Surviving the Challenges of the Coronavirus: A Resource Guide
Compiled by the Kent Attainable Housing Board
The Coronavirus has impacted all of our lives socially, economically, and emotionally. But our twenty-four applicants who are trying to break out of the cycle of poverty by buying a home have been especially hard hit during this time – losing jobs, losing income, not being able to pay rent and debt, and struggling with child care — throwing them another curve when they were just on the verge of breaking out. Kent Attainable Housing has compiled the following information and resources to help our applicants meet the many challenges they are dealing with at this time. Because information has changed quickly throughout this pandemic, we have provided the website URLs along with the information to ensure you keep current.
Have you lost your job or income?
The Maryland Department of Labor Website provides the following information for how to apply for unemployment. https://www.dllr.state.md.us/employment/unemployment.shtml
COVID-19 EMPLOYER AND CLAIMANT INFORMATION
Please be assured that Maryland does not have a waiting week like many other states do. No matter when or how they file, Marylanders become eligible for benefits starting after the day after they separated from employment. If you are eligible, you will be paid for all benefits due.
Updated Process for Filing A Regular Claim
To provide our claimants with an efficient and hassle-free filing process, we are encouraging our claimants to file according to a new system.
To file an initial regular unemployment claim online or through our call centers, please file your claim according to your last name as detailed below:
- If your last name starts with A – F, file your claim on Monday.
- If your last name starts with G – N, file your claim on Tuesday.
- If your last name starts with O – Z, file your claim on Wednesday.
- Claim filing is open to all last names by phone on Thursday and Friday and online Thursday through Sunday.
- Filing later in the week will not delay your payments or affect the date of your claim.
We strongly encourage you to utilize our online NetClaims application to file your claim. This online application is available 24/7, but we are strongly encouraging Marylanders to file during non-peak hours, like early in the morning and late in the evening (8:00 p.m. – 7:00 a.m.), for faster processing speeds.
Our current telephone hours are from Monday through Friday, 7:30 am to 3:30 pm. Beginning Wednesday, April 1st, 2020, our Claims Centers telephone lines will be further extended and open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. To contact a Claim Center, call 410-949-0022.
If you are having difficulty placing a call or accessing our website, claimants can e-mail questions to ui.inquiry@maryland.gov. Employers can e-mail questions to dluiemployerassistance-labor@maryland.gov or contact 410-767-2412. Claims may only be filed by phone or online; claims cannot be filed by email.
If your employment or business has been impacted by the coronavirus, please read our COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions. To learn more about the work search requirement exemption, visit the Work Search FAQs.
If you have questions about filing your weekly claim, please visit our Weekly Claim Certification frequently asked questions.
If you have questions about filing your 1st quarter reports, please read our 1st Quarter Reports FAQs.
The Maryland Department of Labor Website provides the following information for how to apply for unemployment. https://www.dllr.state.md.us/employment/unemployment.shtml
COVID-19 EMPLOYER AND CLAIMANT INFORMATION
Please be assured that Maryland does not have a waiting week like many other states do. No matter when or how they file, Marylanders become eligible for benefits starting after the day after they separated from employment. If you are eligible, you will be paid for all benefits due.
Updated Process for Filing A Regular Claim
To provide our claimants with an efficient and hassle-free filing process, we are encouraging our claimants to file according to a new system.
To file an initial regular unemployment claim online or through our call centers, please file your claim according to your last name as detailed below:
- If your last name starts with A – F, file your claim on Monday.
- If your last name starts with G – N, file your claim on Tuesday.
- If your last name starts with O – Z, file your claim on Wednesday.
- Claim filing is open to all last names by phone on Thursday and Friday and online Thursday through Sunday.
- Filing later in the week will not delay your payments or affect the date of your claim.
We strongly encourage you to utilize our online NetClaims application to file your claim. This online application is available 24/7, but we are strongly encouraging Marylanders to file during non-peak hours, like early in the morning and late in the evening (8:00 p.m. – 7:00 a.m.), for faster processing speeds.
Our current telephone hours are from Monday through Friday, 7:30 am to 3:30 pm. Beginning Wednesday, April 1st, 2020, our Claims Centers telephone lines will be further extended and open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. To contact a Claim Center, call 410-949-0022.
If you are having difficulty placing a call or accessing our website, claimants can e-mail questions to ui.inquiry@maryland.gov. Employers can e-mail questions to dluiemployerassistance-labor@maryland.gov or contact 410-767-2412. Claims may only be filed by phone or online; claims cannot be filed by email.
If your employment or business has been impacted by the coronavirus, please read our COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions. To learn more about the work search requirement exemption, visit the Work Search FAQs.
If you have questions about filing your weekly claim, please visit our Weekly Claim Certification frequently asked questions.
If you have questions about filing your 1st quarter reports, please read our 1st Quarter Reports FAQs.
Career Builder
https://www.careerbuilder.com/
Indeed
https://www.indeed.com/
https://www.indeed.com/m/jobs?q=Work+At+Home
Monster
https://www.monster.com/
Snagajob
https://www.snagajob.com/
The Daily Record
Who in Maryland is Hiring During COVID-19?
https://thedailyrecord.com/maryland-hiring-covid-19-pandemic/
While many businesses have been forced to shut down during the COVID-19 pandemic, there are some industries that are in need of extra staff. While retail, hospitality and restaurant jobs have been particularly hard hit, jobs in health care and critical retail positions such as grocery stores and drug stores are hiring.
The Daily Record is compiling a list of businesses and industries around Maryland who may be looking to fill jobs at this time. If you have a listing to add email Special Products Editor Patrick Brannan.
- The Maryland Department of Labor has a running list of companies hiring for positionsaround the state.
