FOR THE LATEST CORONAVIRUS INFO

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has the latest information about COVID-19 as well as resources for the community.

Call: 800-232-4636 or for questions: https://wwwn.cdc.gov/dcs/contactus/form

Website: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

DSHS COVID 19 CALL CENTER

The Department of State Health Services established a COVID-19 Call Center and set up an email box to receive incoming questions from the general public.

Email: coronavirus@dshs.texas.gov  or call the DSHS COVID-19 Call Center at 877-570-9779 or 2-1-1

United Way of Dallas

Check website for coronavirus resources: https://unitedwaydallas.org/coronavirus-resources/

DRIVE THROUGH TESTING SITES

General criteria: cough, shortness of breath, 99.6 temp or higher

●     Dallas County Public Health at American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Ave., Dallas 75201 Hrs: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

●     Dallas County Public Health at Ellis Davis Field House, 9191 S Polk St., Dallas 75232 

       Hrs: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Additional criteria: 65+ years-old;must be a first responder, healthcare worker or DART driver

●     Parkland Health & Hospital System, 5200 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas 75235

      Only available for current Parkland patients. Call the COVID 19 patient line at 214-590-8060 for appointment.

●     Siai Urgent Care, 3414 Milton Ave., Dallas 75205, 469-522-3995  www.sinaiurgentcare.com

●     University of Texas Southwestern, 6201 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas 75390

      UTSW opened a COVID-19 Drive-Up Specimen Collection Site at Visitor     

      Parking Lot No. 18 at Paul M. Bass Administrative and Clinical Center, open 7 

      days a week, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Only UTSW providers can refer UTSW      

      patients 12 years old and above to the drive-through testing site.

CHILDHELP NATIONAL CHILD ABUSE HOTLINE

For parents who are overwhelmed, feel alone or that no one cares, call 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453) then push 1 to talk to a Hotline Counselor. Communication in 170 languages is available.The Hotline is staffed by degreed, professional counselors who are available 24 hours a day, every day of the year. All calls are anonymous and toll-free.

Deaf Hotline

The Deaf Hotline is available 24/7 through video phone (1-855-812-1001), email and chat for Deaf, DeafBlind, DeafDisabled survivors.

NATIONAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOTLINE

The National Domestic Violence Hotline is 24/7, confidential and free: 1-800-799-7233 and through chat (https://www.thehotline.org/).

NATIONAL PARENT HELPLINE

National Parent Helpline Monday -Friday 12pm-9am CT emotional support and advocacy for parents:1-855-2736. http://www.nationalparenthelpline.org/

NATIONAL SEXUAL ASSAULT HOTLINE

The National Sexual Assault Hotline is 24/7, confidential and free:800.656.HOPE (4673) and through chat (https://hotline.rainn.org).

REPORT ABUSE HOTLINE

Anyone who feels they or someone else is in danger can call the Texas Abuse Hotline at 1-800-252-5400.

STRONGHEARTS NATIVE HELPLINE

The StrongHearts Native Helpline for domestic/sexual violence is available 7am-10pm CT, confidential, and specifically for Native communities:1−844-762-8483.

TEXAS ADVOCACY PROJECT

Texas Advocacy Project helps people who are in abusive relationships with counseling, planning and free legal help.You can reach the Texas Advocacy Project crisis line (800) 374-4673 (HOPE) or online at TexasAdvocacyProject.org.

TRANS LIFELINE

The Trans LifeLine for peer support for trans folks 9am-3am CT: 1-877-565-8860 This hotline is staffed exclusively by trans operators is the only crisis line with a policy against non-consensual active rescue.

CASH ASSISTANCE THROUGH HEAL AMERICA TOUR

In collaboration with Stand Together Foundation, Urban Specialists invites you to apply for cash assistance as a bridge through this Covid-19 crisis. Families know best what they need most, so there are no strings attached. Once a recipient’s identity and eligibility are verified, they receive a direct cash transfer to their bank account.

Families that are eligible to receive cash transfers:

• Have a household income below 150 percent of the Federal Poverty Level (Example: $37,650 or less for a family of four),

• Have a routing number, which indicates an account that can accept an ACH bank transfer, and

• Are experiencing financial hardships due to COVID-19.

Click on “Click Here to Apply” at https://healamericatour.com/healtogether or go here to apply: https://forms.zohopublic.com/it64/form/GiveTogetherCampaign/formperma/edn4tdUTrDTKiJ_1o8VFjmY5km1vVPkmUifenAl1nAI

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR TEXAS FAMILIES

MASONIC CHILDREN & FAMILY SERVICES OF TEXAS

1240 Keller Parkway, Suite 200, Keller, Texas 76248

817-503-1500/f: 817.503.1551  toll-free: 877.203.9111 www.mcfstx.org

Masonic Children & Family Services of Texas is extending FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE for Texas Families impacted by COVID-19. We realize that many families are being financially impacted by COVID-19 and may be facing a time of uncertainty until we as a country collectively return to normal. Our organization may be able to bridge the gap for such families. MCFS is a non-profit children’s charity working for Texans. 

