Miscellaneous Resources Available During the COVID-19 Outbreak
This list of federal, state, and local resources and sources of information has been compiled as a courtesy for SEIU Local 500 members who are dealing with financial hardship or who have questions about the spread of COVID-19. It is not exhaustive. Specific questions regarding your own employment need to be asked of your employer, and questions about your eligibility for public benefits need to be taken up with the appropriate agency of your state government. Union staff cannot answer questions about public benefits.
This list will be updated as new information becomes available.
General Information & Public Health Resources
CDC (Centers for Disease Control - federal)
The CDC’s COVID-19 website offers information on the spread of the virus as well as pointers on how to keep yourself and your family safe and healthy during the COVID-19 outbreak.
District of Columbia
District of Columbia residents can get the latest news on coronavirus in the District and the local response at coronavirus.dc.gov. There is information on staying healthy, applying for unemployment, and applying for microgrants.
Maryland
For Maryland residents, stay up-to-date with the latest statewide news about the spread of the novel coronavirus and the state’s reactions on the Maryland Department of Health’s dedicated coronavirus website. There is information on the spread of the outbreak in the state, as well as well organized tables of resources for families with children, small business owners, and individuals in need of state and federal resources.
Virginia
The Virginia Department of Health has established a coronovirus information page with information on the spread of the virus in the Commonwealth as well as FAQs on preparing your family and staying healthy.
The Commonwealth of Virginia has also launched a new site to give Virginia residents information and resources during this emergency.
Unemployment Assistance
District of Columbia
The DC Department of Employment Services has FAQs and documentation to file a new claim.
Maryland
The Maryland Department of Labor’s Division of Unemployment Insurance has an updated website with new information for applicants needing assistance during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Virginia
The Virginia Employment Commission’s site has information on filing claims online and by phone. Note: Beginning with claims effective March 15, 2020, Governor Northam has directed that the one week waiting period and the requirement to conduct a weekly job search both be suspended for those receiving unemployment insurance benefits.
Small Business Assistance
District of Columbia
The District of Columbia government has set up a small business resource page with information on loans, microgrants, and information on the CARES act.
Maryland
The Maryland Coronavirus (COVID-19) Information for Business site offers links to apply for financial assistance and information on business closures.
There is also the Maryland COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund Programs for Businesses through the Maryland Department of Commerce as well as the Maryland Department of Labor COVID-19 Layoff Aversion Fund.
Virginia
Virginia’s response for small businesses appears to still be developing. Check back to this website for additional information.
US Small Business Administration
The SBA has a Disaster Assistance page with information and resources for small business owners needing assistance.
Nutrition Assistance
DC and Virginia
The Capital Area Food Bank offers nutrition assistance in DC and Virginia.
Maryland
The Maryland Food Bank can help you find nutrition assistance near you.
Utilities Assistance
District of Columbia
DC residents can request assistance from the city with paying utilities.
Maryland
Access the State of Maryland’s Office of Home Energy Programs for assistance with your utilities.
Virginia
Virginia residents can access the Commonwealth’s assistance program here.
Protecting Your Home & Preventing Homelessness
District of Columbia
DC Department of Human Services’ Homelessness Services
Maryland
Department of Housing and Community Development
Virginia
Department of Housing and Urban Development resource page for Virginia
Mental Health Resources
If you are stressed and need someone to talk to you should check with your employer's EAP program. If you need other community resources, these pages may help.
District of Columbia
Maryland
Maryland Office of Adult and Specialized Behavioral Services
Virginia
Virginia Health Care Foundation
See also: “How to Prevent Loneliness During Self Distancing”
Wellness for members of the LGBTTQ+ Community
Domestic Violence
DC
Department of Human Services Help for Victims of Domestic Abuse
Maryland
Virginia
Virginia Department of Social Services help for victims of domestic violence.