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Resources for Immigrant Communities During COVID-19 Pandemic

This website provides human translations into ten languages designated by Local Law 30.

Other languages are provided through Google Translate.

This information is up to date as of September 22, 2020. The information on available services and resources is frequently changing. For updated information, visit nyc.gov/coronavirus and follow @NYCHealthy and @NYCImmigrants on Twitter.

Please also check out the COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions

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Click a topic, or press the enter key on a topic, to reveal its answer.

Downloadable Resource Guide

COVID-19 Guidance and Treatment

COVID-19 and Immigration Concern

  • Getting care, treatment, or testing for COVID-19 will NOT make you a “Public Charge” or hurt your ability to apply for a green card. Getting charity or discounted medical care will not hurt your ability to apply for a green card. There is no Public Charge test when green card holders apply for citizenship. Seek care without fear.
  • The Trump Administration has sought to expand the public benefits that may be counted against certain individuals applying for a green card by issuing a new Public Charge rule. Visit nyc.gov/publiccharge or the USCIS webpage on the rule for more information.
  • The City of New York is fighting in court to stop this rule from being implemented. Check nyc.gov/publiccharge for updates and more information.
  • Many immigrants are not affected by the “Public Charge” test. There is no “Public Charge” test when green card holders apply for citizenship.
  • Not all public, services, programs or benefits are considered “public benefits” under the Public Charge test.  For example, the following services and programs are NOT considered “public benefits,” even for immigrants who are subject to the new Public Charge rule:
    • COVID-19 testing and care
    • Healthcare services and most health insurance except non-emergency Medicaid
    • While Medicaid is included in the new Public Charge rule, the following Medicaid benefits are excluded:
      • Emergency Medicaid
      • Services funded by Medicaid but provided under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
      • School-based services or benefits funded by Medicaid
      • Medicaid benefits received by children under the age of 21
      • Medicaid benefits received by a woman during pregnancy + 60 days
    • Many types of food assistance, such as the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC), food pantries, Grab and Go meals at school, and more (except SNAP; see “Food” section below)
    • Unemployment benefits
    • Tenant protection
    • Free legal help
  • There are strong privacy protections in place for all health care patients regardless of immigration status. Under federal law, hospitals and clinics do not share patient information without patient authorization, unless required to do so by law.
  • If you have questions about immigration and public benefits, call the free, confidential ActionNYC hotline at 1-800-354-0365, Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., or call 311 and say “Public Charge” to access timely and trusted information and connections to legal help.

Health Care and Wellbeing

  • Do not delay getting the medical care you need. Contact your provider quickly about any new symptoms you are feeling, whether or not you think they may be related to COVID-19.
  • NYC Health + Hospitals provides care to all New Yorkers, no matter what your immigration status or insurance status is. NYC Health + Hospitals will help you even if you do not have insurance and cannot pay for health care. This is true for all types of health care services, including emergency care, doctor's visits, medications, long-term care, and hospital stays. Visit Visit NYC Health + Hospitals, or call 844-NYC-4NYC (844-692-4692) or 311.

  • NYC Care is a health care access program that guarantees low-cost and no-cost services offered by NYC Health + Hospitals to New Yorkers who do not qualify for or cannot afford health insurance. Visit NYCCare.nyc, or call 646-NYC-Care (646-692-2273) or 311. NYC Care is accepting new enrollments and currently available in the Bronx, Staten Island, and Brooklyn. It will be available in Queens and Manhattan in September 2020.

  • New York City is home to many community health centers that provide medical care on a sliding-fee basis, depending on your income. This care is available to everyone, regardless of immigration status. Human Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) provides information on community health centers near you. Visit FindaHealthCenter.HRSA.gov or the NYC low- to no-cost care option list to find a location near you.

  • Community testing sites operated by NYC Health + Hospitals use self-collection of swabs to minimize contact between patients and health care workers. Free and convenient walk-in testing is now available at the following locations. No appointment is necessary. Visit nyc.gov/covidtest to find a community testing site near you.

  • If you are feeling anxious, stressed or overwhelmed, connect with trained counselors at NYC Well, the City's free, confidential helpline available in 200+ languages. Call 888-NYC-WELL (888-692-9355), text WELL to 65173, or chat online at NYC.gov/NYCWell.

  • New Yorkers can access NYC Health Department's COVID-19 Coping and Emotional Wellbeing webpage and ThriveNYC's resource guide for mental health support at home.

  • Visit NYC Well's website, which offers a number of well-being and emotional support applications that can help you cope.

  • Call the New York State's COVID-19 Emotional Support Helpline at 844-863-9314 to talk to specially trained volunteer professionals. They are available to listen, support and offer referrals from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week. Visit the New York State Office of Mental Health COVID-19 Resources Webpage for more information.

Health Insurance

  • Many low- to no-cost health insurance plans are available to immigrants, including undocumented children and pregnant people. Medicaid, Child Health Plus, and Essential Plan are available all year around. Qualified Health Plans from the New York State of Health, the state’s official health plan marketplace, are available until December 31, 2020. Visit New York State of Health, the official health insurance plan marketplace of New York, or call 311.
    • Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, in-person health insurance enrollment services will be suspended until further notice. During this period, you can sign up online or call to schedule a telephone enrollment appointment. Help is available regardless of immigration status and in many languages. Visit the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene website to make an appointment, or call 311. You can also text CoveredNYC to 877-877 to communicate in English. Text SeguroNYC to 877-877 to communicate in Spanish.

