COVID-19 Resource Update
May 7, 2020
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The
United Way of Martin County is committed to providing education, health and financial stability resources that may help you, a family member or neighbor
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Updated or new resource listings are identified in red.
Please feel free to share. If you have resources for the next update, please
email us.
Remember, the 211 Helpline is available 24/7 to connect you with resources for food, mental health, legal support and more. Those in need of help can dial 2-1-1, (561) 383-1112, or text their zip code to TXT211 (898211). 2-1-1 service is free, confidential and 24/7.
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Financial Stability Resources
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COVID-19 Community Economic Relief Fund
To assist Martin County individuals and families who are impacted by COVID-19, United Way of Martin County launched the COVID-19 Community Economic Relief Fund and has authorized up to $200,000 from our emergency fund to aid in recovery efforts. We are working with local direct service organizations to disseminate emergency funds with the appropriate sense of urgency.
If you need help:
- If you are unable to meet basic needs like housing, food and healthcare, please reach out to the following partners who we will be working with to distribute funds to individuals and families in need:
- House of Hope: (772) 286-4673
- Salvation Army of Martin County: (772) 288-1471
If you can help:
- We anticipate the need to gather significantly more funding to assist Martin County residents and are seeking additional contributions. 100% of donations will go toward the relief funds – no administrative fees will be taken.
- As with the prior emergency funds managed by United Way, safeguards will be put in place to ensure these funds are used effectively and appropriately. Organizations receiving grants will be required to report back on use of the monies granted.
- The CARES Act includes a universal charitable deduction to enable "non-itemizers" to give up to $300 to charities, tax-free, through the end of 2020.
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Paycheck Protection Program applications still accepted -
updated listing
CARES Act economic impact payments distributions
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updated listing
- Millions of Americans have already received their Economic Impact Payments (Payments) authorized by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act).
- The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) continues to calculate and automatically send the Payments to most eligible individuals, however some may have to provide additional information to the IRS to get their Payments.
- Click here for answers to frequently asked questions related to these Payments.
Pandemic Unemployment Assistance
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- The Federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program provides unemployment benefits to those that may not otherwise be eligible under Florida’s state Reemployment Assistance program, including independent contractors and individuals who are self-employed.
- Individuals who have been impacted by COVID-19 and believe they may be eligible for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance, can visit www.FloridaJobs.org and select "File a Claim" to apply and be considered for PUA.
- Click here for PUA Application Process.
- Click here for PUA Frequently Asked Questions.
- Click here for COVID-19 Employment Scenarios.
- Applicants should utilize the following criteria when applying for PUA:
- Individuals who applied for the state’s Reemployment Assistance benefits on or after April 5, 2020, and were deemed ineligible for state Reemployment Assistance benefits will receive additional application information from the Department. They can also visit www.FloridaJobs.org/cares-act for more information regarding these programs.
- Pursuant to the requirements of the CARES Act, 20 C.F.R. 625.4, and section 443.036, F.S., those who are self-employed, contract employees, gig workers, or others who applied for the state’s Reemployment Assistance benefits on or before April 4, 2020, should apply at www.FloridaJobs.org and select “File a Claim” to request PUA.
- Unemployed Floridians who have not yet applied for any benefit should apply at www.FloridaJobs.org and will be considered for all existing programs, including PUA.
Reemployment Assistance
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updated listing
- DEO will be conducting nightly maintenance to the CONNECT system to process claims and payments. CONNECT will be available from 8 a.m. to 7:59 p.m. daily. This schedule does not affect individuals that wish to file a new claim. Individuals can file a new claim 24 hours a day, seven days per week at www.FloridaJobs.org and select "File a Claim."
- DEO has a mobile-friendly online application for individuals filing a new Reemployment Assistance claim available here.
- For a step by step guide on how to apply read more here.
- For the Reemployment Assistance Resource Guide which includes frequently asked questions, please click here.
- For additional information about Reemployment Assistance benefits visit www.FloridaJobs.org/COVID-19.
- The unemployment hotline is now available seven days a week at 1-800-681-8102.
- You can now download an application and mail it to:
- Florida Department of Economic Opportunity
- P.O. Box 5350
- Tallahassee, FL 32314-5350
- Click Here To Download Application
- Please note that paper applications could potentially take longer to process than completing an online application.
Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL)
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updated listing
- AGRICULTURAL BUSINESSES ONLY: Thanks to the latest round of funds approved by Congress, SBA is accepting new #COVID19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan & Advance applications. You don’t need to re-apply if you previously submitted an application. Apply here: https://sba.gov/disaster
- UPDATE: SBA continues to process Economic Injury Disaster Loan applications that were submitted by April 15 on a first-come, first-served basis. Learn more. https://sba.gov/disaster
New Employer Tax Credits
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updated listing
- Many businesses that have been severely impacted by coronavirus (COVID-19) will qualify for two new employer tax credits – the Credit for Sick and Family Leave and the Employee Retention Credit.
- Learn more
Save the Small Business Fund
CLOSED
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updated listing
- Due to overwhelming demand, the US Chamber of Commerce is unable to accept new applications for the Save the Small Business Fund.
- They are in the process of awarding grants
- You can find more non-financial resources here.
Florida Rural Legal Services
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new listing
- FRLS is accepting applications for assistance through telephone intake at: 1-888-582-3410. Current client may also reach FRLS staff at this number.
- FRLS offers free civil legal assistance to qualifying people in many areas of the law, including evictions, foreclosure defense, public housing, unemployment compensation, housing discrimination, denial of public benefits, divorce, child custody, domestic abuse, debt collection, unfair loans, driver’s license reinstatement, fines and fees, re-entry services, and immigration.
- FRLS also provides assistance to farmworkers throughout the entire state of Florida. A separate line exists for farmworkers who often have unique legal needs. That number is 855-771-3077.
Salvation Army food and financial assistance
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updated listing
- Salvation Army Family Stores have reopened, and they are also providing assistance with clothing and household items.
- The Salvation Army is providing food and financial assistance with rent, utilities and prescriptions.
- People seeking financial assistance should call first to speak with a social services case worker. 772-288-1471
- Food assistance is walk-in, Monday - Friday, 8:30 am - 3:30 pm. They have a table set up outside.
Clothing - 4Cs store operations for May
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updated listing
- Families seen by appointment only. (1 hour max for shopping). Appointments made by contacting the store by phone: 772-221-8777.
- No more than 10 in the store at a time.
- For safety all volunteers will need to wear masks. Disposable masks have been ordered.
- For Safety all clients, adults and children will need to wear masks. If they don’t have one of their own, they will be given a disposable one.
- No masks or temp over 100.4, no shopping.
- Due to the current difficulty that may be involved in obtaining a clothing voucher for many families,we will allow shopping without a voucher temporarily, but still document visits and adhere to 4 month visits.
- www.4cmartin.org
CareerSource Research Coast
- CareerSource Research Coast now offers virtual rapid response services, reemployment assistance, career planning, resume writing assistance, interview preparation, interest and proficiency assessments, and more!
- Sign up through the CareerSource Research Coast COVID-19 Portal: https://careersourcerc.com/covid-19-portal
Business Development Board Open for Business tool
- The BDBMC is excited to offer a new tool implemented by GIS Planning, ZoomBusiness, interactive directory of open businesses to help area residents connect with the local restaurants, retailers and service providers who desperately need business to survive this pandemic.
- Take advantage of the new tool that allows businesses to add themselves by clicking the button on the top right, input all their information, email, websites, photos...
- Click the OPEN FOR BUSINESS tab on our website to get started.
- https://covid-19.zoomprospector.com/MARTINCOUNTY
Martin County BizHub
- The Martin County Business Development Board is here to help navigate the local, regional, state and national resources.
- They have created a COVID-19 BIZ Hub to help centralize all current and forthcoming information on key announcements, new services, programs, virtual events and community efforts to assist local businesses through this ever-changing environment.
- You can also call them at 772.221.1380 or email info@bdbmc.org with any questions or needs.
- The Business Development Board has expanded its BizHub with a new "Get Ready" section to provide businesses with information on how to open their businesses safely once it is determined by government and health officials that it is time to do so. View the information here.
Treasure Coast SCORE business mentoring
- Are you unsure of where to start, what to do first? Let the mentors at Treasure Coast SCORE assist you.
- FREE MENTORING, LOCAL WORKSHOPS, FREE RESOURCES.
- If you would like to speak to a mentor, one on one, you can call the office at 772-489-0548 or email ch.admin0308@scorevolunteer.org to set up a free mentoring session.
- CONNECT WITH A MENTOR, LIVE. https://treasurecoast.score.org/
35 Mules Innovation Hub
- As part of FPL's ongoing commitment to support the state’s economic growth and flourish the business environment, earlier this year they launched 35 Mules – an FPL innovation hub.
- The innovation hub is a way for new businesses to reach their potential as they partner with a leader in the energy industry, creating the next generation of great American innovators right here in Florida.
