COVID-19 Resource Guide - Northwell Health
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Northwell Health Community Health & Social Last Updated: 4/16/2020 Medicine (CHASM) COVID-19 Resource Guide COVID-19 Resource Guide 1
Northwell Health
Community Health & Social Last Updated 4/16/2020
Medicine (CHASM)
Table of Contents
Purpose Statement……………………………………………………………………………………………………….Page 3
Mental Health and Healthcare……………………………………………………………………………………….Page 4
Accessing Food in Your Community.………………………………………………………………………………Page 5-6
Housing Resources……………………………………………………………………………………………………….Page 7-8
Financial Resources………………………………………………………………………………………………………Page 9-10
Education…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….Page 11
Internal Northwell Resources………………………………………………………………………………………..Page 12
Additional Resources…………………………………………………………………………………………………….Page 13-14
Sample Housing Letter………………………………………………………………………………………………….Page 15
Contributors…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………Page 16
COVID-19 Resource Guide 2
Northwell Health
Community Health & Social Last Updated 4/16/2020
Medicine (CHASM)
Purpose Statement
This guide was created to provide individuals and practitioners, in need of community resources,
during the COVID-19 pandemic. The resources and information listed in this guide are not intended
to be a substitute for professional medical or legal advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the
advice of your primary care provider, other qualified health provider or attorney. The resources listed
in this guide are not comprehensive and the not all individuals will meet the eligibility criteria for
these resources. Please confirm with each resource to ensure eligibility and availability. These
resources were last updates on the date listed in header. Due to the fast-changing nature of the
COVID-19 pandemic we are working to ensure this guide is as accurate and up-to-date as possible.
COVID-19 Resource Guide 3
Northwell Health
Community Health & Social Last Updated 4/16/2020
Medicine (CHASM)
NYC Well, a New York State-
Mental Health confidential 24/7 helpline,
Support staffed trained counselors.
Office of Mental
Offered in over 200 Health Emotional
These are uncertain times
that have no doubt caused
languages. Support Hotline
stressed, anxiety, and Call: 888-NYC-WELL Free & confidential support for
turned our lives and daily (888-692-9355) those experiencing increased
routines upside down. It’s anxiety due to COVID-19.
okay to ask for help, in Text: “WELL” to 65173
fact it helps to have Chat: NYC.gov/nycwell Call: 1-844-863-9314
someone to talk to.
Self-Care Tip
It is well known that exercise is beneficial for
both our physical and mental health. During
this time, try an at-home workout on YouTube
or get a free trial on many fitness apps like,
Daily Burn.
Healthcare
Being able to access healthcare during a public-health crisis is key to ensuring overall
wellness and continued health.
Free/Low-Cost Health Care
NYC Care provides low-cost or free healthcare for all New Yorkers regardless of ability to pay or immigration status. This
is not an insurance plan.
Call the 24-hour NYC Care service at 646-NYC-CARE (646-692-3373) to enroll and make an appointment.
Primary care, specialty, and emergency services (including hospital stays) are all available for NYC Care members. For
help in other languages, visit https://www.nyccare.nyc/
Need to apply for health insurance?
Visit the NYS Marketplace and file for health insurance. To apply, visit nystateofhealth.ny.gov, or call 855-355-5777.
Have you recently lost your healthcare insurance? Resources: Odia Gibson – Fidelis Care, 516-272-6841. Vilma
Kaplan (Spanish speaking)--Fidelis Care, 516-419-1644. Amparo Amaya – Healthfirst, aamaya@healthfirst.org, 646-761-
4217.
Immigration Concerns?
How does seeking medical care affect those concerned about Public Charge? On 3/3/20 USCIS stated that
seeking or using healthcare services related to COVID-19 will not be considered under the public charge rule, Even if the
services are Medicaid-funded. Visit: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/immigrants/index.page
COVID-19 Resource Guide 4
Northwell Health
Community Health & Social Last Updated 4/16/2020
Medicine (CHASM)
How to access
food in your
community
Where Can I Find Food? “I think that food ties us to
New York City our community and our
Ensuring you and your family has access to healthful foods is critical.
traditions, and it’s the
If you need emergency food assistance, call the Emergency Food
Hotline at 866-888-8777 or call 311.
thing that makes us feel
"Grab and go" meals available now for all New Yorkers at Meal Hubs.
good and connected”
Children and families can pick up all 3 meals Monday through Friday, – Kathy Freston
7:30 am-11:30 am Adults from 11:30 am-1:30 pm. No registration, ID,
or documentation required. Text “NYC Food” or “NYC Comida” to 877-
877 to learn more.