  • Community Health Advocates (CHA) helps New Yorkers navigate the complex health care system by providing individual assistance and education to communities throughout New York State. CHA provides assistance on how to use health insurance, resolve medical billing and debt issues, and dispute coverage denials and eligibility determinations. CHA has a language line that can provide translation services in more than 170 languages. Call the hotline at 888-614-5400, Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Food

  • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), or food stamps, helps people with limited income buy food. Benefits are provided on an electronic card that is used like an ATM card and accepted at most grocery stores. Some immigrants may be eligible for the program. Online application and renewal can be done via ACCESS HRA, the city's online portal that allows you to apply for and manage your public benefits case. For more information about SNAP benefits and eligibility, visit the Human Resources Administration (HRA)'s webpage on SNAP or call HRA's Infoline at 718-557-1399.
    • SNAP recipients in NYC can shop online for groceries at Amazon, Shoprite, or Walmart. Be sure to confirm that an online store delivers to your home address. Visit HRA's webpage on SNAP online shopping.
    • If you have questions about immigration and public benefits such as SNAP, call the free, confidential ActionNYC hotline at 1-800-354-0365, Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., or call 311 and say “Public Charge” to access timely and trusted information and connections to legal help.

  • New York State’s Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT) is a new benefit that gives up to $420 per child in money for groceries to all NYC public school families. No sign-up is required. All families of NYC public school children, regardless of immigration status, income, or employment, will receive this money. Visit the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance P-EBT FAQ webpage for more information.
      • Most families that receive SNAP and/ or TA (Cash) benefits already received the P-EBT food benefits for each eligible child sometime in May or June. The P-EBT food benefits were issued directly to your household's existing EBT card and added to your SNAP balance. You can check your family's SNAP/P-EBT food benefits balance (but not your eligibility for P-EBT food benefits) by visiting www.connectebt.com or by calling 1-888-328-6399. Call center agents at this number can only answer questions about your SNAP balance. They do not have information about P-EBT food benefits and cannot answer any questions about whether you are eligible and when you will receive them.
      • Most families with children who receive Medicaid, who are between the ages of 3 and 18 and who are eligible for P-EBT food benefits will have their P-EBT food benefits issued either to the Medicaid Common Benefit Identification Card (CBIC) of the parent or to the CBIC of the oldest child in your household who has been certified for free or reduced-price school lunches. Households with children in this group received a letter in July telling them how to access their P-EBT food benefits using their Medicaid CBIC.
      • The parents/guardians of eligible children who did not receive their P-EBT food benefits on a SNAP, TA (Cash) or Medicaid card are receiving a P-EBT 2020 food benefit card in the mail. A card is being sent for each eligible child. These cards are mailed in each school-aged child’s name, not a parent’s or guardian’s name. P-EBT 2020 food benefit cards and instructions on how to use them are mailed to these households through the month of September. All P-EBT 2020 food benefit cards will have an ID number that starts with the letter "I" and a generic birthdate of 01/01/1900. If you are concerned that the State of New York may not have your correct address, please call 833-452-0096 or email otda.sm.eisp.PEBT@otda.ny.gov.
      • Families of non-public school students should contact the State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance to learn if they are eligible.
      • Learn more at on.nyc.gov/p-ebt, call 833-452-0096 or email otda.sm.eisp.PEBT@otda.ny.gov.
      • NYC P-EBT flyers are available in multiple languages here.

    • The services listed below are provided for free to all New Yorkers no matter what your immigration status is. Undocumented immigrants can also receive these services, and doing so will NOT make you a “Public Charge” or hurt your ability to apply for a green card. There is no Public Charge test when green card holders apply for citizenship.
      • New York City’s food pantries provide groceries, and community kitchens provide hot meals. There is no income limit. Find locations near you and hours using the interactive maps of FoodHelpNYC or Food Bank NYC. You can also call 311 and say "food pantries."
      • Three meals a day are available for all New York residents at meal hubs citywide. Meal Hubs operate Monday to Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. for children and families, and from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. for adults. No registration, identification, or documentation is required to pick up these meals. No one will be turned away, and all adults and children can pick up three meals at one time. Parents or guardians may pick up meals for their children. No dining space is available, so meals must be eaten outside of meal hubs. Vegetarian and halal options available at all sites. A number of sites offer exclusively kosher meals. No registration or ID is required. Visit the Department of Education's free meal location finder website or call 311. You can also text FOOD to 877-877 to communicate in English. Text COMIDA to 877-877 for Spanish.
      • If you cannot leave your home, do not have anyone who can bring you food, and you are not able to use private delivery options, you may be eligible to get meals delivered directly to your home. Visit the NYC COVID-19 Food Assistance Resources website and go to the "NYC Food Delivery Assistance" section. You can also call 311 and say "Get Food."
      • The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) provides free healthy food and other services to low-income women and children. Visit ACCESS NYC (for Spanish, visit Access NYC Español) or call HRA's Infoline at 718-557-1399.
      • If you want to purchase fresh produce but cannot leave home, numerous local and national businesses now offer home delivery options. The list of businesses can be found on the NYC COVID-19 Food Assistance Resources website (go to the "Grocery Delivery Options").
      • One week of free groceries are available to all New Yorkers in five boroughs at the Neighborhood Opportunity Network (NeON) Nutrition Kitchens, in partnership with the Food Bank of NYC and the NYC Young Men's Initiative (YMI). Visit the NeON Nutrition Kitchen webpage.

