Information and Resources for Families During the Coronavirus Pandemic
The Family Resource Centers are here to support you during the Coronavirus Pandemic. Below are some resources that can help you during this challenging period. Remember to wash your hands well, practice social distancing, and know that we are here for you.
Housing Information and Resources - Update
Many tenants are concerned about their housing security right now. Massachusetts has updated information and resources available on the the state’s website at mass.gov/CovidHousingHelp or call the Massachusetts 2-1-1 information hotline to learn more. Answers to frequently asked questions are available, as well as additional information and resources. Attorney General's Office - Know Your Rights - Eviction Moratorium WAS NOT Extended. Info if you are in danger of losing your home
Stressed out?
We also know that many people are scared, stressed, and anxious right now, and may need some extra help and support. And children may not act as they would usually because of the fear they may be feeling. Check out this video that highlights some of the resources available to families under stress during this uncertain time.
English
Spanish
Find information on trauma-informed resources for parents and caregivers in our Understanding Childhood Trauma and Your Family brochure here.
These posters/flyers provide some information on how to access supports to help you – and them – through this time. They are available in seven languages for download. There is also a flyer focused on supporting young children, currently available in English.
You can also share these social posts - available in English and Spanish - which are based on the posters/flyers.
There is also a post highlighting the needs of younger children in English.
As of May 29, 2020, Massachusetts residents who receive SNAP benefits can use their EBT card to buy food online from Amazon and Walmart. More information in English and Spanish.
The funding will address urgent food insecurity for Massachusetts residents as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Make a request for SNAP benefits replacements.
Information from MassLegal Services on the changes to SNAP rules
A list of food pantries and food banks from across the state.
The MA Food System Collaborative was kind enough to share two Spanish-language videos from Boston Public Schools about P-EBT that may be helpful to families you are working with: How to activate your P-EBT card & What you can purchase with your P-EBT card
Many people who get unemployment benefits are eligible for SNAP benefits! Learn if you can qualify to receive food assistance.
A series of tip sheets on how to address COVID-related issues with younger children. Translations of these tip sheets are available in Spanish, Chinese, Portuguese, and Haitian Creole.
COVID-19 information and resources from DCF
This video focuses on how to support resilience in children during this traumatic time.
Parents Helping Parents is offering a number of resources, including online Parent Support Groups.
This video focuses on the caregiver’s role in supporting resilience in children.
Dr. Jessica Sassi, New England Center for Children in Southborough, was featured on WBUR and offered some tips for families with children on the Autism Spectrum who are now home due to COVID 19
Update from Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, featuring newsletters and educational resources for parents and their children.
Sesame Workshop launches “Caring for Each Other” initiative to support parents and families during COVID-19 pandemic.
Districts must provide students with a FAPE during school closures and this “may include, as appropriate, special education and related services provided through distance instruction.” The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education later explained that school districts should be making every effort to provide special education instruction and services.
MHAP for Kids has created a helpful guide for parents and providers based on this most recent current guidance we have. There is also a tracking form available.
Information and resources from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services’ Administration for Children & Families
Check out this list of virtual tours of museums, zoos, and theme parks, as well as information on religious and spiritual resources.
The state has identified childcare programs to provide care to children of families designated as COVID-19 Essential Workforce.
Communicating with students, their families, and caregivers looks very different during this time of remote learning. Here are a few tips for educators working during these unprecedented times
Welcome to the MHVI Covid-19 Resource Digest, volume 47. We’re departing from our usual content to bring you resources for these times.
Activity ideas to parents whose families are sheltering in place, social distancing, and homeschooling due to school closures amidst the COVID-19 outbreak. This fact sheet outlines activities families can do without supplies, in lighted or dark areas, to stay preoccupied when dealing with the stress of a major event.
8 expert tips to help families stay regulated.
Schedule a parent child visit with your local Family Resource Center.
Effective March 18, all DTA local transitional assistance offices are closed to in person visits until further notice.
Steps for presenting the spread of Covid-19 if you are sick - information from the CDC.
If you or someone you know is having their rights violated regarding sick time, travel compensation, or other issues as a result of the public health situation, call the Consumer Advocacy and Response Division hotline at 671-727-8400.
The following guidance, recommendations, and resources are provided by child trauma experts at Child Trends and the Child Trauma Training Center at the University of Massachusetts.
A range of resources and information for individuals and families.
