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CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) UPDATES [Last Updated: 10:30am on Friday, April 2nd]

CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) UPDATES [Last Updated: 10:30am on Friday, April 2nd]

This page will be updated as the situation changes. Please also look for specific updates coming from your healthcare providers, local school, businesses, and community organizations.

You may continually refer to the City’s coronavirus webpage, which will post the most recent updates: https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/sites/covid-19/home.html

The Governor’s office has launched a new state website for information around coronavirus. 

The 46th Ward Office staff continue to work remotely and are available by phone at 773-878-4646 and by email at ward46@cityofchicago.org.

Please read the following information to stay up-to-date on the latest developments and information for our community.

LAST UPDATED: 10:30AM ON FRIDAY, APRIL 2ND


On This Page:

Also on James46.org:


Recent Updates and Announcements

There are currently 1,248,111 total cases of COVID-19 in Illinois. There have been 21,326 COVID-19 deaths reported in Illinois (click here to view confirmed case rates for COVID-19 by Chicago zip code). It is critical that we all follow the guidance and new restrictions provided by Governor Pritzker, Mayor Lightfoot, President Preckwinkle and the Illinois, Chicago and Cook County Departments of Health. Get the latest data on COVID-19 in the City of Chicago. Learn more about COVID-19 testing in Chicago.

UPDATE 4/2/21: Phase 1C and Wrigley Vaccination Site
Two new mass vaccination sites, one at Chicago State University and a second at the American Airlines Conference Center at Gallagher Way next to Wrigley Field, are set to open on April 5th.  Anyone in stages 1A-1C will be eligible at these sites and registration is through ZocDoc. Phase 1C Became eligible to receive the vaccine on March 29th. You can find a full breakdown of the phases here.  Learn more about Phase 1C eligibility and City vaccine updates under Vaccine Information.


Updates from the Chicago and Illinois Department of Public Health

You may continually refer to the City’s coronavirus webpage, which will post the most recent updates: https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/sites/covid-19/home.html. You can also sign up for the Chicago Department of Public Health email list regarding coronavirus to receive trusted information and guidance to share with your networks. Livestreamed daily at 11:00 am on Facebook and Twitter, Chicagoans can tweet #AskDrArwady or comment on livestreams to ask questions to the City’s Commissioner of Public Health, and you can get the latest data on COVID-19 in the City of Chicago.

The Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) has launched ‘Chi COVID Coach’, a mobile-friendly, web-based application designed to support residents during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. Learn more at https://covidcoach.chicago.gov/

For more information, You can call the Illinois Department of Public Health hotline at 1-800-889-3931. The daily press conference from the Illinois Governor’s Office is at 3:00 pm and can be accessed on Facebook or on the governor’s website.

You can receive Cook County public health updates by texting ALERTCOOK to 888-777, calling the Cook County Hotline at 708-633-3319, or emailing ccdph.covid19@cookcountyhhs.org.

Please also take time to review applicable recommendations and fact sheets from the Chicago Department of Public Health around actions that Chicagoans can start taking now: (click here for additional languages)

What to do if you have COVID-19 symptoms, what to do if you were exposed, finding care when uninsured,COVID-19 testing in Chicago (Symptomatic residents and asymptomatic frontline workers that are looking to be tested for COVID-19 are encouraged to pre-register for a test online at: https://chicago.curativeinc.com/welcome), and COVID-19 prevention steps

From the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) you can:

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) has issued new recommendations around wearing cloth face coverings for individuals in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (e.g., grocery stores and pharmacies). Based on recent studies, public health officials are now advising the use of simple cloth face coverings to slow the spread of the virus and help people who may have the virus and do not know it from transmitting to others.

Please note that any printed materials may no longer be relevant, and that the City’s coronavirus website will contain the most up-to-date information.


Vaccine Information

For the latest vaccine information and updates, please continue to check chicago.gov/covidvax

New and updated information about COVID-19 vaccines and reopening guidelines continue to be released at a rapid pace.  You can watch a recording of the 46th Ward Vaccine town hall and find out more information about the vaccine here.  This week brings two exciting new developments in the vaccine rollout for the city: we have moved into Phase 1C and there are two new mass vaccination sites opening April 5th!

TWO NEW MASS VACCINATION SITES
Two new mass vaccination sites, one at Chicago State University and a second at the American Airlines Conference Center at Gallagher Way next to Wrigley Field, are set to open on April 5th.  Anyone in stages 1A-1C will be eligible at these sites and registration is through ZocDoc.

