COVID-19 - Coronavirus Information and Resources
COURTS The Supreme Court has extended their original order that statewide courts be limited, but CINC cases are still an exception. Source, additional details: http://www.lasc.org/press_room/press_releases/2020/2020-05.asp
Louisiana’s Nonprofit Civil Justice Community is posting updates on legal issues related to the pandemic here: https://louisianalawhelp.org/resource/coronavirus-covid-19-information
Orleans Parish Juvenile Court The Orleans Parish Juvenile Court has closed after judges received word that two people who attended a March 10 hearing tested positive for the new coronavirus, according to the court and public defenders. Source: https://www.nola.com/news/coronavirus/article_b442c15a-6ab9-11ea-9305-3f60ba39d3f4.html
St. Bernard Parish Court Only time sensitive and emergency orders will be heard. Source, additional details: St Bernard Parish Clerk of Court - https://www.facebook.com/108914763847590/photos/a.131286944943705/216024919803240/ and https://www.facebook.com/108914763847590/photos/a.131286944943705/220013249404407
Jefferson Parish Juvenile Court Caseload will be reduced from Monday, March 16, 2020 until Friday, March 27, 2020. Notifications for postponed cases will be sent and include a new hearing date at which you must appear. If you do not receive a notification with a new hearing date you should report to court as scheduled. Source, additional details: https://www.jpjc.org/
DCFS “All policy guidelines are to be followed with the exception of in-person contacts. The use of phone/emails/skype/facetime and any other form of technology is encouraged to ensure a continuity of service for our children and families. Team decision making through the below described COVID-19 Practice Support Team will be available for additional guidance and support. In all required contacts, extra precaution should be taken such as social distancing, frequent handwashing, protective gear, protective clothing, and following other CDC recommendations. The Office of Emergency Preparedness is working diligently to secure these items to provide to each office.”
Foster Care and Adoptions “In lieu of in-person monthly worker visits with foster children, workers are to have phone/Skype/FaceTime contact at least weekly with all children and caregivers individually. Ensure that a discussion is held on the impact of COVI-19 is having on their lives and any hardships experienced. For children placed with a caregiver where there is safety concerns or the placement is at risk of disruption, an in-person visit it to be held. When conducting home visits, contact the foster caregiver and conduct pre-screen of COVID-19 using the below screening protocol. If any answer to the three screening questions is yes, consult with the COVID-19 Practice Support Team to determine next steps.”
CPS Investigations continue to happen in-person. “As per policy the reporter is to be contacted. If the reporter reveals that the client has been exposed to COVID-19, the worker should consult with their supervisor/manager and the COVID-19 Practice Support Team prior to going to the home. Safety and risk of the child victim(s) and the worker will be a factor in determining the next steps.”
Family Services “Workers are not required to conduct in-person field visits for currently open FS cases without a safety plan. To the extent possible, individual contact with each child in the family is encouraged via phone or other technology methods. FaceTime or Skype is encouraged for younger children who may not be able to communicate verbally. Workers will contact parent/caretakers for all currently open FS cases with a safety plan via verbal communication, in order to conduct the COVID-19 screening. The worker shall visit with the family at least once prior to March 31st, based on case specific needs for all cases with a safety plan in place and screened with no COVID-19 concerns.” Source, many more details: Child Welfare Memorandum ‘COVID-19 Staff Protocol for Client/Stakeholder contact’
SCHOOLS All K-12 public schools have been closed by the Governor until April 13. Source, details: https://gov.louisiana.gov/index.cfm/newsroom/detail/2403. General resources for at-home learning are linked here.
Orleans All children 18 or younger are eligible to pick up free breakfast and lunch at designated feeding sites, and the child does not need to attend that school (so go to the closest school to your home). City-wide it starts on March 23, but some locations have voluntarily begun serving now. Youth who are over 18 but enrolled in school will be contacted by their school with additional details. School buses will be used to help get food to children who cannot access feeding sites. https://www.wwltv.com/article/news/local/orleans/new-orleans-will-use-school-buses-to-help-getfood-to-children-out-of-school/289-f960eb0b-9e1b-4e41-9ca7-d866fcf7e1ff
In addition to breakfast and lunch at the school sites, NORDC locations will have hot dinners for student pickup. Source, locations: https://nordc.org/getattachment/Homepage-Alerts/Second-Harvest/NORD-Feeding-Sites_2020.pdf
Each school will be communicating directly with families on the steps and resources that will be provided to support on-going student learning during this time. NOLA-PS is providing coordination support across schools and will be identifying additional system-wide needs to support learning.
Source, locations, additional details: https://nolapublicschools.com/covid19/nutrition and https://nolapublicschools.com/news/newsletters/message-from-the-superintendent.
To provide equitable access to online learning, the NOLA Public Schools district has purchased 5,000 wireless hotspots for students to use. The district has not yet announced how distribution of the devices will work. Source: https://thelensnola.org/2020/03/18/nola-public-schools-buys-5000-wireless-hotspots-for-student s-during-statewide-school-closure
St. Bernard All children 18 or younger are eligible to pick up free breakfast and lunch at designated feeding sites. Child must be present for pickup.
For elementary school students, general activities for grade-level bands and cultural arts will be provided on the homepage of each school website. For those families that do not have access to online materials, paper-based materials were sent home last Friday and correlating activities are posted on our teacher web page.
For students in grades 6-12, suggested online and paper-based activities have been posted on each school website’s homepage. For families without access to online materials, paper-based activities that will last for the deration of school closure can be picked up at food distribution sites.