Housing and Utility

  • Eviction Prevention
    • No eviction cases filed on or after March 17, 2020 can move forward until October 1, 2020, due to the order of the New York State courts. Eviction cases filed on or before March 16, 2020 (pre-COVID) may proceed, but if you received an eviction notice before March 16, 2020, your landlord must file a motion and get permission from the court to evict you.
    • On and after October 1, 2020, there are still other laws that protect many tenants from being evicted.
        • Under a new state law called the Tenant Safe Harbor Act, tenants who have experienced financial hardship any time from March 7, 2020 to the date when all COVID-related safety restrictions are lifted in the region may not be evicted for failing to pay rent first owed during that period. Although protection under the Tenant Safe Harbor Act may prevent your landlord from evicting you, a court can still allow your landlord to take action to collect unpaid rent from you.
        • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued an order effective Sept. 4, 2020, which prohibits landlords from evicting some tenants for nonpayment of rent through Dec. 31, 2020. Therefore, if you qualify under this order, you cannot be legally evicted for falling behind on your rent until after Dec. 31, 2020. In order to be protected by this order, tenants must meet the following criteria:
          • Renters must meet one of the following qualifiers: They will earn $99,000 or less this year (or $198,000 if filing jointly), they did not have to report income to the IRS last year, or they received a federal stimulus payment; AND
          • Renters must provide the landlord with a signed declaration swearing that 1. They will make $99,000 or less this year (or $198,000 if filing jointly), they did not have to report income to the IRS  last year, or they received a federal stimulus payment; 2. They are unable to pay rent due to substantial lost income, loss of hours or wages, a layoff, or “extraordinary out-of-pocket medical expenses,” 3. They have used best efforts to obtain government assistance for rent or housing; 4. They’re using best efforts to pay partial rent, and 5. Eviction would force them into homelessness or shared living conditions.
        • To learn more about how these eviction moratoria might apply to you, contact the City’s Tenant Helpline by calling 311 and saying “Tenant Helpline.”
      • Free legal advice and counseling are available for New York City residential renters. To access these services, please call 311 and ask for the "Tenant Helpline", or fill out the Mayor's Office to Protect Tenants' Contact Us form.
        • The hotline provides guidance on how to access city benefits or apply for assistance, free legal advice, and other resources available to help all New Yorkers—regardless of ZIP code, income, or immigration status—address tenancy issues during the COVID-19 crisis.
        • Call 311, Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, to receive over-the-phone legal assistance with legal questions or issues about tenancy, eviction or landlord-tenant disputes.
        • You can also visit the HRA Legal Services for Tenants webpage or email civiljustice@hra.nyc.gov
      • The New York City Tenant Resource Portal is an online tool to help renters in New York City navigate public and private resources that can stabilize their housing situation. A tenant seeking help will be taken through a series of questions and directed to the most useful resources, including rental assistance, non-payment and holdover options, as well as the rights and protections they have based on their responses.
      • Until further notice, NYC Housing Court is not scheduling conferences or hearings in pending eviction cases where the tenant is not represented by a lawyer. All eviction cases in which a tenant is unrepresented by legal counsel are stayed for the time being.
      • If a City Marshal attempts to evict you, you can call the NYC Department of Investigation at 212-825-5953 to report a violation of the Governor's Executive Order.
      • The fact sheet including the latest information for NYC tenants impacted by COVID-19 can be found on the Mayor's Office to Protect Tenants' webpage.
      • For more information, visit the Mayor's Office to Protect Tenants website or the NYS Attorney General's page on COVID-19 and housing rights.

    • Rental Assistance Resources
      • If your work schedule was reduced as a result of the coronavirus and you are unable to pay your rent, you can apply for Emergency Cash Assistance. Some immigration restrictions apply. Visit ACCESS NYC (for Spanish, visit Access NYC Español) or call HRA's Infoline at 718-557-1399.
      • The Homebase program can help NYC residents at imminent risk of losing their housing and entering the shelter system regardless of immigration status. Homebase offers:
        • Services to prevent eviction
        • Assistance obtaining public benefits
        • Emergency rental assistance
        • Education and job placement assistance
        • Financial counseling and money management
        • Help relocating
        • Short-term financial assistance
        The service is available to all NYC residents no matter what your immigration status is. Visit HRA’s webpage on Homebase or call 311 and say “homebase” to find a Homebase provider near you.
      • If you use an NYC Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) Section 8 voucher and are having trouble paying rent because of income loss, email DTRAI@hpd.nyc.gov to receive assistance.
      • NYCHA residents experiencing income loss may qualify for NYCHA's rent hardship program. A complete loss of income may qualify for NYCHA's Zero Income Policy. To learn more, call the NYCHA Customer Contact Center at 718-707-7771.

    • COVID-19 Hotel Program
      • COVID-19 is extremely contagious, meaning that it is easily transmitted from one person to another. If you tested positive for COVID-19 or think you might have it because of your symptoms, it is very important that you do not come in close contact with others, including people you may live with. This is called "self-isolation."
      • You may qualify to self-isolate in a hotel, free of charge, for up to 14 days if you do not have a safe place to self-isolate. This can mean:
        • Your home does not have space for you to stay six feet away from others
        • You share rooms or a bathroom
        • You live with someone who is vulnerable
        • You do not COVID-19 but who live with someone who has COVID-19
      • If you are currently at your home and think you may have COVID-19, you can cal the H+H hotline 844-NYC-4NYC (844-692-4692) between the hours of 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. A medical provider will assess your situation and then refer you to a hotel if appropriate.
        • If you are a health provider and have patients with COVID-19 or COVID-like symptoms who are interested in staying in a hotel for 10 to 14 days, call the H+H hotline 844-692-4692 to begin the screening process, or you can have your patient call. In order to provide the best continuity of care for your patients while they are at the hotel, use the NYC Health + Hospitals Hotels: Partnering with Community Providers resource for more information.
      • This program, including food, linens, and local phone service, is free for eligible New Yorkers.
      • As the City reopens, the COVID-19 Hotel Program will not accept new bookings as of July 6 for New Yorkers working in hospitals & other care settings. Traveling healthcare workers on contract are encouraged to talk to their employer about lodging alternatives. If you need to modify an existing reservation, fill out this online form.
      • For more information, visit the NYC COVID-19 Hotel Program webpage.
    • Utilities Assistance
      • Home Energy Assistance Program helps you pay for heating and cooling costs for your home. Some immigrants may qualify. Learn about HEAP Heating Assistance and Cooling Assistance Benefits on AccessNYC. You can apply by calling NYC Department of Social Services at 212-331-3126 or online at mybenefits.ny.gov.
      • ConEdison has agreed to not shut off electricity services for failure to pay utility bills and to waive late penalty fees. National Grid has also said it will not disconnect gas service for failure to pay the bills at least until the end of April. Check the ConEdison website and the National Grid website for more information.

