During the months of April and May, 2020, Schuyler Center Director of Policy Dede Hill spoke out about New York’s child care system in the wake of COVID-19.
“All providers—both those keeping their doors open and those that have temporarily closed, fear that without financial supports, they will not have the resources to reopen when the pandemic subsides,” Hill said.
On May 6, 2020, she was featured in an interview on Capitol Pressroom to discuss how New York’s child care system has been pushed to the breaking point by the Coronavirus crisis.
With the state on pause, it can be difficult for essential workers to find childcare during this crisis. New public funding will provide “scholarships” for essential workers to pay for the services. Dede Hill, Director of Public Policy at the Schuyler Center for Analysis and Advocacy, and Beth Starks, Executive Director of the Chautauqua Lake Child Care Center, explained how the funding program will work.
Click the image below to listen to the interview or listen here.
On April 30, 2020, Raising NY, a coalition co-chaired by Schuyler Center President and CEO Kate Breslin, released the findings of a survey of New York parents with young children on the impacts of COVID-19. The survey results reveal that New York families with young children are being hit hard by the impacts of the pandemic, particularly the economic fallout. More than one-third of parents reported having skipped or reduced the size of their meals due to financial insecurity caused by the Coronavirus; 11% reported having skipped or reduced the size of meals for their children. Nearly 60% worried they would be unable to cover basic expenses like rent, health care or food, if the crisis continued.
Raising NY worked with Global Strategies Group to conduct the statewide poll of parents of infants and toddlers in late April 2020. More than 400 parents from around the state participated.
Listening to parents of infants and toddlers is key to supporting families during the Coronavirus crisis. Learn more about what they had to say.
Every 10 years, everyone living in the United States is asked to complete a simple but very important constitutional task: respond to the census. With COVID-19 devastating many New York communities – leaving families worried about their health and that of their loved ones; wondering how they will pay their rent, afford groceries and educate their children – filling out the census may seem unimportant. In fact, the enormous challenges New Yorkers are facing in this crisis underscore the profound importance of having every New Yorker counted so that we are fairly represented in Washington D.C., and receive our fair share of federal resources.
Looking to the future, when the COVID-19 crisis subside, and New York begins to rebuild, 2020 Census data will determine the share of federal money New York receives for the next 10 years. The funding allotted to programs to support early-childhood well-being and family economic security directly determines the number of people who may benefit. Families’ participation in the census is the link to funding for food assistance, Head Start, childcare, housing support, public schools, early intervention services, children’s health insurance, and more. The Census also determines political representation in Congress, the state legislature, and local government.
Among the groups most commonly undercounted: young children. We are working with NY Counts 2020 and Citizen’s Committee for Children to make it easy for our partners who work directly with families to get out the word about the importance of the census and how to fill out the census. We have cataloged resources for you to send, developed a short newsletter for your next publication and have provided websites and links to make getting counted easy. (links in this paragraph)
Now, more than ever, let’s work together to ensure all New Yorkers are counted, including our young children.
On April 1, 2020, the New York State Legislature and Governor reached agreement on the 2020-21 State Budget. Schuyler Center’s Last Lookis our assessment of the enacted State Budget as it compares to priorities that improve the health and well-being of all New Yorkers, especially children and families living in poverty. With New Yorkers still facing grave challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly those who are low-income, of color, elderly, or disabled, we will be paying close attention in the coming weeks and months when the budget may be reopened and cuts imposed.[/vc_column_text]
We’ve compiled information to help families connect to resources that may be helpful during this potentially stressful and challenging time. Many localities have their own community-based resources. Some links here direct the user to local government and/or local elected officials, who may be best positioned to make local connections.
New York State Department of Health COVID-19 Hotline: 1-888-364-3065
New York State Board of Elections – Tool to find the names of your State Assemblymember, Senator, and Member of Congress, who may be able to direct you to local resources.
Council on Children and Families – Parenting tips, activities and information on how to talk to your children about the Coronavirus.
New York State COVID-19 Support Hotline: If you’re overwhelmed right now, the New York State COVID-19 Emotional Support Line is staffed by specially trained volunteers who can help. Reach Out! Call 1-844-863-9314.
City of New York Department of Health – NYC-specific information, resources, and phone numbers on wide variety of topics including public benefits, health, public safety, and parking. Text COVID to 692-692 for updates in English. Text COVIDESP for updates in Spanish.
2-1-1 NYS – Find Services in New York State (By county or by city); Call 2-1-1 or visit link. Each county/city has resources for: housing, utility assistance, food, health care, employment, mental health/substance abuse, transportation, taxes, senior/elderly services, disability services, asthma, and more.
Integrate NYC – A youth hotline that can connect youth and their families to food, housing, educational, and recreational resources. CALL or TEXT 951-INTEGR8/951-468-3478.