Chalmette High students can access homework at https://www.sbpsb.org/chs
Jefferson Meals will be provided Monday through Friday from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, for any child 18 and under, regardless of whether they are a student at a Jefferson Parish school. Meals include lunch for the day and breakfast for the following morning. Adults must be present with children to receive both meals and learning packets. Parents and students should leave campuses immediately after receiving their materials. High school students are encouraged to use jpschools.org to access their work online.
Printed learning packets will be available for those who do not have internet access. They can be picked up at the feeding sites as well. Families are encouraged to reach out to their teachers with any academic questions. Teacher email addresses are available on individual school websites, found at jpschools.org/schools. The district will open a hotline (504-349-8999) for families who have questions about either the online learning resources or printed learning packet from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. beginning March 18.
Source, locations, additional details: https://www.jpschools.org/, https://www.wwltv.com/article/news/health/coronavirus/jefferson-parish-offering-lunches-for-students-during-coronavirus-shutdown/289-b2ad2ea2-0352-4d01-b955-0a672066452c
Plaquemines All children 18 and younger are eligible to pick up free breakfast and lunch at all schools (except Plaquemines Learning Center). Child must be present for pickup, but does not need to attend that school.
Teachers will send out information on lessons and resources by March 18. Schools will be closed until April 20, after Spring Break.
Source, additional details: https://4.files.edl.io/e61a/03/16/20/223034-c75532f3-1a54-4fb0-8f0b-c9b4440d2d44.pdf
A complete list of all feeding sites in the state is available here: https://www.louisianabelieves.com/docs/default-source/louisiana-believes/school-meal-sites-duri ng-covid-19-closures.pdf
Colleges and Universities Our higher education campuses have closed or moved classes online. You can find expert tips on how to plan accordingly here: https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/articles/what-to-do-if-your-college-closes-dueto-the-coronavirus.
The Louisiana Office of Student Financial Aid is closed to the public. All essential functions will continue to be provided remotely. Source, details: https://www.osfa.la.gov/
WORKFORCE Those out of work or on reduced work hours due to COVID-19 may be eligible for unemployment benefits and SNAP. Source, additional details: Louisiana Workforce Commission http://www.laworks.net/Downloads/PR/COVID_19_Information.pdf
The IRS is extending the tax-filing deadline to July 15 for both filing and paying taxes without interest or penalties. Those who are expecting a refund probably should file as quickly as possible, as the IRS is continuing to process returns and issue checks.
Gambit has a comprehensive list of relief resources for musicians, artists and service industry workers. Source, list: https://www.nola.com/gambit/news/the_latest/article_8a5c3196-6942-11ea-89fd-e34d9757da23.html
Applications for grants of up to $500 through the Hospitality Cares Pandemic Response Fund open on Saturday, March 21, 2020. Apply online at UnitedWaySELA.org/HospitalityCares or call 211 to complete the application over the phone. Go to the site now to review eligibility and prepare necessary documents for submitting an application.Questions? Email [email protected]. Source: https://www.facebook.com/LouisianaHospitalityFoundation/photos/a.199893626725233/2914140791 967156
Orleans Parish musicians, rideshare drivers, festival production staff, and artists can apply for grant support ($500-1000; multiple awards possible) now through NOLABA. Source, application, additional details: https://www.nolaba.org/relief-fund/
Bartenders anywhere can apply for relief from the Bartender Emergency Relief Program. Source, details, application: https://www.usbgfoundation.org/covid-19-response
Army Emergency Relief is available for soldiers and families affected by quarantine. Source, additional details: https://www.armyemergencyrelief.org/news/applying-for-aer-assistance-during-covid-19-quarantine/
HOUSING Evictions The governor has suspended all evictions and foreclosures statewide.
https://www.nola.com/news/coronavirus/article_2b8bd738-6948-11ea-93f6-9b4e90327b53.html
Orleans Parish First and Second City Court have suspended all residential evictions until April 24, 2020, with further orders to follow. En banc court order signed by chief Judge of Civil District Court Christopher J. Bruno; source https://ready.nola.gov/incident/coronavirus/resources/
In Orleans Parish, the Office of Community Development will be providing financial and legal assistance for homeless prevention, which includes rental assistance, foreclosure mitigation, and more. Call 504.658.4200 or 504.658.2299 to inquire. Source: https://www.facebook.com/mayorcantrell/photos/a.587410148295638/1058308897872425/
Utilities Orleans Parish S&WB shutoffs have been suspended and ones that are already cut off will be reinstated. Source, additional details: https://www.swbno.org/PressReleases/Details/3579
Plaquemines Parish Water Department is suspending late fees and disconnections. Source, additional details: https://plaqueminesparish.com/plaquemines-parish-water-department-will-be-suspending-late-fees-and-disconnections/
Entergy will halt disconnects if nonpayment is a result of COVID-19. Customers can call 800.368.3749. Source, details: https://ready.nola.gov/incident/coronavirus/resources/
Verizon, Cox, Sprint, T-Mobile, and other will not terminate due to nonpayment. Details vary by company: https://ready.nola.gov/incident/coronavirus/resources/.
Cox Communications is offering low-cost internet options to families who meet certain qualifications as well. Source, requirements: https://www.cox.com/residential/internet/connect2compete/covid-19-response.html
Charter Communications is offering free Spectrum Broadband to students (K-12 and college) without access.
