Age-Specific Information | DC COVID Connect

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Families

Food

As of 10/01/20

DC PUBLIC SCHOOLS: For school year 2020-2021, while the virtual and/or hybrid learning model is in place, select school sites will be serving free breakfast and lunch meals for pick up to DCPS students from 10AM-2PM. You can view the most up to date list of open meal sites, along with the menus here.

Parents/guardians may pick up meals on behalf of their DCPS student(s). Students or their parent/guardian should be prepared to provide the student name, school name and student ID number at the meal site.
Additional food resources can be found here.
DPR After school Meals Sites beginning September 9th.

Capital Area Food Bank: is offering grab-n-go meals for children under 18 at DC kids cafe sites in the District, Prince George’s County and Virginia

DC PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOL MEAL SITES:

DC Public Charter School Meal Sites (locations and times by Ward) are listed, including hours meals will be served.

DC DEPT. of PARKS & RECREATION FREE AFTERSCHOOL MEAL SITES:
DC kids and teens have access to free meals served Monday-Frday 2pm-4pm at these select locations. No ID or application required. Masks/face coverings REQUIRED.

Arthur Capper Recreation Center | 1000 5th St SE (Ward 6)
Barry Farm Recreation Center | 1230 Sumner Rd SE (Ward 8)
Deanwood Community Center | 1350 49th St NE (Ward 7)
Edgewood Recreation Center | 300 Evarts St NE (Ward 5)
Emery Heights Community Center | 5701 Georgia Ave NW (Ward 4)
Fort Stanton Recreation Center | 1812 Erie St SE (Ward 8)
Raymond Recreation Center | 3725 10th St NW (Ward 4)
Ridge Road Community Center | 830 Ridge Rd SE (Ward 7)
Trinidad Recreation Center | 1310 Childress St NE (Ward 5)
Therapeutic Recreation Center | 3030 G St SE (Ward 7)

Martha’s Table and DC Central Kitchen Grocery Distribution Sites: Martha’s Table (under Joyful Food Markets) and DC Central Kitchen are offering no-cost Grab-and Go Grocery Distribution at the following sites until supplies last.

Martha’s Table Programming (L I N K/Updates)

Martha’s Table Commons Market- No cost bagged groceries
- 2375 Elvans Rd, SE
- Monday-Friday 11AM -4PM
- Saturday 10AM – 2PM
Martha’s Table Maycroft Market- No cost bagged groceries
- 1474 Columbia Rd, NW
- Monday-Friday 11AM-4PM
McKenna’s Wagon- hot, fresh meals, as well as sandwiches, homemade muffins, fruit, and refreshments.
- Daily–New Jersey Ave NE and I Street NE –5:15-5:40pm
- Daily–15th and I Street NW–5:50pm
Diaper Bank Distribution- families are eligible for diapers once every 4 weeks, per baby. Caregivers must bring proof of child’s age (daycare verification, birth certificate, pediatrician documentation, etc).
- 2375 Elvans Rd, SE
- Monday-Friday 11AM-3PM

YMCA DC – is providing aproduce and meal distribution across the DMV is available for anyone. This will be distributed while supplies last. Meals are made at World Central Kitchen and anyone can pick up a meal. Snack Boxes are for children 18 and younger. Children do not need to be present in order to pick up a box. Snack boxes made by USDA school lunch standards and are shelf-stable.

Meals: Boxes of meals contain 3-days’ worth of breakfast and lunch. Any child, regardless of their
affiliation with the YMCA, may pick up boxed meals two times per week. Children must be 18 or younger.
Produce: Produce is available for anyone, regardless of their affiliation with the YMCA. This will be
distributed while supplies last

USDA Meals for Kids Finder: is an interactive map to find USDA sponsored state programs that provide students with grab and go meals in any state when schools are closed.

Interactive resource map of meal sites, food resources, and free groceries can be found here (updated every evening): https://coronavirus.dc.gov/mealsites

Restaurants Offering Free Meals for School-Aged Children. In response to DCPS school closures, restaurants in the district are offering free meals for school-aged children.

Good Stuff Eatery (Capitol Hill (Ward 6), Crystal City, VA and Georgetown (Ward 2)- Kids eat FREE while schools are closed
Milk & Honey Cafe – 1245 H St NE (Ward 6). Offering FREE breakfast for Kids. Monday-Friday 8:30-10am.
Po Boy Jim – Serving FREE meals to kids while school is closed. H Street (Ward 6) Mon-Fri 11am-7pm, 9th Street (Ward 1) Tue-Wed 3pm-7pm, Thurs-Fri 11am-7pm, Both locations only available during business hours.
Purple Patch DC(Ward 1)- Offering a FREE grab and go kids bagged breakfast daily from 8-10am. Opening a Purple Patch Pantry from 3-9pm offering desserts & easy to go foods. Full menu is also available for take out. More info found on their Instagram page @purplepatchdc
Rasa (Ward 6)-Will be providing FREE take-out meals to children under 18, FREE take-out meals to hospital workers (valid ID) and FREE take-out meals for their team members and their families. More on their instagram page
MGM Roast Beef(Ward 5)- Offering free sandwiches or salads to any child 12 and younger, and free meals to hospital workers with ID. 905 Brentwood Rd NE
We The Pizza (Capitol Hill 305 Pennsylvania Ave. SE (Ward 6)- Kids eat FREE while schools are closed

Real Food For Kids: Chefs Feeding Families is a collaboration among DC-area restaurants to prepare wholesome, healthy grab-and-go meals for students and their families affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. No ID or proof of need is required, and any member of the family may pick up the meal (children need not be present), while supplies last. A list of pick-up locations can be found here

Getting to and from meal sites:

Metrobus Routes serving each of the DCPS Meal sites can be found HERE
Metro rail routes/closures during COVID: 2019 System Map
Momma’s Safe Haven: is providing rides to/from DCPS meal sites. Call 202-903-5122.