We are able to provide funding for essentials like rent, food, and utilities during this time of crisis. We are in this together. In order to be considered, families simply need to meet 3 requirements:

1. Live in the state of Texas; 

2. Have at least one child under the age of 21 living in the home; 

3. Complete the application (click here) and return it to us at MCFS. (https://www.masonichometx.org/pdfs/ChildFamilyAppCOVID19.pdf)  

Texans can dial 2-1-1 (option 6) for information on COVID-19 and local community resources on health care, utilities, food, housing and more. Wait times are currently higher than normal. https://hhs.texas.gov/services/health/coronavirus-covid-19

UTILITY & RENT ASSISTANCE

Interfaith Family Services offers utility and rent assistance for clients who need temporary assistance and permanent housing for homeless families. To learn more, click here or call 214-827-7220.

ASSISTANCE FOR SINGLE PARENTS

Buckner Family Pathways is providing assistance to single parents through counseling, financial assistance, affordable housing and case management services. Please call 214-328-3141 to apply.

Texas Health and Human Services Commission

THHSC has resources available. There may be vouchers to assist those in need with paying their rent. Also get government assistance with other needs, including lease application fees, information on low income housing and security deposits. Dial 1-877-541-7905 to find additional ways to get rent help.

24/7 STATEWIDE MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT LINE

Texas Health and Human Services now has a 24/7 statewide mental health support line to help those "experiencing anxiety, stress or emotional challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic." Anyone can call the Statewide COVID-19 Mental Health Support Line at any time for free at 833-986-1919.

AA meetings:

Pause a While will host free conference calls for AA meetings at 2:00 p.m. every day.

Dial in Number 425-436-6360; Access code 422932#

Crisis Text Line

Text HOME to 741741

Metrocare Mental Health Support Line

If you're experiencing anxiety, depression or mental health issues due to coronavirus, a mental health support line was created for Dallas County residents. The line will be staffed with mental health specialists and is intended for people without a mental healthcare provider. The number is 214-743-1215. (Must leave a message and they will return your call within 24-48 hours).

National Alliance on Mental Illness HelpLine

NAMI HelpLine Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., CST (800) 950-6264

COVID-19 Information and Resources: https://www.nami.org/getattachment/Press-Media/Press-Releases/2020/COVID-19-and-Mental-Illness-NAMI-Releases-Importan/COVID-19-Updated-Guide-1.pdf?lang=en-US

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

800-273-8255

800-273-TALK

NORTH TEXAS MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT LINE

The North Texas Behavioral Health Authority has a helpline that is open at anytime. The phone line provides mental health support for those dealing with COVID-19, including trauma-informed support and psychological first aid for those dealing with stress and anxiety. Call 833-251-7544 to get in touch with them.

SAMHSA’s DISASTER DISTRESS HELPLINE

Toll-Free: 1-800-985-5990 (English and español)

SMS: Text TalkWithUs to 66746 (English and español)

SAMHSA’s Disaster Distress Helpline provides 24/7, 365-day-a-year crisis counseling and support to people experiencing emotional distress related to natural or human-caused disasters.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Helpline

Call the helpline at 1‐800‐662‐4357 for support.

Texas Mental Health Navigation Line

Call 972-525-8181 from   10 a.m. to 6 p.m. M - F. Visit website at: https://www.granthalliburton.org/navline

The Trevor Project (for LGBTQ Youth)

Call 1‐866‐488‐7386 or text START to 678678. Visit the website at: www.thetrevorproject.org

Child and Family Guidance Center is accepting new clients and is completing intakes via teletherapy. Business hours are 9-5. You can call them at 214-351-3490. They have translating services and accept most insurances including Medicaid and Medicare.

DALLAS FAMILY TREE COUNSELING

Dallas county locations are independent offices, their availability and operation times vary depending on location. As of right now, all locations are operating and seeing clients except for Positive Influences. Spanish speaking locations are:

Counseling Institute of Texas, Positive Influences, and CCD Farmers Branch. The program is completely free and does not use insurance or require income limits. The program is short term and is for youth 17 and under and their families. More information on eligibility can be found here: https://familytreeprogram.org/services/eligibility/ 

CCD Farmers Branch2727 LBJ Freeway, Suite 406 | Farmers Branch, TX 75234 | (972) 353-9404

Counseling Institute of Texas3200 Southern Drive, Suite 100 | Garland, TX 75043 | (972) 271-4300