    • Internet Service Assistance
      • Verizon has ended its pledge to not terminate internet services or charge late fees for non-payment for postpaid wireless, residential and small business customers who notified the company of their inability to pay their bills due to disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Starting July 1, customers who signed up for the Pledge will automatically be enrolled in our Stay Connected repayment program to provide options to stay connected.
      • Comcast created an assistance program that enabled our customers to continue using our services during the pandemic shutdown. Visit the Xfinity or Comcast Business website for more information, or call the Comcast hotline at 800-391-3000.
      • Comcast is offering two months free internet with speed up to 25 Mbps to new low-income customers. Visit the Comcast Internal Essentials website to find out more.
      • Charter Spectrum provides internet services at an affordable price for households with at least one member who receives one of the following public assistance programs:
        1. National School Lunch Program (NSLP);
        2. Community Eligibility Provision of NSLP;
        3. Supplemental Security Income (for applicants age 65+ only)
        To find out more and apply, visit the Spectrum Internet Assist webpage.
      • Suddenlink and Optimum offer 30 Mbps Altice Advantage Internet service for $14.99 per month, which includes free equipment, unlimited data, discounted installation and the option to cancel anytime. For more information, visit the Altric Advantage Internet website.
      • Connect2Compete affordable internet program is available to households with at least one member who is a K-12 student and participate in a government assistance program. For more information, visit the Cox Connect2Compete webpage.
      • Until further notice, all Xfinity WiFi Public Hotspots are now open to everyone on the "xfinitywifi" SSID. Public hotspots can be found in small/medium businesses and outdoors in commercial areas. Non-Xfinity subscribers need to accept Terms and Conditions to access the network and repeat when requested to continue to receive free unlimited access. Visit the Xfinity WiFi website to find a WiFi Public HotSpot and learn more.

Education and Childcare

  • In-person learning start dates vary by students’ grades and choices of learning models. Children who are enrolled in fully remote programs will still begin full-day instruction on Monday, September 21. Children in blended learning will be learning remotely on Monday, September 21 until their in-person start date as outlined below. Students should report to school according to their specific blended learning schedules – check with your child’s school to see when they should report.
      • Students in Grades 3K and Pre-K: in-Person Learning begins on Monday, September 21
      • All grades in District 75 schools: In-Person Learning begins on Monday, September 21
      • All Elementary Schools (K-5 and K-8) including students in Grades 6-8 in K-8 schools: In-Person Learning begins on Tuesday, September 29
      • Middle Schools (Grades 6-8): In-Person Learning begins on Thursday, October 1
      • High Schools (Grades 9-12): In-Person Learning begins on Thursday, October 1
      • Secondary Schools (Grades 6-12): In-Person Learning begins on Thursday, October 1
      • Transfer Schools, Adult Education, Evening Schools: In-Person Learning begins on Thursday, October 1
      • K-2 and K-3 Schools: In-Person Learning begins on Tuesday, September 29
      • K-12 Schools:
        • Grades K-8: In-Person Learning begins on Tuesday, September 29
        • Grades 9-12: In-Person Learning begins on Thursday, October 1
      • Visit schools.nyc.gov/returntoschool2020 for more information.

    • Public schools will offer “blended learning,” with most students attending in-person instruction in their schools between one to three days a week and enrolling in remote education during the rest of the week. At any point of the school year, students have the option to enroll in full-time remote learning by filling out a form at https://www.nycenet.edu/surveys/learningpreference.

    • To help students stay connected during emergencies, the DOE is lending internet-enabled iPads to support remote learning for students. If you would like to request a device for a NYC student in your family, please fill out the Remote Learning Device Request Form.

    • Your child’s current transportation assignment and information is now available in your NYC Schools Account (NYCSA). Contact your child’s school for help setting up a NYCSA account and to find out your child’s schedule, what days they will be in attendance, and their programming model.
      • Following the guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), buses transporting students will be limited to 25% of capacity to ensure safe social distancing. The only exception to this will be students from the same household who may be seated with each other, and nurses and paraprofessionals assigned to students. With the exception of students who are exempted from facial coverings requirements, everyone in a school bus must wear face masks at all times.
      • Your school will provide student MetroCards to students engaged in blended learning to travel to and from school. Some parents who must accompany students traveling for in-person blended learning are eligible for a MetroCard as well.
      • Reimbursement will be available for families with special circumstances whose children are eligible for curb-to-school bus service, cannot use public transportation via MetroCard, and are awaiting bus service. For more information, speak with your school or email
      • TransportationReimbursement@schools.nyc.gov.
      • For more information, visit NYC Department of Education Transportation Overview webpage.

    • DOE has learn-at-home resources in English for students in grades Pre-K through 12

    • NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene has developed the COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions for parents and caregivers of pre-school and school age children. Other languages will be available on the NYC DOHMH webpage.

    • NYC Administration for Children's Services (ACS) has a virtual COVID-19 resource guide for parents and children, including parenting tips, suggested activities during quarantine, and resources for basic needs.

    • ACS partners with community-based organizations in three neighborhoods to provide Family Enrichment Centers (FECs), which are warm, home-like spaces that provide a range of offerings for and with the community. FECs are now providing remote referrals and support, as well as limited in-person emergency resources. Please contact your local FEC for more information.
      • The C.R.I.B. in East New York
        Office Hours: Operating Remotely
        Phone: 646-477-6780
        Email: thecrib.enyfec@gmail.com
        Website: thecrib.enyfe.org
        Address:
        2779 Atlantic Avenue
        Brooklyn, NY 11207
      • Circle of Dreams in Highbridge
        Office Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, / 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Operating Remotely
        Phone: 718-618-5559
        Email: acamacho@childrensvillage.org
        Address:
        266 E. 165th Street
        Bronx, NY 10456
      • O.U.R. Place in Hunts Point/Longwood
        Office Hours: Monday - Friday / 2 to 4 p.m. and Operating Remotely
        Phone: 917-945-1152
        Website: ourplacefec.graham-windham.org
        Address:
        940 Garrison Avenue
        Bronx, NY 10474

