RESOURCES FOR FAMILIES

  • Various connectivity access is offered by companies to make connectivity affordable.

    Learn more at:

    https://www.allconnect.com/blog/student-internet-deals-tech-discounts

    Free Internet Access

    The Emergency Broadband Benefit was replaced by the Affordable Connectivity Program on December 31, 2021. It is a newer, long term $14 billion program that ensures households can afford connection services.

    Learn more at

    https://www.fcc.gov/acp

    Apply at

    https://www.affordableconnectivity.gov/?utm_source=FCCApplyNow

  • Parents: Do you need ideas for nutritious meals for your preschooler?

    Find a food pantry near you:

    WIC (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program Women, Infant and Children) 

    WIC provides nutrition for eligible pregnant and postpartum women and children under the age of five. Fathers and caregivers can also apply for their children.  Normally, WIC applicants must apply in person, but most centers are now working via phone. You do not need to be a US citizen to receive WIC.  If applicants have all necessary documents, WIC benefits are effective immediately after application.  

    To learn more and locate a WIC center near you, call 1-800-522-5006. 

    Information on how to apply can be found here.

    Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) 

    SNAP (or food stamps) provides monthly electronic benefits to be used as cash in authorized retail food stores.

    If you would like to find elIgibility criteria and/or apply for benefits, please visit www.benefits.gov/benefit/1320

  • Help is available for individuals and families in need of rental assistance, who are not eligible for traditional eviction prevention programs. These services are being offered through NYC Homebase.  

    • You may be eligible if you have limited or no access to government resources. If you are unsure if you qualify, would like to talk to someone about this program, or would like some help avoiding eviction, please contact your local Homebase provider here.

    If you have other questions or need additional information, the Catholic Charities Helpline is here to help at 1-888-744-7900. 

  • Check out our Learning At Home & Parenting Support page for tons of ideas for at-home learning and activities, information on how to talk to your kids about coronavirus, and tips for how parents can take care of themselves.

  • AccessNYC

    The City of New York offers various support services for city residents. Services range from food assistance, student loan relief, immigration resources and more. Find help and more on ACCESS.nyc.gov.

    • Click on “ACCESS HRA” to apply for SNAP (Food Stamps), Cash Assistance (CA), Medicaid, Fair Fares NYC etc.

    No negative case actions will be taken for individuals unable or unwilling to come to offices for scheduled appointments

    INCLUDEnyc

    INCLUDEnyc is here for families of children with disabilities. Their Help Line will be open M-Th 9am-4pm. Call or text INCLUDEnyc with your questions, or you can fill out a Help Request form at any time.

    • INCLUDEnyc will be offering timely updates and resources on their website, especially information pertaining to children with disabilities and their families.

    • Check INCLUDEnyc’s calendar for free weekly webinars, Facebook Live sessions, parent support groups, and other online events and resources.

    Autism Speaks

    Autism Speaks is offering a multitude of resources to families of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) during this crisis. Check out these resources via Autism Speaks:

    • “The Autism Response Team remains a resource for all families in our community, and we encourage you to reach out if you are in need of assistance. We are available to answer calls, emails and online chat. As specific inquiries come in, we are listening and learning in real time to make information and content available. We are also implementing measures for ongoing follow-up to ensure the community feels supported throughout this time.”

      • “We have created a centralized hub for resources for families and individuals on the spectrum: COVID-19 Information and Resources. This page is updated regularly as new content is developed, including with video resources to guide individuals and families.”

      • “Connect with us on social media: for tips, tools, resources and inspiration. You will find daily posts that include news, information and people in the autism community sharing their stories. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.”

      • We offer financial support. We are offering Autism Speaks Cares Grants to people with autism and their families/caregivers who are in need of financial help with groceries, childcare/respite, medication or therapy as a result of COVID-19. Contact the Autism Response Team for more information.

    Catholic Charities

    “Catholic Charities helps solve the problems of New Yorkers in need, non-Catholics and Catholic alike. The neglected child, the homeless family, the immigrant and refugee, the person with special needs, and the hungry senior are among those for whom we provide help and create hope – with compassion and respect.”

    • Catholic Charities has a HelpLine 1(888) 744-7900 for families in crisis to help with basic needs, and for Information and Referrals. 

    Please be aware that agencies may be short staffed but assistance is available.

    YAI

    YAI supports people of all ages with intellectual and developmental disabilities in achieving the fullest life possible by creating new opportunities for living, loving, working, and learning. YAI is a network of agencies with programs that empower and enhance the lives of thousands of people we support and their families. 

    • YAI offers workshops on supporting students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

please check back here and on our facebook page for updated information & resources.