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*Resources to Maintain Wellbeing and Balance in COVID-19 Times*

*Resources to Maintain Wellbeing and Balance in COVID-19 Times*

This page will be updated real time with helpful resources for families to maintain balance and wellbeing. If you would like to share additional helpful and reputable information and local resources for specific wellness domains, please send them to [email protected]

New resources will be shared on the BergenResourceNet FaceBook page - Be sure to follow the page!

Easily Navigate our many resources below:

PHYSICAL WELLBEING

COVID Resources: County,  State, Local

  • NJ Dept of Human Services Novel Coronavirus Information
  • Bergen County Community Resources for Adults/Youth.  this page is updated regularly by Executive members of the Children's Interagency Coordinating Council (CIACC) of Bergen County

    This is a message from the New Jersey Department of Health to inform you that 12-15-year-olds are now eligible for the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine at no cost. To schedule an appointment, please contact the NJ vaccine call center at 1-855-568-0545 or visit covid19.nj.gov/vaccine. Ask your family and friends to get vaccinated!

    Éste es un mensaje del Departamento de Salud de Nueva Jersey para informarle que los adolescentes de 12 a 15 años de edad ahora son elegibles para recibir la vacuna de Pfizer contra el COVID-19, sin cargo. Para programar una cita, llame al call center de vacunación de NJ al 1-855-568-0545 o visite covid19.nj.gov/vaccine. ¡Pídales a sus familiares y amigos que se vacunen!

    COVID-19 Test (At-Home Collection Kit): We'll send you an at-home collection kit to collect your nasal swab sample and ship it back to our lab.  Our lab will perform a PCR test on your sample for SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes coronavirus disease (also called COVID-19). This test is available for ages 2 and up.

    Let's Determine Which COVID-19 Test is Right for You: Answer the questions - Do I Currently have COVID-19? Did I have COVID-19 at one time? How do I find my test results? What are my treatment and vaccine options?

    Register to Get the COVID-19 Vaccine:   This links you to the State Department of Health website where you can learn about current state of eligibility, book through the State's registration system, or book appointments directly with county-based vaccination locations such as county mega sites, CVS, Rite-Aid, ShopRite and other groceries, as well as some local health agencies.

    NJ COVID-19 Vaccine Appointment Finder: On this page, you can search for available vaccine appointments at locations across the State of New Jersey.
     

    BergenCovidVaccine.com: Appointments are currently available for the Moderna vaccine at the Alternative Care Facility Annex at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center.

    If you require assistance scheduling for Ages 55+, please contact the Call Center at (201) 967-4070. Operators are available Monday through Friday from 9 am to 6 pm. Please have your insurance information available.

    Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccines Now Available for Children: Ages 5 and Up

    Please note: The County/BNBMC site is for individuals who live, work or study in Bergen County.

  • Confronting Health Misinformation - the U.S. Surgeon General's Advisory on Building a Healthy Information Environment 2021.       

    COVID-19 Vaccine Megasites in New Jersey

  • Mymobileclinic.org: Mymobileclinic.com is operated by Occupational and Community Health Services (OCHS), a Non-Profit 501C3 health corporation that provides in-office and on-site medical services where it is needed and when it is needed.

  • U.S. COVID Risk & Vaccine Tracker: You can now see which counties and metros are most and least vulnerable. Higher vulnerability areas are more likely to experience severe physical and economic suffering from COVID, and to face a harder, longer recovery.

Watch community-specific Virtual Town Halls hosted by NJ Department of Health (NJDOH) with state medical professionals addressing facts, fears and myths regarding the COVID-19 vaccines. Replays can be found here:

Testing

Vaccine:

PHONE: 

  • The NJ Poison Control Center and 2-1-1 have partnered with the State to provide information to the Public on COVID-19: Call: 2-1-1
  • 1-800-222-1222  -   For residents non-urgent, general questions contact COVID-19 public hotline, operated by the New Jersey Poison Control Center for the NJ Department of Health. 
  • *Those in NJ using an out-of-state cell phone number can call 1-800-962-1253.  The hotline is staffed 24/7 with trained professional in multiple languages. **Our call volume has intensified and our staff (many of whom are working remotely) is working diligently. Despite this, Call/Text/Chat wait times are longer than usual. We are doing our best to serve each caller. Your patience and understanding is appreciated. 
  • 1-800-962-1253 available 24/7 - COVID-19 Clinical Questions
  • Cooperative Counseling Services - Free Telephonic Support
  • Bergen New Bridge Walk Up Vaccinations - Moderna
  • Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care - COVID Connect Helpline: Rutgers has launched the COVID Connect Helpline to assist individuals struggling with mental health and addictions challenges as a result of COVID-19. The call is free and support is available by contacting 833-223-0011 Mon-Fri 8am-8pm.

