COVID-19 Resources
Family Voices Coronavirus Information and Resources
Family Voices has put together COVID-19-related resources that are relevant to families of children and youth with special healthcare needs.
The resources page includes information on the virus itself, housing resources, resources for parents and caregivers, information regarding children and youth adults with complex medical conditions, mental health resources and information in multiple languages.
Family Voices Telehealth Toolkit, Tips and New Telemedicine Family Resource Center
Family-centered telehealth can help children and youth with special healthcare needs and families access health care, improve their experience with health care, reduce stress, improve communication between all team members and across systems, and improve quality of life and well-being. During the COVID-19 outbreak, telehealth is being used more and more. Family Voices features extensive resources to help families and individuals with disabilities better understand, access, prepare for and navigate telehealth appointments.
These resources are in Spanish and English.
“Before, During, and After” is a two-part toolkit providing a checklist and worksheet to help prepare for telehealth visits, note questions or key information during a visit, and provide guidance and clear follow-up steps for each appointment.
Family Voices also provides guidance on how to use telemedicine, what to expect and policy changes. (Click here for the Spanish version.)
This issue of the Family Voices Resource eBlast looks at the special concerns around helping teens cope during this stressful time – from “in my feelings” to moving forward in times of uncertainty.
FDA Information: At-Home COVID-19 Diagnostic Tests
The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) provides general information about at-home over the counter (OTC) COVID-19 diagnostic tests. Individuals can use these FDA-authorized tests at home to self-test for COVID.
This site also provides information about:
- Who can use the FDA-authorized tests
- Test expiration dates
- Other details to decide what test is right for you
(217) 544-5040
Find Food IL Community Food Map
Find Food IL is a community food map that provides a list of places offering free food or meals in your community. You can find food pantries, stores and markets that accept SNAP/LINK or WIC coupons, and more resources that are close to you.
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.
First Presbyterian Church of Effingham
Free food drive-thru from 5 to 6 p.m. every day. Call the church office for more details at (217) 342-6272.
600 W. Temple Ave.,
Effingham ILMany 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
Food and Support Programs in Chicago and Cook County
Get help finding food, diapers, job training and accessing programs at over 700 food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters and other community partners in the Chicagoland area.
Visit the Greater Chicago Food Depository website for more information.