COVID-19

COVID-19 Arizona Outbreak Updates

Community acquired COVID-19 has been confirmed in Arizona and we believe it is important that refugees and partner service providers stay up to date with current outbreak information, CDC guidance on how to avoid infection and infecting others if ill, and existing translated resources. There is nothing refugee-specific about the virus. Chinese ancestry – or any other ancestry – does not make a person more vulnerable to this illness.

COVID-19 Estimation Updates – Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation. Predicts hospital resource use and deaths per day assuming full social distancing through August 2021. To view data, click here.

Updated 07/30/21:

There are currently 925,169 cases of confirmed COVID-19 in Arizona.

• 1,965 new cases reported today

There are currently 18,224 deaths related to COVID-19 in Arizona.

From the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS): https://www.azdhs.gov/preparedness/epidemiology-disease-control/infectious-disease-epidemiology/index.php#novel-coronavirus-home

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses, some causing respiratory illness in people. Signs and symptoms, similar to the common cold or the flu, include a runny nose, cough, sore throat, fever, and general feeling of being unwell.

Current Public Health Recommendations from ADHS: The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed. Getting vaccinated will also help keep you from getting COVID-19. The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person between people who are in close contact with one another (within 6 feet). This occurs through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. For more guidance from AZDHS (Arizona Department of Health Services) that vaccinated people and unvaccinated people should follow, click here.

Other important websites:

• CDC- Centers for Disease Control Coronavirus page – https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
• DES- Department of Economic Security Coronavirus page – https://des.az.gov/services/coronavirus
• MCDPH – Maricopa County Department of Public Health Coronavirus page – https://www.maricopa.gov/5460/Coronavirus-Disease-2019 *for this website your can SELECT YOUR LANGUAGE AND IT WILL TRANSLATE IT FOR YOU IN REAL TIME
• World Aware Global risk intelligence alerts, travel restrictions, airline restrictions and other information about COVID-19 – https://www.worldaware.com/resources/intelligence-alerts/sars-cov-2-and-covid-19-coronavirus-intelligence-hub

Join COVID-19 Task Force

RRP is bringing together a task force to coordinate getting the word out to our refugee neighbors about COVID-19 and staying healthy. If you would like to know more about this task force, please contact Juliana Davis, State Refugee Health Coordinator, at jdavis@azdes.gov.

General Information

Refugee Council USA: Know Your Rights During COVID-19

“Know Your Rights During COVID-19” guide by the National Lawyers Guild to help communities, particularly important for communities that have been traditionally marginalized. Available in Arabic, English, Farsi, French, Russian, Spanish, and Swahili.

King County WA: COVID-19 Public Health Recommendations

Available in Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Tagalog, French, Hindi, Japanese, Khmer, Korean, Marshallese, Russian, Somali, Spanish, Thai, and Vietnamese.

What is COVID-19?

Health, Hand-washing, and Hygiene

Getting Sick

Other Resource Lists

Coping With Stress

Alberta Health Services: Editable Printable Resource

Health Design Studio LA, Unity Health Toronta, Alberta Health Services

For healthcare professionals: Editable printables about COVID-19 in 26 languages on self-management (for patients that have been assessed in emergency rooms, urgent care, etc.) and self-isolation (for patients to give them things they can do to self-isolate).

Self Management – Albanian, Bahasa, Chinese (Simplified), Chinese (Traditional), English, Farsi, Filipino-Tagalog, Gujarti, Hebrew, Hindi, Hungarian, Italian, Korean, Marathi, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Russian, Serbian, Tamil, Ukrainian, Urdu, and Vietnamese.

Self Isolation –Albanian, Bahasa, Chinese (Simplified), Chinese (Traditional), English, Farsi, Filipino-Tagalog, Gujarti, Hebrew, Hindi, Hungarian, Italian, Korean, Marathi, Pashto, Polish, Portuguese, Punjabi, Romanian, Russian, Serbian, Sinhala, Tamil, Ukrainian, Urdu, and Vietnamese.

The Center for Victims of Torture: List of Translated COVID-19 Mental Health Resources

Click here to see the full list.

COVID-19 Multilingual Videos

COVID-19 Prevention, Symptoms, and When To See A Health Care Provider

What is Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID 2019)?

Coronavirus disease 2019, or COVID-19, is a respiratory illness that can spread from person to person.  The virus that causes COVID-19 is a new coronavirus that was first identified during a breakout in Wuhan, China in December of 2019. 

