COVID-19 Resources
Back-to-School Guide for Families with Complex Healthcare Needs
The Child Neurology Foundation has curated a resource page to help families with complex healthcare needs navigate the school year.
Topics include:
- Tips and Strategies for a Smooth School Year
- Mental Health and School
- IEP and 504 Resources
- Medicaid Expansion in Schools
Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator
The Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator is a confidential and anonymous source of information for persons seeking treatment facilities in the United States or U.S. territories for substance use/addiction and/or mental health problems.
The services locator is available through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
Benefits.gov – Finding the Right Help During the COVID-19 Outbreak
Helpful information on government benefits such as unemployment resources and healthcare coverage as well as resources for businesses and families.
Bill Assistance Programs in Springfield
Springfield’s City, Water, Light and Power provides a list of financial assistance and loan program resources if you are having trouble paying your CWLP bill or other housing and utility costs.
Bloomington-Normal COVID-19 Information
This site serves as a resource for individuals, businesses, and organizations in the Bloomington-Normal communities during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. It includes support for childcare and meals as well as utility resources.
Blueprint for Families of Loved Ones With Mental Health Issues
Mental health challenges affect the whole family and are hard on everyone. The Caregiver Action Network provides a Blueprint for Families of Loved Ones With Mental Health Issues.
The guide includes information on discussing mental health with doctors, screening for mental health issues, the value of knowing early diagnosis and intervention, and more.
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.)
(217) 525-1736
As families shelter in place due to COVID-19, children with hearing loss may need additional help. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) offers this guidance to parents, available in English and Spanish.
CaringInfo, a program of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, provides free resources to educate and empower patients and caregivers to make decisions about serious illness and end-of-life care and services.
The site provides guides and resources about topics including advance directives, palliative care, caregiving and hospice care.