    • ACS has established 11 community-based planning groups that meet monthly. They are now using virtual meetings and e-mail to plan and provide referrals for families. Some partnerships are also providing in-person emergency resources. Learn more about the program on the ACS Office of Community Engagement and Partnerships webpage.
      • Download the flyer with contact information and hours: English
      • Bedford-Stuyvesant
        Office Hours: Operating Remotely
        Phone: 347-365-3852
        Email: info@bedstuycpp.org
        Website: www.bedstuycpp.org
      • Bushwick
        Office Hours: Operating Remotely
        Phone: 718-497-6090 ext. 766 (Monday, Thursday)
        718-497-6090 ext. 793 (Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday)
        Email: bushwickcpi@gmail.com
        Website: www.bushwickcommunitypartnershipny.org
      • East Flatbush
        Office Hours: Operating Remotely
        Phone: 718-758-7802
        Email: EF@cpp.jccany.org
      • East Harlem
        Office Hours: Operating Remotely
        Phone: 646-345-3614 or 929-431-7798
        Email: eastharlemcpp@unionsettlement.org
      • East New York
        Office Hours: Operating Remotely
        Phone: 877-827-7369
        Email: eastnycpp@gmail.com
      • Elmhurst
        Office Hours: Operating Remotely
        Phone: 718-523-6868 x103
        Email: ECP@mediatenyc.org
      • Highbridge
        Office Hours: Mon-Fri 10AM-3PM
        Phone: 718-293-4352
        Email: bridgebuilderscpo@gmail.com
      • Hunts Point
        Office Hours: Operating Remotely
        Phone: 917-514-1710 or 646-464-2036
        Email: hpcommunitypartnership@hpac10474.org
        Website: www.huntspoint.org/community-partnership
      • Jamaica
        Office Hours: Operating Remotely
        Phone: 718-526-2400 x 2018 or 917-589-3851
        Email: jamaicapartners@shelteringarmsny.org
      • Mott Haven
        Office Hours: Operating Remotely
        Phone: 347-441-0785 or 914-529-1150
        Email: Motthavenpartnership@gmail.com
      • Staten Island (North Shore)
        Office Hours: Operating Remotely
        Phone: 917-485-7710
        Email: SICPPInfo@nyfoundling.org
        Website: www.sicpp.com

    • The New York Public Library (NYPL) offers free online tutoring for students. Students can receive online homework help one-on-one from tutors daily from 2 to 11 p.m. Tutors are available in English and Spanish, from early elementary through high school grades, in core subject areas. Video content and other resources are also available 24 hours a day. Families will need a New York Library card to access this service, and can apply for a card on the New York Public Library website.

    • We Speak NYC provides free online educational English language resources and is offering free weekly online classes. Sign up for a class today to meet new people, learn about New York City services available to all New York City residents, regardless of immigration status, and practice speaking English. If you would like to drop in to a class, please visit the schedule of classes here. Anyone can access free resources on the We Speak NYC website without a need to create an account. Multimedia resources include videos, study guides, short stories, and online quizzes, where students can practice reading, listening, and visual literacy skills. There are also materials for educators including lesson plans, and handbooks.

    • The City provides free childcare at Regional Enrichment Centers (RECs) for certain front-line workers. The enrollment is available to first responders, health care workers, transit workers, grocery store essential staff, pharmacy essential staff, and many frontline City workers. The City is evaluating capacity to serve others. RECs are open from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Monday to Friday, for children in pre-kindergarten up to grade 12. Meals will be provided. Visit DOE's Regional Enrichment Center website or call 311 to learn more about the services and the full list of workers eligible for free childcare.

    • The City is planning to provide quality, safe, free childcare options for 100,000 children this fall. These childcare options will provide relief for families who cannot stay home or find alternate care for their children on days they are not in school buildings. Childcare will be made available for children in 3K through 8th grade. The Administration is working to identify locations and maximize available space for childcare in schools, community centers, libraries, cultural organizations, and more. New Yorkers with available space that could potentially be utilized for childcare can submit information at nycsca.org/realestate/sites.

    • If you are a parent who needs childcare while you work during the pandemic, you can submit a request to be matched with a safe, low-cost option for your family through workersneedchildcare.org.

Worker Support and Financial Assistance

  • If COVID-19 has affected your work, you may be eligible for certain benefits. Refer to the ACCESS NYC chart to understand which benefits you may be able to get in your situation.

  • On March 25th, 2020, the federal government passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act). As part of the CARES Act, the government is sending Economic Impact Payments to many people in the United States who make less than a certain amount of money.
    • You may be eligible for the Economic Impact Payment if you
      • Are a U.S. citizen or U.S. resident alien;
      • Cannot be claimed as a dependent on someone else's return;
      • Have a Social Security number (SSN) that is valid for employment (valid SSN); and
      • Have adjusted gross incomes up to $99,000 individually or $198,000 jointly.
    • In case of a family, both parents must have valid Social Security Numbers and children claimed as dependents must also have valid Social Security Numbers. (Exception: If either spouse is a member of the U.S. Armed Forces at any time during the taxable year, then only one spouse needs to have a valid SSN.)
    • For more information, visit ACCESS NYC.
    • You must take action by October 15 to receive your stimulus payment this year. This may mean filing a tax return, or registering for your payment as a “non-filer” on the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website if you are not required to file a tax return because your income was too low—under $12,200 (single filer) or under $24,400 (joint filers). IRS certified volunteer preparers can guide you. To use the free service, you must earn $64,000 or less (families) or $45,000 or less (single filer). Visit nyc.gov/taxprep for information about NYC Free Tax Prep providers and how to contact them.

  • Know your rights as a worker and that you have these rights no matter what your immigration status is, including paid safe and sick leave under the New York City law. The NYC Department of Consumers and Worker Protection (DCWP) created a summary of City labor laws for employers and employees as you deal with the impact of COVID-19 on your workplace. Visit the DCWP website to download the summary in your preferred language.