People from China and Chinese ancestry are not more susceptible to this disease than other people. Any person, regardless of culture or nationality, can get sick with COVID-19. 

There is currently no vaccine or treatment for COVID-19.

Who is susceptible to COVID-19?

Anyone can get COVID-19, but not everyone will have symptoms. Some people will only have mild symptoms, like the common cold, and can rest and recover at home. Some people get very sick from the illness and need hospitalization. Anyone can get very sick from the disease, regardless of age. 

However, people who are older than 60 years old and people who have medical conditions like diabetes, heart disease, cancer and respiratory illnesses are more likely to get very sick from COVID-19 and need hospitalization. Complications from COVID-19 can include serious conditions, like pneumonia or kidney failure, and in some cases, death.

This list is not all inclusive. Please consult your medical provider for any symptoms that are severe or concerning.

How to protect yourself and others.

• Wash your hands often (with soap and water for at least 20 minutes)
  • Before eating
  • After coughing
  • After sneezing
  • After using the bathroom
  • Only touch your face after you wash your hands
• If you are sick, stay home unless it is to go to the doctor.
• Disinfect and clean often (clean your cell phone, your door knobs, your computer key board, your light switches, your keys, and anywhere else that you touch often.)
• Cough and sneeze into your elbow or into a tissue and wash your hands afterward
• Follow the ADHS public health recommendations under the “COVID-19 Arizona Outbreak Updates” tab.

If you think you have been exposed to COVID-19 and are experiencing symptoms, call your doctor for medical advice before going to the hospital. 

When should you see a doctor if you think you have COVID-19?

COVID-19 Screening Tool – An app and a website created by Apple and the CDC. This tool can help you understand what to do next about COVID-19. Click here to see what steps you should take during the outbreak.

24-Hour Nurse Line Numbers by Health Plan

If you don’t have a primary care provider or health home, and you have AHCCCS / Arizona Medicaid, then call  one of these numbers if you think you have COVID-19. For the MercyCare RBHA line, call the number listed, press 1, then say “nurses line”.

• Arizona Complete Health (ACC & RBHA): 1-866-534-5963
• Banner (ACC & LTC): 1-888-747-7990
• Care 1st: 1-800-746-3163
• Magellan: 1-800-424-5891
• Mercy Care (ACC & LTC): 1-800-624-3879
• Mercy Care (RBHA): 1-800-564-5465
• United Healthcare (ACC & LTC): 1-877-440-0255
• Health Choice Arizona (ACC & RBHA): 1-855-458-0622
• CMDP: 1-800-201-1795
• DDD AIHP: 1-844-770-9500

How To Get Healthcare Coverage – Market Watch

Workers facing a coronavirus-related loss of employer-based health insurance should move quickly to assess coverage alternatives, health-policy experts say — and be open to pursuing options they hadn’t considered. For more information, click here.

Banner Health Drive-thru Testing Sites:

Banner Health opened four drive-up testing sites in Arizona. Individuals need to call (844) 549-1851 to speak with a clinician to determine if testing is appropriate for them.

Drive-through or onsite testing will be available at various locations across the state. Arizonans can find the nearest testing location and hours of operation as well as pre-register by visiting the Arizona Department of Health Services page here. Testing will be available to anyone who thinks they have been exposed to and could be infected with COVID-19 and will be based on criteria set by each testing site. Most sites require pre-registration, please call or visit the website listed before visiting the location.

If you or a loved one is sick:

If you or a loved one becomes sick, check out this COVID19 online symptom checker through Banner Health. You can determine if the symptoms warrant a call to the doctor or general self treatment. For more information, click here.

COVID-19 School and Nutrition Information

Maricopa County

Maricopa County School Food Distribution map – Find food distribution locations at Maricopa county schools! Make sure to contact the school to confirm that food distribution will occur at the time and date listed.

Pima County

UPDATED 03/11/2021 List of places that are providing free meals for Tucson children – here

https://thisistucson.com/schools/a-huge-list-of-places-to-find-free-meals-for/article_a998ef24-67d3-11ea-9c06-b740ecd2d470.html?fbclid=IwAR3p4calBPnztHgECSrHY_ozC8YaAyBTCqwFzUmr_slbk6DPXd86BmnSbdg

Resources for all Arizonans

Important Information about Education During the COVID-19 Pandemic: 

Factsheets covering important information about going to school during the pandemic are available in Arabic, English, Farsi, French, Spanish, Swahili, and Tigrinya.