- Applications are now being accepted at 35Mules.com.
Florida Department of Agriculture web portal to find local farms and fresh produce
- Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services rolls out "KEEP FLORIDA GROWING" web portal to connect producers and consumers
- The Florida Farm To You Commodities List connects potential buyers with farmers and producers of Florida-grown commodities like fresh produce, seafood, poultry, beef, eggs, fruit, and much more
- Learn more
Cleveland Clinic First Responder Hardship Program
- The Cleveland Clinic Florida First Responder Hardship Program has been created to provide financial support to eligible first responders who are experiencing a temporary financial hardship due to COVID-19.
- The program is subject to fund availability.
- Learn more
Serving the Servers Program
- The Fort Pierce based Peter W. Busch Family Foundation, in partnership with The Community Foundation Martin St. Lucie, opened The Serving Servers Fund that will provide direct assistance to bar and restaurant workers in Martin, St. Lucie, and Indian River Counties.
- Workers can access direct services for basic needs such as food, clothing, shelter and health services or financial assistance for rent, insurance and utilities.
- For restaurant and bar employees needing direct assistance call House of Hope at 772-283-4673
Mortgage Foreclosures and Rent Evictions Suspended
- The Governor’s Executive Order 20-94 suspended mortgage foreclosures for residential and commercial property owners for 45 days, and suspended evictions for residential property tenants for 45 days effective April 2. However, the order does not relieve or forgive any debts
- View the executive order.
Resources for seniors
Council on Aging of Martin County has the following resources for Martin County seniors in need:
- Meals on Wheels and Kane Cuisine - To access home-delivered meals, call 772-223-7826 or 772-223-7825.
- Emergency Food Pantry – The emergency food pantry is stocked with non-perishable foods for those in need. Please call meal services for information, 772-223-7826 or 772-223-7825.
- 24-Hour Hotline – Seniors in need, or their loved ones, can call the 24/7 hotline at 772-834-4236.
- Case Manager Navigator – Case managers are still caring for their clients. The case manager navigator is also available for assistance with accessing services and supplies. Call Jeanne at 772-223-7845 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
- Caregiver Counseling – Those caring for loved ones with dementia can access free caregiver counseling by calling Donna True, LCSW, at 772-223-7879.
- Day Medical Center – The medical center is open. As many patients as possible are being seen via telemedicine. When necessary, patients are still being seen in the office, with additional safety precautions in place. The medical center can be reached at 772-223-7864 or online at www.daymedicalcenter.org.
- Free Shopping Assistance – Now offering free Shopping Assistance for anyone age 60 or better. Seniors can provide our team with their shopping lists. We will go to the store on their behalf and then deliver the items to their door. Call 772-223-7843 for information.
- Telephone Reassurance – This program has expanded to allow all seniors to access free counseling and assurance from a nurse or licensed clinical social worker. Calls are also still being made to all homebound clients. Call 772-223-7879 for information.
Food for children out of school - Martin County School District
- The Martin County School District’s Food & Nutrition Services (FNS) Department will serve free meals to children in the Martin County community from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.
- Effective March 27, 2020, the Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services will NOT require students to be present to receive meals, but parents/guardians should be prepared to provide one of the following documents to receive a meal for their child(ren) who are not present:
- School ID (any school - MCSD-operated school, charter or private)
- Birth certificate/passport/religious record
- Daycare record
- Meals will be served to children aged 18 and under at the following locations:
- Hobe Sound Elementary School -11555 SE Gomez Avenue, Hobe Sound, FL 33455
- J.D. Parker Elementary School - 1010 E. 10th Street, Stuart, FL 34994
- Port Salerno Elementary School - 3260 SE Lionel Terrace, Stuart, FL 34997
- Warfield Elementary School - 15260 SW 150th Street, Indiantown, FL 34956
- Jensen Beach Elementary School - 2525 N.E. Savannah Road, Jensen Beach, FL 34957
- St. Lucie Mobile Village in Indiantown
Food for children out of school - Boys & Girls Clubs
- Martin County Boys & Girls Clubs will provide free meals to children under the age 18—whether or not they are club members. This will continue until further notice. Meals provided will include dinner and a snack, and can be picked up drive-through style outside the clubs.
- Youth can continue to stop by from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
- Families can pick up from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
- Those receiving can accept the meals regardless if they arrive on foot, by bike or by car.
