COVID-19 RESOURCES

This page contains info and resources for those locally who need assistance because of COVID-19. Please note that some resources may be exhausted at any given moment, but remain on the list because they may be replenished. Disclaimer: this is not legal advice, but general info.

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COVID-19 INFO & HOTLINES

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-All Georgians 16+ now eligible for COVID vaccine (as of Mar 25). Free regardless of insurance. No questions asked about status.

 

-Schedule vaccine appointment at Gwinnett-Newton-Rockdale Health Department: https://www.gnrhealth.com/covid-19-info/vaccination-info

 

-No appointments? Find other places to get a vaccine: https://dph.georgia.gov/covid-vaccin

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-the State of Georgia has a hotline for those with questions about COVID-19 vaccination: 1-888-357-0169. The State also has a general COVID-19 Hotline, where questions or concerns regarding the virus can be directed: 1-844-442-2681

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-the Gwinnett-Rockdale-Newton Health Department has various COVID-19 testing sites. Call (770) 513-5631 to find out if you’re eligible and schedule a day and time for their appointment. www.gnrhealth.com/covid-19-info

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-CPACS Cosmo Health Center is providing FREE COVID-19 and HIV drive-thru testing. Both insured and uninsured are welcome! Please call 770-446-0929 for more info and/or to make an appointment. www.cpacscosmo.org

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-for more testing sites, including those that permit walk-ins or testing for those without symptoms, check Community Organized Relief Effort (CORE) weekly: www.coreresponse.org/covid19-atlanta

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-CVS also provides COVID-19 testing at no-cost - but you must make an appointment. Closest locations to HD 99 are at 5095 Peachtree Pkwy, Norcross 30093 and 5575 Lawrenceville Hwy, Lilburn 30047. To find out more and/or make an appointment: www.cvs.com/minuteclinic/covid-19-testing

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-AU Health ExpressCare is an app for Georgians to be screened by a medical clinician via video chat or phone. If residents meet symptom criteria to warrant a test, or are first responders, health workers and other high-risk individuals, they will be provided an appointment at the nearest state testing center. The app works on smartphones or computers at augustaexpresscare.org. For those without access, call the hotline at (706) 721-1852.

-if you suspect you have symptoms, and can't access the testing listed above, see your medical provider. Per the Mar 27 federal stimulus package, private insurers are now required to cover COVID-19 treatments.

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-the CDC's COVID-19 page is consistently updated: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov. For example, please see its "Deciding to Go Out" resource, which provides information to consider when considering and/or deciding to go out: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/going-out.html (click "Other Languages" to access info in Spanish, Vietnamese, Chinese & Korean)

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-the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health & Developmental Disabilities is providing a 24/7, free, and confidential line to provide assistance  to callers needing emotional support or resource info as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Call 1-866-399-8938

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GENERAL ASSISTANCE

-Gwinnett Helpline: (770) 995-3339

-United Way 2-1-1 Contact Center: dial 211. See also: https://www.unitedwayatlanta.org/coronavirus

 

-Atlanta Legal Aid (videos on your COVID-19 related rights): www.youtube.com/user/AtlantaLegalAid/videos

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HEALTHCARE

-for those who need low-cost healthcare for any reason (inc. flu shots), call: (1) Good Samaritan Health Center of Gwinnett (on Jimmy Carter Blvd. near Britt Rd): (678) 280-6630 (you can also call their COVID-19 hotline at (404) 523-6571, ext. 4928), (2),Southside Medical Center (on Jimmy Carter), (404) 688-1350, (3) CPACS COSMO Health Center, 6185 Buford Hwy. Bldg. Suite G, Norcross, GA 30071, https://cpacscosmo.org, or (4) Gwinnett County Health Department, Norcross Health Center: (770) 638-5700. By federal law (ACA), you are entitled to a "qualified interpreter" if you need one.

