FOR IMMEDIATE SUPPORT
Dial 211 or text your zip code to 898-211
The United Way 211 information network is a vital service used by many people every year. You can contact to access free and confidential counseling on food, health care, finances, and other resources. You can also be connected with nonprofit programs that are assisting with food, utilities and rent assistance.
Follow EANDC on Facebook for additional resources and updates!
General information about Covid-19 is available on the CDC website
State of Ohio updates are available here and here
CARES Act Recovery Rebates are direct payment of $1,200 to each adult and $500 per child. The bill also expands and extends unemployment insurance benefits. People who are unemployed will get an extra $600 per week for up to four months, in addition to state unemployment benefits. These provisions ensure working class families are eligible to receive as much as $3,400 for a family of four, which is especially important after jobless claims soared to 3.3 million last week. Importantly, unemployment insurance was extended to freelancers, independent contractors, and gig workers, who have all also been impacted by this crisis. These increased payments will run until July 31, 2020. Finally, the bill provides an additional $15.5 billion in funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
SNAP Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must provide proof of their identity.Residence- the client must be living in Ohio. Citizenship- household members can include either US citizens and/or certain aliens with verifiable USCIS documentation. Households must provide or apply for Social Security numbers for each member before certification. The amount of SNAP a household receives depends on the number of people in the SNAP household and the amount of their net income. Ohio has three options for applying for food assistance. For more information and to apply, visit: jfs.ohio.gov/ocomm/applyforbenefits.stm.
SUMMIT COUNTY
Financial Assistance
Summit County United Way Financial Empowerment Center: https://www.uwsummit.org/FEC
Schedule online for assistance with managing your finances during the crisis and beyondThis page also has resources about special financial assistance programs related to COVID-19 such as CARES Act Economic Impact Payment
Unemployment Benefits
The Ohio Office of Unemployment Insurance Operations has compiled frequently asked questions regarding COVID-19’s impact on unemployment benefits, including information on an expedited claim process for employees laid off because of the pandemic. You can also call 1-877-644-6562 to file a claim.
Community Legal Aid Unemployment Information (View the full PDF) FAQ: You may be eligible for unemployment compensation if you are an employee who typically works at least 20 hours and earns at least an average weekly wage of $269, and: • Are unable to work because your doctor, health agency, or employer requested that you isolate or quarantine due to COVID-19, or • Your employer lays you off due to loss of production caused by COVID-19.The Greater Akron Chamber of Commerce has developed a Resource page for Employers and Employees affected by Covid-19. Click here for more information.
Apply online at http://unemployment.ohio.gov anytime, or by calling (877) 644-6562 Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Food Assistance
Akron Canton Regional Food Bank is here to help anyone in need of food assistance. Call 855-560-0850 or visit their interactive online map which lists food pantries, hot meal sites, shelters, and other hunger-relief programs.
Trouble Paying Utilities
All regulated Ohio water, electric, gas, sewer, and landline telephone companies have suspended disconnections. Balances are not being forgiven, but you should contact your utility to request that your service is restored. If you have issues, please contact the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO)
Free WiFi: Spectrum COVID-19 remote education credit. Beginning Monday, March 16 they will provide free access to internet and WiFi for 60-days for new Pre-K to 12, college student and teacher households who don't currently have internet or WiFi service. This discount will be applied as a credit for your first two months of internet services. We’ll waive any installation or pre-payment fees to help get you started. You can qualify for this offer if you:
1. Have a student of qualifying age at your service address with remote education needs
2. Have not subscribed to our internet services within the past 30 days
3. Call (855) 243-8892 to sign up for this offer.
STARK COUNTY
Emergency Assistance CollaborativeThis program is a collaboration between United Way of Greater Stark County, The Salvation Army (Massillon, Alliance and Canton), and Catholic Charities Serving Portage and Stark Counties. If you need emergency financial assistance for housing or utilities, dial 2-1-1 to speak with one of our helpline professionals.