City Harvest- Find food pantries in your area. Visit:
www.maps.nyc.gov/foodhelp
NYC Food Delivery Assistance- NYC is providing assistance during the COVID-19 crisis by delivering meals to
those who cannot access food themselves. You must meet the below criteria in order to be eligible:
No members of the household can go out and get food because they are at increased medical risk or
homebound
No neighbors or family members can go out and get food for you
Do not receive meal assistance from other providers (incl. Meals on Wheels or God's Love We Deliver); and
You are unable to afford meal delivery or grocery delivery
If you meet the above criteria, you may place an order for meals every 48 hours. Orders cannot be placed between the
hours of 11 am Friday and 11 am Saturday. Deliveries will not be made on Sundays. Each order will contain two days
of meals (4 meals per person the household, cannot exceed more than 8 meals per delivery). To access this program
please call 311 or set up an online account at:
https://cv19engagementportal.cityofnewyork.us/#/display/5e7555117ad6750216160409.
SNAP Recipients- Just a reminder that recertification’s are postponed. You will receive a letter at a later date
informing you of when you will need to recertify. In the interim, your benefits will continue as usual. Lastly, you can
use your EBT card at online retailers like, ShopRite, Amazon (Fresh and Prime Pantry), and Walmart. These retailers
may also have grocery delivery options.
COVID-19 Resource Guide 5
Northwell Health
Community Health & Social Last Updated 4/16/2020
Medicine (CHASM)
Food Resources
WIC Recipients- WIC is not suspending any eWIC cards, although there are scams online stating this. You can
check your WIC benefit balance by: Checking W I C2 G o, th e mo b il e a p p . Calling the eWIC card Customer
Service at: 8 44- 54 0- 303 1 or visit: w ic con n ect .co m
Long Island
Island Harvest- food bank is a lifeline for Long islanders struggling during this public health crisis. If you are in
need of food assistance please contact: 631-873-4775 or visit: www.islandharvest.org
United Way of Long Island- UNITED TOGETHER: A Response Fund for COVID-The Fund will help eligible
applicants meet their critical basic needs of food and household supplies. Text “HelpNow” to 313131 or call 211
(outside of LI call: 1-888-774-7633).
Additional Food Resources
Imperfect Foods- Food delivery and subscription service. “No one should be priced out of good food” If you meet
income qualifications for SNAP, you are eligible for their Reduced Cost Box Program, which takes 33% off the cost of
your order. Visit: www.imperfectfoods.com
Umbrella- Folks aged 60+ can request a “contact-less” delivery of groceries and medicines. A volunteer will pick
up the items and deliver them to you. Membership fees are currently waived. Visit: www.askumbrella.com or call
844-402-2480.
Plentiful (app) - Plentiful is a free, easy-to-use reservation system for food pantries and the people they serve. Use
Plentiful to find pantries and get the food you need, without waiting in line. Text “FOOD” to 726-879 (PANTRY).
Modified shopping times- Many stores are adopting modified shopping times for seniors and those who are
immune compromised. Contact your local store to see when these times/days are offered.
COVID-19 Resource Guide 6
Northwell Health
Community Health & Social Last Updated 4/16/2020
Medicine (CHASM)
Housing
Intimate Partner Violence
Are you sheltering with someone who hurts you? You have options.
If you are in immediate danger please call 911.
If you reside in NYC and are in need of help, please call 311, to be connected to the nearest NYC Family Justice Center.
You may also call NYC’s 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-621-HOPE (1-800-621-4673) for immediate safety
planning, shelter assistance, and other resources. For more information please visit:
https://www1.nyc.gov/site/ocdv/get-help/get-help.page
If you reside on Long Island please contact, The Safe Center LI 24/7 hotline at, 516-542-0404 or visit:
https://tscli.org/
Rental Tenants
Do you have questions about a pending eviction?
In New York City evictions have been postponed for 90 days until June 15th (at least). The CARES Act also suspends
foreclosures and foreclosure-related eviction actions.
In Nassau and Suffolk Counties, there have been a temporary stop on eviction actions and enforcement proceedings by the
Sheriff.
Need assistance with rent?
For more assistance, Homebase will help you develop a personalized plan to overcome an immediate housing crisis and
achieve housing stability. You may be eligible for Homebase services if you: Are at imminent risk of entering the New York
City shelter system, are low-income, and/or want to remain stably housed in your community. Please visit:
https://www1.nyc.gov/site/hra/help/homebase.page
Rental Assistance-receive assistance with rental arrears.