Internet Access Support:

– On May 12 the FCC launched the new Emergency Broadband Benefit Program (EBB) https://getemergencybroadband.org/. The EBB addresses the unprecedented need by low-income households for affordable digital access resources including Internet and devices such as computers and cell phones. The EBB provides eligible households a subsidy of up to $50 per month on Internet service, or $75 per month for those living on Tribal lands. The EBB may also provide eligible households a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop or tablet computer. Click here to learn more about the program and click here to apply.

– If schools are canceled, and students don’t have access to the internet, Spectrum company, an internet, phone, and cable company, is offering free services to those students. All they have to do is call 1-844-488-4398. https://www.spectrum.com/browse/content/spectrum-internet-assist.html

– During this time of uncertainty and required in-home learning, Cox is helping get families in need connected to the internet through our Connect2Compete program. Through June 30th, 2021, Cox will waive late payment fees and work with Connect2Compete customers experiencing hardship as a result of the coronavirus pandemic to create a payment plan.

To be eligible for the Connect 2 Compete (C2C) service, families must meet the following requirements:

• Not a current Cox customer
• At least one child enrolled in school
• Verified low-income (SNAP benefits, free school lunch, etc.)

Go to https://www.cox.com/residential/internet/connect2compete.html to learn more

– Low-Cost Internet & Computers: Multiple Internet Service Providers have made updates to their low-cost internet service programs to ensure individuals and families stay connected to the internet during the COVID-19 pandemic. Find low cost internet service and computers / laptops in your area at EveryoneON. Some wireless service providers are helping you stay connected during the COVID-19 pandemic by not terminating service due to inability to pay, waiving late payment fees and waiving charges for data, voice or text. Click on your specific provider to see how they are supporting their customers: AT&T, Sprint, Boost Mobile, T Mobile, Verizon. For more information, click here.

Meals for Kids During Coronavirus – AZ Health Zone

Meals available for any kid, mapped out. Check directly with your nearest School District to confirm hours and location.  https://www.azhealthzone.org/summerfood

COVID-19 Financial, Rent, and Utilities Assistance

Wildfire: Igniting Community Action to End Poverty in Arizona – Wildfire compiled the following policy updates and how they impact nutrition assistance, utility assistance, cash assistance, tax prep assistance, eviction relief, employment assistance, health insurance coverage, paid sick leave, and other COVID-19 resources. We included direct links to agency webpages if available for additional information. For these resources and contact information, click here

Housing and Eviction Information

CDC Eviction Moratorium Summary

The CDC Moratorium is a Government order that prevents landlords from evicting a renter if they meet certain eligibility criteria. The order is in effect from September 4th 2020 until December 31st 2020 and protects renters who cannot pay their rent due to income loss. This income loss does not have to specifically be caused by COVID-19. To learn more about this eviction moratorium and how to avoid being evicted, click here. More information and resources are listed below:

• The Arizona Housing Coalition created a list of Known Rental Assistance Resources and Eviction Prevention Programs  that include resources for residents across the state as well as county specific resources.
• CDC Eviction Order Questions and Answers from the AZ Courts – click here
• Southern Arizona Legal Aid COVID19 services information – here
• Statewide list of governmental agencies offering rental assistance – click here
• National Housing Law Project list of resources – here

Rental Assistance & Eviction Prevention Programs

The Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) will be launching a new Emergency Rental Assistance Program in the following twelve counties: Apache, Cochise, Coconino, Gila, Graham, Greenlee, La Paz, Navajo, Santa Cruz, Pinal, Mohave and Yavapai. Renters and landlords can apply for assistance through the DES online portal beginning February 23, 2021 at des.az.gov/ERAP. Below are links to other rental assistance programs or you can click here to find rental assistance program for you.