PHASE 1C NOW ELIGIBLE FOR THE VACCINE
Phase 1C Became eligible to receive the vaccine on March 29th.  You can find a full breakdown of the phases here.  Now that Chicago has moved into Phase 1C, the following Chicagoans are eligible for the vaccine:

  • Eligibility by Age
    • All Chicagoans over the age of 65 are eligible to receive the vaccine
    • No one under the age of 16 is eligible to receive the vaccine.
  • Eligibility by Medical Condition
    • Chicagoans between the ages of 16-64 are eligible to receive only if they have one of the underlying health conditions listed:
      • Cancer (current diagnosis)
      • Cardiac, cardiovascular, and cerebrovascular disorders (including heart disease, coronary artery disease, and hypertension or high blood pressure)
      • Chronic Kidney Disease
      • Chronic respiratory disorders (including cystic fibrosis, moderate to severe asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease/emphysema [COPD])
      • Diabetes (Type 1 and Type 2)
      • Disability: physical, developmental, visual, hearing, or mental
      • Down Syndrome
      • Heart Conditions
      • Immunocompromised state (weakened immune system) including from blood or bone marrow transplant, solid organ transplant, immune deficiencies, HIV, use of corticosteroids, or use of other immune weakening medicines
      • Liver disease (including hepatitis)
      • Neurologic conditions (including dementia)
      • Pregnancy
      • Pulmonary Disease
      • Obesity: BMI ≥30 kg/m2
      • Schizophrenia spectrum disorders
      • Sickle Cell Disease
      • Smoking
      • Thalassemia
  • Eligibility by Occupation
    • Chicagoans that fall within the following employment categories are eligible to receive that vaccine:
      • Caregivers of medically fragile children or adults
      • Clergy and religious organizations
      • Continuity of government and postal workers
      • Correctional workers and first responders
      • CPS Staff
      • Daycare, K-12, and early education workers
      • Energy
      • First Responders
      • Finance
      • Food and beverage service
      • Grocery store workers and manufacturing/factory settings with outbreaks
      • Healthcare Workers
      • Higher Education
      • Information Technology and communications
      • Legal
      • Media
      • Other Community- or Government-based Operations and Essential Functions
      • Personal Care Services and hygiene
      • Public health
      • Public safety
      • Public transit, other manufacturing, and agriculture workers
      • Retail
      • Shelter and Housing
      • Transportation and Logistics
      • Water and wastewater

HOW TO GET THE VACCINE
Please remember, even when you become eligible, it may take weeks to get an appointment.  Additionally, some vaccination sites may prioritize certain qualifications when registering individuals for vaccines, such as being over the age of 65 or having an underlying condition.  Below are the points of contact available for scheduling your vaccine appointment.  We recommend starting by calling your primary care provider and then working your way down this list to secure an appointment:

  • Healthcare Providers
    • The vast majority of people getting the vaccine will get them through their healthcare provider (70% through their hospital, their physician’s medical practice, or a federally qualified healthcare center). Please reach out to your medical provider to make sure your contact information is up-to-date and that your provider knows you are interested in the vaccine. If you do not have a medical provider, you can enroll with a federally qualified health center. Click here to locate one nearest you.
  • Pharmacies
    • Pharmacies across Chicago have received vaccines and are scheduling their own appointments for those currently eligible. Around 15% of all eligible people for the vaccine will get them this way.
  • Employers (if prioritized essential)
    • If your occupation qualifies you for the vaccine (see the list above), your employer will be able to distribute your COVID-19 vaccine. If you believe you are eligible for vaccination through your employer, you can check with your employer. If you are an employer of prioritized essential workers, you can learn more here.
    • For CPS staff, CPS will be launching four school-based vaccination sites specifically for CPS employees at the following locations:
      • Chicago Vocational High School: (773) 535-6100
      • Clark High School: (773) 534-6250
      • Clemente High School: (773) 534-4000
      • Roosevelt High School: (773) 534-5000
  • ZocDoc
    • The Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) and ZocDoc are partnering to provide a new scheduling platform that will aggregate all available appointments throughout the city. Using ZocDoc, you will be able to confirm your vaccine eligibility, see nearby vaccination locations, and view real-time appointment availability. You will also receive notifications when new appointments are available. Use the ZocDoc here.
  • Home Visits
    • Homebound Individuals can now receive a vaccine at home.  Paramedics with the Chicago Fire Department are making home visits to administer the vaccine for individuals in the following categories:
      • a senior OR a person with a disability that requires in-home assistance, and
      • a person who has to use adaptive equipment (like a ventilator, wheelchair, etc.) and/or accessible transportation to leave home.
    • You can register to receive the vaccine at home here.  If you or someone you know needs this service but does not have access to the internet, please reach out to our office so we can assist you at 773-878-4646.

COVID-19 Vaccine Town Hall
The 46th Ward Office hosted a COVID-19 Vaccine Town Hall with the Chicago Department of Public Health on January 26th to provide vaccine information and distribution updates to the community. You can watch the full town hall by clicking on the video below.