New York State Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NYSCADV) – Resources for domestic violence programs by county. Residential services include domestic violence shelter, safe homes and safe dwellings. Non-residential services include telephone hotline assistance, information, referral, counseling, advocacy, community education and outreach services.
NYS Kinship Navigator – COVID-19 resources for kinship caregivers in New York State; general information and guidance, statewide/regional resources, Kinship Navigator fact sheets.
New York State Multiple Systems Navigator – Access to health, education, human service and disability information for youth, parents, family members and caregivers that rely on supports from multiple child and family serving systems.
Oasis Latino L.G.B.T.S Wellness Center – Connecting services to people with emergency cases i.e., STI testing and treatment for symptomatic clients or clients with a positive result to STI regardless of immigration status; clients with immediate PEP needs can contact the PEP Hotline: (844-373-7692); clients with a newly diagnosed HIV status or out of care are also being navigated to services. Operating remotely; Clients can chat with staff via the webpage or visit their Facebook page.
New York State Youth Leadership Council – a live document of resources in NYC around COVID19 support efforts. Resources include: Funds, housing, support, education, CUNY, mental health, food, internet, bills assistance, art, entertainment, and wellness.
Mobilization for Justice – What You Need to Know About Tenants’ Rights During COVID-19 Outbreak.
LawHelpNY – LawHelp’s COVID-19 resource page for New York.
New York City Family Court – Information number for NYC Family Court. Call 646-386-5299.
Children’s Defense Fund – In Challenging Times: COVID-19. The Children’s Defense Fund Resource Guide.
The New York Academy of Medicine – NYAM’s resource page for: immigrants, survivors of domestic violence, people with disabilities, people who use drugs, and incarcerated populations.
Sesame Street – Sesame Street’s COVID-19 resources and at-home materials.
Make the Road New York – COVID-19 Response: Updates, Resources and Know Your Rights Information. Available in English and Spanish.
National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN) – Parent/Caregiver Guide to Helping Families Cope with the Coronavirus Disease 2019. Provides information for parents and caregivers about infectious disease outbreaks in your community. Knowing important information about the outbreak and learning how to be prepared can reduce stress and help calm likely anxieties. This resource will help parents and caregivers think about how an infectious disease outbreak might affect their family— both physically and emotionally—and what they can do to help their family cope. Available in English, Spanish, and Chinese.
NYC Emergency Management – Accurate, real time updates from Notify NYC and NYC Emergency Management. Text ‘COVID’ to 692692 (NYC-NYC). (Alerts are also available in Spanish by texting ‘COVIDESP’ to 692-692.)
New York Legal Assistance Group NY COVID-19 Legal Resource Hotline – Available M-F 10am-1pm. NYLAG’s COVID-19 hotline can offer advice on the following: Advanced Planning (Standby Guardianship, Power of Attorney, Healthcare Proxy, Wills); Consumer Debt (Debt Collection, Wage Garnishment); Employees’ Rights (Paid Leave, FMLA, Working Conditions); Housing (Eviction, Rent Arrears, Foreclosure, Mortgage Relief Options,); Unemployment Benefits; Public Benefits; Special Education issues (K-12); Stimulus Payment questions. Call 929-356-9582.
Addressing Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders in the Time of Coronavirus Webinar slides – Paige Bellenbaum, LMSW and Catherine Birndorf, MD., April 2020
University of Washington – Self Care: Protecting yourself during the COVID-19 public health emergency.
Mental Health Europe (MHE) – “Coronavirus: 8 ways to look after your mental health.” Tips about taking care of mental health during COVID-19 crisis, with links to resources on COVID-19 and mental health in several languages.
NYC Well – Confidential 24/7 helpline staffed by trained counselors providing brief counseling and referrals to care in over 200 languages. Chat on their website, call 888-NYC-WELL (888-692-9355), or text “WELL” to 65173. You can also view NYC Well’s COVID-19 Digital Mental Health Resources.
Call their Emotional Support Line, which provides free and confidential support, helping callers experiencing increased anxiety due to the Coronavirus emergency. Help Line is staffed by volunteers, including mental health professionals, who have received training in crisis counseling. 1-844-863-9314.
Headspace – Free collection of meditation, sleep, and movement exercises are here to support you through stressful and challenging times. Also available in Spanish.
Crisis Text Line – Text 741741 or message on website to connect with a crisis counselor.
New York State Multiple Systems Navigator – Access to health, education, human service and disability information for youth, parents, family members and caregivers that rely on supports from multiple child and family serving systems.
The Motherhood Center of New York – The Motherhood Center is conducting a Virtual Day Program, a resource for (expectant) mothers experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety disorders. Visit the website or call to make a virtual appointment at (212) 335-0034.
Postpartum Resource Center of New York – Provides mothers and fathers with free confidential emotional support, educational information, healthcare and support group resources and more. Toll free state-wide helpline: 1-855-631-0001.
