Resources & Services

Last updated: 12/14/2020, 3:07pm

 

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COVID-19 Specific Resources

TESTING & HEALTH

The State of Illinois has opened its COVID-19 community-based testing sites to all people, regardless of symptoms. The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) recommends that those who have participated in a recent mass gathering, such as a march or rally, get tested 5 to 7 days after the event, or immediately if symptoms develop.
No appointment, doctor referral, or insurance is needed at state-operated drive-thru sites, and testing is available at no cost to individuals. The closest community-based testing sites to Evanston include:

  1. Harwood Heights
    6959 W. Forest Preserve Rd., Chicago
    7 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

  2. Rolling Meadows High School
    2901 Central Rd., Rolling Meadows
    8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

  3. Waukegan
    102 W. Water Street, Waukegan
    8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

    • our provider to find out what services may be available remotely. If you're having trouble navigating these options, your primary care physician may be able to help.

    • Illinois Call4Calm Text LineIf you or a loved one are struggling with stress related to the COVID-19 pandemic and need emotional support, text TALK to 552020 for English or HABLAR for Spanish. This service is free and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. People seeking assistance will remain anonymous and will provide only their first name and zip code, which enables the service to link you to a counselor in your area who is knowledgeable about available local resources.
      Text the following words to 552020 for corresponding purpose:
      "TALK" for counselor in English
      "HABLAR" for a counselor in Spanish
      "FOOD" for information about food banks
      "UNEMPLOYMENT" for the latest information about unemployment
      "SHELTER" for information about housing

    • For Healthcare Professionals and Essential Workers
      Text "FRONTLINE" to 741741. Healthcare professionals and essential workers are showing up on the frontlines during this pandemic, risking their health every day to help other people. They need fast, free, crisis counseling, and Crisis Text Line is here to help. Text for support dealing with anxiety, stress, fear, isolation, or other difficult emotions you are experiencing. Visit forthefrontlines.org to learn more.

    • Cook County Social Vulnerability Index (SVI) Map: an interactive way to share information with public health officials, first responders, and the public about which communities in Cook County will likely need the most support before, during, and after catastrophic event, such as a pandemic. Social Vulnerability is a concept the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) uses to describe the susceptibility of a community to human suffering and financial loss in the event of a disaster. Factors that the CDC believes contribute to social vulnerability include poverty, lack of transportation access, language barriers and others. The SVI is a measure of the presence of these combined factors in a community. The SVI score relies on U.S. Census Bureau data. Possible SVI scores range from 0 (lowest vulnerability) to 1 (highest vulnerability). The Cook County SVI Map displays the SVI Score for each census tract within the county.

    • Cook County Medical Examiner’s COVID-19 Dashboard: shows the striking difference in how deaths from the COVID-19 virus are impacting the different populations of Cook County. You will notice the ability to filter the available data by demographics, date, or location.

MISCELLANEOUS

FOOD

  • In December 2020, Evanston Health and Human Services updated their extensive list of food pantries, soup kitchens, prepared meals and Federal Food Assistance Programs.

  • On May 28, 2020, the City announced the continuation of food programs throughout the summer, with some schedule modifications, in order to support residents facing economic hardship and food insecurity as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. View details here.

  • Youth Food Distribution: The City is continuing to offer free, cold breakfasts and lunches to youth ages 1 through 18. Youth can pick up five days worth of meals on Mondays between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. at the following locations: Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center, Robert Crown Community Center, Kamen Park David Wood Fieldhouse, and Mason Park.

  • Emergency Food Pantry: To support the growing number of residents facing economic hardship and food insecurity, the City partnered with Northwestern's Office of Neighborhood and Community Relations to establish an emergency food pantry. Evanston residents can pick up free, prepackaged boxes of food every Wednesday through the end of May, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Levy Senior Center, 300 Dodge Ave. Flyer in English y Espanol (Despensa Gratuita Productos frescos y empaquetados/enlatados)

  • Evanston Organizations Offering Meal Assistance: Details for meals, eligibility and pick-up information.

  • PANDEMIC EBT (P-EBT) SNAP BENEFITS: Need Help Buying Food for Your School Age Children?

  • BENEFICIOS DE SNAP PANDEMIC EBT (P-EBT): ¿Necesita ayuda para comprar alimentos para sus hijos en edad escolar?

  • Here are some community organizations and food resources for Evanston residents in need of meal assistance during this time.

  • Little Free Pantry at Grace Lutheran Church: We are excited to let you know that we just received a generous sub-award grant from Faith in Place, funded through the Chicago Region Food System Fund, to support our Little Free Pantry through the end of 2020. With this award, we will consistently fill the pantry with a healthy variety of nutritious shelf-stable provisions such as beans, pasta, oatmeal, peanut butter, soups, and other canned goods. Everyone is invited to “take what they need, give what they can.” We know that giving is difficult for many of us in this economy, and there is absolutely no expectation that provisions be donated in return for what is taken. 