-for persons with disabling conditions, the Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities provides a variety of resources, including a COVID-19 Positive Patient Intake Support form for people with I/DD who need healthcare because of COVID-19 symptoms: https://gcdd.org/covid-19-resources-for-georgians-with-deve…

-the Georgia Insurance Commissioner has directed insurers not to cancel any health insurance policies for failure of payment "until further notice": www.oci.ga.gov. Please note that, if you have lost health insurance because of loss of job, you may qualify for Special Enrollment through the federal marketplace: www.healthcare.gov/coverage-outsi…/special-enrollment-period

-GoodPill is providing 3 months of medications free and delivered. To sign up, visit www.goodpill.org

-PAN Foundation provides info on other sources of health-related financial assistance for people with health insurance, but remain underinsured: www.panfoundation.org/get-help/apply-for-assistance

-the Patient Advocate Foundation is providing small grants to those who are, or have been, diagnosed with COVID-19: www.patientadvocate.org/covidcare/help

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-the American Transplant Foundation is providing Emergency Assistance Grants of up to $1,000 that cover expenses (hotels, groceries, utilities, etc.) posing a barrier to patient's post-transplant care b/c of COVID-19. www.americantransplantfoundation.org/programs/pap

 

-Navigate Recovery Gwinnett has made recovery meetings available online, as well as recovery coaches ready to take calls  M-Sat, 9am-9pm. Call 678-743-1808,  ext. 101. www.navigaterecoverygwinnett.org

 

-Note: TANF and SNAP renewals for March through August have been extended for 6 months. Medical Assistance (MA) and Peachcare renewals for March through October have been extended for 6 months. https://dfcs.georgia.gov

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FOOD

 

-Norcross Cooperative Ministry and Lilburn Cooperative Ministry continue their regularly scheduled food bank client hours. See www.norcrossco-op.org (30093) and www.lilburncoop.org (30047/30084). You may also check Gwinnett Cares's calendar for more food distribution events: https://gwinnettcares.org/events

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-the Gwinnett County Public Library and Atlanta Community Food Bank continue their library drive-thru food pantries, inc. at the Norcross Branch (6025 Buford Hwy, Norcross, GA 30071). See: www.gwinnettpl.org/news/drive-through-food-distribution

-Gwinnett County will run its Summer Meals program from June 1 to August 3, Monday through Fridays, 11am-1pm. Free grab-and-go breakfasts/lunches will be available for those 18 and younger, or 19+ with a physical/mental impairment. Locations include 3 in HD 99: Graves Park @ 1540 Graves Rd | Lucky Shoals Park @ 4651 Britt Rd | Bryson Park @ 5075 Lawrenceville Hwy. Info: www.gwinnettcounty.com/web/gwinnett/departments/communityservices/parksandrecreation/gwinnettsummermeals

 

-reminder to parents: the Free- and Reduced-Priced Meal Application must be filled out each school year. The online application for 2020-21 is available at http://gwinnett.schoollunchapp.com

 

-Food4Life Atlanta Survival Program is accepting applications for free grocery delivery, for those at-risk (inc. those who can’t afford groceries because of lost work): https://atlsurvival.org/food
 

-Goodr is sponsoring meal and food deliveries in the Metro Atlanta area. Sign-up here: https://docs.google.com/…/1FAIpQLSfzSp3hjERycdSVmR…/viewform
 

-Concrete Jungle is providing grocery delivery for those who are quarantined or have existing health issues that could be worsened by exposure to coronavirus. https://bit.ly/ConcreteJungleFood
 

-Full Cart is providing grocery delivery to those facing financial uncertainty or unable to find sufficient food in your area because of COVID-19. https://fullcart.org/good-deeds-apply/
 

-Atlanta Community Food Bank: ACFB's new "Text For Help" feature will identify the 3 closest food pantries to you. Text FINDHOOD (or COMIDA for Spanish) to 888-976-2232. Then give your zip code when prompted.

 

-applications are now open for the Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT), which provides a one-time payment of $256.50 for each eligible child who received free or reduced-price school meals in 2019-2020. Families who currently receive SNAP are automatically enrolled, while all others will need to apply. The application and more info at: https://dfcs.georgia.gov/pandemic-electronic-benefit-transfer: https://dfcs.georgia.gov/pandemic-electronic-benefit-transfer

 

-Note: TANF and SNAP renewals for March through August have been extended for 6 months. Medical Assistance (MA) and Peachcare renewals for March through October have been extended for 6 months. https://dfcs.georgia.gov

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CHILDCARE

-UPDATE: have a child 17 or under, but not required to file taxes? Check the IRS website: you may qualify for the Advance Child Tax Credit (and need to register to receive monthly payments): https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021

 

-Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL)'s Childcare and Parent Services (CAPS) program provides financial assistance to help cover the cost of childcare to various priority groups, including low-income individuals, those participating in TANF employment or support services, those without regular housing, and other priority groups. See here if you are eligible: https://caps.decal.ga.gov/en/EligibilityRequirements. Earlier this year, CAPS was also extended to frontline emergency/healthcare professionals and food/grocery/restaurant/food manufacturing personnel. Click here for details and to apply: https://families.decal.ga.gov/Parent/Add

-the YMCA of Metro Atlanta is offering childcare to frontline workers who are required to work from home. Cost is $40 per day per child, though financial assistance is available (contact Marjie Mitchell at IAYchildcare@ymcaatlanta.org). https://ymcaatlanta.org/community-update (see first responders section)

-Quality Care for Children’s helpline is assisting people in finding childcare centers that remain open: 1-877-255-4254

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-HOPE Inc. provides rental and childcare assistance to folks in the Metro Atlanta area. Please see the requirements and applications here: www.hopbe.org/index.php/apply

 

SENIORS

-Gwinnett County Senior Services is providing home-delivered meals to seniors - as well as health and mobility assistance - for those who need assistance during this time (even if they were not already enrolled in services, pre-COVID): call 678.377.4150.

-AARP Friendly Voices program is connecting seniors and other individuals interested in hearing a "friendly voice" on the other end of the phone line. Submit at: https://aarpcommunityconnections.org/friendly-voices. Or call 1-888-281-0145.

 

ERRANDS

-SafeRide America is providing free emergency errand service to those affected by COVID-19: https://saferideamerica.org

-TaskRabbit and the United Way are connecting immunocompromised, elderly, disabled, healthcare workers to folks who have volunteered to complete their tasks for free (e.g., picking up groceries, meals or medications, etc.) Request help here: https://uwvolunteerhelp.tr.co

 

HOUSING/UTILITIES

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-CLICK HERE FOR EVICTION MORATORIUM DECLARATION FORM (PDF). Starting Sep 4, qualifying tenants may submit a Declaration to their landlords to avoid evictions through Jul 31 (final extension) for inability to pay rent timely, per CDC Order. To invoke this protection, persons must provided an executed copy of the Declaration to their landlord, or whoever holds the right of eviction. Each adult listed on the lease should also provide a Declaration. Note: This DOES NOT DISCHARGE ANY RENT DUE, including any rent – and interest, fees, and penalties – that may accrue. More info (including original copies of the form) here: www.federalregister.gov/documents/2020/09/04/2020-19654/temporary-halt-in-residential-evictions-to-prevent-the-further-spread-of-covid-19

 

-Gwinnett County residents in danger of imminent evictions may be able to seek assistance through the Project RESET 2.0 Program. Residents in need of assistance available through Project RESET can get additional information on eligibility and applying at https://www.gwinnettcounty.com/web/gwinnett/departments/financialservices/grants/emergencyrentalassistanceprogram

 

-UPDATE: LiveNorcross has now launched its rental assistance program: https://gwinnetthousing.org/livenorcrosshousingassistance.

 

-per the federal stimulus package, there is moratorium until Jul 31 (final extension) on foreclosures (including those already pending) and evictions of homeowners with FHA-insured loans* (e.g., by lenders Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac), though though multifamily property owners of Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac mortgages will have forbearance and tenant protections through Sep. 30. Borrowers of such loans may request and receive up to six months of forbearance on payments during this period (though interest will still accrue). You can check online to see if your loan is owned by Freddie Mac (https://ww3.freddiemac.com/loanlookup) or Fannie Mae (www.knowyouroptions.com/loanlookup). If you need additional resources or information, visit: https://dbf.georgia.gov/foreclosure. Freddie and Fannie borrowers: please note that both lenders have also announced COVID-19 related payment deferral plan options. https://freddiemac.gcs-web.com/news-releases/news-release-details/freddie-mac-announces-covid-19-payment-deferral, https://www.fanniemae.com/portal/funding-the-market/mbs/news/2020/covid-19-payment-deferral-051320.html

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-even if your loan doesn't qualify, your bank may be offering its own relief: www.cnbc.com/…/what-banks-are-doing-to-help-americans-affec…

-per the federal stimulus package, landlords with FHA-insured mortgages (see above) temporarily cannot evict their renters or charge any fees or penalties for nonpayment of rent, through the extension of these periods

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-UPDATE: To those who hold mortgages with Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac: Fannie Mae’s RefiNow program – which seeks to assist qualified lower-income borrowers with mortgage refinancing – opened today. Freddie Mac’s version of the program, Refi Possible, will open on August 30. Info on RefiNow: www.fanniemae.com/newsroom/fannie-mae-news/fannie-maes-new-refinance-option-available-beginning-june-5.