Not available in any community without existing Charter services. Source, details: https://corporate.charter.com/newsroom/charter-to-offer-free-access-to-spectrum-broadband-an d-wifi-for-60-days-for-new-K12-and-college-student-households-and-more
HEALTH Physical If you have symptoms, Oschner has a free COVID-19 info line where you can talk to a nurse at 844.888.2772; source: https://www.ochsner.org/coronavirus. They also offer virtual visits (not free); for information visit https://www.ochsner.org/ochsner-anywhere-care
There are three mobile testing sites being piloted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; to qualify you must show symptoms (fever, respiratory issues) and be in a car. Tests will be administered daily until they run out.
Mahalia Jackson Theater Parking Lot 1419 Basin Street, New Orleans, LA 70116
University of New Orleans Lakefront Arena Parking Lot 6801 Franklin Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70148
Jefferson Parish – Alario Center, Westwego 2000 Segnette Blvd, Westwego, LA 70094
West Jefferson Medical Center also a mobile testing site. To use the service, call the LCMC Health COVID-19 hotline at 504.962.6202. between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM. If the screeners determine that you need further evaluation, you will be directed to visit the screening center. You cannot show up at the drive-through screening center without first calling the hotline. Source:https://www.bizneworleans.com/drive-through-virus-screening-now-at-west-jeff/
If you need emergency food assistance, Second Harvest locations can be found by calling 211; source: https://no-hunger.org/covid-19/.
If you are in need of diapers, the Junior League of New Orleans’ diaper bank is now distributing in the community.
If you are elderly or homebound and in need of food delivery, NOLA Tree Project can help. Please contact Connie Udo, [email protected].
In communities experiencing disaster, child abuse and neglect may increase in frequency and severity. Families often face a wide range of emotional, psychological, and practical stressors in disaster situations. Parents may experience anger, frustration, and grief, as well as disrupted housing, employment, and social supports. These disruptions may increase the risk of child abuse and neglect. Parents and caregivers, take care of yourselves using the mental and emotional health resources below and tools like this one: https://www.scanva.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/2019SelfCare_English.pdf.
If you suspect abuse or neglect of a child, call 855.4LA.KIDS (855.452.5437) toll-free, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. All calls are confidential.
Additional information, sources: https://dcc.missouri.edu/assets/doc/dcc_child_abuse_and_disasters.pdf, https://www.scanva.org/support-for-parents/parent-resource-center-2/self-care-for-parents/, http://www.dcfs.louisiana.gov/page/reporting-child-abuse-neglect.
When domestic violence survivors are forced to stay in close proximity to their abuser, it can create circumstances where their safety is compromised, and they may need to alter their safety plan. If you are co-quarantined or self-isolating with an abuser in a dangerous home situation, you are not alone. The National Domestic Violence Hotline can be reached 24/7 at 800.799.7233, TTY 800.787.3224, through chat at thehotline.org, or by texting LOVEIS to 22522.
Mental and Emotional Health It is common to feel stress symptoms before or after a crisis. Most stress symptoms are temporary and will resolve on their own in a fairly short amount of time. However, for some people, particularly children and teens, these symptoms may last for weeks or even months and may influence their relationships with families and friends. Learn the warning signs here: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/disaster-distress-helpline/warning-signs-risk-factors
The Louisiana Department of Health has created the Keeping Calm Through COVID crisis phone line which provides trained, compassionate counselors to support Louisianans through this difficult time. Counselors are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week with information and service coordination, linking callers to mental health and substance abuse counseling services. Call the free hotline at 1-866-310-7977 at any time, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All calls are confidential. Source: http://www.ldh.la.gov/index.cfm/newsroom/detail/5492
The Disaster Distress Helpline is a 24/7, 365-day-a-year, national hotline dedicated to providing immediate crisis counseling for anyone experiencing emotional distress related to disasters, including infectious disease outbreaks. You may call for yourself or on behalf of someone else. Dial 800.985.5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.
The Bureau of Family Health has compiled a list of helpful, go-to mental health resources geared toward individuals and families who are pregnant and/or parenting infants and young children: https://partnersforfamilyhealth.org/mental-health-resources-families-coronavirus-outbreak/
Tips for Social Distancing, quarantine, and isolation during an infectious disease outbreak can be found here: https://store.samhsa.gov/system/files/sma14-4894.pdf and here: https://www.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/tips-social-distancing-quarantine-isolation-031620.pdf
We can all help prevent suicide. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals. Call 800.273.8255, or chat through their website. Source, details: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/
CHILDREN Tips for talking to children Teaching children positive preventive measures, talking with them about their fears, and giving them a sense of some control over their risk of infection can help reduce anxiety. Tips from the National Association of School Psychologists are available in multiple languages: https://www.nasponline.org/resources-and-publications/resources-and-podcasts/school-climatesafety-and-crisis/health-crisis-resources/talking-to-children-about-covid-19-(coronavirus)-a-pare nt-resource
LSU Health Sciences was one of the expert sources for a comic that helps explain the new virus to kids. You can view it online, or print and fold a zine version: https://www.npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2020/02/28/809580453/just-for-kids-a-comic-explori ng-the-new-coronavirus
The American Academy of Pediatrics’ Healthy Children site has helpful tips for talking to the kids in your life about COVID-19 and keeping them occupied during school closures: https://healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/chest-lungs/Pages/2019-Novel-Coro navirus.aspx
The Child Mind Institute’s tips include ones for yourself — and a video: https://childmind.org/article/talking-to-kids-about-the-coronavirus/
Resources for at-home learning Local library branches are closed to patrons, but they have online learning resources: http://www.jplibrary.net/; http://nolalibrary.org/; https://www.stbernard.lib.la.us/elearning/
The New Orleans Public Library just launched Virtual Storytime for everyone, live on their website and YouTube channel (no library card required): https://www.youtube.com/user/NOLALibrary. Every Friday morning they will host a special Live Storytime, broadcast at 10:30 AM on their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nolalibrary.