Vaccine Quick Links
Chicago COVID-19 Vaccine Homepage
Zocdoc Vaccine Scheduler
Latest Vaccine Updates
Get the Facts
Ways to Register for the Vaccine
Chi COVID Coach
Distribution Data
46th Ward Vaccine Town Hall 


Purchasing Guest Parking Passes Online or at the City Clerk’s Office

2021 Parking Passes

2021 Parking Passes and City Stickers (pink) are currently available for purchase.  The 2020 sticker (yellow) will expire on January 1st, 2021.   Please make sure you have purchased and replaced your new city sticker before the expiration date.  Below are steps on how to purchase both City Stickers and Residential Parking Daily Permits in person and online. Please do not hesitate to contact our office by phone (773-878-4646) or email (ward46@cityofchicago.org) if we can be of assistance.

The 2021 sticker is pink. The yellow 2020 stickers expire on January 1st, 2021.

Purchasing In Person
For both City Stickers and Residential Parking Daily Permits, you must bring the following to a City Clerk location:

  • Photo ID
  • Approved proof of residency
  • Vehicle registration with Vehicle Identification Number and license plate information (Only for city sticker)
  • Exception Letter (Only for those who wish to add zoned parking and do not live directly on a zoned street – see below)

All City Clerk locations are now open, and residents can purchase city stickers and residential parking passes in person. Residents must wear a mask and practice social distancing.

North Side Satellite Office
Monday – Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
5430 West Gale St
312-742-5375

City Hall Office
Monday – Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
121 North LaSalle St Room 107
312-742-5375

Purchasing Online
You can purchase Residential Parking Daily Permits and City Stickers 24/7 online at ezbuy.chicityclerk.com. Please note that for your first purchase you will need to create an account.

In order to make a purchase online, you will need to know your Customer Code (Residential Parking Daily Permits) or your Reference Number (City Stickers).

Your Reference Number will be on the top of the courtesy reminder mailed to you. If you do not have your reference number, you can provide your license plate and VIN number. For new cars and residents, click here.

Your Customer Code will be on the bottom of your previously purchased Residential Parking Daily Permits sheets (see image below). If you have purchased these passes before, but do not know your customer code, you can email ezbuy@cityofchicago.org. Please include a photo of your picture ID in the email. If your ID address does not match your current residence, you will need to attach a proof of residency to the email. Within 3-5 days, you will receive an email with your Customer Code from the City Clerk and will be able to purchase passes online.

If you have not purchased guest passes before, you will need to email the City Clerk’s Office to receive a Customer Code. Email photos/attachments of the below to ezbuy@cityofchicago.org with the subject line “Customer Code”:

  • Photo ID
  • Approved proof of residency
  • Exception Letter (Only for those who do not live directly on a zoned street – see below)

Within 3-5 business days, you will receive an email response with your assigned customer code. When you have received a customer code you can make your purchase online here.

Please note that you will first receive an automatic reply from the ezbuy@cityofchicago.org account after emailing your documents. You will receive a second email address that directly responds to your message.

Exception Letters
Exception letters (also known as buffer and exemption letters) are necessary for individuals who live within close proximity to a zoned parking street but whose residential address is not directly within a residential zone. Our office is able to provide virtual letters of exception at this time. If you are in need of an exception letter, please email us at ward46@cityofchicago.org with the following information:

  • Name
  • Address (including unit number)
  • Make & Model of Vehicle
  • License Plate Number
  • Requested Zone Number

Please do not hesitate to reach out if our office can answer any questions or support you through this process. We can be reached at 773-878-4646 and at ward46@cityofchicago.org.


Seniors

Older people and people with severe chronic conditions should take special precautions because they are at higher risk of developing serious COVID-19 illness.

Have your groceries delivered to your home without a delivery fee! Learn more at https://www.covidseniorshoppers.com. Many stores have announced special “senior only” shopping hours to reduce senior risk while shopping for needed supplies. The Illinois Retail Merchants Association continues to update their full list of options.

Take actions to reduce your risk of getting sick. If you are at higher risk for serious illness from COVID-19 because of your age or because you have a serious long-term health problem, it is extra important for you to take actions to reduce your risk of getting sick with the disease:

  • Stock up on supplies.
  • Take everyday precautions to keep space between yourself and others.
  • When you go out in public, keep away from others who are sick, limit close contact and wash your hands often.
  • Avoid crowds as much as possible.
  • Avoid cruise travel and non-essential air travel.
  • During a COVID-19 outbreak in your community, stay home as much as possible to further reduce your risk of being exposed.

The Department of Family and Support Services senior centers will remain open for seniors to come in daily during regular hours.