• Pima County – https://tucsonpimaep.com
• Yuma County – https://www.wacog.com/ycerap
• Maricopa County *all cities besides Phoenix, Mesa, Glendale, Chandler, Gilbert – https://hsdclientportal.maricopa.gov/
• Phoenix – https://www.phoenix.gov/humanservices/programs/emergency
• Glendale – https://glendaleaz.com/cap
• Chandler – https://azcend.org/community-action-program
• Mesa – https://www.mesaaz.gov/government/coronavirus/2021-covid-19-relief-programs
• Gilbert – https://www.gilbertaz.gov/residents/community-and-neighborhood-services/community-resources/foreclosure-prevention-predatory-lending-information/

Eviction Information

The Dept. of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) developed and translated two Covid-19 related fact sheets for tenants in HUD public housing or HUD voucher programs.  In addition to discussing the temporary suspension of evictions for nonpayment of rent under the CARES Act, these documents also discuss requests for income recertification and interim reexaminations for people who lost their job or had a significant reduction in income due to Covid-19.

Addressing Tenant Concerns Regarding Rent and the Temporary Suspension of Evictions for Nonpayment of Rent (HUD public housing and voucher residents) – Available in Amharic, Arabic, Armenian, Chinese, English, French, German, Haitian Creole, Hindi, Italian, Khmer, Korean, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Somali, Spanish, Spanish (Puerto Rican), Tagalog, Thai, and Vietnamese.

Addressing Tenant Concerns During the COVID-19 National Emergency – Available in Arabic, Chinese, English, Farsi, Portuguese, Spanish, Spanish (Puerto Rican), Russian, Somali, and Tagalog.

Notice for Postponement of Eviction Enforcement – Community Legal Services

A new partnership between the City of Phoenix and Community Legal Services – City of Phoenix Tenant Eviction Assistance Project (TEAP). Though special funding, Community Legal Services will be providing no-cost legal services for ANY City of Phoenix Resident at risk of eviction or who have received an eviction judgment, regardless of income. If you need assistance contact TEAP at (602) 386-8880 or Community Legal Services at (602) 258-3434. More information about TEAP can be found here and more information about the City of Phoenix’s COVID-19 Emergency Assistance Relief Services can be found here and here in Spanish.

Tenant COVID-19 Notice for Postponement of Eviction Enforcement form and document with tips for using the form. For more information and Spanish translated printables, click here.

COVID-19 Notice – Click here.

Tips for Using the Attached COVID-19 Notice – Click here.

Housing Assistance – DES

Mortgage Assistance Programs are in place to help homeowners who have been directly or indirectly affected by the corona virus and are struggling to make their mortgage payments.

Landlord and Tenant Information – City of Phoenix

The Landlord and Tenant Program provides educational services and information to landlords and tenants in-person. Walk-in client hours are from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The following are recommended information to consider bringing to the counseling session:

• Lease agreement
• Copies of all notices served by either party
• Any other documents pertaining to your landlord/tenant situation
• Proof of rental payment

​Our program provides education to both landlords and tenants on their rights under the Arizona Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.​​ For more information, click here.

City of Tucson COVID-19 Rental and Utility Assistance for Refugees, Asylees and Asylum Seekers

The City of Tucson has set aside specific funds for refugees, asylees, and asylum seekers in need of rental and utility assistance. You can apply for assistance by downloading and filling out this application, available in English and Spanish.

Refugee Justice League

Simple, free resource that generates a letter to the individual’s landlord or lender to make use of the allowances available during the COVID-19 crisis. While it doesn’t pay rent, it does help keep them in good standing with their landlord by initiating communication regarding their payment status and provides a layer of protection stating that they are aware they cannot be evicted for not paying rent during this time. This resource is available to everyone: refugees, immigrants and asylees. Please feel free to share it widely.

For more information, click here.

Emergency Broadband Benefit Program

On May 12 the FCC launched the new Emergency Broadband Benefit Program (EBB) https://getemergencybroadband.org/. The EBB addresses the unprecedented need by low-income households for affordable digital access resources including Internet and devices such as computers and cell phones. The EBB provides eligible households a subsidy of up to $50 per month on Internet service, or $75 per month for those living on Tribal lands. The EBB may also provide eligible households a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop or tablet computer. Click here to learn more about the program and click here to apply.

APS Electricity

More support available to help APS customers in need:

For more information on bill assistance programs, click here.

SRP

SRP is extending its pause of disconnections until the end of 2020.  As part of our latest customer support efforts, SRP will extend its disconnect moratorium for customers on its limited income program the Economy Price Plan (EPP) through end of 2020.

