• 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

• 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.

• Millions of Americans are starting to see Economic Impact Payments deposited directly in their bank accounts.
• These payments are being automatically issued to eligible 2019 or 2018 federal tax return filers who received a refund using direct deposit. 
• The IRS launched the "Get My Payment" application to:
• Check payment status
• Confirm payment type: direct deposit or check
• Enter bank account information if none is on file
• The IRS launched a new web tool for those who don’t normally file an IRS tax return to allow millions of people to quickly register for Economic Impact Payments 

• The Small Business Association announced today that it is unable to accept new applications for the Paycheck Protection Program based on available appropriations funding.
• Learn more

• The Small Business Administration announced that it is unable to accept new applications for the EIDL based on available appropriations funding.
• Applicants who have already submitted their applications will continue to be processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Learn more

• The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) is not accepting applications for the Emergency Bridge Loan Program.
• DEO and its emergency bridge loan partners will continue to review applications that are received online or postmarked by Monday, April 13, 2020.
• They will continue to quickly and efficiently process loans for Florida businesses affected by the economic impacts of COVID-19 until available funds are expended.
• For more info visit http://floridajobs.org/rebuildflorida/businessrecovery

• The CARES act includes an extra 13 weeks of coverage and covers part-time, self-employed and gig economy workers. It also provides an increase in the weekly benefit of up to $600.
• To file for reemployment benefits, visit the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity's new website https://covid19.floridajobs.org/
• 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.
• FedEx is offering free printing and mailing of Reemployment Assistance paper applications at over 100 storefronts across the state
• Find a location https://www.fedex.com/locate/.

• 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

• The Salvation Army is providing food and financial assistance with rent, utilities and prescriptions. 
• Lobbies are closed, people seeking financial assistance should call first to speak with a social services case worker. 772-288-1471

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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.

• 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.

• The Martin County School District’s Food & Nutrition Services (FNS) Department will serve free meals to children in the Martin County community from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. until Friday, May 1, 2020.
• 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

• 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

• Effective immediately House of Hope pantries will start prepackaged food distributions 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• If you know a family with children in need of clothing, our hours are Wednesdays from 12-5 and Fridays from 9-2. In addition we are open the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month from 9-1. 772-221-8777. www.4cmartin.org

• 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 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.

• Restaurants throughout Martin County are taking additional measures to ensure the safety of all staff and guests. Local eateries are offering 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 

• Teleperformance is hiring. Contact Michael.Hudgens@teleperformance.com or 772-398-2014 for details.

• 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 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.

• 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.

• 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 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

• 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.

• The FFCRA requires certain employers to provide their employees with paid sick leave or expanded family and medical leave for specified reasons related to COVID-19.
• The Department of Labor has prepared an extensive FAQ to help guide you through the many questions you may have. Please click here to view.

• The Tax Foundation has prepared an overview of the various tax credits available through the FFCRA and CARES Acts. Click here to view.

• 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 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 can be reported by calling 1(866) 9NO-SCAM, visiting MyFloridaLegal.com or downloading the NO SCAM smartphone app
• Learn more

• 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

• 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.

• The Martin County School Board will hold a Regular Board Meeting on Tuesday, April 21, 2020 at 4 p.m. using communication media technology
• The public can watch the live stream via the MCSD website, email public comment to mcsdpubliccomment@martinschools.org or attend meeting in person following social distancing guidelines.
• Please click here for details

• 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.

• All schools operated by the Martin County School District will remain closed through May 1, 2020. 
• 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. 

• 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

• If you are experiencing any hardware (including damage) or software issues with your District-issued device, please email mcsdlaptops@martinschools.org for support. 
• The majority of devices distributed to families last month arrived with cameras and audio disabled as a factory setting. Parents and guardians who would like for their children to have these features enabled will be offered the opportunity to have their settings adjusted this week. Alternatively, families who are in possession of a District-issued device that has the camera and audio features enabled will be able to have these settings disabled if desired. Click here for details.

• 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

• 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

• 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.

• 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 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 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 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. 

• 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 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 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.

• 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 

• 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. 

• 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. 

• 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

• For information and advisories from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), please visit the CDC COVID-19 website. For more information about current travel advisories issued by the U.S. Department of State, please visit the travel advisory website.

• Cleveland Clinic Martin Health is now performing drive-through testing at Martin North Hospital for influenza and COVID-19 by appointment only.
• Testing will only be performed for individuals who meet Florida Department of Health criteria for COVID-19. If individuals do not meet criteria, testing will not be performed.
• For an appointment, individuals who may have symptoms must call (772) 419-3360, between 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. For additional information about Cleveland Clinic Martin Health drive-through testing for COVID-19, visit martinhealth.org/covid19
• As part of their efforts to contain the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19), Cleveland Clinic is currently waiving co-pays and prepayment for on demand and scheduled virtual visits through Cleveland Clinic Express Care® Online for all patients — regardless of health coverage. Learn more and download the app https://my.clevelandclinic.org/online-services/express-care-online

• Last week, Governor DeSantis announced an executive order implementing a “Safer At Home” policy for all Florida residents.
• This policy will remain in place until April 30th. 
• To find a copy of the order and guidance on essential infrastructure workers, visit www.floridadisaster.org/

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.  
• Routine dentistry has been rescheduled to comply with Governor DeSantis’ order to “Stay home-Stay safe”. Emergency dental treatment is available to current patients by calling 772-223-9781. 
• The Little Lights Dentistry team is working with our patients and their families, by phone, text, and/email. 
• For more information about Little Lights Dentistry please visit https://www.lightoftheworldcharities.org/home  

• 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.

• 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 telephone 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/. 

• 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

• 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 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.

• 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. 

• 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).
• They also have Spanish speaking advocates. Interested individuals can email info@innertruthproject.org or call (772) 200 -4599.