TEXT: 

  • Residents call also text NJCOVID to 898-211 to receive text information and stay informed. To receive live text assistance, residents can text their zip code to 898-211. 
  • TWEET:   Official NJ Department of Health Twitter 

WEB:

MEDICAL

  • GoodRX: GoodRx gathers current prices and discounts to help you find the lowest cost pharmacy for your prescriptions. GoodRx is 100% free. No personal information required. GoodRx coupons will help you pay less than the cash price for your prescription. They’re free to use and are accepted at virtually every U.S. pharmacy. Your pharmacist will know how to enter the codes on the coupon to pull up the lowest discount available.
  • SafetyNet: SafetyNet will help to fill the gap through no-fee treatment to those who may be uninsured, underinsured and have few financial resources. SafetyNet is a service program operated by ACAP and an extension of ACAP’s North Jersey Consultation Center (NJCC.) The service providers for SafetyNet are interns in the fieldwork experience at ACAP and ICPS. SafetyNet offers no-fee treatment to anyone in need. Many of our interns are presently working in the mental health field or are in the process of attaining their Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling. All of our fieldwork interns are under the supervision of a certified psychoanalyst from ACAP.
  •  North Hudson Community Action are federally-qualified health centers (FQHC) with locations in North Jersey.
  • Hospitals and Federally Qualified Health Centers are required to waive patient fees for testing and related diagnostic services due to the virus for those who lack health insurance.  Health insurance and Medicaid must cover testing for COVID-19 and telemedicine during the current period.
  • Senior citizens covered by PAAD and Senior Gold plans can refill their prescriptions early and get a 90-day supply of maintenance medications.
  • Health/Medical Insurance Plans modified CoVID-19 coverage update    If you have health insurance, find your provider in the attached chart to see the provisions/coverage related to COVID-19 testing and telehealth/telemedicine options.  Contact your providers webpage for more details
  • Accessing Critical Medications for Your Loved One  during CoVID-19  Partnership for Drug Free Kids  
  • NeedyMeds: Find Help with the Cost of Medicine 
  • Crisis Counseling Services For those Affected by the COVID-19 Pandemic: Crisis Counseling Services for those affected by the COVID–19 pandemic. If you or anyone you know needs to speak with someone, call: (732) 204-6510
  • How to Get a House Call During the Pandemic

NJ FAMILY CARE/MEDICAID

  •  Guidance for Providers of Home and Community Based Services Operating Under Contract with the New Jersey Department of Children and Families

  • The state is covering COVID-19 testing, visits for testing, and testing-related services at no cost for those in NJ FamilyCare/Medicaid and waiving the costs for those in the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and covering 90-day supplies of prescriptions and early refills for CHIP and Medicaid recipients.

  • New Jersey is continuing eligibility for our members through the period of the COVID-19 emergency.  Some Medicaid and CHIP members were already set to disenroll at the end of March, and we are working to reinstate their coverage as quickly as possible.  

  •  NJ FamilyCare premiums were suspended starting in March.  Members who normally pay a premium will receive a $0 statement.

  • NJ FamilyCare flyer - Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic we understand that some households may have lost employment and access to health care.  The NJ FamilyCare program provides free or low-cost health coverage to qualified New Jersey residents.  New Jersey is doing more to help children; their parents and/or caretakers get health coverage. You can apply online at www.njfamilycare.org. To find out more, call 1-800-701-0710  (TTY 1-800-701-0720).     Get help with affording healthcare coverage. En Espanol

PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)

FOOD/MEAL PLANNING:   

Search all the Food Pantry resources in BergenResourceNet

  • Bergen County Food Insecurity Task Force   If you are in need of food resources click to find the closest pantry.
     
