Everyday at work, I hear a lot from constituents in our community who are really struggling, are concerned and looking for answers. Each day this week, I’m going to post about one of the topics I hear the most about, with the best resources I have to help. And if anyone has specific issues, please directly reach out to me.
I still get calls from constituents who are struggling to get their basic needs met. The loss of jobs, uncertain economy and other unknowns is truly a burden on our families, neighbors and friends. Here is a list of resources available that I hope can be helpful. As always – please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have a specific issue.
A very good first stop for many needs including housing, food and healthcare- please contact our local 211 help line, you can find information online: 211lifeline.org Dial 211 or 1-877-356-9211.
Healthcare:If you lose your job and no longer have health insurance, you can sign up for the NY marketplace. And you may be eligible for many low cost plans for children and families: https://nystateofhealth.ny.gov.If you don’t have an insurance plan or can’t afford to use yours, St. Joseph’s Neighborhood Center provides basic healthcare needs to residents in the community. https://www.sjncenter.org or call (585) 325-5260.
Broadband issues: if you or you children don’t have access to online classes for school, let me know. There are resources to help.
Food: Food distribution sites across the county can be found here on Foodlink’s website: foodlinkny.org/where-to-find-foodlinks-emergency-food-supp…/
Housing: If you are struggling with housing needs, please do call 211 first. If you’re looking for additional information, you can find that on the Catholic Family Charities website here:https://www.cfcrochester.org/…/empowering-the-vul…/shelters/
Domestic Violence: If you or someone you know is currently in a dangerous living situation, do not hesitate to contact the Willow Center, even if you just want more information: www.willowcenterny.org/covid-19/.
They also have a free and confidential 24/7 Hotline (585) 222-7233/ Text Line (585) 348-7233.
As always – residents can find all the information you need about other benefits by visiting the City of Rochester and Monroe County’s website:
City of Rochester: https://www.cityofrochester.gov/coronavirus/
Monroe County: https://www2.monroecounty.gov/hs-COVID-19