Save the Children has tips for helping kids deal with extended school closures, along with relaxation activities, math and reading tips, brain building ideas, free educational sites and more. Source: https://www.savethechildren.org/us/what-we-do/emergency-response/coronavirus-outbreak/resources
Scholastic has cross-curricular journeys to keep up learning when schools are closed. Every day includes four separate learning experiences, each built around a thrilling, meaningful story or video. Kids can do them on their own, with their families, or with other caring adults. Just find your grade level and let the learning begin: https://classroommagazines.scholastic.com/support/learnathome.html
Many education companies are offering their subscription services for free: https://kidsactivitiesblog.com/135609/list-of-education-companies-offering-free-subscriptions/
Sarah Clostio Artistry has created free coloring sheets with local designs that you can download (great for adults, too!): https://www.sarahclostioartistry.com/freebies
Cosmic Kids has online yoga for children: https://www.youtube.com/user/CosmicKidsYoga
Wild, Free, and Crafty has art lessons for children and adults: https://www.youtube.com/c/WildFreeandCrafty
COMMUNITY PARTNER INFORMATION CASA National CASA standards require that Advocates meet with the child on their case at least once a month in person. Exceptions to the face to face requirement can be waived under special circumstances: “The CASA/GAL program assures that volunteers have regular and sufficient in-person contact with the child to enable them to have an in-depth knowledge of the case and make fact based recommendations to the court. The CASA/GAL volunteer shall meet in person with the child once every thirty (30) days at a minimum. An exception may be granted in the discretion of the CASA program staff; however, the decision to permit less frequent in person contact shall be documented as to the justification for and reasonableness of the exception.” Both CASA New Orleans and CASA Jefferson have waived the in-person requirement for their Advocates this month. Volunteers are encouraged to conduct face-to-face visits via electronic means, such as Facetime, Google Hangouts, Skype, etc.
CASA Jefferson works to break the cycle of child abuse and neglect through volunteers advocating for safe, nurturing, and permanent homes for foster children in our community.
CASA of Plaquemines Parish works to help ensure that every one of our Plaquemines Parish children can live in a safe, permanent home without “slipping through the cracks” of the system. All Plaquemines Community CARE Centers team members are working remotely at this time, and that includes our CASA of Plaquemines team. Anyone trying to reach CASA of Plaquemines should contact Kate Balestra at 504.656.4047. Anyone needing to reach any other members of the Plaquemines Community CARE Centers may contact us through our established phone number of 504.393.5750. For more information, visit their website: http://pcccf.org/casa-of-plaquemines
National CASA has created guidance for volunteer Advocates: file:///C:/Users/User3/Downloads/Guidance-for-Volunteers.pdf
The Youth Law Center has created a checklist for Advocates making an emergency plan with transition age youth in foster care: https://ylc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Emergency-Plan-with-TAY-in-Foster-Care_YL C.pdf
Southeast Louisiana Legal Services The office is closed to the public but intakes and most other business will continue over the phone or by appointment only. Attorneys on your case will be available via phone or email. Self-help desks will close.
Louisiana Fair Housing Action Center The office is closed to the public, but their staff is fully available. Anyone experiencing housing discrimination can reach out by calling 504.596.2100, or emailing [email protected]. Source: Cashauna Hill, Executive Director via email 03.18.2020.
VIALINK/211 Dial 211 or text LACOVID to 898211 for information about COVID-19 and to connect to community resources.
Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine The School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine has launched a daily update about COVID-19.
Jewish Family Services Offices are open and continue to provide services to individuals and families at every stage of life. They are also providing comprehensive lists of resources on their website and social media.
On the Fly No Hunger NOLA is launching a meal kit relief program for service industry and other affected workers in the city, using excess foods from restaurants, as part of the Culture Aid NOLA relief collaborative. Info regarding meal kit pickup times and locations TBA.
The Community Center of St. Bernard Due to the influx in need for assistance, we are adding an additional day for our current/future clients thanks to a grant from the Meraux Foundation. We are currently accepting new clients – please bring a valid photo ID/DL, proof of residency (homeless is okay), and proof of income (no income is okay).
The Blood Center Blood drives are some of the many recent events that have been cancelled, and now supplies are running low. Scheduled blood donations ensure the fastest donation time, because staff is expecting the donor and they’re able to begin the survey portion of the donation process from their home, office or virtually any web enabled device. Visit TheBloodCenter.org to schedule a donation appointment or call 800-86-BLOOD.
Evacuteer.org Evacuteer needs volunteers 18-59 years old to assist at the Eastbank and Westbank food distribution centers.