  • St. Paul's Lutheran Church - for all ages - pick-up at 1004 Greenwood from 12:15pm to 2pm every Sunday. Phone: 847 475 3043. More info: http://stpaulevanston.org/eventscontact

UTILITIES

ComEd
ComEd announced the availability of new and continued financial assistance options for customers in the pandemic, ranging from grants of up to $500 to more flexible payment options. The news release is here. Resources: BILL PAYMENT ASSISTANCE FOR INCOME ELIGIBLE CUSTOMERS + ASISTENCIA EN EL PAGO DE LA FACTURA DE ENERGIA PARA CLIENTES ELEGIBLES DE ACUERDO A SU INGRESO

In October 2020, ComEd said that if you meet their eligibility, they will provide one-time grants of up to $300 towards a past due balance for households.

Nicor Energy Assistance Programs for Residential Customers
“You deserve peace of mind when it comes to paying your bill. That’s why, if you’re not able to pay your bill, we’re connecting you to available energy assistance funding through the below programs or agencies so you don’t face this challenge alone, but with our help.”

HOUSING

  • There is an eviction moratorium. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation has announced guidance for renters and homeowners struggling with payments during the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart has suspended all court-ordered evictions. View this resource from Legal Aid Chicago for questions about eviction notices. 

  • Tenant rights during the COVID-19 pandemic: Wondering how to navigate the recent challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic as a renter? in collaboration with the Metropolitan Tenant Organization, the City has organized a Renters Information Session and Q&A on Wed., April 22, at 6 p.m. Ask your questions in advance by emailing evanston@tenants-rights.org. Join the webinar 

  • If you feel you are in danger of becoming homeless, please visit the website of Housing Action Illinois.

  • If you are already experiencing homelessness, please visit the Emergency and Transitional Provider List to find shelter options near you.

  • State Policy: While the state is under a Stay at Home order, not everyone has a home to go to. To help those in need, the Governor and IDHS have increased shelter services for people experiencing homelessness during this pandemic, including an extra $6 million throughout the state for emergency lodging. 

  • IDHS is also increasing existing funding by 5% for homelessness service providers to increase their capacity during this crisis. 

  • Below is a video on renters’ rights:

FOR SMALL BUSINESSES AND NON-PROFITS

  • LEND is offering zero interest loans of up to $5,000 to small businesses in Evanston that have been impacted by the COVID-19 crisis: www.lendevanston.org/covid

  • The Entrepreneurship Support Program Emergency Assistance applications are considered on a rolling basis throughout the year. This committee meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month so in order to ensure your place on the committee agenda, your completed application must be turned in no later than the second Monday of the month. Eligible applicants may: 1) Request up to $1,000 in assistance with City permitting and licensing needs or 2) Request up to $2,500 of small business support grant funding for expenses. Application instructions and guidelines.

  • The Cook County Community Recovery Initiative has rapid relief loans, technical assistance & outreach for suburban small businesses and gig workers.

  • Cook County's Bureau of Economic Development has launched the Community Recovery Initiative. This loan fund offers one-time, zero-interest loans of up to $20,000 for small businesses and $10,000 for independent contractors in suburban Cook County. Loans will be administered by the Chicago Community Loan Fund and provided by a network of community lenders. Applications open in mid-April on a first-come, first-serve basis. Complete this form to learn more about the initiative and to sign up for updates regarding the application opening.

  • ComEd Nonprofit Special Hardship Program: This program provides grants of up to $2,000 once every two years to eligible nonprofit organizations that have fallen behind on their electric bills and face possible disconnection of their electric service. To apply, complete this online application.

  • COVID-19 Emergency Loans: Small Business Guide - Created by the US Chamber of Commerce to help small businesses and self-employed individuals prepare to file a loan.

  • DCEO's Small Business Resource Page

  • The City of Evanston’s Economic Development Department is continuing to work with local businesses to provide information about available local, state and federal resources including small business loan and grant assistance programs.

  • View a list of resources and materials at evanstonedge.com or check out the COVID-19 Business Resource Checklist.

FOR FAMILIES AND CAREGIVERS

FOR PROVIDERS: EDUCATION AND CHILDCARE

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City of Evanston General Assistance and Emergency Assistance Programs

General Assistance
The City of Evanston General Assistance Program provides financial assistance to persons who are not eligible for any other state or federal financial assistance programs and who do not have income or resources to provide their basic needs.
For more information contact The City’s General Assistance office at 847-448-8112.

Programs & Services
The City’s General Assistance Program offers the following programs and services:

  • Job Club: An ongoing six-week program to help General Assistance clients become ready for employment

  • Adult Basic Education and GED Preparation: Classes for individuals who are in need of educational enhancement

  • Counseling Service Referrals: Crisis intervention and substance abuse/mental health counseling provided by mental health professionals and addiction counselors

  • Financial Literacy: Workshops designed to strengthen money management skills.

