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During these challenging times, we at First Year Cleveland want to be sure you are informed of resources and information available to you and your family.
City of Cleveland COVID-19 Dashboard
Cuyahoga County Board of Health - County Tracker
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19): The Basics
Cleaning and disinfecting your home
The MetroHealth System has partnered with Cuyahoga County to create a multilingual website with pandemic resources
People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with these symptoms may have COVID-19:
Children have similar symptoms to adults and generally have mild illness. However, CDC and partners are investigating cases of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) associated with COVID-19. Learn more about COVID-19 and multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C).
This list is not all-inclusive. Please consult your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning to you.
The virus that causes COVID-19 is thought to spread mainly from person to person, mainly through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. Spread is more likely when people are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
COVID-19 seems to be spreading easily and sustainably in the community (“community spread”) in many affected geographic areas. Community spread means people have been infected with the virus in an area, including some who are not sure how or where they became infected.
The Ohio Department of Health maintains a comprehensive website with information and resources related to COVID-19: https://coronavirus.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/covid-19/home
Health Policy Ohio provides regularly updated Ohio and federal resources that provide the latest reputable information on the ongoing coronavirus outbreak: https://www.healthpolicyohio.org/coronavirus-covid-19-in-ohio/
Governor DeWine announced on July 21 a travel advisory for all individuals coming into Ohio from states reporting positive COVID-19 testing rates of 15 percent or higher. Those traveling from Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Mississippi, Nevada, South Carolina, and Texas should self quarantine for 14-days. The self-quarantine recommendation applies to those who live in Ohio and to people who are traveling into Ohio from any of these states. Additional information is attached and you can visit coronavirus.ohio.gov for tips on how to effectively quarantine.
Governor DeWine also urged citizens to use extreme caution when considering attending or hosting an informal gathering. The Governor said that we are seeing serious exposures to the virus that are arising from everyday events like church services, small house parties, neighborhood get-togethers, weddings, etc.
Responsible RestartOhio is about protecting the health of employees, customers, and their families; supporting community efforts to control the spread of the virus; and, leading in responsibly getting Ohio back to work. Find information on sector-specific operating requirements, responsible protocols and more: Responsible Restart Ohio
Every day, the cleveland.com team covering the coronavirus will send three to four updates about the progress of the virus – confirmed cases of the virus, major cancellations, the latest medical advice, relevant scientific information and more. Learn more and sign up
As of July 8, 2020 at 6pm, face masks became mandatory:
Other restrictions apply. Please see information at top of page or visit https://coronavirus.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/covid-19/resources/news-releases-news-you-can-use/face-coverings-required-in-high-risk-counties
When Cuyahoga County decreases from Red Alert Level 3 to Orange Alert Level 2, face-covering requirements will once again become "recommended". See below for guidelines.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has recommended that Americans wear cloth face masks in public to help slow the spread of COVID-19. The recommendation is being made based on studies that show a significant proportion of people with COVID-19 lack symptoms and can transmit the virus to others in close proximity through speaking, coughing, sneezing or other means. COVID-19 checklist for cloth face coverings (masks)
Some stores in Ohio are REQUIRING customers to wear face masks. See the list here.
Includes recommendations, instructions and FAQs for cloth face coverings: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html
Why shouldn’t my infant use a mask?
How can I protect my infant?
If you have questions or concerns about COVID-19, or suspect you may have COVID-19 symptoms, please call the following support lines:
If you are struggling with mental health concerns due to the ongoing stress of the pandemic, call the COVID CareLine for Ohioans at 1-800-720-9616. Trained staff will be available 24/7 to provide emotional assistance, and all calls are confidential. After 8:00 PM, the calls will be forwarded to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
If you are experiencing stress or anxiety: Call the Cuyahoga County's 24-hour Warmline at 440-886-5950 to talk through things with a peer. Here are some OhioMHAS tips for managing Coronavirus-related stress.
