Community Resources During COVID-19
As the country and the union are trying to navigate a global pandemic, we want to informally collect a list of organizations that are working to get food, health care, guidance, etc. to our communities.
This resource is intended to connect people who need help with information, or give ideas on where to donate money, goods or time if you want to help. Check out our USW Guide for Successful Community Service and be sure to share your photos on social media with the #USWCares hashtag. Also, be sure to visit our USW COVID-19 resource page for additional information.
As a disclaimer, we do not endorse and cannot verify these orgnaizations or programs, we just want to share information about groups that are there to help. If you know of a group, program, or organization helping to provide reources in your community, please fill out the form at the bottom of this page to let us know and we'll add it to this list.
FOOD
A national database of food pantries
Aunt Bertha – The Social Care Network
Aunt Bertha’s network connects people seeking help and verified social care providers that serve them. Since navigating the system to get help is difficult, time consuming and frustrating, Aunt Bertha created a social care network that connects people and programs – making it easier for people to find social services in their communities, for nonprofits to coordinate their efforts, and for customers to integrate social care into the work they already do.
The Aunt Bertha website, allows people to search for free or reduced cost services like medical care, food, job training and more. You just need to enter your zip code and select the type of service you are looking for.
GOVERNMENT / UNEMPLOYMENT
Federal and State Resources from the AFL-CIO
HOUSING / FINANCIAL
National Homeless Shelter Database
Housing Assistance from Just Shelter
UNITED WAY
Our union and many others have partnered with the United Way for years to provide funding for community service across the country. United Way’s 211 is the best way to get connected to help in your area: http://www.211.org or dial 211 on your phone. Note: If you hear of the United Way offering financial assistance in your area, you must connect with your local chapter to apply. Find a United Way chapter near you: https://www.unitedway.org/find-your-united-way
MENTAL HEALTH AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE
EAP
In these tough times, many people may be struggling with mental health and/or substance abuse issues. We know the stress of having to work in the midst of a pandemic or suddenly being forced out of work can take its toll. Many of our union contracts have bargained Employee Assistance Programs with their employers. These vary by workplace so check with your employer or local union for specifics.
The EAP Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration has a Disaster Distress Hotline that can be reached at 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746. People with deafness or hearing loss can use their preferred relay service to call 1-800-985-5990. More information can be found at https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline.
PsychHub - COVID-19 Mental Health Resource Hub
PyschHub has created a free digital hub for individuals, healthcare professionals, educational institutions, veterans, mental health providers, community supporters and employers to cope with the stress resulting from COVID-19. This hub brings together a variety of resources to help those in need cope with social isolation, job loss and mental health issues.
60 Digital Resources for Mental Health
If you’re a Veteran of Steel, check out our webpage for special COVID-19 resources for you.
OTHER RESOURCES
CNN has put together this interactive guide to find out how to help or get help in a variety of ways.