COVID-19 RESOURCES & UPDATES

Last Updated November 1, 2020 

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All of New York City has suffered as a result of COVID-19. The borough of Queens was especially hard hit early in the pandemic. The State of New York is no longer in pause with New York City entering Phase 4 of re-opening on July 20, 2020.  While the number of deaths and confirmed infection rates are presently in decline we must not let a false sense of security overtake or fool us as if the pandemic is ending or is over. Until an effective vaccine is developed and available, all of the medical community agrees that coronavirus is here to stay for some time to come.

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COVID Connect is your one-stop shop for asking questions, submitting requests, or voicing concerns to the NYC Health Department's COVID-19 response team. Visit COVID-19 Connect and make sure to share with your networks. 

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UPDATED TRAVEL ADVISORY (OCTOBER 31, 2020)

The former travel advisory that had existed since the summer has been updated by Governor Cuomo effective October 31, 2020 to announced New Guidelines Allowing Out-of-State Travelers to "Test Out" of Mandatory 14-Day Quarantine.

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Prior to the announcement all travelers entering New York from restricted states had to comply with Executive Order 205 and complete health forms that reported from where they had traveled so that specific outer state metrics would assign the requirement quarantine for 14 days. Present expectations are as follows:

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Travelers Must Get Tested Within Three Days Prior to Landing in New York, Quarantine for at Least Three Days Upon Arrival, and Get a Test on Day Four of Arrival

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If Travelers Receive a Negative Test On Day Four of Quarantine They May Exit Quarantine When They Receive Negative Result

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States that are Contiguous with New York Continue to Be Exempted from Quarantine Protocol — Essential Workers Also Continue to be Exempted

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Travelers Who Were Only Out of State for Less Than 24 Hours Do Not Need to Quarantine but Must Get a Test on Day Four of Arrival Back in NY

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Covered travelers must continue to fill out the Traveler Health Form

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For more detail, please visit the New York State COVID-19 Travel Advisory webpage here.

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Governor Andrew M. Cuomo delivered the last of his daily COVID-19 press briefings on Friday, June 18, 2020. During it, the Governor thanked all New Yorkers, especially the essential workers who helped to pull us through, but New Yorkers in general, who were united in their sacrifices to protect one another New York Tough. You can view the recorded press briefing here.

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Effective June 22nd, the largest phase in re-opening the city, in addition to offices, the plan also permits outdoor dining, some in-store shopping and also allows hair salons, barbershops and real estate firms to restart their work. 

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INSIDE DINING that had been anticipated to start in Phase 3 has been postponed until concerns of potential spread within New York City only declines.

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God willing, all will go well as we enter Phase 4 of the city's recovery from  COVID-19. But, let's not forget the virus is still contagious and very active. Let's keep on our masks and maintain social distancing everywhere we go as best we can!

 

Governor Cuomo had earlier announced the implementation of a new early warning dashboard that aggregates the state's expansive data collection efforts for New Yorkers, government officials and experts to monitor and review how the virus is being contained on an ongoing basis. It tracks new infections and their severity, hospital capacity by region, and other metrics. The early warning system dashboard was developed in consultation with internationally-known experts who have been advising New York State. The early warning dashboard can be found here.

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We pray for the protection and safety of our families and communities. We must also all act responsibly to reduce the transmission of the virus. The resources listed below are for the purpose of conveying information that may be of assistance as we continue through the pandemic. Some media articles that underscore information as recommended reading are also included.

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May Allah (God), the Protector and Disposer of All Affairs help us all.

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BACK TO WORK?

 

Have you returned to work as part of Phase 1, 2, 3 or 4 of #ReopeningNYC?

• There are requirements your employer must follow for the health and safety of ALL employees who return to work.

• Learn more about your workplace rights at http://nyc.gov/workers

• Share: https://twitter.com/NYCDCA/status/1283056559883456514

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HEALTH FIRST

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COVID-19 (CORONAVIRUS) TESTING

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Verification of an infection is the only way to know for sure if one has been infected with coronavirus. As a novel i.e., "new" illness it will be necessary to study what is occurring with COVID-19 infections so medical researchers can know in which direction we are heading with preventative actions like social distancing, hand washing and being conscious of health promoting protective/ preventive behaviors referred to as "mitigation." If you become sick, it is recommended that you become tested so you can be aware of your status to seek treatment as necessary, know what to do more so far as limiting exposure to other family members in your household, etc. 