If you think you may have been exposed to COVID-19 and begin to develop symptoms such as a fever, coughing, or difficulty breathing, call your healthcare provider for medical advice. Do not visit a doctor's office, emergency room or medical facility without calling first. Patients with a fever over 100.4 and/or a cough are asked to self-quarantine.
Cleveland Clinic: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/landing/preparing-for-coronavirus
University Hospitals: https://www.uhhospitals.org/healthcare-update/covid-19-testing-locations
The MetroHealth System: MetroHealth testing is reserved for the most critically ill at this time. If you are a MetroHealth patient and believe you may have COVID-19, contact your health care provider or call the COVID-19 hotline 440-59-COVID (440-592-6843). You will be evaluated to determine if you meet CDC testing guidelines based on your symptoms, your recent travels and recent contact with COVID-19 patients. If you meet the criteria, your provider will tell you how to get tested. More information | Haga un clic aquí para la versión en español
If you don't have a primary care physician and you have serious symptoms of coronavirus, use the CDC’s Self-Checker to see if the website recommends seeking medical care. You can also call a hotline, such as the one at MetroHealth – 440-59-COVID – which is available to everyone, 24/7.
The Families First Coronavirus Response Act made coronavirus testing free for everyone—provided states use their Medicaid programs to cover the uninsured. Restrictions apply.
People under the age of 61 who have a temperature higher than 100.4 degrees are asked to self-isolate and contact their doctor.
Learn more about testing and treatment if you have no health insurance.
For a list of testing sites, visit https://coronavirus.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/covid-19/testing-ch-centers/
Please refer to this information from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
As we learn more about COVID-19 it’s normal to experience a number of emotions. There are ways to manage your anxiety and help you better cope with the feelings you may be experiencing. Some tips from the Cleveland Clinic: How to Protect Your Mental Health During COVID-19. Also see Mental Health Services above.
We are sharing this information from Babycenter.com to help parents-to-be get answers to questions about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and their pregnancy, like "Is it still safe to deliver in a hospital?" "How might Coronavirus affect my pregnancy?" and more ...
Coronavirus (COVID-19) pregnancy FAQs: Medical experts answer your questions
Our friends at PregnantInCLE.com have compiled this list for pregnant moms-to-be, including visitor restrictions for each hospital and information on CenteringPregnancy and other prenatal programs.
Having a baby at home seems to be an appealing option for pregnant women who don’t want to face the uncertainties that come along with having a baby during a pandemic. But home births aren’t just about birthing pools, candles and being surrounded by loved ones. There are some risks that come along with them as well. Full story
Information on virus symptoms, postpartum recovery and wellness, dealing with emotions, tips for connecting with others while maintaining social distancing, staying safe at home, and more: https://newmomhealth.com/coronavirus-for-new-moms
Interim guidance from the Centers for Disease Control based on what is currently known about how COVID-19 is spread:
Breastfeeding for a mother confirmed or under investigation for COVID-19
Breastfeeding and have concerns due to COVID-19? Please take a few moments to read this important information from HealthyChildren.org.
For daily breastfeeding support from other families, Breastfeeding Medicine of Northeast Ohio offers a PREP+ Breastfeeding Support group that maintains an active online Facebook presence: PREP+ Facebook page. Consider joining if you are not already a part of this group.
They will also offer live Zoom meetings during the regularly scheduled time for the in-person PREP+ group. If you want to sign up for the group, please email your request to lactation@bfmedneo.com and you will be sent you the Zoom meeting link. There is no charge for the support group.
Thanks to Birthing Beautiful Communities for these tips to help you fight infection:
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is warning parents not to feed homemade formula to infants. Babies should be fed only breastmilk or iron-fortified infant formula that has been prepared according to the directions on the package. Homemade formula can harm infants. Learn more
Families in need of baby formula during the COVID-19 pandemic may contact the faith-based Save Our Babies initiative for milk. Please contact Bregina Knuckles at 216-721-0234.
Birthing Beautiful Communities serves mothers at the highest risk of infant mortality. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the offices have closed and classes are suspended, shifting to virtual visits, until further notice. Active clients with urgent needs or questions are directed to contact their Perinatal Support Specialist. Pregnant women and their providers may continue to apply for services. Please call 216-307-1538 with questions or concerns.