Pandemic EBT (P-EBT)

A program through DC gov that provides food benefits on a Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card to District families with children who normally receive free or reduced price school meals if not for school closures due to COVID-19. The card can be used to purchase food at stores that accept Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP; formally food stamps) EBT benefits and can also be used to purchase food for delivery online at Amazon. District families already participating in SNAP will receive benefits automatically. More information can be found at the DHS P-EBT page at dhs.dc.gov/p-ebt or by calling the P-EBT Call Center at (202) 868-6663 from 7:30 am – 4:45 pm, Monday – Friday.
- If you think you may be eligible to start receiving SNAP benefits, you can complete and submit an application through the DC Department of Human Services (DHS). Learn more about how to submit an application on the DHS website.

DC WIC expanded Food List (effective April 22, 2020 until 9/30/2020)

Household Meals – Expensify will reimburse SNAP-eligible families up to $50 groceries

Water supply – If you have been disconnected from water, DC Water is restoring water services with flexible payment options. Please click here to find out how to contact this service. DC Water is offering payment assistance for customers who are struggling to pay their water bill during the COVID-19 pandemic. For more information, please visit this site

Education

As of 10/15/20

General information:

District of Columbia Public Schools has recently announced that in-person learning will resume for elementary school students on November 9. Students in 6-12 grades will continue at-home learning for Term 2. Find out more information here, as well as important preparation steps here.

Reopening information for DC Public Charter Schools can be found here [Updated 10/13/20]

Resources for online learning can be found here.

College-bound students and their families should note that the deadline to apply for a DC Tuition Access Grant has been extended until Friday November 13, 2020. Learn more at osse.dc.gov/dctag

Compiled by DC MAP, the Children’s Law Center, and the DC Behavioral Health Association, this guide aims to serve as a comprehensive database of behavioral health resources accepting DC Medicaid available to DC youth

Internet Access Resources

Verizon Lifeline is an affordable internet option for low-income households. Plans are available for fiber-optic home internet service, as well as home phone service.

Eligibility:

Based on Your Income
1. You can get the Lifeline discount if your income is 135% or less than the federal poverty guidelines.
  1. Click here to determine qualifying income limits by household size.
Participation in a qualifying federal assistance program:
1. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps
2. Medicaid
3. Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
4. Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
5. Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
6. Tribal Programs (and live on federally-recognized Tribal lands

Comcast Internet Essentials has extended their offer to receive home internet service for $9.95/month! Families are eligible for 2 months of free internet service if they enroll in the program before December 31st. Internet Essentials customers also have the option to purchase a desktop or laptop computer at a reduced price.

Enroll here: https://www.internetessentials.com/apply

Eligibility:

You are eligible for public assistance programs such as the National School Lunch Program, Housing Assistance, Medicaid, SNAP, SSI and others.
You live in an area where Comcast Internet service is available.
You are not an existing Xfinity Internet customer and have not subscribed to Comcast Internet within the last 90 days.
You have no outstanding debt to Comcast that is less than one year old. Households with outstanding debt more than one year old may still be eligible

How do I talk to my kids about COVID-19?

The American Academy of Pediatrics has patient-oriented portal with information about COVID-19, risk reduction and safety strategies, how to cope with school closures and how to talk to your children about the pandemic https://healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/chest-lungs/Pages/2019-Novel-Coronavirus.aspx

Children’s National has compiled a COVID-19 guide specifically geared towards children and families. They offer guidance on how to talk to your kids about COVID-19, Explaining School Closures and Homeschooling Tips, see links below:

Talking to kids about COVID-19 (coronavirus)

Talking to kids about coronavirus-related school closings

Tips for homeschooling during the coronavirus outbreak

More free educational resources:

The National Center for Families Learning (NCFL) is offering a huge variety of free, online, out-of-school learning resources for children of all ages (early childhood through age 18). These resources can be found at this link.
DC Public Library (DCPL)

The Anacostia, Bellevue, Benning, Capitol View, Cleveland Park, Francis A Gregory, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, Mount Pleasant, Northeast, Petworth, Shaw, Shepherd Park, Tenley-Friendship, West End, and Woodridge libraries are open for limited service from 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM and 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM on weekdays. Measures to control entry will be in place, such that no more than 50 customers will be able to occupy a 1000 square foot space at a time. Customers will be able to return books and pick up items they have placed on hold. Full-service printing as well as a limited number of public computers will be available for use. More details here

DCPL has compiled a list of resources for students who are distance learning which may be helpful in completing assignments. Access may require a library card, but you can apply for a DC library card online here.
DCPL will continue to serve residents of DC (as well as residents of multiple MD and VA counties) through its online digital library, which contains more than 15 million free movies, eBooks, audiobooks, and music albums. This digital library is available at GoDigital. If you do not already have a DC library card – no problem! You can apply for a DC library card online here, and then you will immediately be granted access to these online resources.

MIND Research Institute is offering ST Math, a Web-Based Visual Instructional Program for students Grades K-8, free through December 31, 2020. https://www.stmath.com/coronavirus
PBSKids is offering a free daily newsletter including age group specific educational activities PBS KIDS Daily Newsletter They also offer resources and tips for parents on how to help their children learn from home.
Common Sense Media offers a guide to using media effectively to learn from home. Includes an overview of online learning apps and educational games by grade level. https://www.commonsensemedia.org/resources-for-families-during-the-coronavirus-pandemic#section-3

Family- Centred Coping Resources

National Child Traumatic Stress Network has created a Parent /Caregiver Guide to Helping Families Cope with COVID-19. The guide discusses readiness, risk reduction, hygiene, and a very effective chart which categorizes common childhood coping mechanisms by age group and offers strategies for how to parents can respond Parent/Caregiver Guide to Helping Families Cope With the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)

Spanish: Guía de ayuda para padres y cuidadores para ayudar a las familias a enfrentar la enfermedad Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19)They have also created a helpful guide for supporting children’s emotional health regarding the COVID-19 pandemic: Supporting Children during the Covid19 Pandemic

Childcare

As of 10/12/20

For Healthcare Workers and Essential Workers: MD COVID Sitters is a voluntary initiative that helps match local students with healthcare workers and essential workers in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia to assist with childcare and other household services during the COVID-19 outbreak. Please visit www.mdcovidsitters.org for steps on signing up to request care.