NYC residents: Call 311 or visit: https://a069-access.nyc.gov/accesshra/
New York State residents can apply for rental assistance by requesting assistance from the Office of Temporary
and Disability Assistance. Applications can be made online at otda.ny.gov.
COVID-19 Resource Guide 7
Northwell Health
Community Health & Social Last Updated 4/16/2020
Medicine (CHASM)
Housing
Is your apartment in need of emergency repairs?
If you need emergency repairs, contact your landlord to make arrangements to make the necessary repairs. If your
landlord does not respond to a verbal request. Contact your landlord in writing (via text or email) requesting the
repair. Under the PAUSE Order, electricians and plumbers are listed as essential workers. Other related
construction firms and professionals essential infrastructure or for emergency repairs and safety purposes are also
able to work during this time.
If your landlord ignores your request or illegally locks you out of you apartment, the courts will handle emergency
applications.
In New York City, you should call the Emergency Housing Court Hotline (212) 962-4795 Monday – Friday 9am-
5pm.
In Nassau County, you should call the Emergency contact number for District Court Civil (516) 493-4113 during
business hours. In Suffolk County, you can call (631) 852-1461 or (631) 852-1462. After hour’s questions or need to
start a case, call 1-833-503-0447.
Have you tested positive for COVID-19?
If you were diagnosed with COVID-19, your landlord is not permitted discriminate against you by attempting to evict
you or ask you to leave for having COVID-19.
If you are facing discrimination and harassment by your landlord you can fill out a report on the NYC Commissions
on Human Rights website. New York State Coronavirus Hotline: 888-364-3065, Nassau County
Coronavirus Hotline: 516-227-9570, New York City Coronavirus Hotline: 311, Suffolk County
Coronavirus Hotline: 311
Home Owners
FHA Loans- are currently eligible for mortgage assistance. If you unable to pay your mortgage contact your loan servicer
to discuss alternate payment options. Under the CARES Act, lenders holding federally backed mortgages can suspend
borrowers’ payments for up to 12 months if you lost income due to the coronavirus. You will not be charged late fees or
negative reports reported to credit bureaus. Please confirm with your lender about how suspended payments will become
due in the future.
Conventional Loans- Contact your lender to discuss payment options that may be available to you. Non-federally
backed loan servicers usually adopt policies similar to those mandated by the CARES Act.
COVID-19 Resource Guide 8
Northwell Health
Community Health & Social Last Updated 4/16/2020
Medicine (CHASM)
Financial
Unemployment
Currently, the 7-day waiting period for unemployment insurance benefits has been suspended if you are applying for
unemployment due to COVID-19 closures or quarantine. There are also extended filing hours by phone please call,
888-469-7365. Unemployment Insurance has also been expanded due to COVID-19. Be sure to check eligibility for
new benefits.
Please visit: https://www1.nyc.gov/assets/em/downloads/pdf/coronavirus/covid-19-unemployment-health-
insurance.pdf
For more information on the CARES Act: https://labor.ny.gov/ui/cares-act.shtm
Finances
The Coronavirus Financial Impact Loan Program provides interest-free loans of $2,000-$5,000 to
residents of New York City’s five boroughs, Westchester, or Long Island who are facing financial challenges caused
by the Coronavirus outbreak. These loans are intended to address:
Lost wages due to being unable to go to work
Child care costs due to school closures
Small business losses
Related medical costs.
For more information please visit, https://hfls.org/loan-programs/coronavirusfinancialimpactloan/
Bank Fees- Many banks are waiving overdraft and late fees. Many banks are also offering deferment on loan
payments. Contact your bank to see what options are available to you and your family.
Credit Card/Consumer Debt- each lender has their own strategy for how they are supporting their clients at this
time. To find out more information on how they may be able to assist please contact your individual lender.
COVID-19 Resource Guide 9
Northwell Health
Community Health & Social Last Updated 4/16/2020
Medicine (CHASM)
Federal Stimulus Plan for COVID-19 (CARES Act)
The $2 trillion relief bill will send money directly to Americans, greatly expand unemployment coverage and make a
number of other changes. To understand your eligibility for these benefits it’s important to read through the below
articles.
Here are some answers to common questions regarding the CARES Act:
Stimulus Payments
1. How large will the payments be? Most adults will get $1,200, although some would get less. For every
qualifying child age 16 or under, the payment will be an additional $500.