Parents need support during these difficult times just like kids do. Here are a few self-care tips for adults.
Information from MassLegalHelp regarding illegal evictions
Advice for maintaining your mental health from the American Psychiatric Association.
Health Care Toolbox, a Center for Pediatric Traumatic Stress website, now has information and resources to help healthcare staff and families manage the stress/psychological impact of COVID-19. Healthcare professionals will find information on how stress caused by the pandemic impacts them, how to build coping and resilience skills, and signs of secondary traumatic stress. Families will find information on how parents can help their children cope, downloadable tip sheets, and additional resources.
Links to pediatric clinical and mental health resources.
Check your symptoms and learn where to access help if you think you may have COVID-19
Safe Link is expanding their services and outreach for survivors and victims of domestic violence. They are available through Mass 2-1-1 and at 877-785-2020.
COVID-19 fact sheets available in 35 different languages.
This Harvard Business Review article might help you better understand the grief you may be feeling right now.
Free support for individuals in substance use recovery
Information from the National Child Traumatic Stress Network
Graphics and flyers to help educate about resources and supports that are available.
Resources and information to support people living in fear
Resources and supports for individuals and families dealing with addiction and recovery.
Information on programs available across the state.
MassSupport Network provides community outreach and support services to residents of all ages in response to the unprecedented public health crisis, COVID-19. Info in English. Info in Spanish. Info in Kreyol.
Information and resources that may be beneficial to youth and young adults
This resource is from Gina Plato Nino of the Central West Justice Center and Worcester Together
The Department of Mental Health has updated contact information for their Youth Access Centers
Infographic from the USDA
Infographic from the USDA
Region-specific Resources
The funds will assist income-eligible tenants in the City of Boston with their rental payments who:
- do not have access to expanded unemployment benefits, or
- because of the nature of their jobs, the unemployment benefits they will receive represent a significant reduction in their actual income.
Information from the City of Worcester on available community resources
Check out the upcoming events taking place at the Jamaica Plain Coalition
For Families of Southern Worcester County, New Hope is still operating remotely to assist victims of domestic and sexual violence. The best way to reach an advocate is by calling the hotline. 800-323-4673.
Community Legal Aid (CLA) is open and ready to assist our low-income and elderly neighbors with their civil legal needs involving eviction defense, family law issues, education law for kids with special needs, and access to government benefits. Focus currently is for resources on employment-related problems arising for low-wage workers who are finding it hard to navigate the Covid-19 landscape as it relates to their rights regarding unemployment compensation, paid leave, and other matters.
The Public Services librarians are available online or by calling 508-799-1699. Anyone may request a one-on-one virtual help session on the topics below with a staff member.
- eBooks Help - similar to our Thursday afternoon eBook Q&A, patrons can contact us to learn about eBooks and request help with any issues
- Citizenship Help - similar to our Wednesday night Citizenship class, patrons can request one-on-one for help studying the material
- Tech Help - similar to our Wednesday night Tech Help, patrons can receive tech help such as help with their devices or Microsoft programs
- Math Help - similar to our Wednesday night Drop-In Math and Computer Programming Tutoring for Adult Learners, patrons can receive one-on-one math help
Patrons may receive help for these services via telephone, email, or a virtual meeting, which ever method works best for staff and patron.
Worcester Housing Authority COVID-19 Resources for Housing Authority Residents
Information on resources the Worcester FRC can support families with. If you're looking for food support, housing, or childcare, click here.
Join a support group for parents of school aged children starting January 26th. We'll discuss topics like time management, self-care and IEPS/504 plans.
Join one of our upcoming online support groups on remote learning for school, parenting children or parenting teens.
Join Parenting Journey, a supportive and strength-based group for parents and caregivers, meeting on Wednesdays starting February 24. Registration is required.
Information and resources for people in the Greater Lowell area.
Mass 2-1-1 and Lyft are partnering to fill the gaps in transportation needs with RELIEF RIDES
An organization working to prevent and end homelessness through a Housing First approach that makes homelessness rare, brief and non-recurring.
A list of shelters for individuals during the COVID-19 Crisis from the Western Massachusetts Network to End Homelessness.
Support & advocacy group for youth of color, ages 14-21.
Join this online session for fathers working together on becoming stronger parents. This group begins on February 9 and continues on Tuesday evenings afterward. For more info or to enroll call 413-475-1544.