Another option is the Emergency Childcare Initiative for Healthcare Professionals that was launched on March 26th in DC in partnership with the Office of the State Superintendent of Education, DC Hospital Association and DC Primary Care Association to support the child care needs of our healthcare workforce. If you are a healthcare worker or essential worker and your child is aged 4 years to 12 years, and is without serious medical conditions, you may be able to receive child care through a partnered child care facility. Please sign up at https://octo.quickbase.com/db/bqemsh3a6.

Other D.C. Specific Resources:

The Childcare Subsidy/Voucher Program can provide financial support for childcare.
DC Child Care Connections can help connect families with licensed child care providers who have remained open. Please call (202) 829-2500 or email osse.dcchildcareconnections@dc.gov to find out more.
A list of open childcare facilities located in D.C. and their contact information can be found here.

Other National Resources

Care.com offers services to help families find, manage, and pay for care services.
Childcarecenter.us is a directory of childcare providers including daycare centers, nannies, home daycare providers, and babysitting services.
Winnie is a tool that allows families to find caregivers based on their location.

Housing

As of 09/25/2020

Access to Emergency Shelters: Nearly all low-barrier shelters, family shelters, and shelters serving youth will remain open.

Low Barrier Shelters: A list of low-barrier shelters can be found here.
Family Shelters: Families seeking access to homeless services should call the DC Shelter Hotline at (202) 399-7093 from 8:00 AM to 12:00 AM Monday – Sunday or 311 at any time of the day or night. To obtain temporary housing at a shelter, you may need to bring ID, birth certificates for each family member, proof of income, and proof of DC residency, so make sure to call the shelter in advance.
- List of Family and Youth Shelters:
  - Coalition for the Homeless
    - (202) 726-2203
    - 50th St Family Program
  - Community of Hope
    - Placement in a program is through the Virginia Williams Family Resource Center– (202) 546-0017 or (202) 724-4208
    - The Triumph
    - Girard Street Apartments
    - Hope Apartments
  - DC General Family Shelter – (202) 547-5702
  - Bruce House (ages 17 & under) – (202) 546-4900 → drop-in center
  - Zoe’s Doors (ages 24 & under) – (202) 248-2098 → drop-in center
  - Healthy Babies/Perennial Transitional House (pregnant/parenting teens age 16-21 and their babies) – (202) 396-2809

Rent Payments, Evictions and Utility Cut-offs: The DC City Council passed an emergency bill which includes housing information and assistance protocols. The bill can be read here and details are below:

Renters who are facing financial hardships due to the pandemic are able to negotiate repayment plans with their landlords for rent due during the city’s public health emergency and for one year after the emergency ends. The public health emergency has been extended until October 9th, 2020.
Foreclosures and new court filings for evictions will be put on hold not only during the state of emergency, but for an additional 60 days after the state of emergency ends. New court filings for evictions will be put on hold until at least December 8th, 2020.
D.C. Superior Court is not hearing foreclosure or eviction cases right now and the federal recovery bill imposed a moratorium on evictions for holders of federally backed mortgages.
The Council has already prohibited landlords from increasing rent during the state of emergency, and it has banned late fees for unpaid rent and prohibited utility cutoffs
Landlords can’t report rent delinquencies to credit reporting bureaus for being on a payment plan
For additional information click here, and for DC housing resources click here.

The Department of Housing and Community Development Rental Assistance Program: A $1.5 million program has been developed with funds to help low-income renters, in affordable housing communities, that have lost income during the COVID-19 public health emergency. DHCD expects the fund to assist approximately 200-400 households for a minimum of six months based on financial need and available funds. To determine your eligibility and for more information click here.

COVID-19 Housing Assistance Program (CHAP): The Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) has developed the COVID-19 Housing Assistance Program (CHAP), a $6.2 million program funded by the federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) offering rental assistance to low-income renters who are in arrears. Tenants must earn 80% of the Median Family Income (MFI) or below based on the COVID-19 Income & Rent Schedule. Financial assistance will be based on income and household size. Assistance can be applied for rent from April 2020 onward for up to three months of overdue rent depending on available funds. Interested applicants are asked to fill out intake information by going to the central intake portal for emergency rental assistance. Click here to apply and read more about this program.

202 Assist for Ward 8 Residents: 202 Assist, launched by the John Wall Family Foundation, is aimed at providing rent assistance to Ward 8 residents impacted most by the COVID-19 pandemic. The foundation is working with Washington, DC Mayor Muriel Bowser, the DC Department of Housing and Community Development, Lydia’s House and Housing Counseling Services to identify qualifying applicants and disperse rent relief. You can apply for rent relief using the “Rental Relief Application” found at this link: https://www.lh4us.org/forms.

Housing Emergencies: The Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) helps low-income, District residents who are facing housing emergencies. A housing emergency is when immediate action is needed to avoid homelessness, to reestablish a home, or to prevent eviction from a home. Click here to learn more about this program.

Tenant Rights: if you have questions regarding your tenant rights, you can contact the Office of the Tenant Advocate at 202-719-6560, Monday-Friday, from 8:45 am to 4:45 pm. Walk-in appointments have been suspended until further notice. (More information for DC tenants can be found here.). Additionally, under DC law, a landlord cannot legally charge late fees for late rental payments while the city is under a declared State of Emergency.

Homeless Services Providers: If you are a homeless services provider, local guidance from the Department of Human Services can be found here.

Paid Leave: Families are eligible for paid FMLA leave to care for sick families or children who are home from school under the federal law. For more information please visit: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/fmla/employee-guide

Supporting Families Living in Shelters: If you would like to make donations to help families in need, you can purchase items from DC shelter providers’ Amazon wishlists, linked below.