- In Baltimore, the Mayor’s Office of Employment Development has a list of job openings in a variety of industries.
- The U.S. Postal service is hiring entry-level and career positions. From mail and package delivery to mechanics and custodians there are a variety of positions available. Applications can be found on the USPS website.
- Amazon announced plans to hire around 100,000 warehouse and delivery workers. According to Amazon’s job website, there are several jobs listed at different locations in Maryland.
- CVS is also looking to expand staff across Maryland. According to the company website, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and increased need in health care, it is looking to fill about 32,000 full- and part-time positions.
- 7-Eleven is looking to fill around 20,000 positions at it stores. You can do a search for specific positions here.
- Giant Food is looking to fill positions at it Hanover and Springfield, Virginia facilities.
- Aldi had a list of nearly 170 positions on its website.
- Walmart announced plans to hire around 150,000 temporary workers. You can find a list of positions in Maryland here.
- Lowes is looking to hire seasonal workers too.
- Walgreens is also looking to add workers.
- LinkedIn also has an article with information on who is hiring.
- Lidl opened a regional headquarters and distribution center in Cecil County that will add around 200 full-time jobs.
Don't have enough income to pay your bills or meet your family's needs?
The Maryland Department of Human Resources has the following message on their website.
The Department of Human Services (DHS) recognizes the concerns the nation is facing about the impact of the “Coronavirus (COVID 19)” and, in response, has taken a number of steps to help keep you, our customers, and all members of the DHS family safe and healthy while limiting any impact to our ability to serve you. With this in mind, we are suggesting that you use the myDHR website to apply for benefits, submit changes and to upload any documents that are needed to process your case. If you need further assistance please call the Customer Call Center at 1-800-332-6347.
COVID-19 UPDATE: Effective March 16, 2020, TCA applicants and recipients impacted by COVID-19 and any related closures such as schools, job sites and transportation may be provided with good cause for not completing assigned work requirements. Documentation is not required. This is effective as long as the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) directs Maryland schools to be closed unless otherwise stated.
You can sign on or create an account from their website – https://mydhrbenefits.dhr.state.md.us/dashboardClient/#/home
Once you have created an account you will be able to begin the process of applying for assistance.
Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA), Maryland’s Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) program, provides cash assistance to families with dependent children when available resources do not fully address the family’s needs and while preparing program participants for independence through work.
Eligibility:
- Family must cooperate with child support
- Participate in work activities
- Comply with substance abuse provisions
- Must meet financial and technical eligibility requirements
- Earned and unearned income cannot exceed the benefit level paid for the assistance unit size
Sanctions may be imposed for not complying with program requirements. Families may also file an application for assistance with child care costs.
Where to Apply:
Apply online: Go to https://mydhrbenefits.dhr.state.md.us/ to file your application.
You may also file an application by mail, fax or other electronic means.
Click here for Facts You Should Know about applying for Temporary Cash Assistance, Food Stamps and Medical Assistance.
Filing an application online is the same as filing it in your Local Department of Social Services or Local Health Department. Everything on the application must be true and correct.
Applications submitted after 5 p.m. on a weekday or on a weekend or holiday will be date stamped and effective the next business day.
You have up to 30 days to complete the application process and submit the application to us. You can log in and out of your application as often as you want during these 30 days. After 30 days, all the information you have entered is deleted and you will have to apply again.
Before you click on the submit button you must read the Rights and Responsibilities section and sign the application form. You will be given the option to sign your application electronically.
When you click on the submit button the application goes to the correct Local Department of Social Services or Local Health Department.
Weathering Tough Times from the Maryland Department of Human Services web
http://dhs.maryland.gov/weathering-tough-times/
Many services are offered by DHS that provide assistance and support to families and individuals that need help during these trying times. The list below shows the types of assistance that are available, and each program links to the website information. To apply for these programs, visit myDHR.
Helps low-income households to buy nutritious food.
Provides health benefits for disabled and low-income Marylanders.
Helps low-income Marylanders pay utility and home heating bills.
Temporary Disability Assistance Program
Provides cash assistance to the disabled while their Supplemental Security Income application is being processed.
Provides cash to families with children and helps adults to find employment.
Helps to offset burial expenses for low-income families.
Provides emergency cash assistance to families with children who need emergency help paying rent, utilities or for other emergencies.
A program to supplement Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.
EMERGENCY RESOURCES DURING COVID-19
Family Investment Administration
1-800-332-6347 or https://mydhrbenefits.dhr.stte.md.us
FAQ from the Family Investment https://dhs.maryland.gov/documents/COVID-19/FIA_FAQ_V9.pdf
Family Investment Programs Income Guidelines as of October 2019
Kent County Department of Social Services
410-810-7600
Caller does not have to be a client with Kent County Department of Social Services but can be. Triage is done for the caller’s needs and the information obtained will determine who the next point of contact will be.
Kent County Department of Social Services
410-810-7600
Phone number for intake worker will be left on outgoing message. Intake worker changes daily so if in need, person must call the 7600 number to receive assistance. Caller does not have to be a client with Kent County Department of Social Services but can be. Triage is done for the caller’s needs and the information obtained will determine who the next point of contact will be.
Don't have enough food to feed your family?
Who is providing food assistance in Kent County?
The following food pantries are open.
Chestertown
Kent County Community Pantry
Mill Street near the corner of Mill and High St; 410-778-0550;
Contact: Sue Caswell
Hours of Operation: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10-noon; second
Wednesday of month, 10-noon
Eligibility: During COVID-19 Serving all who come.
Regular criteria:
Must be resident of Kent County and meet income qualifications.
Clients are referred through the Dept of Social Services.
May also be referred by clergy, individuals and organizations such as the
Good Neighbor Fund and the Good Samaritan Group. The Pantry has the
discretion to enter clients into the program.