  • You may be eligible for emergency paid sick leave for COVID-19 under the New York State law. In some cases, undocumented immigrants are also entitled to paid sick leave. To learn more, visit the New York State Governor's Office website or call the state's COVID-19 hotline at 888-364-3065.

  • Immigrant New Yorkers with work authorization may be eligible for unemployment insurance benefits. New York State is waiving the 7-day waiting period. Visit the New York State Department of Labor website or call 888-209-8124. For more information about eligibility and application process, visit the Access NYC Unemployment Benefits FAQ.

  • Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) provides payment to workers not traditionally eligible for unemployment benefits (self-employed, independent contractors, workers with limited work history, and others) who are unable to work as a direct result of the coronavirus public health emergency. Visit the New York State Department of Labor PUA Checklist to see if you qualify.
  • The weekly $600 Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) benefit has expired. However, FEMA is allowing states to provide weekly $300 supplemental payments in addition to unemployment benefits (named Low Wage Assistance (LWA) Program). New York State has now been approved for six weeks of the $300/week payment, representing the benefit weeks ending August 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30 and September 6, 2020. Visit the New York State Department of Labor website for more information.
    • Payments for the first three weeks of the program were paid beginning on September 18, and payments for the final three weeks will start during the week of September 21.
    • In order to deliver benefits to New Yorkers as quickly as possible, the second round of LWA payments will be distributed over a number of days during the week of September 21 — that means you may receive one payment of $300 each day for three days, rather than all at once.
    • Per federal regulations, your unemployment must be related to COVID-19 to be eligible for LWA benefits.
      • New Yorkers who are already qualified for the LWA program will receive an email and/or text message from the DOL informing them they do not need to take any action to receive LWA benefits. If you fall into this category, please do not call to inquire about the program.
      • New Yorkers who need to certify for the LWA program will receive a secure DocuSign email from the DOL that must be filled out and submitted to be eligible for LWA benefits. Claimants can also call 833-491-0632 to certify via an automated phone system.

  • Immigrant New Yorkers and/or their children may be eligible for cash assistance in New York. Visit ACCESS NYC (for Spanish, visit Access NYC Español) or call HRA's Infoline at 718-557-1399.

  • You can stop your federal student loan payments without penalty and without accruing interest for at least 60 days. Find out more at studentaid.gov.

  • If you are having financial difficulties in paying home mortgages, your bank may waive your mortgage payment for 90 days under the New York State Department of Financial Services' mortgage exemption guidance. Call your mortgage lending bank to find out more.

  • Federal student loan payments are automatically suspended, without interest or penalties, from March 13, 2020 to December 31, 2020. Loans that do not qualify for this relief include older federal family education loans not owned by U.S. Department of Education, Perkins Loans owned by schools, and private student loans. Find out more at NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection's Student Loan Debt Tips During COVID-19.

  • If you have student or medical loans overdue for payment to the New York State, you may be temporarily protected from debt collection. Find out more at the New York Attorney General's website.

  • DCWP provides financial education and counseling, safe and affordable banking options, and income-boosting tax credits. Visit the DCWP website to find out more.

  • DCWP also accepts consumer and labor complaints and continues to provide services online. Check the DWCP website for the list of available services and how to contact the office.

  • Healthcare providers, transit employees, and first responders can obtain a free 30-day Citi Bike membership by signing up through their employers. Visit the Citi Bike Critical Workforce program webpage to find out more.

Small Business Support

  • New York City is currently in Phase Four of reopening. For help determining whether or not your business is eligible to reopen, use New York State’s reopen lookup tool. You can also check the guidance for each industry by visiting forward.ny.gov

  • New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) has issued the FAQ documents for each industry. Visit the DOHMH COVID-19 guidance for business webpage.

  • New York City Small Business Services (SBS) has published plain language industry guides as a tool for small businesses to adhere to the latest mandatory guidance and to share best practices. For more information on the guides, visit nyc.gov/business.

  • SBS has launched a small business hotline to answer the most pressing questions of small business owners as they prepare to re-open. Small Business Advocates and Compliance Advisors will monitor the hotline and have been equipped with the latest guidelines and regulations to share with business owners. Call 888-SBS-4NYC (888-727-4692).

  • SBS is hosting an inter-agency digital resource fair for New York City entrepreneurs looking for the latest up-to-date guidance on recovery and reopening. Representatives from various City agencies will be on hand to answer any questions. SBS and partners will provide information about requirements and guidelines to re-opening, safety plans, financial assistance, regulatory changes, employee support, licensing, inspections, and more. Please visit nycsmallbizcourses.eventbrite.com to sign up for the resource fair and to find all of our digital webinar offerings, which include financial assistance, building a business website, and preparing a business for emergencies.

  • Distribution sites for small businesses looking to obtain face coverings, are now open. With the aid of community partners, these materials are being distributed in all five boroughs to help guarantee the health and safety of small businesses and their employees. Business owners are strongly advised to take advantage of these contactless stations if needed. For a list of distribution sites available, visit nyc.gov/business.
  • Governor Cuomo has extended the Executive Order that protects commercial tenants for failure to pay their rents from eviction and late rent fees until October 20th.

  • Black Entrepreneurs NYC (BE NYC) aims to increase the number of Black-owned businesses in New York City by launching the following programs:
    • The City has partnered with Ernst & Young (EY) to connect Black entrepreneurs with a resource hub that will allow Black entrepreneurs to access materials from entrepreneurship experts, host interactive online group learning sessions, and offer 2,000 hours of one-on-one consulting on business planning, operational improvements, and financial planning for Black business owners.
    • The City, in partnership with Mastercards, will provide tailored business education and mentorship designed exclusively with and for the Black business community, help Black entrepreneurs establish virtual storefronts and providing effective cyber-security safeguards at no cost, and provide access to the Mastercard Main Street Resource Center including its suite of services and Digital Doors™ initiative, to further provide the digital tools needed to run their business
    • Brooklyn Navy Yard and SBS will launch a BE NYC accelerator, which will include meeting space and technical assistance focusing on launching and growing local Black-owned businesses.
    • For more information and updates on the launch date of the programs, fill out the BE NYC Updates Sign Up Form.

