Latest guidance and information on testing, public health department guidance, available resources, food, shelter and more during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Article from Chicago Parent Magazine

Public health services, programs and resources.

All children have unique needs in emergencies, but care for children with special healthcare needs is often more complex because of their various health conditions and extra care requirements. They may have a hard time moving from one place to another, urgent or constant medical needs, difficulty communicating or have trouble with transitioning to different situations. A disaster can present all these difficulties at once.

The CDC provides information on how to prepare and respond so you can help maintain calm and keep your family safe.

How to protect yourself, symptoms, resources for the community and the latest information about the outbreak.

Online screening tool, information, resources

The Illinois Department of Human Services’ Mental Health Division has launched a free-of-charge emotional support text line, Call4Calm, for Illinois residents experiencing stress and mental health issues related to COVID-19.

Individuals who would like to speak with a mental health professional can text “TALK” to 552020, or for Spanish, “HABLAR” to the same number: 552020. Call4Calm is free to use, and individuals will remain anonymous.

Once a resident sends a text to the hotline, within 24 hours they will receive a call from a counselor employed by a local community mental health center to provide support.

Individuals can also text 552020, with keywords such as “unemployment” or “food” or “shelter” and will receive information on how to navigate and access supports and services.

(Message and Data Rates May Apply. See Terms & Conditions of Use.)

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Information for the autism community.

Information from Autism Speaks

Information and resources for families.