Mark Luigi Dacumos
It’s been almost a year since COVID-19 made its appearance. And even if you had an emergency fund with the recommended three to six months’ worth of expenses, that’s probably gone by now.
Depending on your work, you still may find it hard to earn an income. Does that mean that your bills stop coming in, though? Of course not, and they need to be paid while your family needs a roof over its head and food on the table.
As we wait for the possibility of stimulus checks in the future, here are some resources you can contact right now that may be able to give you the assistance you need. If one avenue doesn’t work, try the rest in the list. Remember to ask those you speak with if they know of any other forms of assistance related to COVID-19.
Don’t be afraid or embarrassed to use these resources either. Getting help can reduce stress, which can prevent costly problems down the line.
The Salvation Army
Helping others in times of need is nothing new for the Salvation Army. Over the years, they’ve assisted the most vulnerable via food and shelter, and they’re still doing the same.
Although their methods have been tweaked a bit due to the coronavirus’ calls for social distancing, masking, etc., you can still count on the Salvation Army for help. Will you find them operating homeless shelters and soup kitchens as always? Maybe not, but you can contact your nearest Salvation Army to see if they provide things like to-go boxes of food, meal delivery, emotional support video calls, and more.
Modest Needs
Like the Salvation Army, Modest Needs offers help to those who need it most. However, they do it in a bit of a different way as they provide grants to people who need help with housing, finding food, paying bills, etc.
To see how Modest Needs can help you from financial issues caused by the coronavirus pandemic, go here.
211
This three-digit phone number has been used by many to find assistance during emergencies. Whatever you need, a quick call to 211 can connect you with an operator who will tell you where to find help locally.
You can use 211 for assistance with everything under the sun. If you need help with food, finding affordable housing, getting healthcare, or assistance with bill paying, they can point you in the right direction.
To learn more about what 211 has to offer, click here or simply dial the number on your phone.
Food Banks
This form of popular food assistance was significantly impacted by COVID-19 in a negative way. Social distancing makes it harder to run a food bank, and many volunteers had to stop working.
Luckily, you can still find food banks in your area by searching online. Depending on your location, you may not be able to visit the food bank in person. You can still get supplies, however, through emergency food boxes or pickup service.
To see a massive list of food banks across the U.S., visit Feeding America.