Safe Environment: Curb-side distribution; food placed on a cart on
the sidewalk while clients wait in cars and then they retrieve the food.
Seventh Day Adventist Church
305 N. Kent Street; 443-988-3886
Contact: Jessie Stant
Hours of Operation: Tuesdays, 10:00 to noon
Eligibility: Md resident and in need of assistance
Safe Environment: Volunteers wear masks and gloves; all areas are sanitized. Bags of groceries are distributed through a walk-up window. As clients register they must line up 6’ apart.
Millington
Millington-Crumpton Food Pantry;
housed at Asbury United Methodist Church
392 Cypress Street; 443-480-0053
Contact: Faye Everett
Hours of Operation: Regular pantry hours are Mondays, 9-noon
Mobile Pantry 7-10 times/year; next Mobile Pantry scheduled for May 19.
Eligibility for Food Pantry: Md resident on some type of assistance such as
medical or fuel assistance
Mobile Pantry – Md resident with photo ID
Safe Environment: Clients must stay in cars; all volunteers wear masks and
gloves and maintain social distancing
Ridgley
St. Martin’s Ministries
14374 Benedictine Lane, Ridgley (The barn) 410-634-2537 ext. 111
Contact: Odette Boyce-Galvez
Hours of Operation: Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 8:30-11:30am;
Wednesday, 6-7:30pm
Eligibility for Food Pantry: Anyone who needs food is eligible
Safe Environment: Following CDC guidelines; curbside pick-up while clients are asked
to stay in vehicles.
Rock Hall
Rock Hall Community Food Pantry
Rock Hall Civic Center 410-639-2351
www.yourrockhall.church/post/rock-hall-food-pantry
Contact: Sue Becker
Hours of Operation: First and third Saturdays of the month thru the
summer; 10-noon
Eligibility for Food Pantry: resident of S. Kent County including Rock
Hall and South of Fairlee
Safe Environment: All volunteers wear masks; distribution is outside.
Worton
Mount Olive African Methodist Episcopal Church
24840 Lambs Meadow Road; 410-778-3328; www.mtoliveamecworton.org
Contact: Rev. Mary Walker
Hours of Operation: Third Friday of the month, 1-3pm
Eligibility: Referral from Md Food Bank
Safe Environment: Volunteers wear face masks; follow all CDC guidelines
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Kent County Public Schools in partnership with Kent County Local Management Board, Social Action Committee for Racial Justice, Sumner Hall, Kent County Government, and Kent Cultural Alliance are supplying free Grab and Go meals (breakfast/lunch/dinner) for anyone 18 years and younger from 11:30 am -1:00 pm at the following locations:
-
Garnet Elementary School
-
Chestertown Landing – bus 11:45 – 12:15
-
Edge of Town – bus 12:15-12:45
-
Brook Meadow Apts II – bus 12:15-12:45
-
Washington Park bus at park 12:00-12:30
-
Galena Elementary School
-
Kennedyville 213/Kennedyville Rd. bus 12:00- 12:30
-
Rock Hall Elementary School
-
Circle Park bus 12:15-12:45
-
Brittany Bay bus 11:45-12:15
-
Fairlee-Baywood Community Room
-
Knight Landing Butlertown 11:30-12:30
-
Millington Town Hall / Alcaldia
-
Betterton FireHouse / Bomberos
-
KC Community Center Worton
-
Quaker Neck Poplar Ave. 12:30
Additional food giveaways are held out of the Kent County Community Center site in Worton as donations allow. Follow Social Action for Racial Justice on Facebook for announcements. Echo Hill Outdoor School is providing supplemental meals for adult family members at the Betterton meal distribution site.
SARJ is delivering grocery bags and frozen prepared meals twice a week to seniors and other homebound/quarantined families. If you need assistance please contact sacracialjustice@gmail.com or call the Kent County Local Management Board at 410-810-2673.”
To learn more about the Social Action Committee for Racial Justice and this initiative please visit their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/groups/KCSocialAction/
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Meals On Wheels is also operating. Call the Amy Lynn Ferris Senior Center to get on the schedule at 410-778-2564.
How do you apply for Food Stamps or SNAP?
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), called the Food Supplement Program (FSP) in Maryland, formerly known as Food Stamps, helps low-income households buy the food they need for good health. Everyone has the right to apply for FSP. Click here to download the Income Guidelines
Applicants must file an application, be interviewed, and meet all financial and technical eligibility factors prior to issuance of FSP benefits. Some people who have little or no money may qualify for Expedited Food Supplement benefits right away. They must have only an interview and verify identity.
Apply online by going to myDHR. In non-COVID-19 times, you could also file an applications with your Local Department of Social Services.
How are local grocery stores helping seniors and others to shop safely?
Acme
Seniors can shop from 7-9 am. They can also shop Instacart by going online to fill out a profile and pay online and they will deliver your groceries or you can pick them up. If you use the Instacart app to let the store know you are outside, they will bring your groceries to you.
Dollar General
Seniors can access the store the first hour the store opens at 7 am.
Redners
Seniors can shop from 6-7:30 am.
Where can you find help with transportation to get food, medicine or other necessities?
Chester River Pharmacy offers home delivery for prescriptions to our patients within a 15 mile radius of the store location. It advertises that prescriptions called in before 2 pm will have same day delivery. Located at 601 Washington Avenue in Chestertown, it is open Monday – Friday from 9 am to 6 pm and on Saturday from 9am to 2pm. Phone: 410-810-3600. Fax: 410-810-3700
Instacart delivers groceries from the Chestertown Acme. Order online and choose delivery or pickup at the store. https://www.instacart.com/store/acme-markets/storefront
Delmarva Transportation/Must Bus is operating a modified service. You must call 410-221-1910 before 12pm the day before you need transportation. They only transport to medical appointments, pharmacy, grocery stores and work.