- Meals are available for pick up at:
- Cloe-Clark Club, 11500 SE Lares Ave., Hobe Sound
- Bill & Barbara Whitman Club, 17375 SW Palm Beach St., Indiantown
- H. Wayne Huizenga Club, 1150 SW Martin Downs Blvd., Palm City
- John & Marge Bolton Club, 4731 SE Flounder Ave., Stuart
- For more info call, (772) 545-1255 or email stores@bgcmartin.org or ahoffman@bgcmartin.org
Food Distribution - House of Hope
- Effective immediately House of Hope pantries is distributing prepackaged food directly into client's vehicles. Clients will be signed in and emergency service allotments will be offered as appropriate. Clients on foot and bicycle will also be served but no one will enter the pantries. If you are new to House of Hope, be sure to bring the following information needed to access service:
- Picture ID
- Proof of Martin County residency (current lease, mortgage or utility bill within the last 30 days. A utility bill may be either, lights, water or gas bill.)
- If you have any questions or need to speak about financial assistance while pantry locations are closed to foot traffic, call (772) 286-4673.
Food Distribution - First United Methodist Church
- First United Methodist Church is serving hot, free, drive-through boxed meals every Tuesday from 4:30-5:30 pm.
- The Mission House is distributing free food every Monday and Friday from 9 am - Noon.
- Learn more
Food Distribution - Reedemer Lutheran Church
- Redeemer Lutheran is serving meals( drive thru) on Thursdays, from 4:30- 6:00pm.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Relief & Recovery nonprofit grants
- United Way of Martin County has proudly partnered with other local funders to establish a coordinated COVID-19 grant application process for our nonprofits providing services.
- Funding priorities include:
- Emergency food, shelter and other basic needs
- Expansion of service capacity related to increased demand for direct services
- Access to health care services for uninsured and underinsured clients
- Technology and other resources to allow your organization to continue to provide services
- Click here for more information about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Relief & Recovery application process.
LifeBuilders of the Treasure Coast
- Utilizing a volunteer staff working remotely, LifeBuilders of the Treasure Coast continues to operate as normal, assisting low-income families along the Treasure Coast who have a connection (ex-offender or victim) to the criminal or dependency courts.
- Applicants may apply for housing, utility or other types of assistance online at our website, www.LifeBuildersTC.com.
Free tax filing
- Tax Day has moved from April 15 to July 15. All taxpayers and businesses will have this additional time to file and make payments without interest or penalties.
- Through United Way’s partnership with H&R Block, every household with a simple return can file their taxes for free at www.myfreetaxes.com
Facebook Small Business Grants Program
- Facebook is offering assistance to businesses that may be experiencing disruptions resulting from the global outbreak of COVID-19 with $100M in cash grants and ad credits for up to 30,000 eligible small businesses in over 30 countries where they operate. Sign up for details here.
Restaurant information
- Restaurants throughout Martin County are taking additional measures to ensure the safety of all staff and guests. Local eateries are offering dine in at 25% capacity, carryout, curbside pick-up, and delivery options to continue feeding patrons in the safest way possible.
- To find what restaurants in the Martin County area are open for take-out, curbside pick-up, or delivery during this time there are two local resources: https://www.diningatadistance.com/martin-county and ourmartincounty.com
Teleperformace job openings
Amazon job openings
- Amazon in Fort Pierce will have available job openings soon! Please find the hiring links below -- Set up your profile and job alerts and as soon as the positions are posted you will receive alerts to apply http://www.amazon.com/jobsnow
FEMA – Temporary Local Hires
- FEMA hires local residents, who are themselves disaster survivors, to help their fellow citizens in the recovery process to add to disaster operational staffing. They allow disaster survivors to get back to work while adding to the long-term recovery of the local community and bring a special understanding of the problems faced by their fellow disaster survivors. Click here.
Internet Services - Comcast
- Xfinity WiFi Free For Everyone: Xfinity WiFi hotspots across the country will be available to anyone who needs them for free – including non-Xfinity Internet subscribers. For a map of Xfinity WiFi hotspots, visit www.xfinity.com/wifi. Once at a hotspot, consumers should select the “xfinitywifi” network name in the list of available hotspots and then launch a browser.
- New customers will receive 60 days of complimentary Internet Essentials service, which is normally available to all qualified low-income households for $9.95/month.
AT&T
- All AT&T consumer home internet wireline customers, as well as Fixed Wireless Internet, can use unlimited internet data. Additionally, we’ll continue to offer internet access for qualifying limited income households at $10 a month through our Access from AT&T program. We’ve expanded eligibility to Access from AT&T to households participating in the National School Lunch Program and Head Start. Additionally, we’re offering new Access from AT&T customers two months of free service. https://about.att.com/pages/COVID-19.html
FPL
- FPL has a long history of working with its customers during difficult times and it will continue to do so. For customers experiencing hardship as a result of COVID-19, FPL has resources available to help, and to the extent they are available, it will continue to connect customers with resources from federal, state and local authorities.
