Meals and Financial Assistance Resources
Illinois Department of Employment Security
Apply for unemployment insurance if you are without access to paid sick leave or unable to work because of COVID-19.
(800) 244-5631
Illinois Emergency Rental Assistance Programs
The Illinois Emergency Rental Assistance Programs webpage provides updated information about COVID-19 emergency rental assistance programs throughout Illinois. Information is available in multiple languages and includes:
- Programs that are currently open
- Type of assistance provided
- Eligibility requirements
- Where to apply
- How to apply and the documentation needed
Illinois Unidos – COVID-19 Resources for Latinx Families
Illinois Unidos provides a collection of resources developed for and focusing on Latinx families to address:
- Frequently asked questions regarding vaccinations and mitigation measures
- Accessing health, economic and mental health community services
- Stopping the growth of COVID-19
- The devastating economic impact of COVID-19
Illinois Unidos is a consortium of more than 150 Latino elected and appointed officials, health professionals and representatives of community-based organizations.
A roundup of helpful information, including funding, education, housing, immigration, food and more for the Latino community.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps eligible low-income households pay for home energy services (primarily heating during winter months).
Additionally, you will also qualify for assistance with your water and wastewater bills if your household is disconnected, in threat of disconnection or if you are more than $250 in arrears on your current bill. You will apply for Low Income Household Water Assistance (LIHWAP) at the same time you complete your current LIHEAP application.
Due to COVID-19 precautions, some local agencies are closed to the public, but applications may be made remotely.
To help find an office serving your area, visit this complete list of LIHEAP application agencies based on county.
For more program information, get the Help Illinois Families flyer, check out the frequently asked questions or call the LIHEAP hotline at (877) 411-WARM (9276).
Local agencies may offer different types of LIHEAP assistance depending on funding availability and the utility service area.
McLean County District Unit 5 Meal Distribution
Providing grab-and-go breakfast and lunch.
Meal Distribution for Bloomington School District 87 Students
District 87 will provide grab-and-go meals to any student in need at several locations in the community using school buses.
Menard County Housing Authority – Housing Choice Voucher Program
The Menard County Housing Authority will begin accepting pre-applications for the Housing Choice Voucher Program (Tenant-Based Vouchers).
The letter waitlist will open Feb. 15 and close at 3 p.m. on March 1, 2021.
The areas covered include the following counties: Alexander; Bond; Casey, IL; Clinton; Coles; Crawford; Douglas; Fayette; Jackson; Jasper; Livingston; Macoupin; Massac; Menard; Monroe; Moultrie; Perry, Pulaski; Randolph; Scott and Wabash.
For more information and to apply, visit www.menardcha.org/. Contact (217) 632-7723, option 3, for additional assistance to apply.
Mid Central Community Action (MCCA) provides support, advocacy, and education for individuals and families in McLean and Livingston Counties. MCCA works to eliminate domestic violence, combat homelessness, and create a community hub for financial stability.
The free Mobile Rx Pantry Program in Freeport distributes healthy produce, milk, eggs, and frozen and canned meats to participants who may be experiencing food insecurity.