Customers on monthly discount EPP

• $23 monthly discount for bill paying and M-Power/prepay/The Box customers
• Moratorium extended through 2020
• Late Payment Fee continues to be waived
• Accumulated debt will remain on meter
  • Electricity used but not paid
• Paydown percentage will remain at current rate
• Customers who enroll in EPP after September will re-enter the moratorium

Non-EPP customers

Bill paying customers   

• If $80 or greater debt, then automatically placed on personalized payment arrangements for 8 months (October – May)
• October bill will describe customers specific payment plan current bill plus 1/8 amount of debt
• SRP will work with customer if adjustments are needed

COVID-19 Funeral Assistance

Under the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021 and the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, FEMA is providing financial assistance for COVID-19 related funeral expenses incurred after January 20, 2020. To apply for funeral assistance, call the COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Line Number: 844-684-6333 | TTY: 800-462-7585. The line is open Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Eastern Time. Fliers about the program are available in Arabic, Burmese, English, French, Haitian Creole, Kirundi, Somali, Spanish, and Swahili.

Funeral Assistance Program for Maricopa County

Maricopa County Funeral Assistance provides help for grieving Maricopa County families who have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and have recently lost a loved one. Through the program, you can qualify for up to $1,200 to be applied to burial or cremation services at a participating licensed funeral home. The program helps cover the costs of burial or cremation services during these difficult times. The Maricopa County Funeral Assistance Program does not require that a decedents cause of death be associated with COVID-19. To effectively carry out this program and determine eligibility, visit https://funeralassistanceprogram.org to read and register to complete the application.

For any questions on this program/application or VSUW call 602-240-6384 or email funeralassistance@vsuw.org.

DES Services Related to COVID-19 – Click here for more information.

UNEMPLOYMENT GUIDE

Unemployment Insurance Questions and Answers – Click here to view.

Unemployment Insurance Benefits and Family Assistance Administration Conference Call – To hear the recording, click here.

Multilingual Videos on Unemployment Insurance

Available in English, Karen, Karenni, Kirundi, Lingala, and Swahili.

Unemployment Insurance Benefits – Arizona

Click here for Unofficial guide. This is not an official guide to unemployment insurance benefits. The official DES unemployment insurance guide can be found here: https://des.az.gov/sites/default/files/legacy/dl/UIB-1240A.pdf.

Unemployment Insurance

Download (PDF, Unknown)

Unemployment Insurance FAQ’s

Download (PDF, Unknown)

Accessing Unemployment Insurance Benefits

For employment programs that serve refugees and asylees, helping clients become self-sufficient and work towards personal career goals is always the main objective. However, in the course of providing employment services to refugees and asylees, you may encounter situations where it is beneficial for your clients to apply for unemployment insurance. While this process varies by state, this information guide reviews how to get started. For more information, click here.

Immigrant Workers’ Eligibility for Unemployment Insurance

Unemployment insurance (UI) provides periodic payments to eligible workers who are unemployed through no fault of their own and are looking for work. The amount that workers receive depends on the wages a worker earned during a “base period.” Although it varies from state to state, the base period generally covers the past year to 18 months of work. For more information, click here.

Job Assistance

Chicanos Por La Causa – Refugee and Asylee Employment Assistance – Check out this flyer to get more information on how you can get assistance with job searching and applying for a job.

Job Readiness – Switchboard – As we continue practicing social distancing amid COVID-19, you may be wondering how to stay in touch with your clients and continue job readiness training. While you may not be able to resume your job readiness classes in person for some time, there are many online resources you can share to keep your clients engaged and focused on their career paths. This blog post provides suggestions tailored towards clients who have computers or smartphones, internet access, and higher levels digital literacy. Stay tuned for a future Switchboard blog that will provide suggestions for serving clients with lower digital literacy. To view blog, click here.

Where To Find Information On Job Openings

• ARIZONA@WORK staff can provide people with no-cost job assistance to help them get back to work. More information about the services available and a list of jobs with immediate openings can be found at: www.ArizonaAtWork.com or here.
• Job Finding Assistance – Looking for a job? Check out this list of 200+ employers who are hiring right now, including links to their job pages. The Arizona Hospitality Workforce Connection connects trained and motivated tourism industry employees to employers who have urgent hiring needs. View openings in the areas of customer service, front office, HR, food service, housekeeping, security and more. For more information, click here.
• Pima Works – Because so many people are out of a job, Pima County launched a new website with resources that can offer some help. The county says the site has information about employment training. There will also be access to specialists who can offer guidance on accessing the state’s unemployment insurance benefits. Those specialists can also help find job leads and make referrals to other resources in the community. For more information, click here.
• Goodwill – Get the help you need to land a better job with Goodwill’s My Career Advisor. Signing up is quick, easy and free. To sign up, click here. Goodwill of Central and Northern Arizona has reopened its walk-in career centers to help job seekers displaced by COVID-19 who do not have access to a computer or the internet. For more information, click here.
• Pipeline AZ – Pipeline AZ has employment, education and financial resources for Arizonans in need. Individuals who lost their jobs to COVID-19 can register for virtual hiring events, find immediate jobs and access other opportunities. For more information, click here.

