COVID-19 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.)
Camp Kinda is an exploratory learning experience designed to keep kids ages 3 to 13 engaged curious, and having fun — even if they’re stuck at home. It’s like summer camp (kinda).
Families can sign up for access through May 2022 for $25 per family. The subscription includes access to the entire catalog of Camp Kinda and Camp Kinda, Jr. adventures—more than 350 hours of activities, Fee waivers are available for families facing financial hardship.
(217) 525-1736
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.
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.
Caritas Family Solutions is a non-profit social services agency that works to meet the physical, social and emotional needs of people in southern Illinois.
Services include adoption support, foster care, community integrated living arrangements, counseling, parenting classes, pregnancy care and more.
Online screening tool, information, resources
A free service for all people living in the 28-county Springfield diocese. Therapists will provide a calming, professional and empathetic ear to those experiencing situational stress and anxiety related to COVID-19.
Call (217) 321-8343.
How to protect yourself, symptoms, resources for the community and the latest information about the outbreak.