Want to stay connected to the people you care about while staying at home?
SafeLink Wireless®
SAFELINK WIRELESS® is a program provided by TracFone Wireless, Inc. serving eligible households. To participate in the SAFELINK WIRELESS® service, certain eligibility requirements must be met, which are set by each State where the service is provided. These requirements are based on a person’s participation in state, Federal support programs, or by meeting the Income Poverty Guidelines as defined by the U.S. Government. SAFELINK WIRELESS® service is limited to one person per household.SafeLink is offering unlimited talk and text and an extra 5G of free data to customers as COVID-19 impacts their lives.
You can initiate enrollment process by calling SafeLink Wireless customers service number for enrollment and plan changes support. It is 1-800-Safelink (1-800-723-3546). Furthermore, an applicant can send the application by regular mail to SafeLink Wireless, PO Box 220009, Milwaukie, OR 97269-0009.
https://www.safelinkwireless.com/Enrollment/Safelink/en/Web/www/default/index.html#!/newHome
What is Zoom?
Zoom is a web-based video conferencing tool with a local, desktop client and a mobile app that allows users to meet online, with or without video. Zoom users can catch up with family members in a group or individually, record sessions, collaborate on projects, and create and/or share events with family and friends.
Is there a free version of Zoom?
Zoom offers a full-featured Basic Plan for free with unlimited meetings. Try Zoom for as long as you like – there is no trial period. Your Basic plan has a 40 minutes time limit on meetings with three or more total participants.
Can you use zoom on your phone?
You can join a Zoom meeting via teleconferencing/audio conferencing (using a traditional phone). This is useful when you don’t have a computer or do not have a microphone or speaker on your PC/Mac.
Do I need to download Zoom to join a meeting?
You do not have to have a Zoom account to attend a Zoom meeting or interview. You will be prompted to download the software, once you have clicked on the link that you have been provided. You may also wish to create an account, but that is not required to participate in a Zoom meeting.
How Does It Work?
Joining a Meeting
1. Go to Zoom.us
2. Click the “Join a Meeting” tab. You can find the tab on the top right corner of the homepage
3. When prompted, add your designated Meeting ID (The Meeting ID can be a 9, 10, or 11-Digit number). The Meeting ID should be provided by the host.
4. You’re in!
Start a Meeting
1. Go to Zoom.us
2. Toggle over the “Host a Meeting” tab on the top right hand corner 3. Choose whether you would like to keep video chat on or off
4. Sign in using your login information or create a new account
5. Launch the Zoom application and open
6. Send out the meeting details, including the Meeting ID and/or link 7. You’ve created a meeting!
Sharing Your Screen
1. Zoom allows users to share their screen to the entire conference call! To do so, simply click “Share Screen” at the bottom of the window. Note: Only one person can use screen-share at a time, and one person must “Stop Sharing” before someone else can start sharing.
2. To stop sharing the screen, simply click “Stop Sharing.”
The Zoom Help Center covers many topics to help you set up your computer or phone with the Zoom app, and includes short how to videos. https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/201362033-Getting-Started-on-Windows-and-Mac
Need activities to engage your kids and yourself during this stay at home period?
eLibrary at http://www.kentcountylibrary.org/digital/elibrary.php
The Kent County Public Library has an entire eLibrary that includes newspapers, books, audio books, and so much more. When using the Digital Library, you may be asked to enter your library card number. It is located on the back of your library card. Enter it without spaces or punctuation. If you do not have a library card, you can register for a temporary card here.
There’s a section just for students called For Students, a section for reading and viewing called Read, Listen, & Watch and a section Online Classes, Test Prep, and Career Prep to let you continue learning.
RiverArts sponsors a daily arts activity with things you have around your home. You can find these activities on their FB page at https://www.facebook.com/ChestertownRiverArts/ or by signing up for their daily newsletter called RiverArts Daily Dose on their website at https://chestertownriverarts.org/email-signup-form/.
The Mainstay is curating a playlist of music performances to watch online that will reflect the kind of artistry and joy that shows here bring to our audiences. Some will be video of our own shows, and some of artists that have performed here, and some that we just think are awesome. These shows will be linked on our Facebook page and in our email blasts. If you aren’t already following us on Facebook, you can join us here: https://www.facebook.com/mainstayrockhall/.
The Garfield Center for the Arts is streaming performances on their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/garfieldcenterforthearts.
Echo Hill Outdoor School is sharing fun educational videos on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 2 pm on their Facebook page. Head over there now to watch one of the pre-recorded videos, or tune in for the live presentations. These videos are family friendly and full of great info!
Want an educational scavenger hunt you can do in your own backyard? Here is a biodiversity bingo card! Kids can look around their backyard or local green space and try to find enough biodiversity for bingo.
View one or more of these thirty plus virtual tours of various locations!
Visit PBS and PBS Teaching Materials for ideas on educating children during their time away from school
Sheltering at home during the COVID-19 pandemic means fewer opportunities for kids burn off their boundless energy. Here are some ideas and videos to help kids exercise during this time.
Get outside for a walk, bike, run, skip, whatever.
Set a recurring alarm to do 10 reps of 10 exercises. How about 10 jumping jacks, 10 push-ups, 10 squats, 10 lunges (each side), 10 burpees, 10 tricep dips, 10 glute bridges, 10 single-leg deadlifts (each side), 10 sit-ups, and 10 mountain climbers. There are also a ton of ideas for bodyweight exercises here so you can invent your own routine.