DC Shelter Amazon Wishlists:

The Horizon, the Ward 7 Short-term Family Housing program located in Marshall Heights. Shipping address: 5004 D Street, SE Washington DC, 20019
The Sterling, the Ward 5 Short-term Family Housing program located in Brookland. Shipping address: 1700 Rhode Island Avenue, NE Washington DC, 20018
The Kennedy, the Ward 4 Short-term Family Housing program located in Brightwood Park. Shipping address: 5505 5th St, NW Washington DC, 20011
Overflow Quality Inn
Overflow Days Inn

Information for Virginia:

The eviction moratorium has expired and evictions are currently being held in some courts.
Tenants are able to receive a 60-day continuance of an eviction proceeding if they appear in court and show written evidence that they do not have income due to the pandemic.
Virginia lawmakers passed legislation that caps late fees at 10 percent of your monthly rent or the remaining balance, whichever is less.
Information about the Virginia Rent and Mortgage Relief Program can be found here.
Governor Ralph Northam announced a $4 million plan to provide legal aid for Virginians facing eviction. More information can be found here.

Information for Maryland:

Governor Larry Hogan issued an emergency order that prohibits Maryland courts from ordering the eviction of any tenant who can show that their failure to pay rent was the result of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
An additional emergency order prohibits electric, gas, water, sewage, phone, cable TV, and internet service provider companies from shutting off any residential customer’s service or charging any late fees.
More information can be found here.

Children

As of 10/14/20

Prevention of COVID-19 in Children

Wash those hands!
- “Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer. Look for one that is 60% or higher alcohol-based.”
Practice physical distancing (AKA: “social distancing”)
- “This means staying home as much as possible and avoiding groups. If you do need to run an essential errand like going to the grocery store or pharmacy for your family, the CDC recommends wearing a cloth face covering.”
  - More information: Cloth Face Coverings for Children
  - Children under 2 years of age should not wear masks because:
    - 1) They are more likely to touch their faces with masks on
    - 2) They have smaller airways and may have more difficulty breathing through additional material
    - 3) Infants may not be able to remove a mask themselves if it becomes dislodged and/or blocks their airway.
Teach kids to cough and sneeze into a tissue, their arm, or their elbow, and not to cough or sneeze into their hands.
- Throw away tissues after each use
- Make sure to have your child wash their hands after blowing their nose, coughing, or sneezing into a tissue, and to wash your hands if you’ve helped them.
“Clean and disinfect your home as usual using regular household cleaning sprays or wipes.”
Wash potentially contaminated toys
- “Wash stuffed animals or other plush toys, following manufacturer’s instructions in the warmest water possible and dry them completely.”
  - This is especially important if children may be sharing these toys and/or have been recently sick.
“Avoid touching your face; teach your children to do the same.”
“Follow local and state guidance on travel and stay at home restrictions.”

*If you are concerned about your child having symptoms or having been exposed, please call your child’s pediatrician for guidance or call 911 in an emergency.*

Source: 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Symptoms

DISCLAIMER

This section is meant to offer an overview of general symptoms of COVID-19 infection and warning signs for severe illness in children. It is not a comprehensive list. If you are concerned that your child may have COVID-19 or be otherwise sick, please call your pediatrician for guidance OR 911 in an emergency.

Children with COVID-19 are less likely to show symptoms than adults
- When they do have symptoms, they are usually mild compared to those seen in adults
- Early data suggests that children may have more upper respiratory (nose and throat/allergy-like), rather than lower respiratory (mostly lung), symptoms than adults
The most common symptoms of COVID-19 seen in children are:
- Fever
- Respiratory symptoms (such as cough or shortness of breath)
- Sore throat/congestion
- Gastrointestinal symptoms (such as stomach pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and/or loss of appetite)
  - *Decreased appetite may lead to your child drinking less. It’s especially important in children to watch for signs of dehydration (fewer wet diapers than normal, dry mouth/lips/skin, sunken soft spot (fontanel) in infants, etc.).
- Muscle aches
Less common symptoms of COVID-19 in children are:
- Chest pain/aches
- Loss of smell or taste
- Headaches

Sources: DeBiasi, R. et al. Severe COVID-19 in Children and Young Adults in the Washington, DC Metropolitan Region. Journal of Pediatrics, May 2020. & COVID-19 in Children: Initial Characterization of Pediatric Disease

Warning signs of severe illness potentially related to COVID-19 in children include:
- Trouble breathing (fast breathing, difficult breathing, abnormal breathing, nasal flaring and/or head bobbing while breathing in infants)
- Bluish face and/or lips
- Lethargy (decreased responsiveness, difficulty waking up or staying awake, extreme weakness)
- New confusion
- Severe abdominal pain
- Chest pain or pressure that does not go away

*If your child has any of these warning signs or other concerning symptoms, SEEK EMERGENCY CARE RIGHT AWAY.*

Source: For Parents: MIS-C

Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) Associated with COVID-19
- Recently, a very small percentage of children have shown signs of a potentially very serious multi-system inflammatory syndrome that is believed to be related to recent or current COVID-19 infection.
  - Additional symptoms of rash, conjunctivitis (red, irritates eyes with or without drainage), “strawberry tongue”, neck pain, lymph node swelling, and heart problems were seen in these patients in addition to other COVID-19 symptoms.
  - *Again, if your child is showing any of these signs or you are otherwise concerned that your child may be sick, please contact your pediatrician for guidance or call 911 in an emergency.*

Sources: COVID-19 and Multi-System Inflammatory Syndrome in Children & For Parents: MIS-C & Belhadjer, Z. et al. Acute Heart Failure in Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) in the Context of Global SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic. American Heart Association, May 2020.

CDC Criteria for Suspected MIS-C: A person less than 21 years old with:
- 1) A recorded fever >38.0 C (100.4 F) or subjective fever for 24 hours or more,
- 2) laboratory evidence of inflammation, and
- 3) evidence of clinically severe illness requiring hospitalization, with 2 or more organ systems involved
- AND no alternative plausible diagnoses
- AND positive for current or recent SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19 illness) infection as shown by testing or known COVID-19 exposure within the 4 weeks before symptoms started.