 

Anybody who wants to be tested can now be tested for COVID-19 at hundreds of locations around the city. Identify a location, call to let them know you are coming, and show up.

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You can find a test site here.

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CVS has testing at its Minute Clinics. CLICK HERE to arrange for your test.

 

CityMD has WALK-IN testing throughout NYC seven days a week. Must have an appointment.

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Queens Hospital Center - call 888-364-3065 or 311

Jamaica Hospital Medical Center - call 888-364-3065 or 311

York College (testing for nurses, essential workers and seniors) - call 888-663-6331

Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center, 12-88 Central Avenue in Far Rockaway (testing available Tuesdays 12 PM to 4 PM and Thursdays 10 AM to 2 PM) - call 718-945-7150

St. John's Hospital in Far Rockaway - call 888-364-3065 or 311

NYCHA Testing with Ready Responders - call 888-727-7914 after receiving notice at your residence

Drive-through Testing at Aqueduct Racetrack - 110-00 Rockaway Boulevard in South Ozone Park - call 888-364-3065 or 833-766-6769

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Drive through Testing at Rite Aid - 218-35 Hempstead Ave., Queens Village, NY 11429. By appointment only; click here. 

 

First Presbyterian Church - 89-64 164th Street in Jamaica - call 888-364-3065
 

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CALL IN ADVANCE to say you are coming: 833-4CARENY (833-422-7369)

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If you are feeling ill, please stay home. The first thing you should do is call your doctor or healthcare provider and follow their direction. If a test is needed, your doctor or healthcare provider will direct you. If you do not have a healthcare provider, you can call 311 to access the Health + Hospitals helpline for telemedicine assistance.

Most people who contract coronavirus will experience mild to moderate symptoms that can be treated in the comfort of one’s own home with over-the-counter cold and flu medicines. If your condition worsens like difficulty breathing, chest pains, and persistent high fever go to the hospital or call 911. 

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IF you tested positive for COVID-19 and would like to donate plasma to help develop antibody therapy for others, please contact the New York Blood Center to see if you can make a donation for Convalescent plasma (CP) 

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New York City is offering free antibody tests to any New Yorker who wants it at 5 sites throughout the city. It is a blood test that indicates whether you have PREVIOUSLY been infected with coronavirus as opposed to a diagnostic test (nasal swab) that indicates whether you are currently infected with coronavirus. Register online or call 888- 279-0967 for the free antibody test.

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MULTI-SYSTEM INFLAMMATORY SYNDROME IN CHILDREN (MISC-C) UPDATE

The CDC has confirmed that Multi-system Inflammatory Syndrome in Children, formerly called Pediatric Multi-System Inflammatory Syndrome, is linked to COVID-19. To keep children safe, continue good hygiene, use face coverings, and practice social distancing.

 

Fact Sheet: Pediatric Multi-system Inflammatory Syndrome https://www1.nyc.gov/assets/doh/downloads/pdf/imm/covid-19-pmis.pdf

Call your pediatrician immediately if your child has symptoms. Common symptoms include: persistent fever, irritability or sluggishness, abdominal pain, vomiting, or diarrhea, enlarged lymph nodes (glands) on one side of the neck, red or pink eyes, red cracked lips or red tongue, or swollen hands and feet.

• If you don’t have a doctor, call 311. Early detection is critical.

As of May 19, 147 cases of multi-system inflammatory syndrome have been detected in children in NYC hospitals. Among the cases, 69 tested positive for COVID-19 or antibodies, and 1 has been fatality reported.

• Visit the Health Department’s website for more information.

• View the Department of Education’s MIS-C letters for all families.

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NYC COVID-19 ENGAGEMENT PORTAL

The City of New York is collecting information to better understand and communicate about the impacts of the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). This information will be helpful in enabling the City to share information with you and members of the public about COVID-19, and to help inform the City’s response to areas affected by COVID-19.

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The website is intended for individuals, or those authorized to report on behalf of individuals, who have recently met any of the following criteria:

• Experienced symptoms of COVID-19

• Tested positive for COVID-19

• Have come into contact with someone who may have COVID-19

• Currently in quarantine

The website is designed to provide you with information about COVID-19 and give you the ability to update the City on your status.

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If you are interested in providing information about yourself to the City of New New York to assist research purposes, you can connect with the portal here.

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TEST AND TRACE CORPS 

The city is conducting over 50,000 tests per day as of mid-July. And the Corps are projected to monitor over 250,000 New Yorkers this summer. The hotline (844-NYC-4NYC) has received over 100,000 calls to speak with a clinician.