Have scheduled and impromptu dance parties in your kitchen, in the hallway, up the stairs, or wherever. End your day or celebrate finishing a task or a meeting with a three-minute dance party. Play your favorite song and just go for it.
Let the kids help you assemble a backyard obstacle course of items to avoid, dodge, hop over, toss, and balance on. Time their progress and challenge them to beat their times before setting it up a new way.
UNICEF USA has launched UNICEF Kid Power, with dance and yoga videos to keep kids active, and other lessons addressing social emotional skills and helping others. Students work toward goals to unlock therapeutic food packets that UNICEF delivers to a child in need.
Families with young children recommend Cosmic Kids Yoga, which uses colorful backgrounds and popular children’s stories to help keep kids engaged. Find workouts lasting under 15 minutes and longer on its YouTube page.
Older kids love to move to family-friendly versions of today’s pop hits with Kidz Bop Dance Along.
Sick of screen time? When it comes to active play within the house, the possibilities are endless. Crawl on the floor like your favorite animals. Have a jumping jack contest. Use masking tape to draw a triangle, circle, square and rectangle on the floor and have your kids jump from shape to shape. Play musical chairs.
The YMCA of the Chesapeake continues to train their members (and anyone else who is interested) through various sources such as Facebook, Zoom, and the YMCA website. Wendy Palmer, Easton Y’s Associate Executive Director, said: “We want our whole community to be healthy at home, not just Y members.” Their 30-45-minute live stream (and recorded) classes offer a variety of exercises from senior fitness, to yoga, to cardio fusion. And most require no equipment.
eLibrary. http://www.kentcountylibrary.org/digital/elibrary.php
The Kent County Public Library has an entire eLibrary that includes online classes, newspapers, books, audio books, and so much more.
The GALE classes are included under the following categories: Agriculture, Business, Communications and Mass Media, Criminal Justice, Culinary Arts, Diversity Studies, Economics and Theory, Entrepreneurship, Environmental Studies and Policy, Fine Arts, Gardening and Horticulture, Gender Studies, Home Improvement, Hospitality and Tourism, Information Science, Insurance and Liability, Leadership and Management, Military and Intelligence, Nursing and Allied Health, Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine, Popular Magazines, Psychology, Religion and Philosophy, Science, Pop Culture Studies, US History, Vocations and Careers, War and Terrorism and World History.
Alison https://alison.com Free online courses from the world’s leading experts.
Chesapeake College offers online career training programs (https://careertraining.ed2go.com/chesapeake/) as well as online academic courses (https://www.collegefactual.com/colleges/chesapeake-college/academic-life/distance-learning/)
Do you or someone you know need help with addiction or mental health issues?
List of Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Resources
Mid Shore Behavioral Health
Eastern Shore Crisis Response Services
1-888-407-8018
Life Crisis Hotline 410-749-4357
Corsica River Mental Health Services
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services
410-745-8028 or 410-758-2211
Eastern Shore Psychological Services
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services
410-822-5007
Shore Behavioral Health at UMM Shore Regional Health
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services
410-822-1000 x5452
umshoreregional.org/programs/behavioral/services/shore-behavioral-health-outpatient-services
Maryland Coalition of Families
Mid Shore Intergroup (For Zoom meetings)
www.midshoreintergroup.org/meetings
East of the Bay NA
Al-Anon Eastern Shore
SAMHSA’s National Helpline
1-800-662-HELP (4357)
24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service
English / Spanish
Chesapeake Treatment Services
410.822.7150
www.chesapeaketreatmentservices.com
National Institute on Drug Abuse
www.drugabuse.gov/patients-families
Mid Shore Opioid Misuse Prevention Program (OMPP)
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Chat online 24/7
www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org
Maryland Crisis Hotline (211)
Dial 2-1-1, option 1
Text to 898211
Chat online 24/7
The Trevor Project (LGBTQ crisis services)
1-866-488-7386
Text START to 678678
Chat online 24/7
National Crisis Textline
Text HOME to 741741
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention – Maryland Chapter
https://afsp.org/chapter/maryland
Suicide Prevention Resource Center
SAMHSA (U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration)
https://www.samhsa.gov/coronavirus
Stress, anxiety, and other depression-like symptoms are common reactions after a disaster. If you are experiencing current distress and would like to talk to a trained crisis counselor, please call SAMSHA’s Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990. The Helpline is a 24/7, 365-day-a-year, national hotline dedicated to providing immediate crisis counseling for people who are experiencing emotional distress related to any natural or human-caused disaster. This toll-free, multilingual, and confidential crisis support service is available to all residents in the United States and its territories. Call 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.
A few of the helpful documents included on their website:
Considerations for the Care and Treatment of Mental and Substance Use Disorders in the COVID-19 Epidemic: March 20, 2020, Considerations for Outpatient Mental and Substance Use Disorder Treatment Settings, and Opioid Treatment Program (OTP) Guidance (March 16, 2020).
VIRTUAL RECOVERY RESOURCES
Narcotics Anonymous: Bringing Narcotics Anonymous Meetings to Remote or Isolated Addicts from around the world who may, for whatever reason, be unable to attend local face to face meetings.
Alcoholics Annonymous: www.aa.org
Recovery Dharma: https://recoverydharma.org
SMART Recovery: https://www.smartrecovery.org
Celebrate Recovery: https://www.celebraterecovery.com
Seek Healing: https://seekhealing.org
Maryland MidShore Intergroup: https://www.midshoreintergroup.org/meetings
National Suicide Hotline https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/
Community Behavioral Health
844-224-5264 ext. 1
Kent County Behavioral Health
410-778-6404
Eastern Shore Psychological Services – Total Wellness
443-282-0102
Please note, that if transportation is needed it must be discussed during the intake process.
What should I do if I or someone I know is experiencing domestic violence during the quarantine?