  • USDA: Helping Youth Access Food During COVID-19
     
  • NJ Food and Nutrition Services: COVID-19 Waivers & Flexibilities  to serve our program participants across our 15 nutrition programs. We have already begun to issue waivers to ease program operations and protect the health of participants, for example:  the State will not close any SNAP cases for the next several months even if the case is not renewed. 

    Many New Jerseyans who receive food assistance through the state’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (NJ SNAP) will receive additional benefits in August to help address critical food needs related to the COVID-19 pandemic.  An additional estimated $38.5 million will be provided to about 227,500 New Jersey households for August. The supplemental benefits will be directly loaded to NJ SNAP recipients’ Families First EBT cards as part of their regular monthly payment. NJ SNAP provides food assistance to families with low incomes to help them buy groceries through a benefit card accepted in most food retail stores and farmer’s markets.  Families can now also use their cards at select online grocery retailers to help maintain social distancing during the pandemic.  “We encourage residents who need food assistance to visit and apply for SNAP online at www.NJHelps.org,” said Assistant Commissioner Natasha Johnson, who directs Human Services’ Division of Family Development and oversees the SNAP program.

    NJ SNAP recipients will be able to use their benefits card to order groceries from Amazon. Walmarts, ShopRites and The Fresh Grocers that that provide online shopping will also accept online ordering with SNAP benefits. To learn more, recipients can visit Amazon.com/SNAP to register their EBT card. Visit here to learn about Walmart’s SNAP online program.  Any Walmart, ShopRite or The Fresh Grocer that currently provides online shopping will also accept online ordering with SNAP benefits.

    If you need additional food assistance, the SNAP Outreach team can help you apply or recertify for SNAP benefits. Please call  the SNAP hotline for assistance over the phone: 800-609-3663.     Go to the NJFNS page to read ALL waivers for ALL nutritional services (Flyer - English Spanish)
     

  • P-EBT helps some parents buy food for their children during the COVID-19 pandemic. P-EBT is a card that can be used to buy food at some grocery stores and online shopping websites. Flyers available in  Spanish, French, Arabic and Hindi.

  • New Jersey Pandemic-EBT (P-EBT) benefits will be provided to recipients of the state’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and non-SNAP households with children who normally receive free or reduced-price school meals starting July 8th

  • NJHelps - Applying for assistance with basic needs - Our state has an online application and screening tool that can be used for many of the basic services designed to help those struggling to make ends meet.   We encourage residents who need food assistance to visit and apply for SNAP online.  (Flyers - English Spanish)
  • FoodFinder US FoodFinder is a safe, secure and award-winning mobile and web app that gives food insecure children and their families a way to find free food assistance programs quickly.
  • County Meals on Wheels - Are only taking applications and still only servicing the elderly. Continuing regular meal delivery. Vulnerable seniors are at the greatest risk amid COVID-19. Local Meals on Wheels programs are on the front lines every day, focused on doing all they can to keep older Americans safe and nourished in communities across the country. (Meals on Wheels Bergen County)
  • Center for Food Action  - Distributing food via Drive-up, Appointment Only distributions, accepting cash donations only. Please contact us to learn if CFA can support your efforts. [email protected]
  • St. Cecilia Office of Concern Food Pantry - M-TH 9:00-1:00  As of 3/18, they plan on remaining open. ID - they are currently being lenient with ID, but suggest bring some document with name and address on it (ie., a bill). Baby Items - they have diapers every week for children 3 and under; on the last week of the month they distribute baby wipes.
  • Tri-Boro Food Pantry - Pantry Hours Tuesday and Thursday 9am-11am. They plan to remain open on regular pantry schedule. People need to call in advance to (201) 573-9083 as a representative will collect name, address, and phone numbers. No on-site registrations will be conducted. Anyone in need of food, toiletries, paper and wrap and household items  is Welcome to access these goods regardless of where they reside. No Id required. People can collect food in Back of the church behind the building by the parking lot. However they will not be allowed into the building.
  • Closter Borough Hall - Accepting Cash Donations Only, Appointment Only
  • Community Food Bank of New Jersey  Community Food Bank 31 Evans Terminal Hillside, NJ 07205     908-355-3663
  • Buddies of New Jersey - Please Call Ahead of Time 201-489-2900 | Bags will be made in advance and handed at the door. TEMPORARY HOURS DURING STATE EMERGENCY DUE TO CORONA VIRUS
  • Paramus Dept of Human Services - Currently only Paramus residents, currently have 60 families, will not turn away a new resident that is on government assistance.  Must be screened.
  • Hasbrouck Heights Food Pantry - The pantry is still serving families in need on Monday mornings from 9 am to 11 am. The recreation department is reaching out to the senior population, asking if they or any friends need any supplies or food. If anyone is aware of a senior in need, please have them call the Recreation Department at 201 288 4143. Any donations received in quarantine for 10 days, plan on next week distribution, supplies are dwindling.
  • Helping Hands Food Pantry - The Helping Hand Food Pantry will re-open on March 30th. Please note we will not be filling orders as we will be distributing prepackaged bags of food. Existing clients must show a valid form of ID. New clients must bring ID and proof of residency.
  • Queen of Peace Food Pantry - Apply through Maryann Mackey, supplies limited, serving North Arlington and neighboring towns
  • Farmer's Markets Bergen County 
  • Drive Thru Emergency Food Box Distribution (YMCA)
  • West Side Daycare - Distributing cows milk/formula diapers and wipes to families in need. Distribution are for Englewood residents.  Participants must be in their cars. Hours are 9am-11am on Saturdays. **UPDATE**  Distribution address is now at Christ Episcopal Church (480 Warwick Ave, Teaneck, NJ 07666)
  • Free Kosher Meals Program for NJ children ages 1-18. Contact [email protected]