 

To reach as many positive cases as possible, the Corps has deployed information gatherers who will be doing database research and will be directly reaching out to doctors’ offices to track down cases and contacts without phone numbers. The City will also use community-based organizations to broaden their outreach to contacts who may be unresponsive to phone calls through a four million dollar “Hit Accept” campaign.

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EMOTIONAL SUPPORT HOTLINE

New Yorkers can call the COVID-19 Emotional Support Hotline at 1-844-863-9314 for mental health counseling. You do not have to have the virus to seek counseling. Please call to speak to someone if anything is bothering you during the pandemic.

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These are anxious times for many. The Wellness Society developed this excellent Coronavirus Anxiety Workbook: A Tool To Build Resilience During Difficult Times that we hope can assist and reduce some anxiety. Plus, avail yourself of these free tools to wellness.

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Health care workers can text NYFRONTLINE to 741-741 to access 24/7 emotional support services.

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The MENTAL HEALTH HOTLINE is within your reach for confidential emotional support, consultation and referral to a local provider, call: 1-844-863-9314

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New York State Crisis Text Line, an anonymous texting service available 24/7. Text GOT5 to 741741

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NYC WELL offers free and confidential mental health support and counseling in 200+ languages: (888) 692-9355

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NYCWELL APPS great collection of digital resources to balance, revive, relax and provide support emotionally during the COVID-19 pandemic. Worth your visit.

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The New York Psychotherapy & Counseling Center is offering phone therapy sessions: (718) 553-1100

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SAFETY: NYC Mayor's Office to End Domestic and Gender-Based Violence

NYC Family Justice Center facilities are temporarily closed. Services remain available by phone, such as immediate safety planning, shelter assistance, and other resources. From Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., call your nearest FJC:

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NYC Family Justice Center, Bronx
Call 718-508-1220

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NYC Family Justice Center, Brooklyn
Call 718-250-5113

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NYC Family Justice Center, Manhattan
Call 212-602-2800

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NYC Family Justice Center, Queens
Call 718-575-4545

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NYC Family Justice Center, Staten Island
Call 718-697-4300

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In the evenings and/or on weekends:

• Call NYC's 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline (800-621-4673

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NEW YORK STATE DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOTLINE - 1-800-942-6906 

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EMERGENCY RELIEF PROGRAM FOR SURVIVORS OF DOMESTIC AND GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE

On May 21st, Mayor De Blasio announced, in partnership with Sanctuary for Families, a program that will provide immediate financial assistance to survivors experiencing safety, economic, and housing challenges. Get more information at the webpage of NYCHOPE.

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TELEMEDICINE FOR VULNERABLE NEW YORKERS
New York City has set up a free Phone-A-Clinician and Tele-Visits to ensure the hardest hit communities have more options when it comes to health care. 

• Call 844-NYC-4NYC for COVID-19 related medical concerns.

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HOTEL ISOLATION PROGRAM - TAKE CARE PROGRAM

Learn more about the Take Care Hotel program: http://bit.ly/2YO1CCs
- Watch the video and share: https://twitter.com/NYCImmigrants/status/1286747663090823169

 

Community healthcare providers can now refer clients who are COVID positive or COVID-symptomatic and unable to isolate where they live to the hotel isolation program. This is for individuals who do not require medical care and can self-isolate with basic services, including: onsite medical and social services, meals, laundry, phone, internet, daily check-in calls by medical staff, and transportation to and from the hotel as needed. To learn more about the program, visit nyc.gov/covid19hotel.

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"We Still Don't Know How The Coronavirus is Killing Us" (Article)

 

COOLING ASSISTANCE BENEFIT PROGRAM 

With warm weather approaching, vulnerable individuals should consider staying cool at home since venturing out may threaten one's health.  Through the assistance of the Human Resources Administration of New York City, you may be eligible for  financial help to cover the cost and installation of an air conditioner or fan through its Cooling Assistance Benefit Program. This program will meet the cost up to $800 for an air conditioner or for a fan.

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GET COOL NYC: 

The program targets vulnerable New Yorkers who have been forced to stay inside their homes this summer to avoid risk for indoor heat exposure. The City has installed 4,500 air conditioners so far, including over 1,900 in NYCHA buildings, and is ramping up to install as many as 74,000 air conditioners for low-income seniors this summer. The New York State Public Service Commission has also approved the City’s request to provide financial assistance to vulnerable New Yorkers with their summer utility bills. The $70 million in aid will provide much needed relief for approximately 440,000 families in New York City, providing up to $140 from June to October.