Northeast (Levy) Senior Center
2019 W. Lawrence Ave.
312-744-0784

Certain services will remain available:

  • Dining Program: Seniors in need of home-delivered meals can call 312-744-4016 any time between 9:00 am – 5:00 pm,  Monday through Friday.
  • Technical assistance programs for seniors interested in applying for public benefits, including RTA benefits.
    • All RTA cardholders (reduced fare and ride free) permits expiring through April 30th will automatically get renewed and do not have to do anything further.
  • Food Pantry Program

Meals on Wheels Chicago meal service will continue to clients, but all volunteering and group activities are cancelled. Learn more here.

The 19th Police District has compiled a list of COVID-19 Senior Resources.

Learn about more support options in the Community Support section below.


Crisis Intervention and Stabilization

Apply for:

The Lawyer’s Committee for Better Housing (LCBH) has resources and legal assistance available for Chicago tenants. Please also review the Revised Guidance from the LCBH about the Illinois Statewide Eviction Moratorium.

Cook County Legal Aid has resources and legal assistance for homeowners, renters, and anyone dealing with evictions, foreclosures, and unresolved debt issues. Their services are free to all residents of Cook County.

Lockout Guidance from the Department of Housing  explains tenant rights (Please Note: This guidance is subject to change during the COVID-19 pandemic).

The Illinois Department of Human Services encourages customers to apply for and adjust benefits online or by calling 1-833-2-FIND-HELP.

Unemployment benefits are available to some individuals whose unemployment is attributable to COVID-19. Learn more on the COVID-10 and Unemployment Benefits page on the Illinois Department of Employment Security site. Review the FAQs below to learn more, including how self-employed and independent contractors may be eligible.

The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) has recommended ALL unemployed individuals to apply for benefits immediately, regardless of what type of worker you are.

Independent contractors, self-employed individuals, sole proprietors and 1099 workers are now eligible for up to 39 weeks of benefits under the new Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program in the CARES Act. However, IDES emphasized that, to qualify for PUA unemployment, an individual must first be denied traditional unemployment benefits. The denial letter will be the basis for approval under their subsequent PUA application. For more information, visit the IDES website.

New State legislation has the following unemployment insurance provisions:
1) Waive the 1-week waiting period for UI benefits through 12/31/20;
2) Provide for a maximum of 20 weeks of extended benefits instead of 13 weeks;
3) Consider all employers to be “non-charged” for UI benefits, not just those who are forced to lay-off workers due to COVID-19; and
4) Give non-instructional school employees the ability to receive UI benefits until 12/31/20.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness Chicago Hotline (NAMI) is available 7 days a week at 833-626-4244. NAMI is also offering confidential support groups for healthcare workers. Register at namichicago.org/groups-and-classes.
The CDC has released guidelines around Managing Anxiety and Stress during coronavirus disease 2019. Connect to free teletherapy services at Chicago Department of Public Health Mental Health Centers by calling 312-747-1020.

There are resources for survivors of domestic violence during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Domestic Violence Hotline has advocates in over 200 languages available 24/7 and all calls are free and confidential: 800-799-7233. UIC has guidance on Dealing with an Unsafe Home.

The Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) will remain open.

Individuals in need of crisis management, rent assistance, resources for those experiencing homelessness, senior services, and overall crisis and emergency support can contact the North Area DFSS Community Center:

North Area Community Center
845 W. Wilson Ave.
Chicago, IL 60640
312-744-2580

Cigna Health is waiving all co-pays and out-of-pocket costs for all COVID-19 testing and related medical visits.

Mayor Lightfoot, the Department of Housing and Family Independence Initiative (FII) Launch COVID-19 Housing Assistance Grant Program. One time grants are available for rent and mortgage payments of Chicago residents impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn more in the press release.

The Greater Chicago Food Depository has a network of 700 partner agencies and programs, almost all of which remain open. These sites are modifying their distributions to promote social distancing, including offering pre-packaged boxes of groceries. Their outreach team can also help you apply for SNAP and Medicaid and make referrals for other public benefits. You can call their hotline at 773-843-5416 for a free confidential interview Monday through Friday, 8:30 am – 5:00 pm.
Find Emergency Food Nowwww.chicagosfoodbank.org/find-food

The Salvation Army’s 19 Chicagoland food pantries remain open to provide curbside service. The Salvation Army is prepared to serve individuals who are in shelters or quarantine/isolation, as well as first responders. For more information on emergency assistance, call 773-725-1100 or visit salarmychicago.org/coronavirus.

The Archdiocese of Chicago offers 120 sites to support residents, which includes schools open for drive-by meal pick up Monday-Friday. Catholic Charities will continue to serve residents at their Food Pantries and Evening Meal Programs. To access other services, please call 312-655-7700.