MidShore Council on Family Violence https://mscfv.org/
WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE DURING THE QUARANTINE
Step 1: Get Out of Immediate Danger
If you are in an immediate life-threatening situation: CALL 9-1-1. When the police arrive, have them call us at 1-800-927-4673
Step 2: Contact Mid-Shore Council on Family Violence (MSCFV)
Our Hotline Advocates are available 24/7/365 at 1-800-927-4673. If it is not safe to call, you can message us through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. We have Emergency Shelter available and we will partner you with an MSCFV Case Manager who will connect you with other resources
Step 3: Get a Protective Order – We will help you
To get a protective order you need to complete a Petition for Protective Order (CC-DC-DV-001). After you call our hotline you will be partnered with a case manager who will offer assistance toward your plan to seek a protective order.
*UPDATED 3/31/2020* During this time of quarantine, District Court Commissioners Office in the County where the abuse took place is where you need to go to receive the Petition for Protective Order. It is strongly encouraged that you call the Commissioners Office before going there to let them know you are coming and to find out exactly how you get the forms. Phone Numbers for Each County’s Commissioners’ Office are:
Caroline: 410 819 4510
Dorchester: 410-901-1430
Kent: 410-810-3370
Queen Anne’s: 410-819-4010
Talbot: 410-770-6720
When you get the Petition paperwork, you will not be allowed to stay in the courthouse to complete the forms.
· Find a safe location (your vehicle, a bench, a Church, …)
· If you have not contacted our hotline, call us now at 1-800-927-4673
· If you have already contacted our hotline, call your MSCFV Case Manager. They can help you fill out the paperwork over the phone. If you don’t know their number, call us at 1-410-690-3222 and the advocate answering the phone will get a message to the appropriate Case Manager.
STEP 4: Contact MSCFV again
You are not alone. Once you complete and submit the Petition for Protective Order, call your MSCFV Case Manager. They will help you make and work through a plan to leave the violence and create a life in which you can take care of yourself and your family, violence-free. We are here to help you through your entire journey.
Please don’t be discouraged if you don’t get what you want or need right away. The closures are confusing for everyone. We can help walk them through the process. We are here for you, even if it is only through the phone.
For more information, please visit www.mscfv.org, call 410-690-3222, or visit our Facebook Page.
Mid-Shore Council on Family Violence
info@mscfv.org
www.mscfv.org
HOTLINE: 1-800-927-HOPE (4673)
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FOR ALL SEASONS
For All Seasons provides therapy, advocacy, psychiatry, and education to Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne, and Talbot counties. The agency accepts all private insurances, medical assistance, and supports English and Spanish speaking individuals regardless of one’s ability to pay. For All Seasons Rape Crisis Center offers a 24-HR crisis hotline service, certified sexual assault victim advocates, same-day and ongoing counseling services, and hospital, law enforcement and court accompaniment by request of the survivor. Contact 410.822.1018 or forallseasonsinc.org for further information. For the 24-HR confidential crisis hotlines call (English) 410.820.5600 for English Hotline; (Spanish) 410.829.6143. Text available in English or Spanish at 410.829.6143.
For All Seasons continues to have availability for crisis appointments, in-person appointments, teletherapy, and telepsychiatry, as well as 24/7 hotlines during the COVID-19 crisis. Staff is available for both long-term and short-term appointments for anyone in need of support.
According to Beth Anne Langrell, CEO of For All Seasons Behavioral Health and Rape Crisis, “While we are hearing the message ‘stay home and be safe’ every day during this pandemic, what happens when home is not safe? If you or someone you know is a victim of trauma or sexual violence, our 24-hour agency hotlines in English and Spanish offer crisis support and intervention. You can even text now to get help.”
For All Seasons Behavioral Health and Rape Crisis advocates provide free and confidential services – offering guidance, compassion, and information about a survivor’s options, including but not limited to food, emergency shelter, and legal counsel if the client chooses.
During this time of COVID-19, the agency continues to follow safety regulations, as outlined by the CDC, for in-person appointments including – illness screening measures, 20-second handwashing at the entry to all facilities, social distancing guidelines, and increased office sanitation. The offices are open for appointments only.
Need health insurance?
The Maryland Health Connection website at https://www.marylandhealthconnection.gov/# guides you through the process of applying for health insurance. An emergency special enrollment is open through June 15, 2020. The application is available every day from 6:00 am to 11:00 pm. You may apply online at https://www.marylandhealthconnection.gov/ or apply by telephone by calling the Maryland Health Benefits Exchange Consolidated Service Center. The toll free number is (855) 642-8572 or TTY (855) 642-8573. You may also apply at your local health department or local department of social services.
They also provide Information about the following Medical Assistance programs:
Maryland Children’s Health Insurance Program
Maryland Children’s Health Insurance Program (MCHP) uses Federal and State funds to ensure that all Maryland’s children have medical insurance. The program provides full health benefits for children up to age 19, and pregnant women of any age who meet the income guidelines. MCHP provides care through a variety of Managed Care Organizations (MCOs) for:
· Children under age 19, who are not eligible for Medicaid
Pregnant women of any age
· Whose countable income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty level
(or up to 300% of the federal poverty level with a premium)
· Children of employed parents whose employer does not offer family health insurance
(NOTE: Even if you have health insurance, it’s best to apply and let the case manager assigned to your application
determine your eligibility)
To apply, complete an application and provide the requested information. You may apply online at https://www.marylandhealthconnection.gov/ or apply by telephone by calling the Maryland Health Benefits Exchange Consolidated Service Center. The toll free number is (855) 642-8572 or TTY (855) 642-8573.