Source: CDC: HAN00432

Testing

A list of testing sites for children across the DMV area can be found here: Rapid Testing for Coronavirus
- The link to site-specific information for pediatric COVID-19 testing in the District of Columbia can be found here: District of Columbia Care Facilities for Testing of COVID-19

*If you are concerned about your child having symptoms or having been exposed, please call your child’s pediatrician for guidance or call 911 in an emergency.*

Caring for Children with Suspected or Confirmed COVID-19 at Home

After consulting with your pediatrician/care provider, you may be instructed to isolate at home if you or your child(ren) have mild symptoms. The following are some additional recommended steps for families who are instructed to isolate a sick individual at home:

“Separate family members with COVID-19 from others as much as possible.”
- “The person with the virus should stay in a specific room and away from other people in your home. Ideally, they should use a separate bathroom, if available. Limit visitors in the house.”
“Avoid contact with pets.” (As much as possible, especially family members who are sick)
- “This includes petting, snuggling, being kissed or licked, and sharing food.”
“Call ahead before visiting the doctor.”
- “This will help them take steps to keep other people from getting infected or exposed.”
“Avoid sharing personal household items.”
- “Don’t share dishes, drinking glasses, cups, eating utensils, towels, or bedding with other people or pets in the home. After using these items, they should be washed thoroughly with soap and water.”
“Extra cleaning for all “high-touch” surfaces.”
- “These include counters, tabletops, doorknobs, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and bedside tables. Also, clean any surfaces that may have blood, stool [poop], or body fluids on them. Use a household cleaning spray or wipes and follow the instructions on the label.”
“Monitor symptoms.”
- “Call your doctor or health department right away if the illness gets worse.”

*The severity of symptoms in children can change quickly, so when in doubt, call your pediatrician, even if previously instructed to support your child at home, or call 911 in an emergency.*

Source: 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

How to Talk to Children about COVID-19

There’s a lot of news coverage about the outbreak of COVID-19 and it can be overwhelming for parents and frightening to kids. The American Academy of Pediatrics encourages parents and others who work closely with children to filter information and talk about it in a way that their child can understand. These tips can help:

“Simple reassurance.
- Remind children that researchers and doctors are learning as much as they can, as quickly as they can, about the virus and are taking steps to keep everyone safe.
Give them control.
- It’s also a great time to remind your children of what they can do to help – washing their hands often, coughing into a tissue or their sleeves, and getting enough sleep.
Watch for signs of anxiety.
- Children may not have the words to express their worry, but you may see signs of it. They may get cranky, be more clingy, have trouble sleeping, or seem distracted. Keep the reassurance going and try to stick to your normal routines.
Monitor their media.
- Keep young children away from frightening images they may see on TV, social media, computers, etc.
- For older children, talk together about what they are hearing on the news and correct any misinformation or rumors you may hear.
Be a good role model.
- COVID-19 doesn’t discriminate and neither should we. While COVID-19 started in Wuhan, China, it doesn’t mean that having Asian ancestry – or any other ancestry – makes someone more susceptible to the virus or more contagious.
- Stigma and discrimination hurt everyone by creating fear or anger towards others. When you show empathy and support to those who are ill, your children will too.”

Source: 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Family Life During COVID-19

The following are a collection of resources from Healthy Children together with the American Academy of Pediatrics to support your family life and family coping during COVID-19:

More Child Health Resources for Parents and Guardians

General Resources

For parents and guardians with (or soon expecting) an infant:

For parents and guardians with teenagers:

For parents and guardians of children with special needs:

Adolescents

Coming soon!

Adults (18-64)

As of 10/12/20

Food

Resources: Map of food resources including grocery stores, farmer’s markets, free meals and free groceries (updated each evening).
- To increase access to nutritious foods in more DC neighborhoods, DC Central Kitchen’s Healthy Corners program has continued operations at participating stores.
- Residents who are in need of emergency meal assistance can use the map created and updated daily by the Capital Area Food Bank to find a resource near them.
- Partners have resources in Montgomery County and Prince George’s County.
- A local non-profit, DC Food Project, has collected a list of additional food resources throughout the DMV. For the list, please click here.
- To search for free or reduced cost services near you, such as food, please visit auntbertha.com and enter your zip code.
- If you are facing food insecurity, please visit breadforthecity.org and sign up for food delivery. Alternatively, you can call (202)-265-2400 to request grocery delivery.
- For more information on adult meal programs in DC during the pandemic, please click here. This information is available in various languages. For Vietnamese, please click here. For Spanish, please click here. For Amharic, please click here. For French, please click here. For Chinese, please click here. For Korean, please click here.
Grocery Distribution Sites: Grocery sites are open from 10:00-11:30 AM. Residents are encouraged to bring their own cart/tote bag to transport the groceries. Masks are required at these sites.

Hotline: A hotline has been created for residents homebound because of COVID-19 to request food and other essential items: 1-888-349- 8323. Alternatively, you can visit gethelp.dc.gov to submit a request to have food (and other essential items) delivered to your residence.
Public Support:
- All current SNAP recipients will be automatically re-certified during coronavirus (COVID-19), and all in-person interviews for new applicants have been waived.
  - SNAP and TANF are being automatically extended and customers do NOT need to take any action at this time.
  - Medicaid extended through September 2020.
    - Some healthcare services can be provided free-of-charge via telemedicine.
    - It might be possible to get an emergency supply of medications at home. Please talk to your pharmacist about this.
    - For more information about Medicaid services during COVID-19, please click here.
- You can now submit an Application for Combined Public Benefits (TANF, SNAP, Medical benefits) via online portal, in-person drop off, or mail.
  - Do I quality for Benefits?
- Effective 04/20/2020, New or replacement EBT cards will be sent via US Mail to the address listed on DHS records. Customers with no fixed mailing address may pick up their EBT card at the EBT Office located at 645 H Street. NE
  - Hours: Mon and Fri: 7:30AM-4:45PM, Wed: 7:30AM-12:00PM
  - More information can be found here.
- The SNAP Online Purchasing Program launched on May 13, 2020- District residents who participate in SNAP may use their benefits to make authorized food purchases online at Amazon.com for home delivery. (Amazon account required to participate)
  - How it works
  - FAQ
Some DHS service centers are open for customers to pick up and drop off applications and eligibility documents with social distancing guidelines in place upon arrival. All forms are also available at dhs.dc.gov
On May 13th, D.C. Hunger Solutions had a webinar on Accessing Healthy Foods during COVID-19. Recent changes to government food programs and tips in the program application process were discussed. The recording of the webinar, presentation slides, and a Q&A from the session can be found here.
Customers receiving public benefits may call the Office of Administrative Hearing Review and Appeals at (202)-698-3955 or (202)-535-1182 to file a request for a fair hearing.
Giving Back: If you wish to donate your time and/or resources to help fight food insecurity in the DMV during the COVID-19 pandemic, please click here for an organized resource on where to give, what to give, and how to volunteer.