There are resources for undocumented/Spanish speaking individuals during the pandemic:

  • El alcalde Lightfoot firma la orden ejecutiva para proteger a las comunidades de inmigrantes y refugiados durante Covid-19gee Communities During Covid-19 (Mayor Lightfoot Signs Executive Order to Protect Immigrant and Refugee Communities During Covid-19)
  • Centros Para El Control De Enfermedades
  • Proteger a las familias inmigrantes de Illinois (PIFI-IL) tiene una hoja informativa sobre el acceso a la atención médica si usted o un ser querido está sujeto a la regla de Cargo Público que se implementó en febrero (Protecting Immigrant Families Illinois (PIFI-IL) has a fact sheet on accessing medical care if you or a loved one is subject to the Public Charge rule that was implemented in February).
  • Durante la pandemia COVID-19, todos los residentes de Illinois tendrán el mismo acceso a la atención médica, ya sea indocumentada o documentada. Para obtener más información, haga clic aquí (During the COVID-19 Pandemic all Illinois residents will have the same access to healthcare whether undocumented or documented. For more information click here).
  • ICIRR ha publicado una guía para inmigrantes en Illinois con recursos para la vivienda, la salud, la salud, la seguridad alimentaria y los recursos de fondos de emergencia (ICIRR has released a guide for immigrants in Illinois with resources for housing, healthcare, legal, food security and emergency fund resources).
  • DACA, TPS y otros inmigrantes son elegibles para beneficios de desempleo, siempre y cuando tengan la autorización de trabajo adecuada y los registros para el tiempo indicado. Para obtener más información, haga clic aquí (DACA, TPS and other immigrants are eligible for Unemployment benefits as long as they have proper work authorization and records for the time stated. For more information please click here).
  • Una lista de clínicas de atención médica en Chicago que brindan atención de costo gratuito o de bajo costo, independientemente del estatus migratorio (A list of healthcare clinics in Chicago that provide care for free or low cost regardless of immigration status)

The AIDS Foundation of Chicago and Center on Halsted can help with emergency financial assistance (rent, utility payments, COVID-19-related support) for people who are living with HIV and who are HIV-negative and taking PrEP. They can also link people living with HIV to medications, case management, medical care, food, mental health, substance abuse treatment and more, or connect people vulnerable to HIV to PrEP, HIV testing, medical care and more. Call the HIV Resource Hub at 1-844-HUB-4040 or learn more online. Get in touch with the AIDS Foundation of Chicago via email at info@aidschicago.org or phone at 312-922-2322.

The Cook County Assessor’s Office has announced the temporary suspension of assessment notice mailings and appeal deadlines. This suspension will remain in place until further notice while the office remains closed to the public. Additional details can be found in the March 19 Press Release.

Eviction orders are suspended for 30 days as of March 14, and foreclosure & eviction notices are suspended for the next 60 days. There is a moratorium on utility shut offs in the state, and Mayor Lightfoot suspended non-public safety ticketing.

Apartment owners get mortgage relief if they delay evictions for all Fannie-and Freddie-backed loans in situations where renters can’t afford to make their monthly payments due to coronavirus.

INFORMATION ABOUT GETTING YOUR STIMULUS PAYMENT
You may already be eligible for automatic payment. 
The US Department of the Treasury began releasing federal stimulus checks for eligible US residents starting Wednesday, April 15th. Eligible taxpayers who filed tax returns for 2019 or 2018 will receive the payment automatically. Automatic payments will also soon go out to those receiving Social Security Retirement, disability (SSDI), or survivor benefits and Railroad Retirement benefits.

Register online for your federal stimulus check. 
The IRS launched a new web tool to allow quick registration for payments for those who don’t normally file a tax return. Click here for more information on the IRS web tool that allows tax non-filers to apply for stimulus checks. The portal will ask you to provide basic information including Social Security number, name, address, and dependents. The IRS will then use this information to confirm eligibility and calculate and send your payment. Using the tool to get your payment will not result in any taxes being owed. Entering bank or financial account information will allow the IRS to deposit your payment directly in your account. Otherwise, the payment will be mailed to you. The IRS web tool is secure, and the information entered will be safe. For more information about these payments and to see if you are eligible, please visit the IRS website.

Receive direct deposit without a bank account.
Direct deposit payments can be received through cards like Netspend, which are linked to an online account with no minimum balance. It is simple to sign up, and setting up direct deposit is as easy as checking a box on the page where you put your personal info. There are a number of options aside from Netspend, including Chime, Paypal Prepaid cards, and Greendot cards.
BankOn – The national BankOn page provides information on non-predatory accounts that un-banked individuals can set up to receive their federal stimulus payments more efficiently and quickly. Residents can visit covidbanking.joinbankon.org to learn more.