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HEAP

It is anticipated to be a HOT summer and people will not be able to get out to cooling centers due to COVID-19 as in the past. Bills will mount using an air conditioner. The Home Energy Assistance Program application is now available for the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). HEAP is a federally funded program that helps low-income homeowners and renters pay for utility and heating bills- this includes Cooling Assistance for the Summer months. Voice Phone: 212 – 331 - 3126. Visit the Home Energy Assistance Program Website.

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Apply as of May 1, 2020 up to August 30, 2020 but this is on a FIRST COME, FIRST SERVE BASIS. DON'T WAIT TO APPLY! Are you ELIGIBLE? Click here. What do you NEED TO APPLY? Click here.

How to apply? Click here.

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HEALTH INSURANCE 

The deadline for health insurance special enrollment has been extended to August 15, 2020. 

• New Yorkers without health insurance can apply for coverage through the NY State of Health Health Plan Marketplace.

 

SOCIAL DISTANCING

As part of the Governor's New York State on Pause 10 point plan, when in public individuals must practice social distancing of at least six feet from others. The maximum fine for violations of the state's social distancing protocol is $1,000.

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You can now report social distancing violations by texting a photo to 311-692 or using the 311 mobile application.

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6 FEET or TWO ARMS LENGTHS DISTANCE APART. Be conscientious and keep your distance for your safety and that of others.

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What does Social Distancing Mean?

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What is Social Distancing? (1-Minute Video with Dr. Anthony Fauci & Others)

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Social Distancing Flier

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This 3-D Simulation Shows Why Social Distancing is So important

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Mayor Cautions a Careful Reopening, Says Virus Could “Boomerang” (Article)

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HAND WASHING

Hand washing is one of the major tools we each have to protect ourselves and others from the coronavirus infection. Of course, hand sanitizer can be used and is a must if soap nor water is available to wash one's hands.

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Wash hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and warm water when you are away from your home or are outdoors without gloves. Do not touch your mouth, nose or eyes with your fingers or hands.

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Why Soap Works (Article)

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20 Minutes or More (Doug E. Fresh Video)

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Wash and Dry Hands to Prevent the Spread of Coronavirus, but Avoid that Hot Air Dryer (Article)

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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) COVID-19 Protect Yourself Guidance 

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COVERING YOUR NOSE AND MOUTH TO PROTECT OTHERS

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Effective April 15th, Governor Andrew Cuomo decreed by Executive Order requiring that all New Yorkers wear masks or face coverings when out in public. Face masks are available now but can be expensive considering other financial priorities at this time. Here is a link to make a face mask from a bandanna or similar size cloth. SHOW LOVE by wearing a face mask!

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Effective May 28th as parts of New York reopen, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today issued an Executive Order authorizing businesses to deny entry to individuals who do not wear masks or face-coverings. The Executive Order builds on the state's ongoing efforts to protect New Yorkers and slow the spread.

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When you wear a mask you help to protect others especially those who are more vulnerable and deserving of protection. Share this information with them via a visit to this CDC webpage: People Who Need Extra Precautions.

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As the weather warms, moving about to visit parks and engage in warm weather activities are normal for the season. However, precautions will need to be taken to reduce exposure. Parks and recreational areas have plenty of objects that are often touched and used by many people. Besides wearing a mask, wearing gloves may be especially important in such a high contact sociable location. Review what to Do and Don't during your visit:

What you should know about visiting Parks and Recreational Areas (from the CDC).

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FACE COVERING TIPS 

NYC Health created a short video in four languages with tips on how to properly cover your face and prevent the spread of COVID-19. Link here. 

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Governor Cuomo announced that New York State will be distributing 7 million masks to residents across the state. Masks will be distributed to low income communities, grocery store and food delivery workers, NYCHA residents, people in homeless shelters, and nursing homes, among others. 

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"Cuomo: Every Hospital to Have 90-Day Supply of PPE, Number of Deaths Still Too High" (Article)

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NUTRITION/FOOD ASSISTANCE

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FOOD RESOURCES, PANTRIES, PICK-UP & DELIVER

There are many resources for food assistance all over New York City to use and share with others. Everyone needs food to promote health and vitality during this stressful time. We are providing specific links for various neighborhoods below. We are grateful to the Hunter College New York City Food Policy Center for such an amazing collection of information to support New York City residents through the COVID-19 pandemic:

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Use this link to view extensive listings throughout ALL of NEW YORK CITY (every borough)

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Jamaica/Hollis: (scroll down halfway through the page to find pantry listings):

City Council Districts 23, 24, 27 and 28. Zip codes 11412, 11423, 11432, 11433, 11434, 11435, and 11436.

