St. Clair Resources
Autism Timely Toolkits for Uncertain Times
The Autism Focused Intervention Resources and Modules (AFIRM) Timely Toolkits are designed to support autistic individuals, their caregivers, and related professionals as they navigate through specific global and/or local events that may disrupt or impact routines.
The Timely Toolkits include:
- Supporting Individuals With Autism Through Uncertain Times
- Supporting Adults With Autism Through Uncertain Times Companion Guide
- Supporting Online Learning for Students With Autism
- Resources for Autistic Individuals and Their Families Impacted by War and Displacement
- Talking About Gun Violence With Autistic Individuals
Find Your Local Food Bank – Feeding America
The Feeding America nationwide network of food banks and food programs helps millions of people find food and grocery help in their communities every year. Connect with your local food bank to learn about upcoming free food distributions and to apply for national food programs.
You can also visit Feeding Illinois for more information about Illinois food banks.
The Central Illinois Foodbank provides food, develops awareness, and creates solutions for food insecurity in partnership with over 140 agencies across 21 central and southern Illinois counties.
The Central Illinois Food Bank is open Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
For more information, contact the front desk at (217) 522-4022 or email info@centralillinoisfoodbank.org.
Talking with Children During Infectious Disease Outbreaks
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) provides a tip sheet for caregivers, parents, and teachers on talking with children during infectious disease outbreaks.
SAMHSA tip sheet provides information for toddlers to teens and includes:
- Possible reactions
- Talking with children and youth in different age groups
- Supporting children and managing their responses
- Self-care
- More resources
COVID-19 SERIES, Part 1: Put On Your Own Oxygen Mask First
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.
Are You Ready? Preparing for Emergencies: Tips for Families
Information from Family Voices on how families of children with special healthcare needs can prepare for emergencies.
Peoples Gas Payment Arrangements and Energy Assistance
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.
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
Electronic Portal for SSI Recipients
The IRS has an electronic portal to assist people on SSI and other non-filers in receiving their stimulus payments. Individuals can go to the portal, enter their personal information and that information will be utilized to send them a stimulus payment.
Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS)
The Illinois Department of Human Services Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) helps people with disabilities achieve full community participation through employment, education and independent living opportunities.
Use the DORS office locator to find an office near you or call:
- (877) 581-3690 Voice
- (866) 264-2149 TTY
- (312) 957-4881 (Please note this is a video phone number)
You can also apply online for DRS services.