Medicaid
Medicaid, also called Medical Assistance (MA) pays the medical bills of needy and low-income individuals. It is administered by the State and pays medical bills with Federal and State funds. You may apply online at myDHR (https://mydhrbenefits.dhr.state.md.us).
Medicare Buy-In Program
Medicare Buy-In Program also known as QMB (Qualified Medicare Beneficiary) and SLMB (Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary) is designed to protect low-income Medicare beneficiaries from the costs of Medicare coverage, including out-of-pocket cost sharing expenses (deductibles and co–payments).
QMB (Qualified Medicare Beneficiary) Program serves individuals with modest assets (up to $7,280 per individual or $10,930 per couple) with combined incomes that do not go over 100 percent of the federal poverty level. The State Medicaid program pays their Medicare Part B premiums and cost-sharing amounts.
SLMB (Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary) Program pays only the Part B premium for those with incomes between 100 and 120 percent of poverty with assets up to $4,000 per individual or $6,000 per couple.
Long Term Care Medical Assistance
Long Term Care Medical Assistance (LTC), is designed to cover the cost of nursing home care for low income individuals who meet eligibility requirements, including a look back at resources in the five years prior to application. Applications for LTC may be filed online at https://mydhrbenefits.dhr.state.md.us/ or mailed to your local health department or local department of social services.
Forms
You can download the following forms from the US Dept. of Health and Human Services website.
Download the Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB) Application form.
Download the Long Term Care/Waiver Medical Assistance (LTC) Application form.
Download the Long Term Care (LTC) Redetermination Application form.
Do you or your family have symptoms of COVID-19?
Queen Anne’s County has partnered with the other mid shore counties (Talbot, Caroline, Kent and Dorchester) to establish an alternate testing site at Chesapeake College, located at 100 College Circle, Wye Mills, MD 21679, which started on March 20, 2020. This testing site was set up to relieve the local hospitals and emergency rooms. While test supplies are available, the drive-thru service will be available on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 10am – 2pm only. Please use the entrance from Rt. 662 to enter the rear of the college premises, and follow all traffic guidelines provided.
Patients are only being tested after a referral by their primary care physician. Any person who is experiencing significant health issues should contact their primary care physician for medical guidance. If the primary care physician decides the person could have a COVID-19 test, they will write them a referral.
Testing Site Information https://www.chesapeake.edu/coronavirus..
Grasonville Urgent Care for Kent County. Kent County COVID-19 Call Center is available on M – F, 8 AM – 6 PM at 410-778-1350.
For 24/7 COVID-19 information, you can call the Maryland Call Center line by dialing 2-1-1. You can also call the University of Maryland’s Nurse Call line at 1-888-713-0711.
If you have a medical emergency, you can go to the Emergency Room at the University of Maryland Medical Center at Chester River Hospital. You can call ahead to 410 778 3300.
For 24/7 COVID-19 information, you can call the Maryland Call Center line by dialing 2-1-1. You can also call the University of Maryland’s Nurse Call line at 1-888-713-0711.
Kent County COVID-19 Call Center is available M – F, 8 AM – 6 PM at 410-778-1350
COVID-19 is a highly contagious disease of the lungs. Symptoms include fever, cough and shortness of breath. COVID-19 is spread by contact with an infected person, usually through coughing and sneezing or between people who are in close contact with one another (within 6 feet). It is also possible that a person can become infected by touching a surface or an object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose and possibly eyes. COVID-19 is a new virus in humans; most people have little or no immunity. For comprehensive and updated information, click on the Kent County Health Department, Maryland State or CDC websites below or call the COVID-19 Call Center at 419 778-1350.
http://kenthd.org/covid-19/ Kent County Health Department
shttps://coronavirus.maryland.gov Maryland website for coronavirus
https://phpa.health.maryland.gov/Documents/coronavirus_FAQ.pdf Maryland Health Department Coronavirus FAQs
https://www.cdc.gov U.S. Center for Disease Control
This is what you should have in your COVID-19 emergency kit
Published: April 9, 2020 at 9:19 a.m. ET
It’s easy to feel helpless during this shutdown — as if we’re just waiting around for the coronavirus to come knocking — but, pressing pause on your binge-watching and boredom-eating agenda for a minute, it might be a good idea to put together something like this COVID-19 emergency kit:
- · Detergent
- · Paper towels
- · Face masks/gloves
- · Hand sanitizer
- · Cough drops
- · Acetaminophen
- · Thermometer
- · Pulse oximeter
- · Chicken soup
- · Gatorade
- · Avocados
- · Bananas and apples
- · Honey
Those are just a sampling of the staples — some obvious, others not so much — that doctors across the country say we should have on hand to treat a coronavirus patient at home, according to a much-discussed Wall Street Journal rundown last week.
The first step, of course, is to isolate the patient with their own stash of cleaning supplies. “At the top of my wish list would be an extra bedroom with an attached bathroom. That’s the ideal scenario,” Columbia University’s David Buchholz told the Journal. “If you have a one-bedroom apartment, the sick person gets the bedroom. That’s key. They can’t leave, and nobody can enter.” If they must leave their room, they should wear a mask, as should anyone entering, he said.
In terms of drugstore needs, over-the-counter cold medicines and a thermometer are necessities. Doctors also recommend a pulse oximeter, which can be bought at pharmacies and other retailers, to monitor heart rate and blood-oxygen levels to make sure the lungs are working correctly.
As for food and drink, chicken soup is a good choice, as are nutrient-rich foods like avocados, bananas and apples. Throw some Gatorade in there, too, just make sure to cut it with half-water, per doctor’s orders. Also, honey can help soothe a sore throat. Accordion Content
How to make your own face mask – Surgeon General https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=tPx1yqvJgf4&feature=youtu.be
How to make a face mask with Sanjay Gupta https://www.cnn.com/videos/health/2020/04/10/dr-sanjay-gupta-diy-make-mask-demo-town-hall-vpx.cnn
Want to make progress toward buying a Kent Attainable house while you are staying at home?