Who is eligible for pandemic child care? Who are the approved providers? Learn more here.
The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) is a federal program that helps low-income people, including elderly people, by providing them with emergency food assistance at no cost. CLICK HERE to find the distribution location nearest you.
The food assistance program is for individuals, children and families with low income and no assets. Benefits are issued monthly through the Ohio Direction Card, or (Ohio EBT).
The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services has received approval to extend the recertification eligibility period from March, April and May by another six months due to the coronavirus epidemic.
Grocery stores and other retailers can offer online "click and collect" grocery shopping and curbside pickup for families in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Learn more here
The Cleveland Metropolitan School District as well as a number of other organizations are providing free meals for youth throughout the city as well as shuttles. Find locations here
The Greater Cleveland Foodbank is continuing their important work of providing meals to those in need throughout our community. If you are in need, call their Help Center to obtain updated information on where you can turn for food. The Help Center’s phone number is 216-738-2067.
In addition, they have recently released a listing of food resources near Zip Codes 44137 and 44112. Please click below for appropriate listing.
If you or someone you know needs food, have them call 1-216-738-2067.
Calls to the Foodbank's help center have tripled in recent days. If you can help the Foodbank with a monetary donation, please visit www.GreaterClevelandFoodBank.org/Give.
The Hunger Network has a comprehensive map of its Hunger Centers here.
View a community-organized map of free meals and food distributions here. And a link to a map that shows shuttle locations can be found here.
Sheetz convenience stores have begun giving away free bagged meals to children whose families find themselves in need because of the coronavirus. To participate, families should ask an employee at the register of a participating store for a meal.
The offer provides one bag per child. Meals will be available each day while supplies last. Each lunch will include a turkey sandwich, bag of chips and a drink. Find a location near you
Families in need of baby formula during the COVID-19 pandemic may contact the faith-based Save Our Babies initiative for milk. Please contact Bregina Knuckles at 216-721-0234.
Pre4CLE is maintaining an expanding list of emergency/free meals and more: Resource list with meal sites and more
Here you will find stories from across the web related to the Coronavirus and the health disparities that are coming to light. Read the stories here
Because crises like COVID-19 create and deepen existing inequities in society, it’s more important than ever that we prioritize equity and make sure we reach the children and families who need us most. Read the letter from the American Academy of Pediatrics President, Sally Goza, MD, FAAP
During these challenging times, it's especially important to take steps to maintain your health and wellbeing – as well as that of your children, exercise, alleviate stress and anxiety, and simply take care of yourself. Many resources are available with a quick Google search, but we offer a few here to get you started:
Managing stress and anxiety for adults and children
Supporting kids during the Coronavirus crisis
Free physical activity resources for adults and kids
Walk. Run. Dance. Play. What's your move?
YMCA health and fitness videos
Thoughtful ways to help others
Guided meditation video (length 6:43)
Relax with these virtual museum tours
The best national parks to visit virtually
Helpful information including age-appropriate responses to common questions, a guide to self-care, and activities for young children experiencing social distancing: https://www.zerotothree.org/resources/3210-tips-for-families-coronavirus
The Building Strong Families program at University Settlement in hosting an Online Parenting Support group series.
An executive order issued by Ohio Governor Mike DeWine expands flexibility for Ohioans to receive unemployment benefits during Ohio’s emergency declaration period.
Ohioans can apply for unemployment benefits online 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at unemployment.ohio.gov. It is also possible to file by phone at 877-644-6562 or TTY at 888- 642-8203, Monday through Friday 7am to 7pm, Saturday 9am to 5pm, and Sunday 9am to 1pm.
The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services has a page devoted to answering your questions and helping you obtain unemployment insurance due to the COVID-19 pandemic: Coronavirus and unemployment insurance benefits
Due to many businesses closing operations, Governor DeWine has signed an executive order to suspend the one-week waiting period so that employees can immediately begin receiving unemployment compensation. The order also allows employees to access unemployment compensation even if their employer does not offer paid leave, as well as those who have been quarantined by a medical professional. These individuals will also be exempt from the requirement that they be actively seeking work.