Grocery Delivery Services  (consider some have delivery delays)

ACTIVITIES FOR YOUTH/CHILDREN

YOGA and other Physical Activity (some resources available in Spanish and English)

See other fun activities posted on a March 19 Bergen Mama article '20 Ways To Keep Your Kids Occupied in Bergen County, NJ During a Pandemic'

FUN THINGS TO EXPLORE


SOCIAL WELLBEING

Social Services, Legal, Domestic Violence resources:

Technology

PHONE AND INTERNET

For households with K-12 and/or college students who may be displaced due to school closures and who do not currently have home internet access,

  • Altice is offering Altice Advantage Internet solution for free for 60 days to any new customer household within their footprint. Learn more.
  •  Optimum, a subsidiary of Altice in parts of Bergen, Essex, Morris and Passaic counties   To enroll in Optimum's free service, call 866-200-9522, ask for the sales department and let them know you wish to qualify for the free service.   
  • Spectrum, a division of Charter Communications, will provide broadband service for free to qualifying homes with children in Grades K-12 or college students.  To enroll in Spectrum's, call 844-488-8395 or apply online .

The companies, once they approve the free service, will deliver the equipment needed to access the internet and Wi-Fi.

Transportation/Storage

  • GSE will distribute Lyft ride credits to help homeless LGBTQ youth seeking shelter
  • NJ 2-1-1: Ride United - We are now providing free or discounted rides to vaccination sites wherever Lyft services are available. This program is for everyone, including people who have collapsible wheelchairs and walkers. Personal aides welcome to ride along!

Energy/Utilities

  • Governor Murphy, in partnership with the New Jersey utilities, signed an Executive Order extending the COVID-19 pandemic utility shut-off moratorium through at least March 15, 2021, preventing New Jersey residents from having their gas, electric, and water utilities disconnected. The moratorium applies to all gas, electric, and water utilities in New Jersey, both public and private. The Executive Order also protects residential cable and telecommunications customers from Internet service shut-offs, especially when there are school-age children in the home.
  • PSE&G announced that they will not shut off their services for families that can’t pay their bills.   Check with your service providers.
  • New Jersey Comfort Partners Program -A  free energy saving and energy education program that helps income-eligible customers save energy and money while increasing their home's safety and comfort. 
  • PAGE Program - The Payment Assistance for Gas and Electric (PAGE) Program provides relief on natural gas and electric bills for low- to moderate-income New Jersey households that are past due on their utility bills and are experiencing a temporary financial crisis.
  • Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) - The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps New Jersey households pay for heating costs and certain medically-necessary cooling expenses.
  • Universal Service Fund The Universal Service Fund (USF) helps make energy bills more affordable for qualifying households whose annual household income is at or below 185% of the Federal Poverty Level.
  • NJ Shares - A non-profit organization that provides assistance to income-eligible New Jersey households for paying their energy, telephone, broadband (internet), and water bills.
  • NJ Lifeline  - A utility assistance program that offers a $225 annual benefit to persons who meet the PAAD eligibility requirements or who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI). This includes utility customers as well as tenants whose utility bills are included in their rent.
  • NJ energy assistance programs - The DCAid website will allow you to go through a screening process to see if you are eligible. 