Restaurants, Bars, and Businesses

11/20/20 UPDATE: New State of Illinois Updated Guidelines for Businesses

Available Grants and Assistance:

Our Chambers of Commerce continue to provide guidance for restaurants and businesses and are updating lists about which locations are still open and which services they are currently providing:
Uptown United
Lake View East
Northalsted Business Alliance

Quick Links: 

IL Essential Business FAQs
Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection COVID-19 Resource Center
Interim Guidance for Food Service

Updated Guidance for Businesses and Employers

Small Business Resource Navigator -The Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection is launching a Small Business Resource Navigator program that will provide individualized support to neighborhood small businesses as they seek financial support and resources during the COVID-19 outbreak. The Small Business Navigator program will be administered by 10 business support organizations located throughout the City that can provide assistance via phone or video call in multiple languages. Navigators are experienced business support organizations, trained by the U.S. Small Business Administration, with the expertise to assist business owners as they seek local, state and federal financial assistance.

 

Learn options for your business or nonprofit with the Federal Resources for Small Businesses and Non-Profits guide. Deadlines are fast-approaching for certain lending options, so learn more and contact your banks now. Check out this Assistance for Small Businesses guide from Congressman Mike Quigley’s office.

The Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) is reminding businesses that remain open during the State’s Stay at Home order to comply with social distancing requirements. The most effective measures to decrease the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace remain social distancing, routine environmental cleaning, and good hand hygiene and sending sick employees home. Please follow CDPH’s recommendations for preventing transmission in the workplace and help Chicago flatten the curve.

Bars and Restaurants can also reference guidance from the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection.

Congress just passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Check out The Small Business Owner’s Guide to the CARES Act.

Learn more about the Resiliency Fund for Small Businesses. Obtenga más información sobre el Fondo de Resiliencia para las Pequeñas Empresas.
The application for the loan fund is now live. Apply here.

Short-Term Relief from Penalties for Late Sales Tax Payments Due to COVID-19 Virus Outbreak

Business owners and non-profit leaders can apply state low-interest loans here. Learn more about the sales tax payment deferment here.
The Illinois Small Business Emergency Loan Fund Application is now open. Learn more and apply now.

Many professional license renewal deadlines have been extended, and you can find the full list here.

Child Care Providers: apply for the COVID-19 Attendance Exemption to lessen financial burdens on providers whose attendance has fallen below normal levels.

Share how the outbreak has impacted your business so that the State of Illinois can better allocate funds.

The Arts for Illinois Relief Fund grant applications are open. The fund will provide financial assistance to artists, artisans and cultural organizations impacted by COVID-19. Learn more about the fund and apply at www.artsforillinois.org.


Parks

The Chicago Park District is altering programming in response to COVID-19. Effective Sunday, March 15th, all regularly scheduled Chicago Park District programs will be suspended until further notice.

No access is allowed to Chicago’s lakefront, adjoining parks, fieldhouses, playlots, school playgrounds, the Chicago Riverwalk, and the 606 trail are now closed to the public. These steps were taking to further limit COVID-19 restrictions due to current projection rates.


Schools

Chicago Public Schools will be closed and students will continue to work with remote learning through the remainder of the school year

Need help accessing the internet for e-learning and other resources? Check out https://www.isbe.net/keeplearning, along with our Online Resources and Opportunities from Home webpage. Chicago Public Schools also has information on internet access and turning your mobile device into a hotspot.

If you have questions, email familyservices@cps.edu or call CPS Command Center at 773-553-5437. CPS is working to update their Frequently Asked Questions, and encourages you to check the CPS website. You can also follow alerts on CPS Social Media. If you need help locating medical care, please reach out to the CPS Office of Student Health and Wellness at oshw@cps.edu or by calling the CPS Command Center at 773-553-5437.

Healthy meals are still available for students. We recognize that our schools provide healthy meals to many of our students, and we will be providing free food boxes that will contain three days of breakfast and lunches for every student in the household. You can see all CPS Post-Spring Break Meal Sites online. Lunchroom staff will prep, bag, and provide meals outside of the school building. Children and teens who are in quarantine because they tested positive, were exposed to someone who tested positive, or have symptoms, are able to request a meal delivery by calling the CPS Hotline at 773-553-KIDS (5437)

CPS announced a Pre-K–12 remote learning plan that will begin April 13 as part of the response to the COVID-19 health emergency. 

Check out Staying Connected: Online Resources and Opportunities from Home for information about network/Wi-Fi access and other ideas for at-home activities.

Mayor Lightfoot announced the first-ever virtual commencement celebration for all class of 2020 high school seniors in Chicago, and Oprah Winfrey will deliver the commencement address. The virtual commencement will take place on on June 14th. Learn more about the virtual commencement here.

Family and Community Engagement in Education (F.A.C.E.) has launched a series of virtual workshops to help families navigate the new normal of at-home education. Offerings will be curated by experts and will address multiple relevant issues, including: social-emotional support, parental stress, academics, arts, mediation, and technology support. Direct access to experts will be available to participants. Please visit Face 2 Face for their virtual meeting schedule and more information.


