This Family Voices Resources eBlast shares resources for self-care and asks us to consider what happens if we get sick, with related types of emergency planning to consider in order to be prepared.

Spanish Version

Information from Family Voices on how families of children with special healthcare needs can prepare for emergencies.

The Salvation Army of Decatur and Macon County offers services including a food pantry, youth programs, the Pathway of Hope program for single parents, homeless prevention emergency support, a men’s transitional shelter and more.

Contact the Salvation Army of Decatur at (217) 428-4672.

$1 per load wash n’ fold laundry service, 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

801 South Grand Avenue East
Springfield, IL

(217) 544-5058

Kumler Outreach Ministries provides help to neighbors who are struggling in the greater Springfield, Illinois area. Programs include a food pantry, medicine program, neighborhood gardens, free personal hygiene items, diapers and newborn items.

ComEd offers assistance programs and its Smart Assistance Manager tool (SAM) to help you find the right options. ComEd programs include free energy-saving products, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), payment and budget billing arrangements, and more.

If you cannot pay your energy bill due to financial difficulties, Peoples Gas has flexible payment arrangement plans or energy assistance options that may help.

If you are experiencing homelessness or are at risk of being homeless, call (217) 522-0048. For other housing-related needs, please call 211.

Many parents are finding themselves faced with securing alternate means of childcare as school districts across the country close temporarily. Many of these parents will balance the need to work with the need to find a safe place for their children. Flip the Switch – Available at no cost through our partnership with Aly Raisman, any adult can complete Stewards of Children® online at no cost by using the code FLIPTHESWITCH

Together, Fifth Street Renaissance/Springfield AIDS Resource Association (SARA Center) in Springfield assists individuals and families in difficult situations in reclaiming their self-sufficiency and well-being. It provides resources, transitional housing, opportunities to develop job skills and education, and help in securing employment. The organization also helps individuals diagnosed with HIV/AIDS find affordable housing, medical assistance and counseling.

Fifth Street Renaissance/SARA Center also works to reduce the spread of HIV/AIDs through education, awareness and prevention.