  • The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has loans and grants for small businesses to address the economic impact of COVID-19. Visit the SBA COVID-19 Small Business Guidance and Resources webpage for more information. Immigrant business owners may be eligible for these loans.

  • There are small business development centers to help you with applications for these loans. Visit the New York Small Business Development Center website to find the center near you.

  • Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) is extending certain license expiration dates and renewal application deadlines. Visit the DCWP website for more information. Online license application continues to be available on DCWP's Licenses webpage. For inquiries, email NYC Online Licensing Service Help Desk at ELP@dca.nyc.gov.

City and Community Resources for LGBTQ+ New Yorkers

  • In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the NYC Unity Project surveyed hundreds of LGBTQ program and service providers across New York City to develop a resource page, which includes up-to-date information on LGBTQ resources still available during the COVID-19 pandemic. Visit the Unity Project's COVID-19 resource page for more information.

  • A list of food pantries and soup kitchens that have explicitly reported commitment to welcoming LGBTQ community members can be found on the Growing Up NYC Food Assistance webpage.

  • To find out about LGBTQ+ friendly events, visit GrowingUpNYC.CityofNewYork.us.

  • NYC Health + Hospitals/Gotham Health, Judson continues to provide urgent sexual/reproductive care, LGBTQ affirming services, and mental health support for New York City's adolescents and emerging adults during the COVID-19 emergency. The physical space is being temporarily being relocated to NYC Health + Hospitals/Gotham Health, Gouverneur located at 227 Madison Street, New York, NY.
    • In order to adhere to the social distancing directive and to ensure the safety of our staff and patients, those wanting to access these services should first call to receive a comprehensive telephonic assessment. An in-person appointment with a healthcare provider will then be scheduled as medically necessary.
    • The following services are being provided:
      • STI testing and treatment
      • Emergency contraception and birth control
      • PrEP/PEP
      • Urgent GYN needs
      • Gender affirming care, including hormone therapy
      • Pregnancy testing and options counseling
      • Mental health support
    • NYC Health + Hospitals provides care to all New Yorkers, no matter what your immigration status or insurance status is. NYC Health + Hospitals will help you even if you do not have insurance and cannot pay for health care.
    • To make an appointment, call 212-925-5000 (after the language prompt, press 3 to speak with a nurse). Visit NYC Health + Hospitals LGBTQ Health Centers website for more information.

Burial Assistance

  • New York City Human Resources Administration (HRA)'s Burial Assistance Program provides financial support to help low-income people help pay for the burial costs of a loved one. The program is open to all low-income New Yorkers, regardless of immigration status
    • To address the unprecedented impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic, DSS/HRA issued an emergency rule:
      • Increasing the burial allowance from $900 to $1,700 and increasing the cap on burial costs from $1,700 to $3,400.
      • Extending the timeframe for when you can apply to 120 days from the date of the individual's death.
    • Applications received on or after March 12, 2020 will be considered for the increased burial assistance allowance. All applications received will be reviewed regardless of immigration status.
    • For more information, visit HRA's Burial Assistance page, which includes the application forms in 11 languages (social security number is not required) and Frequently Asked Questions.
    • You can also called the HRA Office of Burial Services at 929-252-7731. Please leave a message and a staff member will return your call before the end of the next business day.

  • If your loved one passed away at NYC Health + Hospitals, you can contact the Patient & Guest Relations department to seek assistance in identifying their bodies and planning the next steps. The direct phone number for each facility can be found below.
    • Bronx
      • NYC Health + Hospitals/Jacobi
        718-918-5245
      • NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln
        718-579-5537
      • NYC Health + Hospitals/North Central Bronx
        718-519-4747
    • Brooklyn
      • NYC Health + Hospitals/Coney Island
        718-616-4164
      • NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County
        718-245-7418
      • NYC Health + Hospitals/Woodhull
        718-963-8465
    • Manhattan
      • NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue
        212-562-6071
      • NYC Health + Hospitals/Harlem
        212-939-1790
      • NYC Health + Hospitals/Metropolitan
        212-423-7232
    • Queens
      • NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst
        718-334-3690
      • NYC Health + Hospitals/Queens
        718-883-2058

  • For more information, visit the MOIA COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions funerals and burials section.

Public Safety and Protection Against Harassment or Discrimination

  • Hate and discrimination against anyone on the basis of their race, national origin, or other status is not tolerated in New York City. The NYC Commission on Human Rights, Mayor's Office for the Prevention of Hate Crimes, and NYPD are monitoring and responding to reported hate and bias incidents resulting from fear and stigma related to COVID-19.
    • Call 311 to report harassment or discrimination.
    • Call 911 if you are the victim of a hate crime or witness what you believe to be a hate crime. NYPD officers will not ask about the immigration status of anyone seeking help.
    • Visit nyc.gov/StopCOVIDHate for information on how to report hate and bias incidents related to COVID-19, and access victim and mental health support.

  • NYC Family Justice Centers are available by phone to provide assistance to domestic violence survivors, including immediate safety planning, shelter assistance, legal assistance, mental health and counseling services, and other vital resources. You may be asked to leave a message, and someone will get back to you as quickly as possible.
    • From Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., you can call the center location near you.
      • For NYC Family Justice Center, Bronx, call 718-508-1220
      • For NYC Family Justice Center, Brooklyn, call 718-250-5113
      • For NYC Family Justice Center, Manhattan, call 212-602-2800
      • For NYC Family Justice Center, Queens, call 718-575-4545
      • For NYC Family Justice Center, Staten Island, call 718-697-4300
    • In the evenings or weekends, call NYC's 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-621-HOPE (4673).