Volunteering Opportunities

  • For information on Volunteer Opportunities for COVID-19 Email [email protected] or call 201-336-6006

  • "Empathy Letters Covid-19" Service Project - The purpose is for people to write hopeful letters to patients who are in psychiatric hospitals without visitors during these times. Word Documents/E-mail Letters accepted!

MENTAL/EMOTIONAL WELLBEING

MENTAL HEALTH Specific CoVID resources:

SUBSTANCE, RECOVERY, MENTAL HEALTH 

  • If you or a loved one needs help with accessing local addiction services and support…. Call or Text: 201-589-2976.  Hotline services are available 24/7.  Services are provided by The Center for Alcohol and Drug Resources in partnership with The Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office
  • Mental Health America's Back to School kit - This kit help students, parents, and school personnel navigate the uncharted waters of COVID-19.
  • Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) Disaster Distress Helpline at 800-985-5990
  • Peer Recovery Warmline: 877-292-5588
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255
  • Talk to a Crisis Text Line counselor text:   MHFA to 74174
  • NJ Mental Health Cares- Behavioral Health Information and referral Services- includes an emotional support hotline 1-866-202-HELP (4357)  7 days/week from 8AM-8PM.
  • PerformCare - Call 1-877-652-7624.  A full-service behavioral health managed care company that can assist in finding services for parents, guardians, youth and providers. If you are under the age of 21 and looking for treatment or other services, check out the resources.  
  • 2nd Floor Youth Helpline  888-222-2228 (confidential helpline for youth and adolescents)  or text HOME to 741741
  • Kids, Teens, and Families Virtual Support Groups.  International OCD Foundation
  • Young Adult resources.  Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance   offers podcasts, online support groups, and a young adult council
  • The Trevor Project - Call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678678. A national 24-hour, toll free confidential suicide hotline for LGBTQ youth.
  • National Parent Helpline Monday -Friday 12pm-9am CT emotional support and advocacy for parents:1-855-2736
  • The Trans LifeLine for peer support for trans folks 9am-3am CT:1-877-565-8860 This hotline is staffed exclusively by trans operators is the only crisis line with a policy against non-consensual active rescue.
  • 9 Strategies for Quarantining in a Non-LGBTQ+ Affirming Environment   Them. 
  • NJ CARES Pharmacies with Standing Orders - List of pharmacies that are dispensing naloxone without an individualized prescription, using a "standing order" from a physician or the Department of Health. Naloxone is a medication used to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. Anyone 18 or older can walk into any pharmacy listed and ask for a prescription of Narcan.
  • VFR Veteran and First Responders Healthcare To support those on the front lines we created a telemedicine platform for first responders and healthcare workers. We are waiving any co-pays and will take on any administrative burden with insurance so that these individuals can get help immediately without any delay or stress.

  • DMHAS Opioid Overdose Prevention Program - This regional opioid overdose prevention programs provide individuals at-risk for overdose, their family members, friends, and loved ones with naloxone rescue kits. They are also educated and trained on how to prevent, recognize, and respond to an opioid overdose