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-as of July 14, the Supreme Court of Georgia has resumed normal deadlines for certain procedures – including the normal 7-day deadline for tenants to file an ANSWER to eviction warrants. If you think this even MIGHT apply to you, and want to see whether there’s an active case against you, check: https://odyssey.gwinnettcourts.com/Portal. If you need assistance, please see resources by Housing Justice League: www.housingjusticeleague.org/evictiondefense

-Star-C is an Atlanta-based non-profit providing assistance for renters living in lower-income areas. The tenant approaches the landlord with an application, the landlord registers for the program, and the tenant funds 50%, landlord 10%, and Star-C 40% of the outstanding balance. See here to apply: www.star-c.org/eviction-relief

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-the Norcross Assessment Center by HomeFirst Gwinnett has opened at last, located right at 5320 Jimmy Carter Blvd in HD 99 (where The Nett Church’s Nettwork Campus also is). For those at risk for eviction, including from extended stays, or experiencing homelessness, you can visit or call the center at (770) 847-6765. For more on HomeFirst Gwinnett: www.unitedwayatlanta.org/program/homefirst-gwinnett

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-HomeFirst Gwinnett is conducting preliminary eligibility checks for rental resource assistance in the wake of COVID-19. Fill out the form here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeQ2Ep2eVn7d7Ld2N7fuTmxlFSAENVAO8zv-rFqrdb3IDgFlA/viewform

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-if you're facing an eviction or other housing emergency due to COVID-19, the Housing Justice League has launched its Housing Emergency Call Center: (404) 946-9953. Please also see HJL's "Eviction Defense" resources: www.housingjusticeleague.org/evictiondefense
 

-for those at risk for eviction from extended-stays or experiencing homelessness, you may request assistance through the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia: https://docs.google.com/…/1FAIpQLSeMLy0fI6xzKvQnsu…/viewform
 

-Atlanta Legal Aid is also extending legal assistance to folks facing eviction, including from extended stay hotels. See here: atlantalegalaid.org/apply
 

-Atlanta Displaced Students: request temporary housing & storage here: https://tinyurl.com/sz4ccz2
 

-the Georgia Public Service Commission is keeping a running list of utilities that have suspended disconnections. Note: this does not include cable, internet, or water, as PSC does not regulate those. List: https://psc.ga.gov/…
 

-Gwinnett Dep't of Water Resources encourages any customer who is having a difficult time making water bill payments to contact its Customer Care Team: (678) 376-6800.
 

-other standing utility-assistance programs: the Salvation Army of Gwinnett County is continuing to provide utility and other financial assistance through its Project SHARE. Call (770) 724-1661. See other utility assistance programs here: www.psc.state.ga.us/consumer_corn…/cc_advisory/payassist.asp
 

-HOPE Atlanta is providing emergency housing/utility assistance: https://docs.google.com/…/1FAIpQLSextj_515N9omTyBn…/viewform

 

-HOPE Inc. provides rental and childcare assistance to folks in the Metro Atlanta area. Please see the requirements and applications here: www.hopbe.org/index.php/apply

 

-Georgia Power is offering a special payment plan to help customers with past-due account balances accumulated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Customers who enroll will be able to pay past-due balances over a six-month timeframe between October 2020 and March 2021 with no late fees. www.georgiapower.com/company/news-center/press-releases.html

 

-LIHEAP CARES – an extension of regular LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) benefits that help low-income households pay for heating/cooling – is now open. The program will provide $350-$400 towards household energy costs, to persons who are at or below 60% of the state median income. More information in English and Spanish here: https://dfcs.georgia.gov/services/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap. To apply in Gwinnett, contact the Partnership for Community Action: https://pcaction.org/low-income-home-energy-assistance-liheap

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-UPDATE: the Emergency Broadband Benefit will provide a discount of up to $50 per month towards broadband service for eligible households and up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands. Eligible households can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers if they contribute more than $10 and less than $50 toward the purchase price. The Emergency Broadband Benefit is limited to one monthly service discount and one device discount per household. https://www.fcc.gov/broadbandbenefit

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-For free public access to the Internet, see the Georgia Broadband Deployment Initiative page: https://broadband.georgia.gov/georgia-internet-access-covid-19-update

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EDUCATION

-UPDATE: per the federal stimulus package and Executive Order, payments and interest on all federally held students loans are waived until Sep. 30, 2021. Note: this relief does NOT apply to federal loans held by guarantors or higher education institutions, or to private loans. To check on who owns your loans: https://studentaidhelp.ed.gov/…/viewing-your-loan-and-grant…. For more info: https://studentaid.gov/announcements-events/coronavirus…. Note: beyond COVID-19, borrowers always have the option to request forbearance from their lenders for hardship and other reasons, though typically documentation is required in various instances.