HandsOn Looking to volunteer? HandsOn is collecting information on potential volunteers. Source, signup: http://volunteer.handsonneworleans.org/need/detail/?need_id=507745
IMPORTANT LINKS Louisiana COVID-19 Cases:
http://ldh.la.gov/coronavirus/ City of New Orleans: https://ready.nola.gov/incident/coronavirus/resources/ (text COVIDNOLA to 888777 to get alerts)
St. Bernard Parish Government: https://www.sbpg.net/
Jefferson Parish Government:
https://www.jeffparish.net/
Plaquemines Parish Government: https://plaqueminesparish.com/
Louisiana Governor’s office: https://gov.louisiana.gov/index.cfm/page/89 Louisiana DCFS: http://www.dss.state.la.us/page/coronavirus
Louisiana Workforce Commission: http://www.laworks.net/PublicRelations/COVID_19_Information.asp
WHO: https://www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus
CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html Our World in Data: https://ourworldindata.org/coronavirus
Louisiana’s Nonprofit Civil Justice Community is posting updates on legal issues related to the pandemic here: https://louisianalawhelp.org/resource/coronavirus-covid-19-information
Orleans Parish Juvenile Court The Orleans Parish Juvenile Court has closed after judges received word that two people who attended a March 10 hearing tested positive for the new coronavirus, according to the court and public defenders. Source: https://www.nola.com/news/coronavirus/article_b442c15a-6ab9-11ea-9305-3f60ba39d3f4.html
St. Bernard Parish Court Only time sensitive and emergency orders will be heard. Source, additional details: St Bernard Parish Clerk of Court - https://www.facebook.com/108914763847590/photos/a.131286944943705/216024919803240/ and https://www.facebook.com/108914763847590/photos/a.131286944943705/220013249404407
Jefferson Parish Juvenile Court Caseload will be reduced from Monday, March 16, 2020 until Friday, March 27, 2020. Notifications for postponed cases will be sent and include a new hearing date at which you must appear. If you do not receive a notification with a new hearing date you should report to court as scheduled. Source, additional details: https://www.jpjc.org/
DCFS “All policy guidelines are to be followed with the exception of in-person contacts. The use of phone/emails/skype/facetime and any other form of technology is encouraged to ensure a continuity of service for our children and families. Team decision making through the below described COVID-19 Practice Support Team will be available for additional guidance and support. In all required contacts, extra precaution should be taken such as social distancing, frequent handwashing, protective gear, protective clothing, and following other CDC recommendations. The Office of Emergency Preparedness is working diligently to secure these items to provide to each office.”
Foster Care and Adoptions “In lieu of in-person monthly worker visits with foster children, workers are to have phone/Skype/FaceTime contact at least weekly with all children and caregivers individually. Ensure that a discussion is held on the impact of COVI-19 is having on their lives and any hardships experienced. For children placed with a caregiver where there is safety concerns or the placement is at risk of disruption, an in-person visit it to be held. When conducting home visits, contact the foster caregiver and conduct pre-screen of COVID-19 using the below screening protocol. If any answer to the three screening questions is yes, consult with the COVID-19 Practice Support Team to determine next steps.”
CPS Investigations continue to happen in-person. “As per policy the reporter is to be contacted. If the reporter reveals that the client has been exposed to COVID-19, the worker should consult with their supervisor/manager and the COVID-19 Practice Support Team prior to going to the home. Safety and risk of the child victim(s) and the worker will be a factor in determining the next steps.”
Family Services “Workers are not required to conduct in-person field visits for currently open FS cases without a safety plan. To the extent possible, individual contact with each child in the family is encouraged via phone or other technology methods. FaceTime or Skype is encouraged for younger children who may not be able to communicate verbally. Workers will contact parent/caretakers for all currently open FS cases with a safety plan via verbal communication, in order to conduct the COVID-19 screening. The worker shall visit with the family at least once prior to March 31st, based on case specific needs for all cases with a safety plan in place and screened with no COVID-19 concerns.” Source, many more details: Child Welfare Memorandum ‘COVID-19 Staff Protocol for Client/Stakeholder contact’
SCHOOLS All K-12 public schools have been closed by the Governor until April 13. Source, details: https://gov.louisiana.gov/index.cfm/newsroom/detail/2403. General resources for at-home learning are linked here.
Orleans All children 18 or younger are eligible to pick up free breakfast and lunch at designated feeding sites, and the child does not need to attend that school (so go to the closest school to your home). City-wide it starts on March 23, but some locations have voluntarily begun serving now. Youth who are over 18 but enrolled in school will be contacted by their school with additional details. School buses will be used to help get food to children who cannot access feeding sites. https://www.wwltv.com/article/news/local/orleans/new-orleans-will-use-school-buses-to-help-getfood-to-children-out-of-school/289-f960eb0b-9e1b-4e41-9ca7-d866fcf7e1ff
In addition to breakfast and lunch at the school sites, NORDC locations will have hot dinners for student pickup. Source, locations: https://nordc.org/getattachment/Homepage-Alerts/Second-Harvest/NORD-Feeding-Sites_2020.pdf
Each school will be communicating directly with families on the steps and resources that will be provided to support on-going student learning during this time. NOLA-PS is providing coordination support across schools and will be identifying additional system-wide needs to support learning.
Source, locations, additional details: https://nolapublicschools.com/covid19/nutrition and https://nolapublicschools.com/news/newsletters/message-from-the-superintendent.
To provide equitable access to online learning, the NOLA Public Schools district has purchased 5,000 wireless hotspots for students to use. The district has not yet announced how distribution of the devices will work. Source: https://thelensnola.org/2020/03/18/nola-public-schools-buys-5000-wireless-hotspots-for-student s-during-statewide-school-closure
St. Bernard All children 18 or younger are eligible to pick up free breakfast and lunch at designated feeding sites. Child must be present for pickup.
For elementary school students, general activities for grade-level bands and cultural arts will be provided on the homepage of each school website. For those families that do not have access to online materials, paper-based materials were sent home last Friday and correlating activities are posted on our teacher web page.
For students in grades 6-12, suggested online and paper-based activities have been posted on each school website’s homepage. For families without access to online materials, paper-based activities that will last for the deration of school closure can be picked up at food distribution sites.