- FPL is suspending electrical disconnections, providing payment extensions and waiving certain late payment fees for customers in a hardship situation – policies that will remain in effect while Florida is under a state of emergency.
- A good place to learn more is www.FPL.com/Help
The Small Business Owner’s Guide to the CARES Act
- This guide provides information about the major programs and initiatives that will soon be available from the Small Business Administration (SBA) to address these needs, as well as some additional tax provisions that are outside the scope of SBA. View the guide.
Tax Credits
- The Tax Foundation has prepared an overview of the various tax credits available through the FFCRA and CARES Acts. Click here to view.
Rumor Control
- The FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency has created a Rumor Control page to help you distinguish between rumors and facts in response to COVID-19.
- Only go to trusted sources of information.
- Visit www.fema.gov/Coronavirus-Rumor-Control
Price Gouging
- Price gouging can be reported by calling 1(866) 9NO-SCAM, visiting MyFloridaLegal.com or downloading the NO SCAM smartphone app
- Learn more
Zoombombing
- With more Floridians than ever before working from home and holding virtual meetings, a new trend called Zoombombing is emerging. Zoombombing occurs when hackers hijack internet video conferences, like those offered by the fast-growing platform Zoom.
- Learn More
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Florida Oceanographic Society launches virtual learning
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CHARACTER COUNTS! digital resources
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Martin County Supervisor of Elections
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- To minimize the possible spread of the coronavirus and to keep our voters, candidates and staff safe, the Elections Office doors are closed to walk-in customers; however, staff is still available to assist you.
- Register to vote or change your party affiliation visit www.RegisterToVoteFlorida.gov
- Request to Vote-by-Mail online or call the Elections Office at 772-288-5637
- Change your address, or request a Voter Information Card call the Elections Office at 772-288-5637
- Applications and information drop-offs can be placed in the mail-drop to the right of the front doors.
MCSD - Schools closed remainder of academic year
- All schools operated by the Martin County School District will remain closed for the remainder of the 2019-2020 academic year.
- All Martin County School District and school-related events, programs, athletic events and activities have been canceled for the same time period, with the exception of high school graduation ceremonies. More information about graduation ceremonies will be shared with seniors and their families soon.
- Please continue to monitor the District's dedicated Coronavirus webpage at martinschools.org/coronavirusinfo for video tutorials, updates and current information about our digital instruction plan.
Manatee Lagoon launches virtual learning series
- Manatee Lagoon – An FPL Eco-Discovery CenterⓇ has launched a new virtual learning series to expand educational opportunities and keep curious minds engaged while schools have transitioned to online learning.
- The series features weekly videos and supplemental activities focused on manatee and marine conservation topics.
- https://www.visitmanateelagoon.com/Virtual-Learning
FPL Digital Energy Lessons
- FPL has partnered with Ohana Solutions, a third-party content curator, to introduce a virtual curriculum for grades 4, 5 and 6 that covers energy standards in science, English language arts and math.
- The free, open source online curriculum is designed to ensure that students have a deeper understanding about the importance of energy and all of its forms. In a distance-learning environment, the content is available to any interested teacher or school district, anywhere — whether that is a public, private, charter or home school.
- ACCESS ENERGY LESSONS https://energycurriculum.com/
PNC Grow Up Great Resources
- Sesame Street® Learning Resources - Free resources, including digital storybooks and games, developed in partnership with Sesame Street.
- Turning Every Day Moments into Learning Opportunities - Learning can happen anytime, anywhere using these tips developed by early childhood education experts.
- Lesson Center - For parents looking for ways to engage young learners while at home, there are more than 150 free, high-quality lesson plans and accompanying learning activities with a focus on the arts and science.
- Learn more
Student Loan Deferment
- On March 20, 2020, the U.S. Department of Education announced that all borrowers with federally held student loans will automatically have their interest rates set to 0% for a period of at least 60 days.
- In addition, each of these borrowers will have the option to suspend their payments for at least two months. This allows borrowers to temporarily stop payments, without accruing interest. To do this, contact your loan servicer and put in a request to suspend.
- Visit StudentAid.gov/coronavirus for additional details.
MCSD - VPK Programs
- The Martin County School District is currently exploring the possibility of expanding its Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) program offerings.
