shelter. No questions asked about immigration status. Call 24hrs: 309-827-7070

SEXUAL ASSAULT

24-hour sexual assault hotline. Call 309-556-7000 for anything sex assault/abuse related

2020 CENSUS

There are 3 ways to respond to the Census: online, by phone, or by returning the paper questionnaire. The online form is available in 10 languages. Please take 5-10 minutes to complete your census.

Frequently Asked Questions

Resources

Census 101 for ESL/ELL (NAWC)
Language Support in 59 non-English Languages (U.S. Census Bureau)
Multilingual Resources (Count Us In 2020)

THE CENSUS CAN’T ENDANGER IMMIGRATION STATUS OR CAUSE REMOVAL PROCEEDINGS.

Need immigration legal assistance?

Call The Immigration Project at (309) 829-8703

WE ALSO HAVE A CASH ASSISTANCE FUND FOR INDIVIDUALS WHO DO NOT QUALIFY FOR FEDERAL STIMULUS OR PUBLIC BENEFITS DUE TO IMMIGRATION STATUS. APPLY AT WWW.IMMIGRATIONPROJECT.ORG