CARES Act

Pandemic Unemployment Assistance

Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) provides benefits to certain individuals who would not otherwise be eligible for Unemployment Insurance. DES has been communicating, and will continue to communicate, to all individuals who have been denied for being monetarily ineligible for regular Unemployment Insurance back to the effective date of the CARES Act. Individuals should keep a record of their earnings each week as this information will be required to determine eligibility when PUA is implemented. Visit https://des.az.gov/pua for updates and additional information.

Weekly Claims Reminder

Unemployment Insurance claimants must file weekly claims to continue to receive benefits (even if the initial claim is still pending, individuals must file a weekly claim to receive benefits for that week). UI claimants can file weekly claims at www.azui.com. The online Weekly Claims System is available from 12:01 a.m. Sunday to 6 p.m. Friday. More information about filing weekly claims can be found HERE.

Unemployment Insurance Extension Under the CARES and Continued Assistance Act (passed December 27, 2020)

Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) – UPDATED DECEMBER 2020

• Will provide 11 weeks of an additional $300 weekly benefit to eligible claimants.
• To receive FPUC, a claimant must receive benefits from an underlying unemployment program such as regular UI, PUA, PEUC, or EB.
• FPUC will be available for weeks of unemployment beginning with the week ending January 2, 2021 through the week ending March 13, 2021.

Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) 

The Pandemic Unemployment Assistant program is a new program that provides benefits to individuals who are not otherwise eligible for Unemployment Insurance. DES is making changes to its system to process benefit calculations and eligibility determinations for PUA and will attempt to reach out to clients if additional information is available regarding their eligibility.

PUA provides benefits to covered individuals. Covered individuals are not eligible for regular unemployment compensation or extended benefits under state or Federal law or Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC).

This includes individuals who:

• have exhausted all rights to such benefits,
• are self-employed,
• are seeking part-time employment,
• lack sufficient work history, or
• otherwise do not qualify for regular unemployment compensation or extended benefits under state or Federal law or PEUC.

UPDATED DECEMBER 2020:

• Will provide additional weeks of benefits, to a maximum of 50 weeks. The extension weeks will be payable beginning with the benefit week ending January 2, 2021.
• Weekly certifications will continue to be required.
• Individuals can file an initial application for PUA until March 13, 2021.
• Claimants who are receiving PUA as of March 13, 2021 and who have remaining benefits may continue to receive PUA through week ending April 10, 2021, or until their benefits are exhausted, whichever comes first.

Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) 

UPDATED DECEMBER 2020:

• Will provide 11 additional weeks of benefits, to a maximum of 24 weeks. The additional 11 weeks will be payable beginning with the benefit week ending January 2, 2021.
• Weekly certifications will continue to be required.
• Individuals can file an initial application for PEUC until March 13, 2021.
• Claimants who are receiving PEUC as of March 13, 2021 and who have remaining benefits may continue to receive PEUC through week ending April 10, 2021,  or until their benefits are exhausted, whichever comes first.

Short-Term Crisis Services 

What is it? Short-Term Crisis Services (STCS) Program provides temporary assistance to low-income families experiencing an emergency need that cannot be met immediately by their own income, and resources to help stabilize an immediate financial crisis. A dependent child must live in the home.

The program provides emergency assistance with:

• Preventing homelessness by helping with rent or mortgage payments
• Emergency Shelter
• Utility payments and utility deposit assistance
• Special needs related to maintaining or securing employment
• Rental deposits

What is a crisis, according to the STCS program? 

• Loss of income
• An unforeseen event that makes it difficult to meet one’s expenses
• A situation that endangers the health and safety of the family

Who is eligible? 

