The current coronavirus pandemic has changed so much about our world. All of us at Future Chefs hope that you and your loved ones are safe, and that you are managing through this overwhelming crisis. Part of our work supporting young people and their families is providing valuable information needed during this time. We’ve compiled a list below of links to a variety of resources you may need.
Many young people we serve, their families, and their communities are impacted by this crisis in so many ways. Even when the immediate threat of the virus has passed, there will be even greater needs in our community and Future Chefs will continue to support those we serve.
Remember to continue to practice social distancing so together we can #slowthespread.
Public Health Information
Please check the Massachusetts Department of Public Health info page for the most up-to-date information.
For the latest information on COVID-19, visit Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.
Food Relief
Check the Greater Boston Food Bank (GBFB) for information on 500+ partner hunger-relief agencies, including food pantries, community meal programs and other food assistance providers throughout the nine counties and 190 towns and cities across Eastern Massachusetts.
For access to free school breakfast and lunch meals during BPS closures click here.
Unemployment Information
Visit Massachusetts unemployment benefits page for information and qualification details.
DUA is hosting daily town hall meetings to lead applicants through a step-by-step process of a successful unemployment claim. Sign up here.
Education
WGBH has resources available on TV for those who may not have access to the internet or computers:
• Broadcast learning for students. Knowing that not all students have access to computers or the internet, WGBH has partnered with the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to reach middle and high school students at home on its WORLD Channel weekdays from noon to 5 p.m. starting Monday, March 23. Younger children can continue to tune into WGBH 2 and WGBX 44 during the day and WGBH Kids 24/7
• Distance Learning Center. WGBH’s Education team has also launched a Distance Learning Center containing high-quality, trusted and engaging digital resources. This website provides a range of science, math, social studies and English Language Assistance activities for Pre-K and grades K-2, 3-5, 6-8. Visit here.
• Education Development Center. The EDC has resources and ideas for parents and teachers that have been contributed by EDC staff around the world. This page will continue to be updated.
Resources for Restaurant Industry and Small Business
The Paycheck Protection Program prioritizes millions of Americans employed by small businesses by authorizing funds toward job retention and certain other expenses. Click here for information.
The Greg Hill Foundation is raising money to support those from the Massachusetts restaurant industry who have been impacted by the COVID-19 closures. They are raising awareness and funds to provide grants to full-time restaurant workers in Massachusetts who are dependent on wages plus tips to cover basic living expenses and provide for their families. Information to apply for a grant found here.
COMMUNICATION AND REMOTE WORK
• SafeLink Wireless gives you the choice of enjoying the free service while continuing to use your current phone. It offers 350 voice minutes a month, 3 GB of data, and unlimited text.
• StandUp Wireless is offering all new and current customers an additional 5GB of high-speed data through May 15, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic: STANDUPWIRELESS.COM
• Third Sector New England has resources on their website to help non-profits including accessing resources to work remotely.
• GoToMeeting is offering Emergency Remote Work Kits critical front-line service providers, including eligible healthcare providers, educational institutions, municipalities, and non-profit organizations as well as any current LogMeIn customer with free, organization-wide use of many LogMeIn products for 3 months through the availability of Emergency Remote Work Kits.
• Comcast is offering low-income families two free months of Internet service, which is available to all qualified low-income households for $9.95/month plus tax. Click here for information. Apply by April 30, 2020.
• Charter Spectrum is offering two months of free 100 Mbps Internet service and no installation fees to new customers with K-12 or college students in the household, $9.95/month afterwards. To apply call 1-844-488-8395.
Mental Health Resources
Resources from mass.gov on a variety of mental health and wellness needs found here.
Riverside Trauma Center’s guide for ideas to increase a sense of safety, predictability, and control found here.