COVID-19 Resource List
We have compiled a top ten list of local, state, and federal supports and links to other helpful resources related to the coronavirus’s impact on our scholars and higher education. We will work to periodically update these links and resources as necessary.
1. Unemployment Insurance
You could be eligible for unemployment if your hours were cut or you were laid off due to COVID-19. Click HERE for instructions and to apply online (contract workers like Uber and Lyft drivers are also able to apply).
2. Federal Student Loan Payments
Loans will not accrue interest and non-payment of loans will not impact credit scores until September 30th.
3. Stimulus Checks
The federal stimulus package includes a one-time payment of $1,200 to individuals who file a 2018 or 2019 tax return and earn an income of up to $75,000, or $2,400 payment for couples filing jointly with joint income of up to $150,000. In addition, those qualifying individuals or couples will also receive $500 per child. College students will be ineligible if their parents claim them on their taxes, however, parents and guardians will be eligible.
4. Utilities
East Bay Municipal Utilities District (EBMUD), Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) and East Bay Community Energy (EBCE) have announced that they will not disconnect services for non-payment.
5. Free Wifi (for 2 months)
Through Internet Essentials from Comcast. This is a promotion for new Comcast customers. The cost is $9.95 per month after the first two months.
6. Small Business Resources
Many Bay Area cities including Oakland, Berkeley, and Hayward have established relief grants and other resources to support the small business community. Click HERE for a list of resources.
7. Medi-Cal/CalWORKs
The state has expedited Medi-Cal for new applicants, waiving certain paperwork requirements including citizenship docs. Homeless individuals just need to state on the application that they are homeless and will be expedited. All applications can be done through the Covered California website. Existing Medi-Cal/CalWORKs clients will automatically be renewed. Click HERE for more healthcare options for the uninsured.
8. Berkeley Food Pantry
The Berkeley Food Network’s on-site pantry will remain open during this period of COVID-19 containment as long as they are able to source food. Anyone in need of free food is welcome to visit. Click HERE for hours, location, and more information.
9. Testing for COVID-19
Tests are prioritized for patients ill enough to be hospitalized, older adults, people with chronic medical conditions and health care workers who have treated a known COVID-19 patient.
LifeLongMedical Care is hosting three curbside testing centers for patients who have been screened by LifeLong staff. Call 510-981-4100 to get screened. Click HERE for a list of additional testing sites that will require a doctor’s referral.
10. Mental Health Support
The Mental Health Association of San Francisco has set up a peer-run warm line for Coronavirus support. Call 855-845-7415
Additional Resources
- Immigrants Rising Tangible Support for Immigrant Communities shared by BCS Alumni Scholar, Zulma Munoz
- Summary of Senator Nancy Skinner’s Town Hall on Financial Relief programs
- If you qualify for and need CalFresh food assistance benefits (the state’s food stamp program), applications can be done online HERE. If you are already receiving CalFresh, you will keep your coverage through May and won’t need to be recertified.