As of April 13, 2020 per the DC DHS website,

Residents with any questions about public benefits that are provided by DHS can call (202)-727-5355.
DHS centers will now also allow email for the sending of documents pertaining to eligibility information or verification to DHS Offices along with full name, date of birth, and telephone numbers.
- Congress Heights: ESASC.CongressHeights@dc.gov
- H Street: ESASC.HStreet@dc.gov
- Taylor Street: ESASC.TaylorStreet@dc.gov
Economy Impact Payment: You may be eligible to get a COVID-19 Stimulus Package without having a 2018 or 2019 tax return.

To see if you qualify for Public Benefits during COVID-19 (as of May 11th), please read this flyer.

For more information about Public Benefits during COVID-19, please see the FAQ page from the DHS website.

Housing

HUD COVID-19 Information

Rent/Mortgages

Landlords can still collect rent during the public health emergency. However, no late fees may be applied to late payments.
As of 05/20/20, DC Council has determined that during the public health emergency and for one year thereafter, landlords have to provide rent payment plan programs for both residential and commercial retail tenants.
- The tenant must notify the landlord of an inability to pay rent due to the COVID-19 pandemic, must not be receiving rent assistance under any of the District’s COVID-19 emergency legislation, and that the tenant is not a franchise unless the franchise is owned by a resident of the District.
- The landlord is required to notify the tenant of the availability, terms and conditions, and application process for the rent payment program.
- A payment plan allows prepayment and does not require a lump sum payment in excess of that set forth in the written payment plan. The landlord must waive any fee arising out of the penalty plan and cannot provide derogatory reports to credit bureaus.
As of 05/20/20, the rents of residential tenants are frozen through the public health emergency and for 30 days thereafter. The rent freeze for commercial property is limited to commercial retail properties.
Emergency DC legislation has halted the processing of eviction matters and the filing of eviction complaints against both residential and commercial tenants.
During the public health emergency, if a landlord stops providing an amenity that the tenant pays for separately from rent, then the landlord has to refund to the tenant pro rata and fee charged for the amenity.
As of 04/08/20, DC Council has passed a mandatory 90-day mortgage deferment program for residential and commercial mortgage holders who request one.
- No late fees or penalties will accrue and repayment of the deferred amount could be done via payment plan.
- This program requires landlords to pass along proportionate savings to their tenants if they receive a deferment.
DHCD Tenant-Based Rental Assistance Program: offers assistance to low-income renters through the federal HOME Investment Partnerships Program.
- Community based non-profit organizations will administer the program and work with renters to manage and disperse funds.
- Am I Eligible?
Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP): If you need rental assistance, and want to obtain more information about the program, contact the information line at (202) 667- 7339 or email erap@housingetc.org
Assistance for individuals living with HIV or AIDS: Emergency financial assistance programs to assist individuals living with HIV in DC and Prince George’s, Montgomery, Charles, Frederick, and Calvert Counties in Maryland are available to help with rent, utilities, food, and other necessities.
- To determine if you are eligible and to schedule a telephone application appointment, please contact:
  - Cynthia Crystobal at (202) 900-9471 (cynthiacrystobal@housingetc.org) or
  - Cheron McCrae at (202) 667-7569 (cheronmccrae@housingetc.org)

COVID-19 Housing Assistance Program: This program provides rental assistance to low-income renters who were negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. To determine if you are eligible, information on necessary documentation, and information on how to apply for the program, please click here.

Evictions

DC Landlord and Tenant Court is operating remotely for eviction, foreclosure, and debt collection cases that are not stayed.
- Landlords can file new lawsuits in Landlord and Tenant Court.
Maryland’s courts are now virtually processing eviction and foreclosure cases. Phase III of the state’s Judiciary Phased Reopening Plan began on July 20th and extends until August 30th. Starting from July 25th, Courts will be processing failure to pay actions. For more information, please click here.
As of March 13, 2020, the D.C. Supreme Court has suspended evictions of all tenants and foreclosed homeowners. This suspension has been put into effect to protect renters who cannot pay for housing due to work closures. Press Release here
- DC and the State of Maryland have suspended all evictions until the end of their respective states of emergency. The state of emergency has been extended until October 9th in DC.
  - Governor Hogan announced that Maryland will use $30 million from the CARES Act to help prevent evictions. Please click here for the Governor’s press release.
  - In June, Maryland’s Attorney General announced the creation of a COVID-19 Access to Justice Task Force, which has developed resources for renters facing eviction. For more information about the Task Force, please click here.
  - DC has a number of protections available for renters, such as the prohibition of rent increases and late fees, landlords must develop a payment plan if one is requested, and landlords cannot report delinquencies to credit reporting bureaus. For further information on the protections available to renters in DC, please click here.
- The moratorium on eviction hearings expired on June 28th. According to Governor Northam’s office, there are more than 12,000 pending eviction cases in the state.
  - On June 29th, the Governor announced a $50 million rent and mortgage relief program. To read more about the program and eligibility requirements, please click here.
  - For more information about state and federal protections for renters and homeowners in response to COVID-19, please click here. These protections include capping late fees at 10% of a tenant’s monthly rent or the remaining balance, whichever is less and allowing tenants a 60-day continuance of an eviction if they appear in court and show written evidence that they do not have income due to the pandemic.
If your landlord attempts to evict you during the public health emergency, you should call the police.