• A resident of Arizona at the time of application
• Have a child under the age of 18 that meets US Citizenship or qualified legal resident criteria
• Have a total gross household income not exceeding 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Income can be slightly higher for households that include one or more senior citizens (60 years of age or older) or persons with disabilities

How to apply? Contact your local Community Action Agency. Please note that there is high demand for assistance from Community Action Agencies, and their phone lines get very busy. It may take you some time to get through.

• Maricopa County – Maricopa County Human Services 234 N. Central Ave. Suite 3000 Phoenix, AZ 85009 602-506-5911
• Maricopa County, City of Glendale – City of Glendale Community Action Programs 5850 W. Glendale Ave, Suite B-51 Glendale, AZ 85301 623-930-2854
• Maricopa County, City of Phoenix – City of Phoenix Human Services 200 W. Washington St. 17th Floor Phoenix, AZ 85003 602-262-4520 (Main line) 602-262-6631 (Senior Services Intake line)
• Maricopa County, City of Mesa – Mesa Community Action Network 635 E. Broadway Rd, Mesa, AZ 85204 480-833-9200
• Pima County – Pima County Community Service Department 2798 E. Ajo Way, Tucson, AZ 85713 520-724-2667

DES Services Related to COVID-19 – Click here for more information.

INFORMATION FOR ELDERLY POPULATIONS

State of Arizona now has a 24 hr. helpline for seniors unable to access groceries: 602-264-4357

OLDER ADULTS

Older adults and people who have severe chronic medical conditions like heart, lung or kidney disease are at higher risk for more serious COVID-19 illness. This may be because:

• • As people age, their immune systems change, making it harder for their body to fight off diseases and infection.
  • Many older adults are also more likely to have underlying health conditions that make it harder to cope with and recover from illness.

If you are at increased risk for COVID-19 complications due to age or because you have a severe underlying medical condition, it is especially important for you to take actions to reduce your risk of exposure. These actions can slow the spread and reduce the impact of disease.

How You Can Protect Yourself

• • Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds each time, especially when you’ve been around young children.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick for any reason.
  • Consider avoiding crowds.
  • Stay in touch with others by phone or email. You may need to ask for help from friends, family, neighbors, community health workers, etc. if you become sick.
  • Determine who can provide you with care if your caregiver gets sick.
  • Clean and disinfect your home to remove germs: practice routine cleaning of frequently-touched surfaces (for example: tables, doorknobs, light switches, handles, desks, toilets, faucets, sinks & cell phones).
  • Stay up to date on CDC Travel Health Notices if you are planning on traveling.
  • Make sure keep enough medications on hand in case you get sick.

If You Get Sick

Stay home and call your healthcare provider and let them know about your symptoms. Tell them that you have or may have COVID-19. This will help them take care of you and keep other people from getting infected or exposed.

What Others Can Do to Support Older Adults

• • Know what medications your loved one is taking and see if you can help them have extra on hand.
  • Monitor food and other medical supplies (oxygen, incontinence, dialysis, wound care) needed and create a back-up plan.
  • If you care for a loved one living in a care facility, monitor the situation, ask about the health of the other residents frequently, and know the protocol if there is an outbreak.

Watch for Symptoms and Emergency Warning Signs

• • Pay attention for potential COVID-19 symptoms including fever, cough, and shortness of breath. If you feel like you are developing symptoms, call your doctor.
  • If you develop emergency warning signs for COVID-19, get medical attention immediately. In adults, emergency warning signs*:
    • • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
      • Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
      • New confusion or inability to arouse
      • Bluish lips or face

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND RESOURCES, CLICK HERE.

Food Delivery – AAA

Home Delivered Meals programs provide nutritious meals to eligible older adults. Contact the 24-hour SENIOR help line to find a meal delivery program in your area or inquire about funding assistance: 602-264-4357. You must be an eligible older adult to qualify. For more information, click here.

SELF-CARE FOR PROVIDERS AND CLIENTS

Managing Stress and Anxiety

Available in Arabic, Burmese, Dari, English, French, Kachin, Karen, Karenii, Kinyarwanda, Kirundi, Kiswahili, Nepali, Pashto, Rohingya, Spanish, Tigrinya, and Ukrainian.