2. How do I know if I will get the full amount? It depends on your income. Single adults with Social
Security numbers who have an adjusted gross income of $75,000 or less will get the full amount. Married
couples with no children earning $150,000 or less will receive a total of $2,400. And taxpayers filing as head
of household will get the full payment if they earned $112,500 or less.
3. When will the payment arrive? Many Americans will receive their payment by April 15th, 2020 (tax day).
The IRS has launched a “where’s my payment” tool to check the status of your payment. Visit:
https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/get-my-payment. For those who have not filed their 2018 or 2019 taxes
(non-filers) you can enter your bank information to receive your payment electronically by visiting:
https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/non-filers-enter-payment-info-here. This may allow your payment to be
delivered faster than a paper check.
4. Expanded Unemployment Benefits
1. Who will be covered by the expanded program? The plan wraps in far more workers than are
usually eligible for unemployment benefits, including self-employed people and part-time workers. The
bottom line: Those who are unemployed, are partly unemployed or cannot work for a wide variety of
coronavirus-related reasons will be more likely to receive benefits.
2. How much will I receive? It depends on your state. Benefits will be expanded in an attempt to replace
the average worker’s paycheck. The average worker earns about $1,000 a week, and unemployment
benefits often replace roughly 40 to 45 percent of that. The expansion will pay an extra amount to fill the
gap. Under the plan, eligible workers will get an extra $600 per week on top of their state benefit.
3. Are gig workers, freelancers and independent contractors covered? Yes, self-employed people
are newly eligible for unemployment benefits.
For more information read: https://www.cnn.com/2020/03/25/politics/stimulus-package-details-
coronavirus/index.html
Also read: https://www.nytimes.com/article/coronavirus-stimulus-package-questions-answers.html
Financial Tip
Having difficulties paying for your utilities?
Contact your local provider (Con Edison, PSE&G
etc.) to ask about payment assistance during
COVID-19. You may be eligible to enroll in a
payment plan or receive an extension.
COVID-19 Resource Guide 10Northwell Health
Community Health & Social Last Updated 4/16/2020
Medicine (CHASM)
Education
Need assistance getting access to the internet? Receive free Spectrum Broadband Internet +Wi-Fi for 60
days. Households with K-12 students who do not currently have a Spectrum Subscription are eligible. No installation
fees. To sign up please call, 844-488-8395.
Free Online University Courses:
John Hopkins University offers free course in Epidemiology- This free Teach-Out is for anyone who has
been curious about how we identify and measure outbreaks like the COVID-19 epidemic and wants to
understand the epidemiology of these infections. To enroll visit: https://www.coursera.org/learn/covid19-
epidemiology/
Harvard University free online courses: https://online-learning.harvard.edu/catalog
Yale University free online courses: https://oyc.yale.edu/courses
The Metropolitan Opera- Each day, a different encore presentation from the company’s Live in HD series is
being made available for free streaming on the Met website. The schedule will include outstanding complete
performances from the past 14 years of cinema transmissions, starring all of opera’s greatest singers. Visit:
https://www.metopera.org/
Bronx Zoo- Follow WCS Education on Instagram for live classes for children and additional resources for teachers
on wildlife conservation and STEM.
Highlights Kids- Find tons of activities, printables, videos and more ideas to keep your family active. Visit:
https://www.highlightskids.com
PBS Kids- Is your child’s school closed due to coronavirus concerns? PBS KIDS’ new weekday newsletter offers
activities and tips you can use to help kids play and learn at home. To learn more visit: https://pbskids.org
Khan Academy- As a mission-focused non-profit, Khan Academy is working to ensure students keep learning
amidst the school closures. Khan Academy also wants to support teachers and parents to the best of their ability as
we navigate this crisis together. The website has self-paced, interactive content--exercises, videos and articles--for
students in every grade and in most major subject areas. It is all free and non-commercial. For more information
please visit: https://www.khanacademy.org/
Lakeshore Learning- Find over 1,000 resources for the at-home classroom. Including lessons, activities, writing
prompts, educational toys and free printable worksheets. Visit:
https://www.lakeshorelearning.com/resources/free-resources?ref=hpH2 and follow, Learning at Home, on
YouTube.
COVID-19 Resource Guide 11Northwell Health
Community Health & Social Last Updated 4/16/2020
Medicine (CHASM)
Internal
Northwell
Resources
Behavioral Health
Northwell Behavior Health Team
Leslie Rosenberg, LCSW: Cell: (413) 695-6003; Lrosenber1@northwell.edu.
Dan Coletti, Ph.D. Office Phone: 516-622-5035; Cell Phone: 914-282-9778; dcoletti@northwell.edu.
