Financial aid resources for New Yorkers: where and for what needs you can get money
'03.08.2020'
Vita Popova
The $ 600 weekly federal aid that many New Yorkers have counted on is no longer available. However, there are some helpful resources for unemployed New Yorkers. In this publication you will find information on at least seven such resources collected by the publication Gothamist
A program under which New Yorkers received additional unemployment benefits from the federal government expired last week. This came after the Republican-controlled Senate failed to pass legislation extending the aid program that reached nearly 13 million unemployed Americans during the COVID-19 crisis.
There are other helpful resources for those who have lost this weekly guide.
They can get help with insurance, rental housing, meals, and other financial assistance. Here is a list of resources you can use today:
- Unemployment insurance
Despite the fact that New Yorkers have lost their additional unemployment benefits, they can reapply for unemployment insurance. This can be done after the 26 weeks of their traditional unemployment insurance have expired. In mid-July, the State Department of Labor announced that eligible New Yorkers would be able to apply for an additional 20 weeks of insurance.
To apply, нажмите здесь or call (888) 209-8124. Please be patient as waiting times can be long.
- Rental subsidies
New Yorkers can benefit from the program Rent relief to assist in rental housing in connection with the pandemic. The assistance is provided in the form of a one-time subsidy that does not need to be returned.
The Homes and Community Renewal agency, which oversees the $ 100 million program, has pledged to prioritize applications from eligible households with “greatest economic and social need”. The decision will take into account income, rent, percentage of lost income and risk of homelessness.
The deadline for participation in the program is August 6.
- Cash assistance
The Temporary Aid to Needy Families Program offers financial assistance to parents or guardians. People who are unable to pay for utilities, who are faced with homelessness and other obstacles affecting their health and safety, can count on help.
Cash Aid applicants can apply on this site.
Press here for more information on eligibility requirements.
- Free food
The City Department of Education continues to distribute free meals to those in need. A total of 435 properties in five boroughs remain open to provide hot meals on weekdays from 7:30 am to 13:30 pm for children and from 11:30 am to 13:30 pm for children and adults. All New Yorkers in need can get free meals for the whole day - that is, breakfast, lunch and dinner.
A complete list of food outlets is available here... A list of places to get kosher and halal food can be found here.
List of free eateries available on this site (although it is recommended to call in advance).
In some cases, you must have a valid photo ID for your first visit.
On the subject: New York extended deadline for unemployment benefits
The City Human Resources Office also offers support to certain populations through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. These perks are common across the Whole Foods supermarket chain.
To apply, click here.
- Medical insurance
New York City offers free or affordable health insurance to its residents, regardless of their immigration status.
While New Yorkers can sign up for Medicaid, Child Health Plus, and Essential Plan at any time, Qualified Health Plans are only available until August 15th.
You can get insurance services by visiting the City Department of Health website or by calling 311. You can also send CoveredNYC to 877-877 to start the process.
Free mental health insurance is also available through the city's ThriveNYC program. For more information and to register, click here or call (800) 543-3638.
- Financial aid for food workers
The Southern Smoke Foundation is offering free funding specifically to workers who have lost their jobs in the food and beverage industry due to the pandemic. Those who are eligible must have worked in the industry for a minimum of six months and an average of 30 hours per week. Applicants must also present documents confirming that they have such a job.
According to the foundation's website, it is about helping to meet financial needs, including "medical bills, car accidents, weather disasters, family support, and mental health needs." To apply, click here.
Another organization, Children of Restaurant Employees, also offers financial assistance to food workers affected by the coronavirus and their children. Medical bills and proof of residence will be required. Those who believe they have the right to do so can apply here.
- Financial aid for arts and entertainment professionals
Since all Broadway shows were canceled in January 2021, the Actors Foundation has offered aid to performing arts and entertainment workers affected by the pandemic. Trade union and non-union workers in this industry are eligible for one-time financial assistance based on their needs.
You can apply here... The fund warns that it can take two weeks to process an application, given the huge volume of applications it receives over several months.