Chalmette High students can access homework at https://www.sbpsb.org/chs
Jefferson Meals will be provided Monday through Friday from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, for any child 18 and under, regardless of whether they are a student at a Jefferson Parish school. Meals include lunch for the day and breakfast for the following morning. Adults must be present with children to receive both meals and learning packets. Parents and students should leave campuses immediately after receiving their materials. High school students are encouraged to use jpschools.org to access their work online.
Printed learning packets will be available for those who do not have internet access. They can be picked up at the feeding sites as well. Families are encouraged to reach out to their teachers with any academic questions. Teacher email addresses are available on individual school websites, found at jpschools.org/schools. The district will open a hotline (504-349-8999) for families who have questions about either the online learning resources or printed learning packet from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. beginning March 18.
Source, locations, additional details: https://www.jpschools.org/, https://www.wwltv.com/article/news/health/coronavirus/jefferson-parish-offering-lunches-for-students-during-coronavirus-shutdown/289-b2ad2ea2-0352-4d01-b955-0a672066452c
Plaquemines All children 18 and younger are eligible to pick up free breakfast and lunch at all schools (except Plaquemines Learning Center). Child must be present for pickup, but does not need to attend that school.
Teachers will send out information on lessons and resources by March 18. Schools will be closed until April 20, after Spring Break.
Source, additional details: https://4.files.edl.io/e61a/03/16/20/223034-c75532f3-1a54-4fb0-8f0b-c9b4440d2d44.pdf
A complete list of all feeding sites in the state is available here: https://www.louisianabelieves.com/docs/default-source/louisiana-believes/school-meal-sites-duri ng-covid-19-closures.pdf
Colleges and Universities Our higher education campuses have closed or moved classes online. You can find expert tips on how to plan accordingly here: https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/articles/what-to-do-if-your-college-closes-dueto-the-coronavirus.
The Louisiana Office of Student Financial Aid is closed to the public. All essential functions will continue to be provided remotely. Source, details: https://www.osfa.la.gov/
WORKFORCE Those out of work or on reduced work hours due to COVID-19 may be eligible for unemployment benefits and SNAP. Source, additional details: Louisiana Workforce Commission http://www.laworks.net/Downloads/PR/COVID_19_Information.pdf
The IRS is extending the tax-filing deadline to July 15 for both filing and paying taxes without interest or penalties. Those who are expecting a refund probably should file as quickly as possible, as the IRS is continuing to process returns and issue checks.
Gambit has a comprehensive list of relief resources for musicians, artists and service industry workers. Source, list: https://www.nola.com/gambit/news/the_latest/article_8a5c3196-6942-11ea-89fd-e34d9757da23.html
Applications for grants of up to $500 through the Hospitality Cares Pandemic Response Fund open on Saturday, March 21, 2020. Apply online at UnitedWaySELA.org/HospitalityCares or call 211 to complete the application over the phone. Go to the site now to review eligibility and prepare necessary documents for submitting an application.Questions? Email [email protected]. Source: https://www.facebook.com/LouisianaHospitalityFoundation/photos/a.199893626725233/2914140791 967156
Orleans Parish musicians, rideshare drivers, festival production staff, and artists can apply for grant support ($500-1000; multiple awards possible) now through NOLABA. Source, application, additional details: https://www.nolaba.org/relief-fund/
Bartenders anywhere can apply for relief from the Bartender Emergency Relief Program. Source, details, application: https://www.usbgfoundation.org/covid-19-response
Army Emergency Relief is available for soldiers and families affected by quarantine. Source, additional details: https://www.armyemergencyrelief.org/news/applying-for-aer-assistance-during-covid-19-quarantine/
HOUSING Evictions The governor has suspended all evictions and foreclosures statewide.
https://www.nola.com/news/coronavirus/article_2b8bd738-6948-11ea-93f6-9b4e90327b53.html
Orleans Parish First and Second City Court have suspended all residential evictions until April 24, 2020, with further orders to follow. En banc court order signed by chief Judge of Civil District Court Christopher J. Bruno; source https://ready.nola.gov/incident/coronavirus/resources/
In Orleans Parish, the Office of Community Development will be providing financial and legal assistance for homeless prevention, which includes rental assistance, foreclosure mitigation, and more. Call 504.658.4200 or 504.658.2299 to inquire. Source: https://www.facebook.com/mayorcantrell/photos/a.587410148295638/1058308897872425/
Utilities Orleans Parish S&WB shutoffs have been suspended and ones that are already cut off will be reinstated. Source, additional details: https://www.swbno.org/PressReleases/Details/3579
Plaquemines Parish Water Department is suspending late fees and disconnections. Source, additional details: https://plaqueminesparish.com/plaquemines-parish-water-department-will-be-suspending-late-fees-and-disconnections/
Entergy will halt disconnects if nonpayment is a result of COVID-19. Customers can call 800.368.3749. Source, details: https://ready.nola.gov/incident/coronavirus/resources/
Verizon, Cox, Sprint, T-Mobile, and other will not terminate due to nonpayment. Details vary by company: https://ready.nola.gov/incident/coronavirus/resources/.
Cox Communications is offering low-cost internet options to families who meet certain qualifications as well. Source, requirements: https://www.cox.com/residential/internet/connect2compete/covid-19-response.html
Charter Communications is offering free Spectrum Broadband to students (K-12 and college) without access.
Not available in any community without existing Charter services. Source, details: https://corporate.charter.com/newsroom/charter-to-offer-free-access-to-spectrum-broadband-an d-wifi-for-60-days-for-new-K12-and-college-student-households-and-more
HEALTH Physical If you have symptoms, Oschner has a free COVID-19 info line where you can talk to a nurse at 844.888.2772; source: https://www.ochsner.org/coronavirus. They also offer virtual visits (not free); for information visit https://www.ochsner.org/ochsner-anywhere-care
There are three mobile testing sites being piloted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; to qualify you must show symptoms (fever, respiratory issues) and be in a car. Tests will be administered daily until they run out.