Subsidized Housing
- Evictions for tenants living in federally subsidized housing are no longer suspended.
- Under the federal CARES Act, if you live in HUD-subsidized housing, public housing, have a Housing Choice (Section 8) Voucher, or live in a LIHTC building, no eviction proceedings may be brought for non-payment of rent until August 2020, and only after you’ve received a 30-day notice.
- Your subsidy cannot be terminated during the public health emergency.

Tenant rights

If you have questions regarding legal, education or outreach tenant services, you can contact the Office of the Tenant Advocate at 202-719-6560,
- Monday-Friday, from 8:45 am to 4:45 pm. Walk-in appointments have been suspended until further notice. (More information for DC tenants can be found here.)
If you need an emergency repair and your landlord has not responded, you can contact the DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA) at (202) 442- 9557 ext. 6 or call 311 and request a virtual inspection
All deadlines related to TOPA (Tenant Opportunity to Purchase Act) are on pause during the public health emergency. If you get TOPA notice or a notice that your building is for sale, please call the the Tenant Services Department at Housing Counseling Services at (202) 667-7426 or tenants@housingetc.org

Utilities

As of 03/13/20, utility shut offs are prohibited for non-payment.
Pepco- Will work with customers on a case-by-case basis for payment arrangements and assistance options. Pepco Customer Care: 202-833-7500. Pepco works closely to connect customers with programs like LIHEAP, the Low-Income High Energy Assistance Program. DC residents can apply for assistance online through the Department of Energy and Environment website (https://doee.dc.gov/). Maryland residents can visit the Department of Human Services website (https://dhs.maryland.gov/office-of-home-energy-programs/) or call 1-800-332-6347.
- Other programs supporting DC residents are: 1) The Utility Discount Program (UDP) helps low income DC residents reduce their utility costs. Eligible customers may receive a discount of up to $475 per year on their electricity bill. Apply online here or call 3-1-1- to schedule an in-person appointment. 2) The Greater Washington Urban League provides up to $500 in assistance to eligible customers facing disconnection. For more information, please click here or 202-265-8200.
- Other programs supporting Maryland residents are: 1) The Electrical Universal Service Program (EUSP) helps eligible customers pay a portion of their current electricity bill. 2) The Arrearage Retirement Assistance (ARA) program helps customers with large, past due electric and gas bills. If eligible, customers might receive up to $2,000 towards their past due bill. 3) The Utility Service Protection Program (USPP) helps low-income families during the heating season. For more information about these programs, please click here or call 1(800)-332-6347.
- On June 1, 2020, the Department of Energy and Environment began providing emergency utility assistance to residents who owe $250 or more on a utility account. To apply online, please click here.
- Washington Gas- waiving late fees and suspending service disconnections. It is also offering payment rearrangements. Phone: 1-844-WASHGAS. E-service: eservice.washgas.com. For the full letter sent to customers, please click here.
DC Water- suspended service disconnections for non-payment, waiving late fees, offering lenient repayment terms. Phone: 202-787-2000 or customer.service@dcwater.com

Internet

As of 09/10/20, the Internet for All initiative was launched for the 2020-2021 academic year to provide free internet for families who are SNAP and TANF eligible with students enrolled in preschool to 12th grade. The Office of the Chief Technology Officer (OCTO) will contact eligible families directly via email, phone, or text. If you believe you are eligible, but have not been contacted, reach out to your school to confirm they have your correct contact information.
As of 04/08/2020, basic cable television and internet service has been added to the list of utilities that cannot be cut off for non-payment during the public health emergency.
List of of low cost internet service providers and Public WiFi Map (As of April 14, 2020)

Housing Resources

Housing Counseling Services is working remotely to help individuals overcome challenges to accessing housing through these challenging times. Visit their website for resources and updates at housingetc.org
- General Questions: (202) 667- 7006 or info@housingetc.org
- Foreclosure Prevention line: (202) 265- 2255 or foreclosure@housingetc.org
- Tenant Questions: (202) 667- 7462 or tenants@housingetc.org
- Homelessness Prevention: (202) 667 7339 or erap@housingetc.org
- MHAP/TBRA questions: (202) 667- 2681

Employment

Employment Information here

Day Services and Drop-in Centers

The Downtown Day Services Center

Has re-opened for appointment only essential services for residents experiencing homelessness.
Lunch service (available daily including weekends, from 11 am to 1 pm in the courtyard/park adjacent to the New York Avenue Presbyterian Church).
Limited shower access, laundry services, restrooms, emergency clothing, lunch service, and phone charging will be available from 9 AM-5 PM. To schedule services, call (202)-674-2365 or email ddsc@pathwaysdc.org

The Adams Place Day Center (located 2210 Adams Place, NE) is open Monday-Friday from 7 A.M. – 7 P.M.

Zoe’s Doors Youth Drop-In Center (located at 900 Rhode Island Avenue NE) is open 8 A.M – 8 P.M.

The Sasha Bruce Youth Drop-In Center Barracks Row Drop-in Center (located at 741 8th Street SE) is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 8 A.M. – 6P.M. and Friday 8 A.M.- 4P.M. The Bruce House, DC’s only short term housing for young people is open 24/7 (located 1022 Maryland Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002).

Elderly (65+)

As of 10/14/20

COVID-19 Symptoms (Specific to Elderly)

Fever may be not be as high during an infection (and some might not have a fever at all)
- Infectious disease society of America definition of fever for older adults:
  - Single oral temperature over 100ºF
  - 2 oral repeated temperatures over 99ºF
  - Increase in temperature of 2ºF over baseline
Older adults and people who have severe underlying medical conditions like heart or lung disease or diabetes seem to be at higher risk for developing more serious complications from COVID-19 illness
Risk for Severe Illness Increases with Age

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)-Associated Hospitalization

Risk Reduction with Reopening

Limit interactions with others and practice prevention
Keep hand sanitizer (60%), cloth face covering, tissues at hand at all times
Be aware of how many people you interact with and how long you interact with them
Encourage social distancing (visit family and friends outdoors when possible)
If participating in gathering, consider risk:
- Lowest risk: Virtual-only activities, events, and gatherings.
- More risk: Smaller outdoor and in-person gatherings in which individuals from different households remain spaced at least 6 feet apart, wear cloth face coverings, do not share objects, and come from the same local area (e.g., community, town, city, or county).
- Higher risk: Medium-sized in-person gatherings that are adapted to allow individuals to remain spaced at least 6 feet apart and with attendees coming from outside the local area.
- Highest risk: Large in-person gatherings where it is difficult for individuals to remain spaced at least 6 feet apart and attendees travel from outside the local area.
If you have underlying medical condition, you should:
- Continue with medications
- Have at least 30 day supply
- Do not delay getting emergency care for your underlying condition
- Call healthcare provider if you have concerns

If you don’t have a healthcare provider, contact your nearest community health center or health department.