  • For more information and resources, visit the COVID-19 webpage of the Mayor's Office to End Domestic and Gender-Based Violence.

Status of Immigration Proceedings and Enforcement

  • ActionNYC is the City's initiative that provides free, safe, and confidential legal immigration help for New Yorkers. The program is currently adjusting during this time to allow for immigration screenings by phone to comply with social distancing (staying at least six feet away from people who do not live in your household). For any questions or concerns you have regarding immigration status, including COVID-19-related changes, call 800-354-0365 Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., or call 311 and say "ActionNYC."

  • NYC Office of Civil Justice provides free legal services to New Yorkers in need, including tenants, immigrants, low-wage workers and other New Yorkers facing civil legal challenges. Visit the NYC Office of Civil Justice website to find out more.

  • All immigration court hearings are postponed through at least October 9th for people who are not detained. For people who are detained, hearings are continuing for now. Stay informed about updated by visiting Justice.gov/EOIR, calling the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) hotline at 1-800-898-7180, and checking EOIR's Facebook page

  • United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) had previously cancelled all face-to-face services including interviews and naturalization ceremonies due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Starting June 17th, USCIS resumed in-person naturalization oath ceremonies, with social distancing guidelines. Interviews and biometrics appointments have also resumed. All applicants and legal representatives will receive reschedule notices by mail. Visit USCIS.gov/Coronavirus (for Spanish, visit the Respuesta de USCIS al Coronavirus 2019 webpage). If you have questions (including re-scheduling of your appointment), call the USCIS hotline 1-800-375-5283, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
    • Additionally, the USCIS New York asylum office began a phased reopening on June 15th and are conducting in-person interviews. Reschedule notices will be sent to asylum applicants.

  • Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has modified its policies in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. For more information, visit ICE.gov/COVID19
    • Visits to people in ICE detention are currently not allowed for family and friends. For attorneys, some legal visitation continues. However, ICE is encouraging video visitation for attorneys where possible and requiring those visiting in person to provide their own personal protective equipment and they may be subject to testing at the facility. Attorneys should contact the individual facilities for details and updates.
    • ICE cancelled all in-person check-ins for people who are not detained. Telephonic check-ins are still happening.
    • Arrests by ICE continue. ICE has said they will implement some limitations on who they will arrest and that they will not carry out arrests at or near health care facilities except in extraordinary circumstances.

Consumer Fraud Protection

  • Price gouging is illegal for any personal or household good or any service that is needed to prevent or limit the spread of or treat COVID-19. This means businesses cannot increase prices of these types of goods and services by 10% or more. Find out more by visiting the DCWP website. If you think a store excessively increased the price of these items beginning in March, file a complaint online or call 311 and say "Overcharge."

  • NYC.gov/DCWPAlerts provides information and translated resources on scams, funeral planning tips, debt collection cease communications, student loans, free tax prep, license expiration and renewal dates, price gouging, and more.

  • Scammers often take advantage of vulnerable people during times of crisis and distress. It is important that you be aware of any potential scams in order to protect yourself and your money. Scammers have come up with numerous ways to defraud people in connection with COVID-19. These scams may be phone calls, emails, text messages, or sometimes even in person. It is important to be aware of them and know what to do if you encounter one. Some of the common categories of COVID-19 scams include:
    • Fake Government Calls/Emails/Texts. Legitimate government agencies do not call unexpectedly asking for money, especially in the form of gift cards. Most payments can be done through their official websites.
    • Charity Scams. Always do your research before donating to a charity organization or person setting up a GoFundMe page. All legitimate charities must be registered with the New York Attorney General's Charities Bureau. Never donate in cash, by gift card, or by wiring money.
    • Fake "Anti-COVID-19" Products and Medicines. Do not use products or medicines promoted as "anti-COVID-19" unless approved by a health care provider. There are currently no products proven to treat or prevent COVID-19.
    • COVID-19 Home Test Kits. Ignore any online offers for vaccinations and home test kits for COVID-19. If someone unexpectedly knocks on your door claiming to be from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO), or NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) to conduct a "COVID-19 test" – dial 911.
    • Personal Protective Equipment Scams. Beware of fake calls to your business requesting money for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). The caller may state that a manager had placed an order for PPE for the company and a money order is needed to be sent prior to delivery.
    • Phishing Scams. Phishing emails, text messages, or social media posts often contain a link or ask you to provide personal information. Always verify the email address or link before clicking or responding.
    • Unknown Callers and Robocalls. Scammers may call you or use illegal robocalls to pitch everything from scam COVID-19 treatments to work-at-home schemes. Beware of calls threatening to disconnect gas and electric services unless you pay immediately.
    • Debt Relief Scams. If you receive a call claiming to offer debt relief, do not engage.
    • Counterfeit Coupons. Beware of fake coupon deals circulating on social media. The coupon link may take you to a third-party site and ask for your personal information in order to receive the coupon.
    • Tax Loans. Beware of any promise to give you a "bigger" refund through deductions and credits.
    • Puppy Scams. It is important that you research the website before making any purchases. Fraudulent pet sites may advertise animals that don't exist and are never shipped. It is best practice to not buy a pet without seeing it in person.
    • Student Loan Scams. Most federal student loan payments are automatically suspended, without interest or penalties, until September 30. Student loan holders do not have to take any action to have them suspended. If you are contacted by someone claiming they can get you into the program faster or for free, it is a scam.

  • For more information on how to discern a scam and tips to protect yourself, visit nyc.gov/dcwp for the COVID-19 scam safety tips fact sheet.

  • If you suspect fraud related to COVID-19, call New York State Attorney General's Office at 800-771-7755 or call New York State Division of Consumer Protection at 800-697-1220.
    • If you feel you are in immediate danger, please call 911.

  • Visit the New York Attorney General's COVID-19 Resource Guide to learn about your rights, resources available to you, and consumer protection tips during this time

Additional Resources

Translated COVID-19 Graphics