ChildCare Aware of America – CCR&R Search: There are over 400 local Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agencies across the United States. Your local CCR&R can help families find child care options near your home or work. They can also assist child care providers with resources for their business.
Educational
PBS – Focuses on child development, fun and games, education, child rearing issues and advice, and information on PBS programming.
CDC – Information for parents covering everything from safety at home and the community to immunization schedules and developmental milestones.
New York Online Virtual Electronic Library (NOVELNY) – an online library of hundreds of magazines, newspapers, maps, charts, research and reference books that are available to every New Yorker, free of charge.
NYS My Benefits – Eligibility and application for HEAP and SNAP.
Benefits.gov – How to apply for the New York State Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Information page includes: Program description and requirements, application process (with link to apply), and contact information for questions.
New York State Department of Labor – Link to apply for NYS Unemployment Benefits. You can also apply by calling the Telephone Claims Center at (888) 209-8124.
A Better Balance – Fact Sheet: New York State’s Emergency Paid Sick Leave Legislation.
New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance – Online tool for New York State residents where they can check eligibility for multiple human services benefit programs, as well as apply online for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP).
New York City Consumer Affairs – Free one-on-one professional, financial counseling and coaching to support you in reaching your goals.
New York City Department of Aging – Provides home-delivered meals are available for seniors ages 60 years and older who may have disabilities, access, or functional needs.
Food Bank for New York City – An interactive map with providers who have switched to “grab and go” meals and pantry bags to minimize the risk of exposure.
Why Hunger – Hotline refers people in need across the U.S. to food pantries, soup kitchens, summer meals sites, government nutrition programs and grassroots organizations, especially those that provide access to nutritious foods and nutritional support services. Call 1-800-548-6479 (1-800-5-HUNGRY).
NYS myBenefits – Eligibility and application for HEAP and SNAP.
Benefits.gov – How to apply for the New York State Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Information page includes: Program description and requirements, application process (with link to apply), and contact information for questions.
Hunger Solutions New York – Get Food Help: If you or your family have been affected by the Coronavirus outbreak, you may be eligible for programs that help you buy food. You can apply for and use programs like SNAP and WIC while keeping a safe distance from other people.
The Food Pantries for the Capital District – There are more than 60 food pantries throughout the Capital District working together to feed the hungry. This is COVID-19 Food Access Information from The Food Pantries for the Capital District that provides up-to-date food pantry information.
Neighborhood Opportunity Network (NeON) – The Department of Probation has opened five NeON Nutrition Kitchens throughout the city. When you visit a NeON Nutrition Kitchen, you’ll get free, nutritious groceries and great service from friendly staff.
No Kid Hungry – With schools closed due to COVID19, No Kid Hungry has launched a texting hotline to provide information about emergency food distribution sites in communities all over the country. To find food near you, text FOOD or COMIDA to 877-877.
Health/Medical
United Hospital Fund – Resources for pediatric health care providers to support families: infographics and fact sheets, suitable for display or distribution in the office/practice, practice parameters and guidance, stress management and self-care for health providers.
KidsHealth from Nemours – A Nemours Foundation web site that offers extensive articles on childhood illnesses and health issues.
CDC – The most up-to-date and scientific information, and recommendations, on COVID 19.
Oasis Latino L.G.B.T.S Wellness Center – Connecting services to people with emergency cases i.e., STI testing and treatment for symptomatic clients or clients with a positive result to STI regardless of immigration status; clients with immediate PEP needs can contact the PEP Hotline: (844-373-7692); clients with a newly diagnosed HIV status or out of care are also being navigated to services. Operating remotely; Clients can chat with staff via the webpage or go to their Facebook page.
United Hospital Fund – Grim Times and Health Insurance: Maintaining Coverage During the Pandemic. This guide goes through the options available to consumers to continue their employer-based coverage or find new coverage on the NY State of Health Marketplace, which has a Coronavirus special enrollment period extended until June 15. The guide also explains state and federal consumer protection laws, the enrollment process, and important resources.
Informed Immigrant – Resources for Immigrants during the Coronavirus crisis. National and state resources.
New York State Office for New Americans – The New Americans hotline is a toll-free, multi-lingual hotline. The hotline provides live assistance in more than 200 languages. Anyone can call the hotline for information and referrals, regardless of citizenship or documented status. Calls to the hotline are confidential and anonymous. The hotline operates from 9AM to 8PM (ET), Monday through Friday (excluding Federal holidays) and is managed by Catholic Charities Community Services. CALL 1-800-566-7636.
FAQ: Immigrant Workers’ Rights and COVID-19 – Safety and health at work; paid and unpaid time off; unemployment insurance; workers’ compensation; economic stimulus payments/access to health care.
Immigrant Connections – A list of educational resources for English Language Leaners to help their children learn.