The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services currently has more than 50,000 jobs listed. Click here for job postings.
If you are having difficulty paying your mortgage due to unemployment related to COVID-19 please refer to this document prepared by the Ohio Department of Health
Utility companies have committed to not shut off services due to nonpayment during the COVID-19 pandemic.
FirstEnergy
Dominion Energy
Cleveland Water Dept. and Cleveland Public Power
If you need internet service for work or school but don’t have access at home or can’t afford to pay your bill, there are options available.
Keep Ohio Connected (internet service availability)
Learn what Internet Service providers are doing to keep Ohioans connected, including keeping service turned on during the pandemic and waiving late fees:
https://governor.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/governor/media/news-and-media/dewine-husted-praise-internet-providers-for-commitment-to-keep-americans-connected-pledge
A map showing free Wi-Fi locations around the county is available on the Cuyahoga County website.
Eligible taxpayers who filed tax returns for either 2019 or 2018 will automatically receive an economic impact payment of up to $1,200 for individuals or $2,400 for married couples. Parents also receive $500 for each qualifying child under the age of 17.
Tax filers with adjusted gross income up to $75,000 for individuals and up to $150,000 for married couples filing jointly will receive the full payment. For filers with income above those amounts, the payment amount is reduced incrementally and then phased out for individuals whose income exceeds $99,000 (or $198,000 for joint filers with no children).
Social Security beneficiaries who typically do not file a tax return will automatically get the $1,200 payment. This is a reversal from an earlier order when the Internal Revenue Service said a simple tax return would need to be filed to qualify for the stimulus payment.
Click here to view eligibility and payment status
It is important for every household to participate in the 2020 Census. The Census will determine $675 billion in federal funding, representation in Congress, and community development and resources for the next 10 years. The money will be distributed among states, counties, and communities based on the census data and will be used to support hospitals, public works, roads, schools, and many other vital programs, public safety and emergency preparedness.
It has never been easier to respond on your own, whether online, over the phone or by mail — all without having to meet a census taker. Complete the questionnaire:
The Census Bureau’s counting of the homeless in shelters, soup kitchens and other places scheduled for March 30 to April 1 has been pushed back to until mid-April at the earliest.
The deadline for filing federal taxes (both personal and business) has been moved from April 15 to July 15, 2020. (However, those expecting a refund are encouraged to file as soon as possible). Learn more here
Ohio BMV locations will reopen, effective May 26, 2020. Citizens are urged to utilize the online renewal site to reduce crowding and wait times at BMV locations: bmv.ohio.gov.
Due to the state of emergency, Ohio licenses (including driver licenses, CDLs, identification cards, temporary instruction permits, vehicle registrations, disability placards, and vehicle temporary tags,) expiring during the declared State of Emergency shall remain valid until either 90 days after the declared emergency ends, or December 1, 2020, whichever comes sooner. Additional info here
First Year Cleveland is distributing care packages to new and expectant parents who have been infected with the COVID-19 virus or are at high risk of becoming infected. These moms and dads needed help and support even before the pandemic, and now they need your help more than ever. Your gift will help provide care packages containing diapers and wipes, face masks, cleaning products, grocery store gift cards and more. Please give today to help families in need.
No matter how long the COVID-19 crisis lasts, hungry neighbors will continue to need our support. Many hardworking families in Northeast Ohio can barely make ends meet – 1 in 6 people in our community struggle to put food on their table.
But you can change that: Every $1 donated to the Greater Cleveland Food Bank can help provide enough food for 4 nutritious meals.
Please give so families in need can have nutritious meals during this challenging time.
United Way 2-1-1 – Free and confidential 24-hour information and assistance
Vote By Mail
Red Cross - Steps to help you cope
Resource list with meal sites and more (thanks to Pre4CLE)
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Support resources
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