Hamilton Guy Counseling and Training 777 East Wheatland Rd. #101 | Duncanville, Texas 75116 | (972) 885-5013

Harmony Counseling Center 6969 Pastor Bailey Dr. Suite 250 | Dallas, Texas 75237 | (214) 751-3932

Mobile Counseling1412 Main Street, #613 | Dallas, TX 75201 | (214) 542-5642

Positive Influences 8828 N. Stemmons Fwy, Suite 225 | Dallas, Texas 75247 | (469) 227-7847

Richland Oaks Counseling Center 1221 Abrams Rd Suite 325 | Richardson, TX 75081 | (469) 619-7622

TELE-COUNSELING SERVICES

North Dallas Shared Ministries- working in partnership with The Center for Integrative Counseling and Psychology are offering tele-counseling services to clients in need. Please contact: 214-526-4525

HELP FOR THE ELDERLY

VNA Texas offers emergency assistance for the elderly along with a number of other services. Those interested can send an email to gethelp@vnatexas.org or call the group directly at 1-800-225-5862.

HOMELESS ASSISTANCE

The St. Jude Center's Senior Housing for the Homeless offers those who are age 55 and older permanent housing and assistance should they need it. For more information contact Barbara Herron, the program manager, at 469-801-8119 or bherron@ccdallas.org.

NORTH TEXAS FOOD BANK

If you or someone you know is seeking food assistance, use our agency finder above to find a food pantry near you. Please call 214-330-1396 if you need SNAP Assistance or visit: https://ntfb.org/our-programs/get-food-assistance/find-a-food-pantry/

Important: When you find an agency that interests you, contact them prior to visiting them to confirm their service hours and other information.

MEAL SERVICE AND FOOD PANTRIES

There are a number of meal services and food pantries that can help anyone who is or becomes food insecure during the pandemic.

●     Brother Bill's Helping Hand offers a drive-thru food pantry that's open on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Unless it's an emergency, clients must call 214-638-2196 first. The pantry is located at 3906 North Westmoreland Road in Dallas.

●     Catholic Charities Dallas Marillac at 2843 Lapsley St. in Dallas serves seniors and offers breakfast and lunch Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Food is first come, first serve. Call 214-826-8330 for more information.

●     CitySquare Food Pantry is open from Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The pantry offers drive-thru and walk-in services, which are first come, first serve. For more information, call 214-823-8710. The pantry's address is 1610 S. Malcolm X Blvd in Dallas.

●     Cristo Rey Dallas College Prep has a food and diaper pantry through the Catholic Charities of Dallas that is open on Tuesdays from 9:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. Call 469-844-7956 for more information on the pantry's services. It's located at 1064 N. St. Augustine in Dallas.

●     The Crossroads Community Services Pantry at 4500 S. Cockrell Hill Road in Dallas asks clients to bring their own grocery bags, along with a picture ID and proof of their address. Call 214-560-2511 for more information.

●     Interfaith Family Services offers a drive-thru food pantry. Clients must call first to pre-register. The number is 214-827-7220 and the pantry is located at1651 Matilda Street in Dallas.

●     Jan Pruitt Community Pantry services residents of zip codes 75134, 75146, 75172, 75141, 75241, 75154. Potential clients must call first at 972-591-7849. The pantry is located at 123 Alexander St. in Lancaster.

●     Meals on Wheels in Dallas County is still open and delivering food. Those interested can call 214-689-2639 for more information.

●     Minnie’s Food Pantry in Plano is open Wednesday through Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Call 972-596-0253 for more information.

●     North Texas Food Bank in Plano can help those who are food insecure. Call 214-330-1396 for assistance.

●     Pleasant Grove Food Pantry is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is first come, first serve. The pantry is located at 1324 Pleasant Drive in Dallas and can be reached at 214-505-1928.

●     Vickery Meadow Food Pantry and Clothes Closet can help its clients with food once a month and with clothing every three months. Clients must live in the Vickery Meadow neighborhood, so zip codes 75231 or 75243. The pantry is located at 8448 Walnut Hill Lane in Dallas. Call 214-821-5575 for more info.

FREE BROADBAND, WIFI & PUBLIC HOT SPOTS

Charter Spectrum is offering free broadband and WiFi for students in grades kindergarten through 12 for 60 days. The offer is available for those who do not already have internet access at home. The company is also creating free public hot spots for internet access, but customers must call 1-844-488-8395. Installation fees will be waived for new student households.

INTERNET ESSENTIALS BY COMCAST FREE FOR 60 DAYS

Comcast is expanding a service they already offer for low-income families called Internet Essentials. The service, which is normally $9.95 a month, will be free for new customers for 60 days and is 25 MBPS. The company also won't not disconnect a customer’s internet service or assess late fees if they contact Comcast. People hoping to sign up for the services can call 1-855-846-8376 for English and 1-855-765-6995 for Spanish.