To meet your eight hours of financial literacy classes, you can take any of the following classes online. You just need to keep a record of the name of each workshop or class you take, the date(s) you took them, and the amount of time you spent on each date taking the workshop or class to verify your hours and send to Lani Seikaly at laniseikaly@me.com.
13 Free Classes to Help You Manage Your Personal Finances (Like an Adult)
BB&T Banking for Your Success https://www.bbt.com/about-us/community/financial-knowledge/bank-on-your-success.html
You will need to register to get access to this class.
We will also be hosting some Zoom training meetings that will meet your financial classes commitment.
You can also take an online first time homebuyer’s class to partially satisfy your certification requirements. After taking the class you will have to schedule a session with Joyce Van Zile, housing counselor for Cecil County Department of Housing, who will complete the certification process.
The Maryland Mortgage Program website shares the following information. https://mmp.maryland.gov/Pages/Homebuyer-Education.aspx
Homebuyer education, sometimes called housing or pre-purchase counseling, helps homebuyers prepare for purchasing a home and the many new challenges of being a homeowner. Homebuyer education can be any class approved by HUD, Fannie Mae, or Freddie Mac, as long as it meets the insurer and master servicer requirements. Completing homebuyer education and counseling is a requirement of buying a Kent Attainable Housing home as well as loans from many lenders.
There are several online providers of homebuyer education courses. Note that some providers charge a fee for participating. During the Coronavirus, in person classes have been cancelled. However, these online classes on the MMP website will meet the requirements of many of the lenders.
- Arch MI (HUD & Freddie Mac approved) (Source Code: Arch MI) (Applicant needs to be referred by the lender to enroll in this course.)
- Framework (FNMA Approved, available in Spanish)
- Genworth (FNMA Approved, available in Spanish)
- Housing Options & Planning Enterprises, Inc. (HOPE) (HUD Approved)
- Mortgage Guaranty Insurance Corporation (MGIC) (Freddie Mac Approved, available in Spanish)
If you are receiving funds from another source, you must meet any requirements established by that funding source. Note that some classes have registration costs
Homebuyer Education: In-Person Classes
Kent Attainable Housing is working with Joyce van Zile, housing counselor for the Cecil County Housing Agency. She is located at the Cecil County Housing Department in Elkton at 200 Chesapeake Blvd., Suite 1800. Her phone number is 410 996-8216.
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You can work on your required budget by completing the Making a Budget worksheet and the Defining What is Affordable for You worksheet and email them to Lani Seikaly at laniseikaly@me.com.
You can also work on improving your credit score. Credit reports may affect your mortgage rates, credit card approvals, apartment requests, or even your job application. Federal law allows you to get a free copy of your credit report every 12 months from each credit reporting company. Free credit reports ensure that the information on all of your credit reports is correct and up to date and gives you an idea of what you need to be working on. The following links are to credit reporting companies.
Annual Credit Report – Source for your free credit reports
https://www.annualcreditreport.com/index.action
Experian
https://www.experian.com/contact/personal-services-contacts.html
Equifax
https://www.equifax.com/personal/
TransUnion
Credit Karma
Where can I get information on the Maryland Courts during the Coronavirus?
The Maryland Courts Self-Help Center is fully operational, providing brief legal advice on all civil matters for any Marylander. They are available 8:30 am – 8:00 p.m. Monday. Folks can call 410-260-1392 or visit www.mdcourts.gov/selfhelp to chat directly with a lawyer.
Maryland Law Help is a free mobile app that connects Maryland citizens with legal information on their smartphones and tablets. The app brings together tools and resources developed by the Maryland Judiciary and others to help Marylanders use the courts or find legal help. https://www.mdcourts.gov/legalhelp/mobileapp
Statement from the Maryland Judiciary on Matters Concerning Children & Families
With schools closed and courthouses restricting operations to reduce exposure to COVID-19, custodians who live apart might be confused about changing family situations and their court orders. This statement is intended to clarify concerns you may have regarding these matters.
Custody and Parenting Time:
All court orders for a child’s custody, parenting time, and child support are still in effect. In some situations, if permitted under the court order, custodians can jointly adjust their shared parenting responsibilities in ways that they agree are best for the children. If custodians are not able to agree, the court order controls.
Child Support:
You must continue to pay your child support as ordered. If you have questions or need help, whether you are paying or receiving child support, please call the Department of Human Services’ Customer Call Center at 1-800-332-6347.
Protective Orders, Peace Orders, and Extreme Risk Protective Orders (ERPO):
Pursuant to Maryland Court of Appeals Chief Judge Mary Ellen Barbera’s Administrative Order issued March 25, 2020, all new protective, peace, and extreme risk protective order (ERPO) petitions will be handled by commissioners.
Interim Orders remain in effect until action is taken by the court.
Maryland Courts Self-Help Centers:
Working with limited staff, the Circuit Courts are only hearing family law emergencies (custody, child access, visitation, and support) where there is a credible risk of imminent and substantial physical or emotional harm to a child or parent.
If you are in need of protection and are seeking a peace or protective order, or an ERPO, call the District Court Commissioner in your county or Baltimore City. Your request will be heard. Call first to provide information and for instructions on where to go.
Maryland courts are currently closed to the public; however, the courts will continue to hear certain types of emergency matters. Most courthouses are operating with essential staff only and are experiencing high call volumes. Please take time to review the information on this page before calling a specific court. The information on this page is subject to change. https://www.mdcourts.gov/coronavirusinformationforpublic