Emergency Assistance
Emergency Assistance can only be issued once in a 12-month period and must meet the definition of an “Emergency” or “Life-Threatening” situation (evictions or utility disconnections) for the following:

  • Rental & Mortgage Assistance: Delinquent rent and mortgage assistance is paid directly to the landlord or financial institution.

  • Condominium Assessment Fees: The State of Illinois allows a Condominium Association to take possession of an owner’s unit for non-payment of assessment fees.

  • Utility Assistance: Assistance can be provided for electricity, natural gas, and water. The City will not assist with cooking gas.

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City of Evanston Asistencia general y Programas de asistencia de emergencia

El Programa de asistencia general de la ciudad de Evanston proporciona asistencia financiera a personas que no son elegibles para ningún otro programa de asistencia financiera estatal o federal y que no tienen ingresos ni recursos para satisfacer sus necesidades básicas. Para obtener más información, comuníquese con la oficina de Asistencia General de la Ciudad al 847-448-8112. Más información >

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mENTAL HEALTH

Illinois Warm Line
If you or one of you family members has mental health and/or substance use challenges and would like to receive support by phone, call the Illinois Warm Line at 866-359-7953. Wellness Support Specialists are professionals who have experienced mental health and/or substance use recovery in their own lives. They are trained in recovery support, mentoring, and advocacy and are ready to listen and support you. The Warm Line is not a crisis hotline, but is a source of support as you recover or help a family member to recover. Hours of Operation are Monday through Friday, 8am-5pm except holidays

National Suicide Prevention Hotline (24 hour)
If you or a loved one are experiencing a mental health crisis, you may call the 24-hour National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at: 1 (800) 273-TALK (8255). Caring staff will connect you with the closest possible crisis center in your area. Sometimes anxious or depressive feelings can develop into suicidal thoughts or severe emotional distress, especially in this time of increased pressure. This Lifeline provides free and confidential support 24/7 to anyone experiencing a mental health crisis. Chat with a skilled, trained crisis worker. Worried about a friend? The Lifeline can also provide advice to support someone else who may be struggling.

National Alliance on Mental Illness
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers support groups and other resources for individuals who may need help managing a mental health condition. North Suburban Cook County residents are encouraged to call their local NAMI chapter at 847-716-2252 to learn about resources available during the COVID-19 crisis. If you live outside this area, call 800-950-NAMI (6264) or visit www.nami.org to find services near you.

Crisis Text Line
The Crisis Text Line serves anyone, in any type of crisis, 24-hours a day. Text HELLO to: 741741. Trained crisis counselors will respond and help you.

CARES Line (24 hour)
If your child is a risk to themselves or others, having a mental health crisis, or if you would like a referral to services for children, youth, and families, call the 24 hour Crisis and Referral Entry Services (CARES) line to talk to a mental health professional. Call: 1 (800) 345-9049 TTY: 1 (773) 523-4504

Trans Lifeline
This is a trans-led organization that connects trans people to the community, support, and resources they need to survive and thrive. Need to talk? The peer support hotline is run by and for trans people 7am-1am PST / 9am-3am CST / 10am-4am EST. Volunteers may be available during off hours. Visit www.translifeline.org for more info.

The Trevor Project
This resource provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning youth. If you are thinking in need of immediate support, please call the TrevorLifeline at 1-866-488-7386 or select TrevorChat to connect with a counselor.

Illinois Helpline for Opioids & Other Substances
If you or someone you know is suffering from an opioid use disorder or other substance use disorders, call the Illinois Helpline for Opioids and Other Substances at 1-833-2FINDHELP to speak with a trained professional for support and advice or to be directed to customized resources or visit HelplineIL.org.

We Know The Feeling (Problem Gambling)
If you or someone you know is suffering from gambling disorder, call 1.800.GAMBLER, text ILGAMB TO 53342, or visit weknowthefeeling.org to be connected to resources and treatment programs.

National Hotlines

  • National Helpline | SAMHSA - Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration is a free and confidential treatment referral and information service available 24 hours a day 7 days a week. 1-800-622-4357 (HELP)

  • National Runaway Safeline is a 24-hour 7 day a week national Safeline is for youth at risk of running away or already have and are looking for help. 1-800-Runaway (786-2929) or text: 66008

  • Veteran's Crisis Line has caring, qualified responders within the Department of Veterans Affairs to connect with the Veterans Crisis Line. Many of them are Veterans themselves. This free support is confidential, available 24/7, and serves all veterans, service members, National Guard and Reserve, and their families and friends. Call 1-800-273-8255 or Text: 838255, Support for deaf and hard of hearing: 1-800-799-4889. Online Chat is Available: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/

I received this mental health resource on 12/10/2020:

JOBS

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is seeking interested individuals to support local public health authorities to perform COVID-19 contact tracing. This recruitment effort is developing through partnership with the state, local public health authorities, healthcare entities and community-based organizations. Hiring Contact Tracers will depend on the needs of the local public health authorities and by region of the state. 

The 2020 Census is also hiring.