Social Services Resources
The Findhelp.org website allows individuals to search and connect to support no matter where they live. Share your zip code to find area resources that include financial assistance, housing, food pantries, medical care, transportation and other free or reduced-cost help.
United Way supports 211 a free and confidential service that helps people across North America find the local resources they need 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
A toll-free call to 211 connects you to a community resource specialist in your area who can put you in touch with local organizations that provide critical services that can improve and lives. You can find information about supplemental food and nutrition programs, shelter and housing options, utility assistance, disaster relief, employment and education opportunities, and more.
311 provides assistance with non-emergency city services and information on events, programs and agencies within the city of Chicago. Individuals may call or access the 311 website and mobile app to:
- Create and track service requests
- Find rent or housing assistance
- Learn about the HomeMod Program that provides accessibility modifications for Chicago residents
- Search and get information on other requests in your neighborhood
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) developed this flyer to provide Housing Choice Voucher, Public Housing, and Section 8 Moderate Rehabilitation participants with important information and resources about paying rent during the national emergency concerning the coronavirus pandemic.
HUD also provides Resources for Renters which includes:
- Eviction prevention resources
- HUD-certified housing counselors
- Fair housing resources and discrimination help
- Emergency rental assistance
CaringInfo provides free advance directives and instructions for each state that can be opened as a PDF (Portable Document Format) file.
Available Benefits Under the American Rescue Plan Act
The Illinois Department of Human Services in collaboration with the Illinois Commission on Poverty and Economic Security has put together a summary document listing new benefits that are now available to individuals and families through the recent passage of the American Rescue Plan Act.
The types of benefits include stimulus checks, earned income tax credits, child tax credit, unemployment insurance, rental or mortgage assistance and food, cash, childcare and/or medical support.
The Illinois Department of Labor is launching Back to Business Illinois, a free, voluntary service that connects small businesses of 250 employees or less with consultants who will help them address workplace safety and health issues related to the coronavirus and create a plan to ensure a safe, healthy and productive environment for employees and visitors.
These one-hour confidential consultations take place virtually, via teleconference.
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.
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.
(217) 525-1736