Community Support

The coronavirus has the greatest impact on the elderly and most vulnerable. Please find a way to be a helper if you feel healthy and can assist in a safe way. Check in on your neighbors, and remember our local businesses and closings will hurt them and their employees – remember to shop local if possible.

Some community groups and organizations are available to assist. Please contact the below groups if you are interested in assisting with their coronavirus efforts or if you would like to request assistance. If you would like your organization to be added to this list, please contact Kylie in the 46th Ward Office at Kylie.Ruscheinski@cityofchicago.org. 

The Greater Chicago Food Depository
Do you need food or health insurance? Contact the Greater Chicago Food Depository.
773-843-5416
abe.illinois.gov
Find Emergency Food Nowwww.chicagosfoodbank.org/find-food

Center on Halsted
Check out the Center on Halsted’s Coronavirus Resource Guide

CircEsteem
4730 N. Sheridan Rd.
773-732-4564
Food is in the lobby of the Alternatives building every day between 11:00 am and 4:00 pm, provided by the Greater Chicago Food Depository.

St. Thomas of Canterbury 
4827 N. Kenmore Ave.
773-878-5507
stcuptown.com

Services remain open:

  • Food Pantry (every Tuesday and 2nd & 4th Friday 9:30 am – 12:00 pm)
  • Soup Kitchen (every Tuesday and Friday 5:30 pm – take away only)

St. Mary of the Lake Roman Catholic Church
4200 N. Sheridan Rd.
773-280-7700
https://www.saintmarys.org/covidsupport.html

St. Mary’s is developing a team to assist seniors in the community with grocery shopping and any assistance they may need while they are at home. Please refer to the link above to both sign up to support or to request assistance.

St.Mary’s is offering support for

  • Ordering groceries, soap, or supplies
  • Pickup or delivery of groceries
  • Obtaining prescriptions
  • Well-being checks via phone

Missio Dei Uptown
941 W. Lawrence Ave, 4th Floor
uptown@missiodeichicago.com
312-967-9961
Online Form to Request or Offer Help

Missio Dei Uptown is offering several channels of help:

  • For the Food Insecure: On Wednesdays at 6:00 pm, they will be handing out boxed dinners to people in need of food. They will also be handing out flyers pointing people to the. many food pantries in the area, if they are still operating, and at what times.
  • Nursing Homes: They are working with both Alden Lakeland Rehabilitation Center and Bryn Mawr Care to provide gift baskets to residents and have offered to run any needed errands.
  • Volunteers: There are many people that are willing to help those in Uptown with health conditions or vulnerable immune systems. They are happy to run errands, provide meals, make phone calls, write encouragement.
  • Cornerstone Community Outreach (CCO): Through challenging during this time, they have partnered with CCO to try and provide extra toilet paper, hand sanitizer, tissue, and disinfectant wipes for the shelter as they navigate this difficult time.

Swedish Hospital has a COVID-19 hotline staffed by trained clinicians to answer your questions and offer assistance.
https://swedishcovenant.org/covid
773-907-7700
Support Swedish Hospital by donating unused gloves and face masks toward their continued coronavirus efforts.

Uptown Church
939 W. Wilson Ave.
uptowncov.org/corona
312-962-8239

Uptown Church would like to offer their assistance in any way they can for individuals who may need additional support during this time. They have a group of volunteers on hand and would like to help in any way that they can. Picking up groceries, medications and other essentials, serving as a friendly voice/presence for those in isolation, and navigating this moment together are some of the services they are able to offer.

Lakeview Pantry’s Response to Coronavirus
Distribution hours will be extended at the Sheridan site (3945 N. Sheridan):

  • 11:00 am – 4:00 pm on Monday/Wednesday/Friday
  • 4:00 pm – 7:30 pm on Tueday/Thursday
  • 10:30 – 3:00 pm on Saturday

Read Lakeview Pantry’s Emergency Note for clients and others in need of assistance. Learn more about Lakeview Pantry’s response and changes here.

In response to the COVID-19 outbreak, Lakeview Pantry will continue to serve residents in need! The Pantry has modified its food distribution and social service model in order to limit unnecessary contact while at the same time ensuring folks get the food they need to feed themselves and their families! There is no shame in asking for help. Food distribution hours can be found on their website at www.lakeviewpantry.org. If you are in a position to support these critical programs during the crisis, Lakeview Pantry is also in need of monetary donations and volunteers. For ever $1 donated, they can provide 8 meals to our neighbors struggling to put food on the table during this difficult time. Thank you for your help!

New Seed Food Pantry at Lakeview Church of Christ
Last 2 Sundays of every month from 12:00 – 2:00 pm. As weather permits, distribution will occur outside.
4716 N. Malden
Pat Paul, 312-450-5021
NEW: The New Seed Food Pantry (4716 N. Malden St.) will be open an additional week, this Sunday, April 5 from 12:00 – 2:00 pm.