- Parents of children who will turn 4 on or before September 1, 2020, are encouraged to complete a survey to provide feedback about their interest in District-offered programming. Please click here to learn more.
MCSD - Social-Emotional Learning Resource
- The District has added a free, social-emotional learning resource for students and parents to its dedicated Coronavirus webpage (www.martinschools.org/coronavirusinfo).
- Offered through BASE Education, these resources will be helpful to families in helping children cope with some of the uncertainty we are all facing right now. Click here to learn more
MCSD - Laptop Issues
- If you are experiencing any hardware (including damage) or software issues with your District-issued device, please email mcsdlaptops@martinschools.org for support.
- The District will continue to offer on-site technical support for hardware and software issues at the following locations: Hobe Sound Elementary, J.D. Parker Elementary, Port Salerno Elementary and Warfield Elementary.
- Technical support is available weekdays from 9 - 11 a.m. and 2 - 4 p.m.
Advanced Placement updates
- All high school students will have access to free, live Advanced Placement review lessons by AP teachers from across the US. The classes are optional, mobile-friendly and designed to be used with work that may be given by schools.
- Click here for information.
- The College Board is developing Advanced Placement (AP) exams that students can take from home.
- 2020 AP Exams will be:
- Given May 11-22 and June 1-5
- 45 minutes long
- Open book/open note
- Online (or a photo of handwritten work)
- FRQs only
MCSD - Zoom Meetings
- While Google Classrooms and G-Suite for Education applications remain our delivery method for digital learning, the District is moving to Zoom for all live video instruction effective April 1, 2020.
- Learn more about the Zoom platform and how your child will sign in to access live lessons - https://youtu.be/ZIdI7WP47rw
MCSD - Google Classroom
- The Martin County School District is using Google Classroom for virtual instruction.
- Here is a helpful resource regarding Google Classroom as we transition to online curriculum. View the information.
Boys & Girls Clubs Virtual and Interactive Club Experience
- BGCMC's recently launched Club Connect, a Virtual and Interactive Club Experience
- Academic Success, Healthy Lifestyles, and Arts programming will be provided to Club members daily in both virtual and interactive settings.
- Club professionals will lead members through STEM projects, certified teachers will be available for virtual PowerHour, the HERO team will host regular interactive, social-emotional group activities, and so much more.
- Additionally, Club members will be invited to join in field trips around the world, through space, and beyond!
- For more information visit https://www.bgcmartin.org/club-connect
Character Playbook
- Character Counts in Martin County, especially during a crisis. Thanks to a partnership with United Way, students can still build their character muscle during distance learning at https://characterplaybook.com now accessible to all students through a direct-to-parents website.
Audible
- Audible just launched a place where anyone anywhere can listen to hundreds of titles for kids and families completely free. While we are all stuck at home, great way to experience stories and minimize screen time. https://stories.audible.com/start-listen
- No login required. Can listen via computer, tablet, or phone. Titles sorted by age group and avail in many languages. Even some things in there for parents.
Khan Academy
- Khan Academy has compiled great daily learning schedules for students to use when school is not in session. These lessons and resources (including AP and SAT test prep) are 100% free. Schedules are broken up by age group and include time for meals and play/leisure. Click here to learn more.
CPALMS virtual student center
- The Florida Department of Education’s CPALMS virtual student center is a great online learning resource. Browse tutorials and other resources broken up by grade and subject level at floridastudents.org.
PBS Kids
- PBS Kids has started a weekday newsletter that offers activities and tips parents can use to help children play and learn at home. Click here to sign up.
Scholastic
- Scholastic has launched a "Learn at Home" website that has daily courses for students from Pre-kindergarten to grades 6 and higher. Click here for info.
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Re-Open Florida Plan
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new listing
- Governor Ron DeSantis announced his plans to methodically reopen Florida’s economy. Toplines for this deliberate approach to restarting Florida's economy include:
- All Florida counties with the exception of Miami-Dade, Palm Beach and Broward will begin to reopen using a phased-in approach,
- Hospitals will be allowed to resume non-essential elective surgeries,
- Restaurants and retail establishments will reopen at 25 percent capacity indoors, and
- Movie theaters, gyms, fitness centers, bars, and salons/barber shops will remain closed under the initial reopen phase.
WIC Services Update
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- The Florida Department of Health in Martin County WIC program continues to welcome families. In order to limit exposure and help prevent the spread of COVID-19, some Martin County WIC clients may now receive services over the phone without having to come to one of the WIC office locations.