Gloria Demaio Herrera, LCSW: Office Phone: 516-622-5018; Cell Phone: 516-522-1031; gdemaio@northwell.edu
Additional Resources
SBIRT Line: 516-465-5955
Employee and Family Assistance Program (EAP): 877-327-4968
Northwell’s 24/7 Emotional Support Resource Center: 516-344-4155
COVID-19 Bereavement Group-Online Group on Fridays at 3:00 pm & Thursdays at 6:30 pm. Please contact:
516-847-5886 doctoramyo@gmail.com. Fee may be covered by insurance or sliding scale available.
Local Mobile Crisis Teams:
Nassau: 516-227-8255 https://www.nassaucountyny.gov/1700/Crisis-Hotline-Services
Queens: 888-692-9355 (also accessible through 311 by asking for mobile crisis).
https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/crisis-emergency-services-mobile-crisis-teams.page
Heart to Heart
Chaplaincy services, in collaboration with employee wellness, are offering Heart to Heart sessions, a confidential
phone conversation with a Northwell chaplain to talk about whatever is weighing on your heart. Schedule your
session through the Director of System Chaplaincy Melinda Nasti by emailing:
systemchaplaincyservices@northwell.edu
COVID-19 Resource Guide 12Northwell Health Community Health & Social Last Updated 4/16/2020 Medicine (CHASM) Additional Information The below resources may help you to see what public benefits you may be eligible for. COVID-19 Resource Guide 13
Northwell Health
Community Health & Social Last Updated 4/16/2020
Medicine (CHASM)
Infographics sourced from: https://access.nyc.gov/coronavirus-covid-19-updates/#section-6
Statewide Updates on COVID-19
For updates from Governor Andrew Cuomo’s office on COVID-19 related issues please text
“NEW YORK” to 81336.
For NYC alerts and updates text “COVID” to 692-692.
COVID-19 Resource Guide 14Northwell Health
Community Health & Social Last Updated 4/16/2020
Medicine (CHASM)
Sample Housing Letter
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
Dear [Landlord’s Name]:
I, [Name], am a tenant at [address].
Due to the COVID-19 public health emergency and Governor Cuomo’s New York State on PAUSE Executive Order
now in effect, my income has been adversely affected because [I have been laid off from work] [I have not been able
to go to work because I have been sick] [other reason].
While we are governed by the PAUSE Order, I currently do not have the resources to continue paying my rent,
unless my situation changes. I will provide documentation confirming my current inability to pay rent during this
time.
Please consider the following:
Under the PAUSE Order there is a 90-day moratorium on any residential evictions.
Courts are not permitting service of Notices of Petitions in order to start an eviction.
There are no enforcement proceedings by the City Marshal or the Sheriff.
Under the Cares Act, property owners can request a forbearance on their mortgage from their lenders.
Under New York Law, landlords are not permitted to evict a tenant without a court order.
Under New York Law, landlords are not permitted to discriminate or harass tenants by attempting to evict
them for having a particular illness.
Under New York Law, landlords must provide the proper notice if they plan increasing rent more than 5%.
Please note that I am making every effort to apply for any hardship programs available to me through the City or the
State in order to become current on my rent as soon as possible.
I would like to discuss a mutual agreement or plan to address this issue. I would appreciate speaking by phone at
xxx-xxx-xxxx at your earliest convenience to discuss a solution.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
Sincerely,
[signature]
[Name]
The above letter is meant to serve as a template and not a legal document. If you have
any questions about housing or public benefits, you can contact the Hofstra
Northwell Medical Legal Partnership to discuss your options at
NorthwellMLP@northwell.edu or MLP@Hofstra.edu.
COVID-19 Resource Guide 15Northwell Health
Community Health & Social Last Updated 4/16/2020
Medicine (CHASM)
Contributors
Johanna Martinez, MD, MS………………....... GME Director of Diversity & Health Equity
Associate Professor of Medicine Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at
Hofstra/Northwell
Omolara Thomas Uwemedimo, MD, MPH…………………. Associate Professor of Pediatrics and
Occupational Medicine, Epidemiology and Prevention, Zucker School of Medicine at
Hofstra/Northwell
Shari Jardine, MPH, MA……….Program Manager for Community Health & Social Medicine
(CHASM)
Tyra Busigo, LMSW…………............Social Worker for Northwell/Hofstra Medical Legal
Partnership
Kerlann Flowers, JD………………………………………………………Legal Director of Northwell/Hofstra
Medical Legal Partnership
COVID-19 Resource Guide 16You can also read