COVID 19 Testing

Medicare and Medicaid both cover COVID-19 testing and telehealth virtual check-ins. The programs are experiencing high call volumes, but the general phone line you can call is 1-800-633-4227. Or, visit https://www.medicare.gov/forms-help-resources

TRANSITION RESOURCE ACTION CENTER (TRAC)

CitySquare’s TRAC program connects young people in foster care, ages 14-24, who are transitioning from substitute care toward self-sufficiency, with individualized support, planning, and access to community services.TRAC Dallas Transition Center will be open from 10 am - 1 pm, Monday - Thursday. Youth can stop by for emergency resources in line with essential life services, abiding by Dallas County social distancing ordinances. Outside of these hours, please call the TRAC Crisis Line at 214-370-9300. If youth are at TRAC Dallas and it is closed, youth can use the Ring doorbell to talk to a TRAC leadership team member.

ALLSTATE INSURANCE

Allstate Insurance customers can now request a special payment plan and are allowed to skip two premium payments in a row with no penalty. Customers can reach Allstate at 1-877-810-2920.

LEGAL ASSISTANCE HOTLINE

The State Bar of Texas, the state’s legal aid agencies, volunteer organizations and access-to-justice organizations have created a toll-free legal assistance hotline for low-income individuals and families across Texas dealing with civil legal problems because of the pandemic.

Those interested can call 800-504-7030 toll-free for help wherever they live in the state. Different kinds of legal help being offered by the group include:

●     Bankruptcy and debt-collection matters;

●     Employment issues, unemployment applications and appeals;

●     Child custody, visitation, and support issues;

●     Life, medical, and property insurance claims;

●     Mortgage or foreclosure problems;

●     Public benefits issues (e.g., Medicaid, SNAP/food stamps, Social Security);

●     Healthcare directives and powers of attorney;

●     Consumer protection issues such as price-gouging and scams;

●     Landlord-tenant problems;

●     Disability discrimination; and

●     Family and domestic violence concerns

AT&T SERVICES

AT&T will not terminate services for customers for 60 days, regardless of their ability to pay. The company is also waiving late payments and fees and can help support those who are unable to pay their bill. The company is also offering internet access for “qualifying limited-income households at $10/month through our Access from AT&T program.” Customers must call 800-288-2020 or 611, but expect high call volumes.

VERIZON SERVICES

Verizon is waiving late fees for customers experiencing tough economic conditions because of the outbreak between March 16 and May 13. The company also says it “will not terminate service to a customer who’s been impacted by the events involving the coronavirus.” If customers find themselves needing help due to these circumstances, contact Verizon to discuss available options. Call 1-800-922-0204 for assistance.

STUDENT LOANS

Americans with federal student loans will get a little bit of relief for at least the next 60 days. The U.S. Department of Education says it is dropping interest rates to 0% for at least that long and allowing borrowers to suspend payments for at least two months to help people impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

To request a forbearance, borrowers should contact their loan service via phone or online. In addition, payments will automatically be suspended for any borrower who is already at least a month behind in payments or falls behind during the forbearance period. The Department of Education has more information about loans and loan repayment here: https://studentaid.gov/announcements-events/coronavirus#borrower-questions

 Visit StudentAid.gov/login or call 1-800-433-3243 for assistance.

UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS

The Texas Workforce Commission's website now has a section dedicated to the COVID-19 response: If your employment has been affected by the coronavirus (COVID-19), apply for benefits either online at any time using Unemployment Benefits Services or by calling TWC’s Tele-Center at 800-939-6631 from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Mondays through Fridays.

Ambit Energy is waiving late payment fees, extending payment due dates, with no partial payment required and reducing monthly payments by allowing customers to pay their balances over five equal installments. Customers can call support at 877-282-6248 to find out more.

Dallas Water Utilities is suspending disconnections for 60 days and offering different kinds of payment arrangements. While they are experiencing high call volumes, customers must call 214-651-1441.

Reliant Energy is providing payment extensions and waiving late fees, helping customers with deferred payment plans and offering bill payment assistance through Reliant’s CARE program. The electric company is also “pausing payment-related disconnects for residential and small commercial customers.” Customers can go online, download the app, or call 1-866-RELIANT to receive that help.

Tri-Eagle will waive late fees, extend payment due dates with no down payment required, reduce down payments and deferring balances over five equal installments.

TXU Energy will waive late fees and extend payment due dates, with no down payment required to help customers. It will also reduce down payments and defer balances over five equal installments. The company also provides additional bill-payment assistance for customers who need help paying a bill through its TXU Energy Aid program. If a customer is unable to pay their bill, they should call TXU Energy at 1-800-242-9113.