GRIEF/HEALING SUPPORT

  • Bergen County Grief Counseling  the only non-profit grief-counseling center in Bergen County    They provide teletherapy. 
  • Good Grief   providing information and resources to support the emotional needs of children, families, students, and communities navigating new life circumstances. Our primary goal is to help you build resilience during this time of uncertainty. 
  • 12 Best Free or Affordable Online Grief Support Groups.  Published 12/17/2019 Cake.com.    Group suggestions for Young adults, loss of parent, sibling, or spouse.
  • Find a GriefShare support group or event near you…Thousands of GriefShare support groups meet weekly around the world. Visit or join a group at anytime. And attend as many meetings as you like.
  • Hackensack Meridian Bereavement Resources  
  • Alternative Mourning Rituals Offer Comfort And Closure During An Outbreak.  NPR.  April 2, 2020.  
  • Social Distancing and Jewish Mourning, shiva.   
  • How to Support Someone Who is Grieving From Far Away.  Cake.com   Cake is a resource that faclilitates proactive end-of-life planning that allows us to live more purposefully in the present— to appreciate relationships, celebrate accomplishments, and realize goals for the future.
  • The Department of Human Services helps with funeral bills.  You will need to apply for public assistance funeral funds by calling the welfare agency or board of social/human services in your county. Call (201) 336-7474 Bergen County Department of Human Services.   Additional information on Public Assistance Funerals from the NJ Funeral Directors Association website.
  • Free download of children's e-book "The Golden Sweater" along with a discussion guide for families.This story chronicles a child’s journey through loss, grief, resiliency and healing.
  • Grief Support group without county restrictions (Church World Service) - CWS Jersey City will be launching a crisis counseling program in the coming weeks . Support will be available in Spanish and other languages, and all are welcome to join us regardless of immigration status. You can email me or Carmen Rosario, [email protected].
  • HealGrief  is a social support network providing free tools and resources to guide one's journey with grief into healthy post bereavement growth. They have a podcast called: Let’s Talk Death. (https://healgrief.org/lets-talk-death/)
  • Actively Moving Forward (AMF) provides communities for grieving individuals wanting to connect, be heard, and feel understood, digitally and 24/7, and all through the AMF App.

Medicaid Funeral Assistance

New Jersey will pay up to $2,246 in funeral costs and $524 in burial costs or crematory expenses for a deceased welfare recipient who is two year of age or older. Families are permitted to supplement these amounts up to $1,570. Information on eligibility here. SSI and Medicaid allow you to set aside money for funeral arrangements in a prepaid trust if you expect you will become eligible for SSI or Medicaid within the next six months. Contact the Bergen County Board of Social Services.

ONLINE RECOVERY RESOURCES

RESILIENCE/MINDFULNESS/SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL LEARNING

Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities

ADD/ADHD   

FINANCIAL AND OCCUPATIONAL WELLBEING 

EMPLOYMENT

  • The Bergen County Job Center (One Stop Career Center) serves prospective workers, employers and at-risk youth in Bergen County, and strives to provide the county with a skilled labor force. For important information about COVID-19, services, unemployment benefits, the State's COVID-19 Jobs and Hiring Portal
  • Jersey Job Club - The Jersey Job Club gives you the tools and support you need to find a job. We’ll help you develop new skills and improve on skills you already have. There are 23 Jersey Job Clubs throughout New Jersey.
  • NJ Career Connections - a resume can serve many purposes in your search for employment. Therefore, it is important to choose a resume type that best meets your needs. Obtain assistance in writing the best resume for you
  • Transportation Assistance - Transportation can be one of the biggest hurdles to employment for jobseekers. Fortunately, whether you plan to drive to your next job, take the bus or train, or are in need of special services to assist you in your travels, there are many resources in New Jersey to help you get to your next job.
  • Division of Temporary Disability and Family Leave Insurance - New Jersey’s Earned Sick Leave Law even covers public health emergencies –employees can use Earned Sick leave if their workplace or child’s school or daycare is closed due to an epidemic, or if a public health authority determines the need for a quarantine.
  • Older adults may be impacted by the coronavirus and quarantine procedures in different ways than the general public. There may be government benefits available to older adults who need financial help. Visit benefitscheckup.org for more information and to see you qualify for any state or local assistance.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

The basics of the Economic Impact Payments for COVID-19 intended to help young adults know whether they qualify for the $1200 stimulus payment, and how to access it if they haven’t received it automatically. The Interagency Working Group on Youth Programs worked with the US Department of Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service to translate their information into this youth-friendly resource.      The Youth Engaged 4 Change website that you are linked to has MANY useful resources for young adults.