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Hillcrest/Fresh Meadows:

City Council Districts 23 and 24. Zip codes 11365 and 11366.

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Kew Gardens/Woodhaven:

City Council Districts 24, 29, 30 and 32. Zip codes 11415 11416, 11417, 11418, 11419, 11421, and 11424.

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Queens Village: 

City Council Districts 23 and 27. Zip codes 11004, 11005, 11411, 11413, 11422, 11426, 11427, 11428, and 11429.

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Rockaway/Broad Channel:

City Council Districts 31 and 32. Zip codes 11691, 11692, 11693, 11694, and 11697.

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South Ozone Park/Howard Beach:

City Council Districts 28 and 32. Zip codes 11414 11420, and 11430.

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Rego Park/Forest Hills:

City Council District 29. Zip codes 11374 and 11375.

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Long Island City/Astoria:

City Council Districts 22 and 26. Zip codes 11101, 11102, 11103, 11105, 11106, and 11109.

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HALAL MEALS

Halal meals are available at all 400+ grab-and-go sites and we are adding 25% capacity at 32 DOE sites in neighborhoods with high need during the month of Ramadan (approx. 400,000 meals total across the City). 

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GRAB AND GO MEALS AT DOE SCHOOLS 

In this time of historic high unemployment, the City understands more New Yorkers are experiencing food insecurity for the first time. To this end, the City will be expanding grab and go meals for all New Yorkers. No one will be turned away. Participants will be able to pick up three meals. The hours are: 7:30 AM to 11:30 AM for families with children and 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM for adults. To find a location, text “NYCFOOD” or “COMIDA” to 877-877. FACE MASKS ARE AVAILABLE AT GRAB & GO DOE SITES.

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All NYC public school families will receive $420 per child for food benefits through federal coronavirus relief effort

Since NYC provides universal free lunch, families will automatically receive $421 per child while school buildings are closed.

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FOOD HELP NYC has a map of food pantries around the city. To find other potential resources in your area, please visit the website.

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You may be eligible for Food Assistance Deliveries by the City of New York if you or someone you know (the form can be filled out by someone in behalf of someone) meet the following circumstances and are in need of a food delivery:

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• No members of the household can go out and get food because they are at increased medical risk or homebound

• No neighbors or family members can go out and get food for you

• Do not receive meal assistance from other providers (incl. Meals on Wheels or God's Love We Deliver); and

• You are unable to afford meal delivery or grocery delivery

Households that qualify may order three days of food at a time for up to a month.

All orders will be delivered within three days of the order date.

Each delivery will contain three days of food (9 meals per person, but no household will receive more than 18 meals per delivery).

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City Ramps Up Efforts To Deliver One Million Free Meals a Day to Hungry New Yorkers (Article) 

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If one doesn’t meet all of the eligibility criteria above, food assistance is still available through other means to get help. See other food options (pantries above; items below).

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The Department for the Aging has transitioned to 100% meal delivery, rather than grab and go, for senior centers users. Seniors should call their local senior center for more information if they are not already receiving meals. They can also call DFTA's Aging Connect at 212-AGING-NYC (212-244-6469) or 311.

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The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (formerly known as "food stamps") provides food assistance for nearly 1.8 million low-income New Yorkers including families, people who are aging and people with disabilities. The program helps families and individuals supplement the cost of their diet with nutritious foods. SNAP can be applied for online since HRA offices are closed during the COVID-19 pause and staff are teleworking. 

• You can apply online on ACCESS HRA. Read the user guide for ACCESS HRA.

• You can call the HRA Infoline at 718-557-1399 to have an application mailed to you

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OTDA will be issuing the emergency assistance to any SNAP household that did not receive the maximum allowable benefit per month, which is $194 for an individual and $646 for a family of four. The emergency assistance will be distributed later this month, after the regular benefits are issued. About half of all households receiving SNAP will receive additional benefits for May.

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SNAP recipients can shop online for fresh produce and groceries. Participating online stores now accept SNAP benefits for online orders and will deliver to you. Use your EBT card to shop securely for fresh produce and groceries at these participating stores in the New York City area:

• Amazon

• ShopRite

• Walmart

Note: SNAP benefits cannot be used to pay delivery fees. 

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