Mahalia Jackson Theater Parking Lot 1419 Basin Street, New Orleans, LA 70116
University of New Orleans Lakefront Arena Parking Lot 6801 Franklin Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70148
Jefferson Parish – Alario Center, Westwego 2000 Segnette Blvd, Westwego, LA 70094
West Jefferson Medical Center also a mobile testing site. To use the service, call the LCMC Health COVID-19 hotline at 504.962.6202. between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM. If the screeners determine that you need further evaluation, you will be directed to visit the screening center. You cannot show up at the drive-through screening center without first calling the hotline. Source:https://www.bizneworleans.com/drive-through-virus-screening-now-at-west-jeff/
If you need emergency food assistance, Second Harvest locations can be found by calling 211; source: https://no-hunger.org/covid-19/.
If you are in need of diapers, the Junior League of New Orleans’ diaper bank is now distributing in the community.
If you are elderly or homebound and in need of food delivery, NOLA Tree Project can help. Please contact Connie Udo, [email protected].
In communities experiencing disaster, child abuse and neglect may increase in frequency and severity. Families often face a wide range of emotional, psychological, and practical stressors in disaster situations. Parents may experience anger, frustration, and grief, as well as disrupted housing, employment, and social supports. These disruptions may increase the risk of child abuse and neglect. Parents and caregivers, take care of yourselves using the mental and emotional health resources below and tools like this one: https://www.scanva.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/2019SelfCare_English.pdf.
If you suspect abuse or neglect of a child, call 855.4LA.KIDS (855.452.5437) toll-free, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. All calls are confidential.
Additional information, sources: https://dcc.missouri.edu/assets/doc/dcc_child_abuse_and_disasters.pdf, https://www.scanva.org/support-for-parents/parent-resource-center-2/self-care-for-parents/, http://www.dcfs.louisiana.gov/page/reporting-child-abuse-neglect.
When domestic violence survivors are forced to stay in close proximity to their abuser, it can create circumstances where their safety is compromised, and they may need to alter their safety plan. If you are co-quarantined or self-isolating with an abuser in a dangerous home situation, you are not alone. The National Domestic Violence Hotline can be reached 24/7 at 800.799.7233, TTY 800.787.3224, through chat at thehotline.org, or by texting LOVEIS to 22522.
Mental and Emotional Health It is common to feel stress symptoms before or after a crisis. Most stress symptoms are temporary and will resolve on their own in a fairly short amount of time. However, for some people, particularly children and teens, these symptoms may last for weeks or even months and may influence their relationships with families and friends. Learn the warning signs here: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/disaster-distress-helpline/warning-signs-risk-factors
The Louisiana Department of Health has created the Keeping Calm Through COVID crisis phone line which provides trained, compassionate counselors to support Louisianans through this difficult time. Counselors are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week with information and service coordination, linking callers to mental health and substance abuse counseling services. Call the free hotline at 1-866-310-7977 at any time, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All calls are confidential. Source: http://www.ldh.la.gov/index.cfm/newsroom/detail/5492
The Disaster Distress Helpline is a 24/7, 365-day-a-year, national hotline dedicated to providing immediate crisis counseling for anyone experiencing emotional distress related to disasters, including infectious disease outbreaks. You may call for yourself or on behalf of someone else. Dial 800.985.5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.
The Bureau of Family Health has compiled a list of helpful, go-to mental health resources geared toward individuals and families who are pregnant and/or parenting infants and young children: https://partnersforfamilyhealth.org/mental-health-resources-families-coronavirus-outbreak/
Tips for Social Distancing, quarantine, and isolation during an infectious disease outbreak can be found here: https://store.samhsa.gov/system/files/sma14-4894.pdf and here: https://www.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/tips-social-distancing-quarantine-isolation-031620.pdf
We can all help prevent suicide. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals. Call 800.273.8255, or chat through their website. Source, details: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/
CHILDREN Tips for talking to children Teaching children positive preventive measures, talking with them about their fears, and giving them a sense of some control over their risk of infection can help reduce anxiety. Tips from the National Association of School Psychologists are available in multiple languages: https://www.nasponline.org/resources-and-publications/resources-and-podcasts/school-climatesafety-and-crisis/health-crisis-resources/talking-to-children-about-covid-19-(coronavirus)-a-pare nt-resource
LSU Health Sciences was one of the expert sources for a comic that helps explain the new virus to kids. You can view it online, or print and fold a zine version: https://www.npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2020/02/28/809580453/just-for-kids-a-comic-explori ng-the-new-coronavirus
The American Academy of Pediatrics’ Healthy Children site has helpful tips for talking to the kids in your life about COVID-19 and keeping them occupied during school closures: https://healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/chest-lungs/Pages/2019-Novel-Coro navirus.aspx
The Child Mind Institute’s tips include ones for yourself — and a video: https://childmind.org/article/talking-to-kids-about-the-coronavirus/
Resources for at-home learning Local library branches are closed to patrons, but they have online learning resources: http://www.jplibrary.net/; http://nolalibrary.org/; https://www.stbernard.lib.la.us/elearning/
The New Orleans Public Library just launched Virtual Storytime for everyone, live on their website and YouTube channel (no library card required): https://www.youtube.com/user/NOLALibrary. Every Friday morning they will host a special Live Storytime, broadcast at 10:30 AM on their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nolalibrary.
