FR Community Cares

FR Community Residents,

We know that in these strange and uncertain times it can be easy to feel overwhelmed and isolated. We want you to know that FR is committed to standing by our residents and supporting you through the COVID-19 pandemic in any way we can.

One way we would like to support our residents is by gathering information about resources and relief programs that might help families who are struggling during this time. We will update this page periodically with relevant info and resources.

COVID-19 Relief and Assistance

Dial 211 to receive help finding resources such as meal options, workforce offices, women’s support, etc.  specific to your location. 211 has the most up-to-date knowledge of resources available in your area.  Read more about 211 specific COVID-19 resources here.

Google has created a one-stop resource landing page linking to Coronavirus information including updated stats, health and testing info, and mental health support guidance.

This helpful webpage from the CDC interprets data on current cases and forecasts case numbers for the next several weeks.

The John Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center is also a great resource for data and stats on COVID numbers, news, important updates and more.

HEALTH

• This helpful COVID Vaccine FAQ address all the most pressing questions about the rollout of the Coronavirus vaccine.
• This breakdown of 8 Things to Know About Vaccine Planning in the US is a helpful resource to address the questions we are all asking about a coming vaccine.
• Mental Health America provides info and resources for anyone dealing with stress, depression, and anxiety triggered by COVID-19, including mental health screening tools to help you understand your feelings.
• Find instructions on how to Make Your Own Mask at home, both sew and no-sew options, to help slow the spread of coronavirus.
• This CDC Home Checklist will help make you prepared and make good decisions about how to protect your family during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• The CDC has also provided a complete list and description of Coronavirus symptoms, including a Self Checker chat which helps you decide whether you need to seek testing or medical care.
• You can use the new Coronavirus Screening Tool online if you or someone you know is experiencing potential symptoms. This will help you decide next steps and make good decisions about care.
• Learn more about Contract Tracing, how to slow the spread, and what to do if you came into contact with someone who was infected.
• These shareable resources and infographics can help you and your community cope with the mental and physical effects of COVID-19
• These Printable Posters with hygiene and health reminders are helpful to post around the home or community to help stop the spread of COVID-19.
• For those struggling with drug abuse or recovery during the time of COVID, these resources can be helpful.

FOOD

• Read more about the USDA and other food programs that are easing regulations and making adjustments due to the coronavirus.
• A SNAP online pilot is happening in almost all states, with more being added as plans are approved. Learn more about the pilot here.
• The Commodity Supplemental Food Program works to improve the health of low-income persons at least 60 years of age by supplementing their diets with nutritious USDA Foods.
• The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) is a federal program that helps supplement the diets of low-income Americans by providing them with emergency food assistance at no cost.
• Child Nutrition Meal Sites and resources for each state can be found here on this interactive map.
• Learn more about USDA’s Coronavirus response here.

FAMILY

• These Recommended COVID-19 Resources for Children and Families can help you find the support you’re looking for in many different areas.
• The US Department of Education has helpful COVID-19 Resources for Schools, Students, and Families.
• The CDC released a School Decision-Making Tool for parents and caregivers who are making tough choices about kids going to school.
• The Administration for Children and Families has program information for children, families, and communities.
• Read and share these important Tips to Avoid Coronavirus Scams to make sure you are your family are not taken advantage of during this difficult time.
• The USDA created this COVID-19 Federal Rural Resource Guide with info on programs to support rural communities and individuals during the pandemic.
• If you or a loved one are struggling with a mental health crisis aggravated by the coronavirus outbreak, please contact the Mental Health Crisis Hotline at 800-273-8255 or visit their webpage.
• If you are a victim of domestic abuse, visit the Domestic Abuse Hotline or call 1-800-799-SAFE. Advocates are available 24/7 and all calls are free and confidential. Support is also available through a live chat.

EMPLOYMENT/ FINANCES

• A new round of stimulus checks that are going out to millions of Americans can now be individually tracked through the IRS’ “Get My Payment” website, which has reopened.
• Those with student loans can learn about loan forbearance and relief due to COVID, as well as other options for loan repayment.
• Small business owners can find out everything there is to know about small business relief and assistance here.
• This comprehensive page from the IRS shows all information about all Coronavirus Tax Relief and Economic Impact Payments.
• Farmers or ranchers whose operations have been impacted by COVID 19 may be eligible to receive help from the newest Coronavirus Food Assistance Program
• USAGov has a one-stop-shop Help With Bills page that provides useful info on different relief programs and options for help with basic costs during the COVID pandemic.
• Certain people may qualify for Disaster Financial Assistance due to COVID 19 (or a different natural disaster) to get help with food, housing, bills or business expenses.
• Benefits.gov provides a Benefit Finder to help you determine what relief or assistance programs you might be eligible for. They also provide resources specific to the coronavirus.
• In response to the coronavirus pandemic, under the CARES Act the owners of single-family homes with federally-backed mortgages can get two types of financial help – Eviction and Foreclosure Moratorium and Mortgage Forbearance – 
• You can find out where to file for unemployment in your state and get answers to FAQs here. Filing online is highly recommended, but it may be difficult to get customer support on the phone to answer questions.

VETERANS

• The PenFed Foundation has launched The COVID-19 Emergency Financial Relief Program to provide financial assistance to all Veterans, Active Duty, Reserves and National Guard who are experiencing a financial setback due to the negative economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

HOUSING/HOME

• Learn about federal protections for renters under the CARES Act.
• The COVID-19 Home Safety Information Center has tons of great tips on staying safe both indoors and outdoors this summer with your family.
• The EPA has given helpful guidance on effective disinfectants and water safety related to COVID-19.

We hope that these resources are helpful and provide you with some starting points for where to receive guidance during this difficult time. FR Community is truly dedicated to making you feel safe, secure, and at home so please feel free to reach out to us with any concerns or questions.