The Gothamist recently published an excellent article about additional resources available to those in NYC still suffering from the onslaught of the COVID-19 pandemic. It addresses state and city benefits since federal benefits have expired and as of this writing, no federal legislation has been enacted yet.
The Article is summarized below, but the article itself has useful links and other helpful information. We encourage any NYC resident in need to take a few minutes to review it. There is a link to the article at the end of this summary.
1.Extended Unemployment Insurance
In July, the New York State Department of Labor announced that eligible New Yorkers can apply for an additional 20 weeks of coverage.
2. Rent Relief – Deadline Is Fast Approaching
Up through an extended date of August 6th, you can apply for a one-time rental subsidy that does not need to be paid back. Applications will be prioritized for those with the “greatest economic and social need.”
3. Cash Assistance
The Temporary Aid to Needy Families Program in NYC offers cash assistance to eligible parents or guardians living and caring for at least one child. There is a link that allows individuals to create an account and begin the process.
4. Help Obtaining Food
The city Department of Education distributes free meals at 435 grabs and go sites across the five boroughs. You can get multiple meals per visit and no one will be turned away. There is a link to sites in the article, which also includes locations for Kosher and Halal meals.
Food pantries and soup kitchens are open and there is a link for these sites. A valid photo ID is required at some pantries for the first visit. Lastly, the city Human Resources Administration will help qualifying individuals to obtain benefits through a separate program called SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program).
5. Health Insurance
NYC offers free or affordable health insurance plans to New Yorkers, regardless of immigration status. New Yorkers can sign up for Medicaid, Child Health Plus, and Essential Plan at any time. However, the state’s Qualified Health Plans, offering affordable plans through the state Department of Health, is available only through August 15th. There is information in this section that directs people where to go.
6. Financial Help For Restaurant Workers
The Southern Smoke Foundation is providing “free funding specifically to workers who lost their jobs in the food and beverage industry because of the pandemic.” A separate organization called Children of Restaurant Employees also offers financial assistance to coronavirus-stricken food and beverage workers and their kids. Links are included to apply for both benefits.
7. Financial Help For Arts & Entertainment Workers
For those who are eligible, the Actors Fund is offering one-time financial assistance, based on need, to workers in the performing arts and entertainment industry who have been impacted by the pandemic. Union and non-union workers can apply via the link included.
With The $600 Weekly Federal Assistance Gone, Here Are Some Resources For Unemployed New Yorkers In Need – https://gothamist.com/news/600-weekly-federal-assistance-gone-here-are-some-resources-unemployed-new-yorkers-need?utm_medium=social&utm_source=email&utm_campaign=shared_email
This information is being provided courtesy of Salvo Park Funding, LLC
www.salvoparkfunding.com