Save the Children has tips for helping kids deal with extended school closures, along with relaxation activities, math and reading tips, brain building ideas, free educational sites and more. Source: https://www.savethechildren.org/us/what-we-do/emergency-response/coronavirus-outbreak/resources
Scholastic has cross-curricular journeys to keep up learning when schools are closed. Every day includes four separate learning experiences, each built around a thrilling, meaningful story or video. Kids can do them on their own, with their families, or with other caring adults. Just find your grade level and let the learning begin: https://classroommagazines.scholastic.com/support/learnathome.html
Many education companies are offering their subscription services for free: https://kidsactivitiesblog.com/135609/list-of-education-companies-offering-free-subscriptions/
Sarah Clostio Artistry has created free coloring sheets with local designs that you can download (great for adults, too!): https://www.sarahclostioartistry.com/freebies
Cosmic Kids has online yoga for children: https://www.youtube.com/user/CosmicKidsYoga
Wild, Free, and Crafty has art lessons for children and adults: https://www.youtube.com/c/WildFreeandCrafty
COMMUNITY PARTNER INFORMATION CASA National CASA standards require that Advocates meet with the child on their case at least once a month in person. Exceptions to the face to face requirement can be waived under special circumstances: “The CASA/GAL program assures that volunteers have regular and sufficient in-person contact with the child to enable them to have an in-depth knowledge of the case and make fact based recommendations to the court. The CASA/GAL volunteer shall meet in person with the child once every thirty (30) days at a minimum. An exception may be granted in the discretion of the CASA program staff; however, the decision to permit less frequent in person contact shall be documented as to the justification for and reasonableness of the exception.” Both CASA New Orleans and CASA Jefferson have waived the in-person requirement for their Advocates this month. Volunteers are encouraged to conduct face-to-face visits via electronic means, such as Facetime, Google Hangouts, Skype, etc.
CASA Jefferson works to break the cycle of child abuse and neglect through volunteers advocating for safe, nurturing, and permanent homes for foster children in our community.
CASA of Plaquemines Parish works to help ensure that every one of our Plaquemines Parish children can live in a safe, permanent home without “slipping through the cracks” of the system. All Plaquemines Community CARE Centers team members are working remotely at this time, and that includes our CASA of Plaquemines team. Anyone trying to reach CASA of Plaquemines should contact Kate Balestra at 504.656.4047. Anyone needing to reach any other members of the Plaquemines Community CARE Centers may contact us through our established phone number of 504.393.5750. For more information, visit their website: http://pcccf.org/casa-of-plaquemines
National CASA has created guidance for volunteer Advocates: file:///C:/Users/User3/Downloads/Guidance-for-Volunteers.pdf
The Youth Law Center has created a checklist for Advocates making an emergency plan with transition age youth in foster care: https://ylc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Emergency-Plan-with-TAY-in-Foster-Care_YL C.pdf
Southeast Louisiana Legal Services The office is closed to the public but intakes and most other business will continue over the phone or by appointment only. Attorneys on your case will be available via phone or email. Self-help desks will close.
Louisiana Fair Housing Action Center The office is closed to the public, but their staff is fully available. Anyone experiencing housing discrimination can reach out by calling 504.596.2100, or emailing [email protected]. Source: Cashauna Hill, Executive Director via email 03.18.2020.
VIALINK/211 Dial 211 or text LACOVID to 898211 for information about COVID-19 and to connect to community resources.
Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine The School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine has launched a daily update about COVID-19.
Jewish Family Services Offices are open and continue to provide services to individuals and families at every stage of life. They are also providing comprehensive lists of resources on their website and social media.
On the Fly No Hunger NOLA is launching a meal kit relief program for service industry and other affected workers in the city, using excess foods from restaurants, as part of the Culture Aid NOLA relief collaborative. Info regarding meal kit pickup times and locations TBA.
The Community Center of St. Bernard Due to the influx in need for assistance, we are adding an additional day for our current/future clients thanks to a grant from the Meraux Foundation. We are currently accepting new clients – please bring a valid photo ID/DL, proof of residency (homeless is okay), and proof of income (no income is okay).
The Blood Center Blood drives are some of the many recent events that have been cancelled, and now supplies are running low. Scheduled blood donations ensure the fastest donation time, because staff is expecting the donor and they’re able to begin the survey portion of the donation process from their home, office or virtually any web enabled device. Visit TheBloodCenter.org to schedule a donation appointment or call 800-86-BLOOD.
Evacuteer.org Evacuteer needs volunteers 18-59 years old to assist at the Eastbank and Westbank food distribution centers.
HandsOn Looking to volunteer? HandsOn is collecting information on potential volunteers. Source, signup: http://volunteer.handsonneworleans.org/need/detail/?need_id=507745
IMPORTANT LINKS Louisiana COVID-19 Cases:
http://ldh.la.gov/coronavirus/ City of New Orleans: https://ready.nola.gov/incident/coronavirus/resources/ (text COVIDNOLA to 888777 to get alerts)
St. Bernard Parish Government: https://www.sbpg.net/
Jefferson Parish Government:
https://www.jeffparish.net/
Plaquemines Parish Government: https://plaqueminesparish.com/
Louisiana Governor’s office: https://gov.louisiana.gov/index.cfm/page/89 Louisiana DCFS: http://www.dss.state.la.us/page/coronavirus
Louisiana Workforce Commission: http://www.laworks.net/PublicRelations/COVID_19_Information.asp
WHO: https://www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus
CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html Our World in Data: https://ourworldindata.org/coronavirus
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