- WIC is a federally funded nutrition program for Women, Infants, and Children who meet income and nutrition risk requirements. WIC provides participants who qualify for the program with the following at no cost: healthy foods, nutrition education and counseling, breastfeeding support, and referrals for health care and community services.
- Please call 772-221-4986 to speak to a WIC representative for more information.
Light of the World Charities, Little Lights Dentistry
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updated listing
- Little Lights Dentistry provides free dental care to uninsured, low-income children, ages two through high school graduation, living in Martin County and surrounding communities.
- They are excited to announce the reopening of the Little Lights Dentistry office on Monday, May 11th. The Little Lights Dentistry Team will strictly follow the infection control recommendations from the American Dental Association (ADA), the U.S Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Their practice will follow these recommendations to ensure the proper infection control procedures are in place to minimize the opportunity to spread the Coronavirus. Learn more.
- For more information about Little Lights Dentistry please visit https://www.lightoftheworldcharities.org/home
Volunteers in Medicine (VIM) clinic
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updated listing
- VIM Clinic is a free health care clinic for low-income adults who live in Martin County located at 417 SE Balboa Avenue, Stuart, and is currently open and serving patients.
- Routine wellness exams and non-essential appointments have been rescheduled to ensure social distancing where possible.
- Medical staff is still available for in-person visits for critical care patients, which are determined on a case by case basis. VIM Clinic staff is also supporting all patients via telehealth video conferencing for consultations and ensuring they have adequate supplies of their medications.
- To be eligible for services, adults must be between 18 and 64 years old, legally residing in Martin County, not have private health insurance or Medicaid or Medicare, and have a household income of less than 200% of federal poverty guidelines.
- Forms and detailed information can be found on the website at https://vimclinic.net/what-we-do/.
Inner Truth Project
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updated listing
- The Inner Truth Project has a 24-hour private support group, virtual peer groups, virtual meditation and yoga classes, one on one teletherapy and scheduled peer phone check-ins for survivors of sexual trauma (teen, adult, LGBTQ+ & Veterans).
- All yoga, art & writing classes, and any other workshops, are free and open to anyone who needs mental health support. They do not need to be survivors.
- They also have Spanish speaking advocates. Interested individuals can email info@innertruthproject.org or call (772) 200 -4599.
Center for Disease Control
COVID-19 Self-Checker
- The CDC has developed a COVID19 Self-Checker.
- The online guide helps individuals make decisions and seek appropriate medical care regarding COVID19.
- Click here to use the Self-Checker.
- For more information about current travel advisories issued by the U.S. Department of State, please visit the travel advisory website.
Florida Department of Health website now in Spanish
- The Florida Department of Health COVID19 website is now fully available in Spanish! Click the Spanish button in the upper right corner of the website for information on prevention tips, travel information and more
- https://floridahealthcovid19.gov/home/espanol/
Cleveland Clinic Martin Health
- Cleveland Clinic Martin Health is now performing drive-through testing at Martin North Hospital for influenza and COVID-19 by appointment only.
- Anyone over the age of 16 who has a fever and respiratory illness (such as cough, runny nose, sneezing) or any patient with a fever and gastrointestinal illness (such as diarrhea, vomiting) is eligible for testing.
- For an appointment, individuals who may have symptoms must call (772) 419-3360, between 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. and 8 a.m. – 3 p.m., Saturday and Sunday. For additional information about Cleveland Clinic Martin Health drive-through testing for COVID-19, visit martinhealth.org/covid19
- Caregivers at Cleveland Clinic Martin Health are ready to assist you with arranging a scheduled virtual visit. Learn more at https://www.martinhealth.org/scheduled-virtual-visits
Florida Department of Health
- To keep Florida residents and visitors safe, informed and aware about the status of the virus, the Florida Department of Health has launched a COVID-19 dashboard that will be updated twice daily.
- To find the most up-to-date information and guidance on COVID-19, please visit the Department of Health’s dedicated COVID-19 webpage.
- For any other questions related to COVID-19 in Florida, please contact the Department’s dedicated COVID-19 Call Center by calling 1-866-779-6121. The Call Center is available 24 hours per day. Inquiries may also be emailed to COVID-19@flhealth.gov
- DOH-Martin has a local call center for questions, M – F, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, 772-221-4000 option #9
- Take two minutes to help Florida in the fight against COVID-19. Take the http://StrongerThanC19.com anonymous survey today
- Florida Department of Health (Long-term care facilities): The Florida Department of Health has published a list of long-term care facilities that have had a confirmed case of COVID-19 in staff and/or residents. A copy of the report can be found here.
Florida Community Health Care
- FCHC continues to offer Drive Thru testing for COVID-19 by appointment only.