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau provides a list of resources to help individuals and families protect themselves financially from the financial impact of coronavirus, both in the short and long term. This includes:

  • Protecting your credit during the coronavirus pandemic
  • Dealing with debt: Tips to help ease the impact
  • Tips for financial caregivers
  • Resources and tips specifically for service members

Protect yourself financially from the impact of the coronavirus (Consumer Financial Protection Bureau) April 3, 2020  Leer en Español      Check their main page for regular updates available in multiple languages

Your Money: A Hub for Help During the Coronavirus Crisis.  If your income has fallen or been cut off completely, we’re here to help. This guide will connect you to the basic information you’ll need to get through this, including on government benefits, free services and financial strategies. This guide has been updated with the details of the $2 trillion relief plan that has been enacted by Washington.    This page is regularly updated by Ron Lieber and Tara Siegel Bernard of the NYTimes.   There are resources regarding:  

  • Stimulus Checks
  • Unemployment Insurance
  • Paid Sick Leave and Family Leave
  • Federal Student Loans
  • Mortgages and Rent
  • Utility Bills

Scammers are misleading the public by recommending products to prevent or treat the coronavirus that are useless, or even worse, could be dangerous. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) want the public to be aware of these scams.  

  • If you believe price gouging is occurring, contact the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs - 973-504-6240
     

  • COVID-19 Rumor Control & Disinformation Site - In a joint effort to combat rumors and disinformation regarding COVID-19, the NJ ROIC, NJOEM, & NJOHSP created the COVID-19 Rumor Control & Disinformation site.

Housing

Bergen HEARTS - Homeless Family Services: HEARTS – Housing, Emergency Shelter, Advocacy Resources, and Tools for Self-Sufficiency. OUR VISION is through the provision of the HEARTS program services the County of Bergen will end homelessness for ALL Bergen County families. Walk-ins Welcome. Services:

  1. Coordinated Entry for All Homeless Families

  2. Temporary Emergency Shelter

  3. BRIDGE Housing for TANF-Only Families

COVID-19 and Residential Mortgage Relief /State of NJ Dept. of Banking and Insurance.  Review FAQs regarding the State's efforts to lessen the financial impact of COVID-19 on residents who are struggling to pay their mortgage and bills. 

NJ Department of Community Affairs: Information on Housing Assistance Programs

Eviction Prevention, Emergency Rental Assistance, and FHA Mortgage Relief

No one may be removed from their home for inability to pay rent during the COVID-19 Emergency   Eviction Moratorium Information + Question Form for RENTERS from NJ Consumer Affairs

If you are a HOMEOWNER looking for information on mortgage forbearance or foreclosure, or seek to lodge a complaint against a lender, please read this article on help for homeowners.

Are you a New Jersey renter or homeowner facing housing hardships due to the COVID-19 crisis? The New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHMFA) can help.

As you may know, Governor Murphy has signed an Executive Order declaring a moratorium on evictions and foreclosures while the order is in effect. As part of the Murphy Administration’s efforts, NJHMFA has expanded its FREE Foreclosure Mediation Assistance Program (FMAP) to include housing counseling services for renters and pre-foreclosure counseling for homeowners.

For renters, housing counseling can include help with financial literacy (budget, credit repair), fair housing rights, eviction diversion and relocation assistance.

For homeowners on the verge of foreclosure, counseling provides upfront assistance that can help them avoid potential foreclosure.

Housing counselors are available in each of the state’s counties and services are offered remotely.   The resources in Bergen County include:

Consumer Credit and Budget Counseling
609-390-9652, 888-738-8233

Housing Partnership
973-659-1414 

NJ Citizen Action
800-656-9637, 973-643-8800

Tri-City Peoples Corporation
973-676-5506

  • NJ housing assistance programs - The DCAid website will allow you to go through a screening process to see if you are eligible. 
  • Division of Housing and Community Resources - Department of Consumer Affairs "one stop" website to let you see if you are eligible for housing and utilities assistance programs all at the same time. Section 8 Housing Vouchers, Rental Assistance, HIV+, and Veterans. There also homelessness and eviction prevention programs and Energy Assistance Programs
  • Short-Term Rental Assistance Program -Will provide temporary rental assistance to low- and moderate- income households that have had a substantial reduction in income or have become unemployed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Enrollment Period is Monday, July 6, 2020, at 9:00 am until Friday, July 10, 2020, at 5:00 pm En Espanol
  • JustShelter --  See the NJ organizations working hard to preserve affordable housing, prevent eviction, and reduce family homelessness.  
  • Water Front Project -  551-256-7578 Is an organization that will represent any tenant that is being harassed by their landlord during the covid19. If you have a beneficiary/patient that is in need of this service, you can refer them to the organization.
  • Family Promise - CDC issues moratorium on eviction. The order states that landlords may not evict a covered person from any residential property during this period. The order, issued on September 4 and in effect until December 31, 2020, states that landlords may not evict a covered person from any residential property during this period. The order does not relieve you of paying the rent but you cannot be evicted if you are unable to do so. You are still required to follow all of the other terms of the lease and nothing in the order prevents the landlord from charging you penalties or late charges if you do not pay the full rent. Furthermore, you may be required to pay the entire amount of unpaid rent and penalties once the order expires at the end of the year.