Center for Disease Control (CDC) – Managing anxiety & stress during infectious disease outbreaks available in multiple languages.
New York Immigration Coalition – Up-to-date information about how COVID-19 affects NYC residents available in Spanish, Chinese, Arabic, Bengali, Korean, Haitian Creole & Russian.
Protecting Immigrant Families (PIF) Campaign – A quick reference guide on immigrant eligibility that provides a general overview of some of the federal public programs available to support individuals and families during the COVID-19 crisis.
Migration Policy Institute (MPI) – Fact Sheet – Immigrant Workers: Vital to the U.S. COVID-19 Response, Disproportionately Vulnerable.
Immigrant Legal Resource Center – Information in English and Spanish to support immigrants who are anxious about accessing health care.
UnidosUS
Unidos US Community Resources – Download and share these assets to keep your community informed with updated materials from trusted sources. Infographics available in multiple langauges.
NYC Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs – Available in the top 11 languages, provides information on: health care and well-being; food; housing and utility; education and child care; worker support; small business support.
Parenting and Family
National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) – Talking to Children About COVID-19 (Coronavirus): A Parent Resource – A webpage with tips for parents on how to talk with their children about Coronavirus. The tip sheets are available for download in English, Spanish, Amharic, Chinese, Korean, French, and Vietnamese.
Child Mind Institute – Coping During COVID-19: Resources for parents. With schools closed, children at home anxiety is running high. We know parents are struggling to balance work, child care, self care all while keeping worries—both your children’s and you own—under control.
The National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN) – Offers activity ideas to parents and caregivers whose families are sheltering in place, social distancing, and homeschooling due to school closures amidst the COVID-19 outbreak.
Bright By Text – Bright by Text provides free tips, information, and resources for parents, including timely information about local resources from community organizations. For anyone caring for a child aged 0-8.
National Healthy Start Association – Resource lists for the following: “pregnancy & general”, “Coronavirus, pregnancy, and breastmilk”, “resources about infants and children”.
United Hospital Fund – General information about COVID-19 for families, talking to children about COVID-19, parenting during the Coronavirus outbreak, recognizing and managing stress, social distancing and staying at home, activities and resources for families and children at home.
Understood – Tips and ideas for talking with and teaching kids during Coronavirus.
Project TEACH – Parents who have concerns about their child/youth’s mental health should call their child/youth’s pediatrician. Parents can share information about Project TEACH resources with their pediatrician. Parents/families can access resources on the Project TEACH Parent/Family Resource page.
New York State Kinship Navigator – COVID-19 resources for kinship caregivers in NYS; general information and guidance, statewide/regional resources, kinship navigator fact sheets.
New York State Multiple Systems Navigator – Access to health, education, human service and disability information for youth, parents, family members and caregivers that rely on supports from multiple child and family serving systems.
Psychology Today – Parenting in a Pandemic by Jennifer Weil Malatras, Ph.D. of The Healthy Child.
Mindheart – A short book to support and reassure our children, under the age of 7, regarding the COVID-19. Available in 25 languages.
YouTube video: Dr. Barbara Stroud – Dr. Stroud has provided this informational video for parents in order to support caregivers in managing the emotional responses and developmental needs of their children during this crisis. Dr. Stroud provides parents with information and skills to support their children’s emotional health, mental well being, and build necessary skills of resilience.
Zero to Three – Tips for Families: Coronavirus. These resources offer tips for families including age-appropriate responses to common questions, a guide to self-care, and activities for young children experiencing social distancing.
ChildCareAware of America – Resources for Supporting Families with Young Children at Home during COVID-19.
Parenting for Life-Long Health – Open-access online parenting resources during COVID-19. Available in over 50 languages..
The Cordova Times – For the Health of It: Talking to your Kids About COVID-19.
Autism Little Learners – Story for Kids: Seeing People Wearing Masks. Written especially for children with autism. Downloadable free book, English, Spanish, Greek.
Empire Justice – FAQs on child care funding for essential workers.
Sprout Therapy – Guide to Parenting and Family Health During COVID-19.
Technology
Spectrum – Charter will offer free Spectrum broadband and Wi-Fi access for 60 days to households with K-12 and/or college students who do not already have a Spectrum broadband subscription and at any service level up to 100 Mbps. Installation fees will be waived for new student households. Call 844-488-8395.
NYC Human Resource Administration (HRA) – Apply for HEAP grant; Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) HEAP is a federally funded program designed to assist low to middle income families and individuals in meeting the costs of home energy.
NYS Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance – Links to Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) local resources. HEAP is a federally funded program designed to assist low to middle income families and individuals in meeting the costs of home energy.
In My Area – This guide examines the pros and cons of parental controls and their effectiveness (or lack thereof) for toddlers through teens. It also discusses various options and tools for implementing controls.
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