- Those with the associated risk factors and symptoms (cough, fever, shortness of breath) of COVID-19 are encouraged to call one of the FCHC locations to setup an appointment for screening, evaluation and testing.
Florida Department of Health Resource Pool
- The Florida Department of Health Resource Pool, powered by Aya Healthcare, will help match qualified furloughed clinicians with facilities that need additional local staffing.
- Learn more
CDC Recommends Wearing Face Coverings
- The Centers For Disease Control and Prevention announced a new recommendation that individuals wear cloth face coverings in public settings:
- To learn how to sew a homemade mask, view the tutorial on United Way of Martin County's webpage.
Children's Home Society offers telehealth
- Children’s Home Society (CHS) has transitioned counseling services to a virtual model using telehealth, in order to maintain continuity of care for the children and families, as well as serve those who may be experiencing increased challenges due to the anxiety and fear around COVID-19.
- Telehealth is confidential care and support with a highly trained, experienced counselor from your home. If you're feeling overwhelmed, helpless, scared, in need of services, call 1-888-SEE-ME03 OR visit www.chsfl.org/counseling and select “Make a referral” to complete an easy online referral form.
Chair Yoga for Seniors
- Group exercise classes may be canceled, but it is still important for older adults to stay active while at home.
- Thank you to Laura Wenger with Yogafish for this gentle/accessible chair yoga practice that is done entirely seated. View the video.
Florida Blue Emotional Support Hotline
- Florida Blue has provided a 24-hour, bilingual emotional support helpline to assist Floridians with any stress they may be feeling during the COVID19-pandemic.
- If you're feeling stressed, contact the helpline at 833-848-1762.
- This service is free for all Floridians, whether they are a member or not.
Familywize
- United Way of Martin County partners with FamilyWize to provide access to affordable prescription medications.
- The prescription savings card is free, accepted at major chain pharmacies and there is no registration or eligibility requirement.
- Simply download a card and show it to the pharmacy to get the lowest prices. This can also be used for pharmacy delivery orders. https://www.unitedwaymartin.org/discounted-prescriptions
Tykes & Teens
- When a crisis disrupts our lives and routines, maintaining our mental health is critical. Thankfully, Tykes & Teens has implemented HIPPA compliant virtual counseling services to ensure continuity of care for all clients. For more information call 772-220-3439.
Catholic Charities
- Catholic Charities Counseling Program encourages anyone experiencing stress, anxiety, and fear due to the COVID-19 pandemic to call our toll free hotline number at 1-844-848-6777.
- In addition, we are offering video sessions in lieu of face-to-face meetings with our highly trained therapists. Fees may apply to follow up video sessions (not the initial call), depending on our income-based sliding fee scale.
- Staff and counselors are bilingual - Spanish/English.
Healthy Start
- Martin County Healthy Start Coalition is still giving out diapers, wipes, and formula while inventory lasts
- Pantry days have been consolidated as follows:
- Stuart location: Thursdays 9am-5pm at 963 SE Federal Hwy in Stuart.
- Indiantown location: Tuesdays 12 - 5 p.m.
- Participants will be able to pick up twice their usual diapers one time instead of their regular twice a month pick up.
- We are enrolling clients in Medicaid and SNAP by appointment only. They must call 772-463-2141 to schedule.
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Where to go for information
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ALERTMARTIN
- Residents are encouraged to sign up to receive emergency alerts including information about COVID-19 by phone, text, and/or email. To sign up, text ALERTMARTIN to 888777, or register online.
Community Information Line
- Martin County’s Community Information Center is staffed to answer questions regarding county business, closures, services and general information from our elected and constitutional officers and community partners.
- Community Information Center: (772) 287-1652
- Daily from 7 a.m. – 6 p.m.
- Information can also be found online at https://www.martin.fl.us/Coronavirus
United Way of Martin County
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Shape your future, take the 2020 Census
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In order to be accurately represented, it is important that every Martin County resident be counted in the Census. It is estimated it costs local government $1,600 for every person missed. Martin County’s response rate in the 2010 Census was 78%.
For our community, that means a loss of over $51 MILLION each year that could have been used for vital programs and essential services. Over the 10 year period, that equates to approximately $512 million dollars!
Help us make sure Martin County is accurately represented in the upcoming decennial count. It benefits us all!
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Bravely, we dream of a day when no one in Martin County goes to bed hungry. We dream of strong, successful families. We dream of a UNITED community where everyone is healthy and has the opportunity to succeed, reaching their fullest potential in a safe and secure place.
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