  • To all families currently behind in rental payments, https://www.nj.com/coronavirus/2021/03/help-finally-on-the-way-for-nj-renters-as-state-announces-new-353m-relief-fund.html and application link (https://njdca.onlinepha.com/ for relief money. 

Parenting/ Caregiver Support 

COPING TIPS FOR FAMILIES

COVID-19 Parental Resources Kit Ensuring Children and Young People’s Social, Emotional, and Mental Well-being article from the CDC

Trauma-Informed Resources for Early Childhood Programs - Traumatic Stress Institute: This excellent (though slightly dated) 2015 resource is organized around a host of excellent questions. The ACF toolkit links to a useful issue brief Trauma Informed Care: Perspectives and Resources, which answers this question.  Additionally, the brief identifies three trauma-informed care models that early childhood agencies can adopt, including Risking Connection, which is the central curriculum of the Whole-System Change Model offered by the Traumatic Stress Institute.

Guidance for Large or Extended Families Living in the Same Household (Centers for Disease Control).  This document explains how to: • Protect the household when you leave for errands • Protect household members at high risk for severe illness • Protect children and others from getting sick • Care for a household member who is sick • Isolate a household member who is sick • Eat meals together and feed a sick household member

How to Form a Pandemic Pod by Jeremy Adam Smith, William Winters | July 15, 2020 on Greater Good Magazine.  Public health experts have recommended “quarantine pods” as an effective way to get our social, emotional, familial needs met without unnecessarily endangering ourselves or others. Pods are small, self-contained networks of people who limit their non-distanced social interaction to one another...

Heart to Heart: Caregiver & Child Connections in Times of Challenge – April 21, 2020
Research-driven ideas to use the healing power of relationships during this crisis to support children who have experienced trauma, while caring for yourself as well. Presented by licensed psychologist and infant mental health expert Dr. Barbara Stroud. Click here for a recording of this webinar.

Pre-recorded webinars provided in partnership with the Socio-Emotional Formation Initiative (SEFI) at the Center for Autism and Early Childhood Mental Health at Montclair State University in partnership with the NJ Early Intervention System, Northeast Regional Early Intervention Collaborative (NREIC) for Early Intervention Week.  These can  be watched at any time:   

COVID Related:

Caregiver Support Resources:

CHILD CARE UPDATES

Resources to Support Distance/Virtual Learning

Pre-K to Middle School 

Tutoring

Distance Learning Centers 

Age Groups
  • Children
  • Adolescents
  • Adults
  • Seniors
Community Services
Basic Needs / Assistance
Community
Education
Family & Support Services
Health Services
Behavioral / Mental Health
Crisis / Safety
Intellectual and Developmental Needs

Last Updated: 04/05/23

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Programs, Events, and Groups

  • Ridgewood
    Care After COVID Program (Valley Health System)

    Valley’s Care After COVID program addresses persistent symptoms associated with COVID-19 infection.

    This program coordinates the services of a multidisciplinary medical team who can help individuals struggling with coronavirus complications and long-term COVID-19 symptoms.


  • COVID Connect Helpline

    One of our specialists will conduct a brief triage and assessment of your immediate needs related to the COVID-19 pandemic. You will be offered immediate phone support and referred to a provider. All referrals are to licensed treatment providers and our staff will follow up with you to ensure successful connection.


  • NJ Healthcare Workers COVID Hope & Healing Helpline

    The mission of HEAL NJ healthcare Workers COVID Hope & Healing Helpline, is to provide live COVID crisis counseling support, 7 days a week from 8am – 8pm to all New Jersey Healthcare Workers, their families, and caregivers statewide, with emergency support available 24/7.

    Contact us by...

    • Phone
    • Chat
    • Email
    • Social Media