Psychological First Aid (PFA) Webinar – Switchboard

In any severe mass event, like a pandemic, it is common to have a rapid increase in the number of people experiencing distress, including being scared, confused, overwhelmed, uncertain, angry, and sad. Psychological First Aid (PFA) is an evidence-based intervention designed to help stabilize and mitigate psychological distress and to facilitate coping and functioning in the immediate aftermath of disasters and other tragic events. PFA is not counseling or therapy and anyone in any sector can provide PFA. Some of the traditional approaches used in PFA must be adapted to fit the needs of a pandemic or epidemic, where the ability to connect with clients, social supports, and community resources may be compromised. This webinar will review the basic principles of PFA while modifying them for the unique context refugee service providers and their clients are currently facing due to COVID-19. For more information, click here.

Mental Health Resources

The following organizations offer in-person counseling but may provide services through video or phone during the COVID-19 pandemic. Contact your desired location to inquire about virtual services.

• Southwest Behavioral Health – Outpatient Clinics: Offers integrated health care services (including youth counseling) on a sliding fee discount for patients without health care coverage based on their ability to pay. The outpatient clinics also accept AHCCCS and other insurance plans. For more information, click here.
• Arizona’s Children’s Association: This organization offers a variety of services, including individual, group and family counseling, family support services, parenting support and trauma support. Visit the Arizona’s Children’s Association website here to learn more.
• Valle del Sol Youth & Family Services: Help children achieve success in school, maintain and restore healthy family relationships, avoid delinquency and help families function effectively in their environment. The organization accepts AHCCCS, private pay and other health plans. Learn more at Valle del Sol’s website here.

AZ Crisis Response Network – Mental Health

The stress, fear and anxiety that many of us feel during this COVID-19 pandemic can be overwhelming. During this time of uncertainty, it’s very important to acknowledge that you or a loved one may need help coping in a healthy way. The following organizations and hotlines are available if you need help:

• AZ Crisis Response Network: Trained crisis intervention specialists are available 24/7 to help over the phone with a wide variety of issues and help connect you to local resources. For more information, click here.
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) – Disaster Distress Hotline: 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746 American Addiction Centers are hosting free virtual AA and NA support meetings based on traditional 12-step meetings and hosted by a person in recovery.
• National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-422-4453; call 24/7 to report child abuse or neglect, obtain crisis intervention support and referrals to thousands of emergency and social service programs. All calls are confidential.
• Q Chat provides youth ages 13-19 with an opportunity to stay connected through discussion groups led by trained facilitators. Youth can view a video to see what the discussion group will be like before signing up. For more information, click here.
• Teen Lifeline: ​(602) 248-8336; available for Arizona teens in crisis.
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
• New Life Center is open and providing services to survivors of domestic and sexual violence during COVID19. Call 623-932-4404 24 hours/day, 7 days/week.
• EMPACT Suicide Prevention Center: 480-784-1500; offers crisis and behavioral health services to children, adults and families.

Well-being for Service Providers during COVID-19: Managing our Own Emotional Needs While Helping Refugee Clients

People in helping professions are being challenged in numerous personal and professional ways during the COVID-19 pandemic. Service providers are supporting clients who may be in crisis due to employment, childcare or healthcare needs. At the same time, we ourselves may be in crisis for similar reasons. The challenge of caring for and being concerned about family and friends, as well as clients, is leading to extreme stress in many helping professionals. For tips to cope with stress, click here.

Helping Refugee Clients Cope During the COVID-19 Crisis

This blog post offers tips on how to help your clients cope during the COVID-19 crisis, including suggestions for sharing information in a trauma-informed way and supporting clients’ mental health and well-being. For more information, click here.

Helping Refugee Children and Parents Cope During the COVID-19 Crisis

This blog post offers tips on how to help families cope during the COVID-19 crisis. Helping children begin to develop coping skills in response to COVID-19 stressors can not only help them get through this volatile time, but also positively manage feelings during uncertain times in the future. For more information, click here.

Psycho-educational Booklet-Series by the NOW Working Group Trauma Surviving

Many young people suffer from the effects of traumatic experiences. To provide youth with an understanding of impacts accompanied by trauma, the booklet series “Trauma Surviving and Hope” addresses post-traumatic symptoms. In various picture stories, problems faced after emotional injuries like sleeplessness, lack of concentration, loss and grief, anxiety, anger and aggression and dark memories are described and strategies to alleviate them are suggested.

Click the category: Sleeplessness, Unfocused/Forgetful, Inactivity, Sadness, Anger, and Feeling Hurt.