Chicago Public Library: Bezazian and Uptown Branch Social Worker
Margaret Ann Paauw, LCSW
margaret.paauw@amitahealth.org; uptownsocialworker@gmail.com
708-571-4410

City of Chicago Donations
Learn about ways to lend a helping hand to fellow Chicagoans:
https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/sites/covid-19/home/resources.html?#donation-information
Donate PPE & Medical Supplies: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSccvyVhh3cESMfs54o0JvquChs6WI3vsI0EbgBGx5on4vtoaw/viewform


Legal Help

Legal Aid Chicago
Download the Legal Aid Chicago free legal services document found below (English and Español)

CARPLS Legal Aid
Legal Aid Hotline for Cook County, Monday through Friday 9:00 am – 4:30 pm, and until 7:30 pm Monday & Wednesday nights): 312-738-9200.

CARPLS Legal Aid, the Lawyers Trust Fund of Illinois, and several other legal aid nonprofits launched a statewide initiative a couple months ago called COVID H.E.L.P. Illinois (Housing and Economic Loss Prevention).

COVID HELP’s virtual legal assistants provide legal guidance and representation to Illinoisans experiencing common legal problems due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Illinois residents can access this legal assistance 24/7 at www.covidhelpillinois.org.

ICIRR
ICIRR has released a guide for immigrants in Illinois with resources for housing, healthcare, legal, food security and emergency fund resources.


Other Updates and Closures:

Check out COVID-19 resources and information from Active Trans, including safe walking and biking guidance during social distancing.

Mayor Lightfoot Announces CTA To Provide Rear Door Boarding, New System to Reduce Crowding on All Buses

City of Chicago Partners with Lyft and Uber to Address an Increase in Victims Needing to Flee Violence

The City of Chicago is encouraging residents to sign up for Smart911, a free, voluntary and secure service that allows individuals and families to provide critical medical information when they call 9-1-1. To learn more, check out this video.

You can track closures and cancellations related to COVID-19 as reported by WGN and the Chicago Tribune.

Mayor Lightfoot and Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection Encourage Residents to be Cautious of Consumer Fraud Amid COVID-19 Outbreak

Divvy is offering steeply discounted memberships through April 30, 2020, including discounted single rides. They are launching a 30-day program to give critical healthcare workers free bikeshare rides. Starting March 24 through April 30, eligible healthcare workers can sign up through their employer to access unlimited 45-minute trips on classic bikes for 30 days. Interested health care companies can email herobikes@lyft.com to learn how to receive free memberships for employees.

The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) continues to closely monitor recommendations from the Chicago Department of Public Health, and has implemented additional cleaning measures. You can learn more on the CTA website. Ventra is offering a one-time credit for any remaining days left on active 7-day or 30-day passes. Find out if you are eligible, and learn more about ways to make the best use of existing inactive passes and cost burdens here.

U.S. and Illinois Tax Filing Day have moved from April 15 to July 15.

All Chicago Public Library (CPL) are closed through April 7. CPL cardholders can access library resources and information, including eBooks, audiobooks, music, video and online resources, 24/7 on the website.

Metra announced that they will be cutting their service in half starting on Monday, March 23rd.

Effective Thursday, March 19, 2020, all Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) offices will be closed to the public until further notice. BACP will continue processing business licenses, where applicable, online or over the phone. Please visit www.chicagobusinessdirect.org or call 312-74-GOBIZ. Please allow for extra time as BACP staff are working hard to keep City services going under this disruption.

The Northside American Job Center at Truman College (NAJC) is closed until further notice, but staff are working remotely and still available Monday through Friday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm. They can be reached at 773-334-4747. Update: the NAJC is now offering job readiness workshops online! Access the webinars and learn more about job fair events on their Facebook and LinkedIn pages.

Chicago Animal Care and Control services may only be accessed by appointment until further notice. All services must be made by emailing visitcacc@gmail.com.

The Following Ward 46 Events Have Been Postponed:

  • Senior Series, March 23
  • Electronics Recycling, April 4
  • State ID, April 10

Howard Brown Health has announced service updates and temporary location hours in response to COVID-19. Please note that any patient that is experiencing flu-like symptoms or believes that they have been exposed to COVID-19 should call ahead at 773-388-1600 for a nurse to triage you over the phone or offer alternatives if a visit isn’t necessary. Please refer to the Howard Brown Health website for additional updates, including Guidance for People Living with HIV.

City Council has been postponed until April 15. You can read the entire press release from the Mayor’s office here. City Hall will be closed to the public effective Friday, March 20.

Effective immediately, all scheduled Beat Meetings, and Chicago Police Department organized engagements (include of DAC meetings, DV meetings, Youth meetings, etc.) are hereby postponed.

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