Food

Available resources for elderly experiencing difficulty accessing food:

Meals on Wheels: meal delivery and grocery shopping services. Please call the D.C. Office on Aging at 202-724-5626 to determine eligibility.
We Are Family Senior Outreach Network: emergency assistance with free grocery delivery from local food banks for seniors living in the Shaw, Columbia Heights, and Petworth neighborhoods.
Several grocery stores offer seniors-only shopping times:
- Giant:
  - Time: 6-7 am every day of the week
  - Restrictions: persons must be 60+ or have compromised immune system
- Safeway:
  - Time: 7-9 am Tuesday and Thursday
  - Restrictions: persons must be 60+, pregnant, or have compromised immune system
- Whole Foods:
  - Time: 7-8am Fridays
  - Restrictions: persons must be 60+
  - Note: Grocery pickup is also available for individuals 60+ during this time, too!
- Walmart:
  - Time: 6-7 am Tuesdays (first hour of store opening)
  - Restrictions: persons must be 60+
- Target:
  - Time: first hour of shopping on Tuesdays and Wednesdays
  - Restrictions: elderly, pregnant, and those defined by CDC to be at high risk or vulnerable
- Trader Joe’s:
  - Time: first hour of operation every day (either 8-9 or 9-10 am depending on the store)
  - Restrictions: persons 60+ and customers with disabilities
- Aldi:
  - Time: Tuesdays and Thursdays, first hour of business
  - Restrictions: seniors, pregnant women, and those vulnerable to infection
- Fresh Market:
  - Time: 8-9am Monday through Friday
  - Restrictions: seniors only
- Dollar General:
  - Time: first hour of store opening- 8-9am daily
  - Restrictions: seniors only

Online shopping: Contactless online shopping is available for groceries, toiletries, and other necessities. Friends and family of the elderly, you can organize a delivery from your home! Organizations include:
- Instacart: www.instacart.com
- Giant: www.peapod.com
- Safeway: www.safeway.com
- Aldi: www.aldi.us/en/shop-now/grocery-delivery/
Restaurant meal delivery: food delivery directly to your door, can request contactless delivery
- UberEats: www.ubereats.com
- Grubhub: www.grubhub.com/
- Doordash: https://www.doordash.com/
- Postmates: https://postmates.com/

Housing

CDC guidance for nursing homes and long-term care facilities (restrictions depending on reopening status- Please Contact Facility for More Information):
- In some facilities, visitors are restricted. Restrictions can include: limiting number of visitors, hosting select visit hours, or restricting all visitors except in certain compassionate care situations, such as end of life situations
- Letters and Emails are sent to families reminding them not to visit when ill or if they have known exposure to someone with COVID-19
- Visitors are required to wear face coverings and check-in with the front desk to be assessed for symptoms prior to entry
- Volunteers and non-essential healthcare personnel (e.g., barbers) are restricted
- Depending on reopening status of facility, group activities and communal dining may or may not be continued for residents without COVID-19
- Healthcare personnel and residents are actively being screened for fever and respiratory symptoms
- Residents and families are being educated and updated on topics including information about COVID-19, actions the facility is taking to protect them, any visitor restrictions in place, and actions residents and families should take to protect themselves
- Hygiene Supplies including Hand Sanitizers, Tissues, and Masks are supplied for residents and health care personnel
- Facilities are encouraging social distancing and complying with CDC regulations for reopening accordingly
For more information, see the above section labeled “Adults”

Transportation

Call ‘n’ Ride transportation program: Discounted door-to-door taxi service for seniors 60+.

Call 202-724-5626 to learn more and enroll.

Personal Wellness

It’s natural to feel isolated and lonely during this time of social distancing. One of the best ways to stay well is to keep up your relationships with family and friends. Use these links below to learn how to use video conferencing to catch up with friends and family — virtually!
- Instructional video for how to use FaceTime (Apple iPhone)
- Instructional video for how to use Zoom (use from any computer or smartphone)
- Instructional video for how to use WebEx (use from any computer or smartphone)
American Geriatrics Society’s guide to personal wellness offers 12 tips to ease isolation, including eating well, keeping in touch with friends and family, and staying active.
An article by Dr. Doreen Marshall of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention on how to take care of your mental health during uncertain times
GWU Reaching Out is hosting a phone call companion program! Request a phone call by filling out a request at www.gwureachingout.com, by emailing gwureachingout@gmail.com, or by calling (202) 709-6344. Simply leave your name, phone number, and preferred time of day for the call (morning, afternoon, or evening). Our volunteers look forward to talking with you!
Around Town DC has a great list of online events for seniors! Cancelled in person, but available for virtual events
The Department of Aging and Community living has launched a new Call & Talk program for older adults looking for someone to talk with while at home. Give them a call at 202-724-5626, go through their voice mail prompts and talk to one of the information and referral coordinators. They will have someone call you within 24 hours. After an interview, they will assign you someone as your conversation partner.

So Others May Eat (SOME) has been working to provide activities for participants who are isolated at this time. They are providing an 11 am activity call that all seniors have access to. Their program coordinator Dawit Tesfamichael developed this programming to educate, support, counsel, and entertain seniors during this time. The number for the conference call is (206) 800-4833 and the code is 828282311#

Social Security

Social security recipients are included in the Cares Act, so are eligible to receive $1,200 if their adjusted gross income is $75,000 or less ($150,000 or less for married couples)
Social security applications may take longer to process due to field office closures
Can apply for social security at ssa.gov

Other questions, check here, for other FAQs