Marion Resources
Disaster Preparedness for Children and Youth with Special Healthcare Needs
The American Academy of Pediatrics provides information on how families of children with special healthcare needs can prepare for potential emergencies and disasters in their area and identify what each child would need to safely cope with the disaster.
“What’s New in the 2020 ISBE Parent Guide on Understanding Special Education in Illinois?”
Family Matters Parent Training and Information Center provides a summary of the key updates in the Illinois State Board of Education’s 2020 Parent Guide on Special Education.
The COVID-19 Virtual Care Program helps people with COVID-19 symptoms recover safely at home. It offers medical education, symptom checking and 24/7 support virtually via a mobile app or website for a period of 14 days. Eligible participants may also receive a free home medical kit that may include a thermometer, blood pressure machine, pulse oximeter and masks.
This program is open to all Illinois residents over the age of 12 months who have known exposure to COVID-19 or who have COVID-like symptoms.
If you’re an Illinois resident, call (866) 443-2584 to enroll. A frequently-asked questions handout about the program provides more details.
Digital Accessibility in the Age of COVID-19
As COVID-19 makes digital connection increasingly important, the American Association of People with Disabilities offers resources to enhance Digital Accessibility in the Age of COVID-19.
Caring for Children and Youth With Special Healthcare Needs During the COVID-19 Pandemic
The American Academy of Pediatrics provides extensive guidance for physicians and families on topics ranging from how children with special healthcare needs should wear face coverings to when to get a COVID-19 test and how to provide optimal care at home and school.
Adult Protective Services Program
The Illinois Department on Aging (IDoA) manages the statewide Adult Protective Services Program, which serves adults 60 years of age and older and adults aged 18-59 with disabilities. The program handles reports of abuse, neglect and exploitation.
For more information on the signs and types of abuse and how to make a report, visit www2.illinois.gov/aging/Engage/Pages/default.aspx. You can also call the statewide 24-hour Abuse Hotline at (866) 800-1409.
COVID-19 Housing Resources Information
The Illinois Housing Development Authority continues to provide support and assistance programs for Illinois homeowners and renters. Its COVID-19 Housing Resources Information website provides the latest information.
Back to School Toolkit 2023 from Mental Health America
Mental Health America’s Back-to-School Toolkit provides educational information and tips on tackling some of the most common online stressors for youth. Titled “Selfies, Social & Screens: Navigating Virtual Spaced for Youth,” the toolkit includes fact sheets for youth and adults, and a guide to national and local resources.
How To Maintain Your Social Relationships During Online School (For Kids and Teens)
Mental Health America provides information for helping kids and teens transition to online school and tips for staying connected with their friends virtually.
Teachers and Parents: Working Together to Make Distance Learning Work
This fact sheet from Mental Health America provides tips to help parents and teachers work together to make sure kids and teens are learning and to monitor their mental health.