-per the federal stimulus package, the Higher Education Emergency Relief (HEER) Fund allow universities to distribute grants to students in need to cover expenses related to the disruption of campus operations due to COVID-19. The amount of each HEER Fund Grant is based on eligibility for need-based federal financial aid and the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) generated from the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Contact your university's financial aid office if you haven't heard about whether you qualify.

-HoPe (Hispanic Organization Promoting Education) have made various English and Spanish educational resources available, including offering virtual educational appointments in either language: www.hopestrong.org/education
 

-Rise is providing "case management" assistance to help students affected by COVID-19 to find emergency financial aid, apply for public benefits, and connect with local resources: https://risefree.org/covid-19-help

 

-the Atlanta HBCU Alumni Alliance is offering $250 scholarships to students who live in Atlanta, will be attending any HBCU in the country in 2020, and have been affected by COVID-19. https://hbcualumniatlanta.org/covid19-fund

 

-Scholly is providing $200 in cash assistance to students, parents of a student, or graduates. http://myscholly.com/relief

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-21 Savage and Chime are sharing free online financial literacy resources from EverFi to help with at-home learning for students and families across the country. www.chime.com/21savage

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EMPLOYMENT

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-as of August 2020, the following COVID-19 unemployment insurance programs have been/are being administered, besides regular Unemployment Insurance (UI. Note: individuals need only apply to UI and, if applicable, PUA to be determined eligible for any of these:

 

(1) Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation program (FPUC) provided an additional $600 weekly payment to any individual eligible for UI. The FPUC program ended July 31, 2020.

(2) Lost Wages Assistance (LWA) Program provides an additional $300 weekly payment to eligible individuals, for weeks ending from Aug. 1 to Sep. 5 (contingent on availability of federal FEMA funds).

(3) Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA), which provides unemployment benefits to individuals do not normally qualify for state UI such as self-employed, gig workers, 1099 independent contractors, employees of churches, employees of non-profits, or those with limited work history. This program is set to expire the week ending Dec. 26, unless the federal government extends it. For updated info, see link below.

(4) Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation program (PEUC) which provides a 13-week extension to regular UI benefits. This program is set to expire the week ending Dec. 26, unless the federal government extends it. For updated info, see link below.

(5) State Extended Benefits (SEB) which provides an additional extension to UI benefits on top of PEUC, for a max of 20 weeks. This program is set to expire the week ending Dec. 26, unless the federal government extends it. For updated info, see link below.

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See for more info: https://dol.georgia.gov/gdol-covid-19-information

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-UPDATE: GDOL encourages all folks who have already filed claims to CONTINUE CHECKING THE UI PORTAL and REQUESTING PAYMENTS WEEKLY. It continues to implement new federal guidance from Dec. 2020 onwards. For more info: https://dol.georgia.gov/gdol-covid-19-information.

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-GDOL has introduced tutorials for applying to Unemployment Insurance (UI) and Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA), at https://dol.georgia.gov/individual-claims and https://dol.georgia.gov/pua. Common mistakes include those included here in this article; and this one. For folks having trouble, note that their customer service contacts are: 1-877-709-8185 and customerservice@gdol.ga.gov. If you have had trouble getting through and are an HD 99 resident, please contact marvinlimforga@marvinlimforga.com for further assistance.

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-for those who don't quality for Georgia's State Unemployment Insurance, you may still quality for FEMA's Disaster Unemployment Assistance, which is also administered through the state's Department of Labor (DOL): https://dol.georgia.gov/faqs-individuals/individuals-faqs-disaster-related-benefits

-WSB-TV is curating a list of companies, like grocery stores and retailers, that are hiring in Atlanta in the midst of COVID-19 (and in some cases temporarily increasing pay): www.wsbtv.com/…/these-are-compan…/5GYRDGADH5HXFKGP4FCDODNM6Q
 

-see also the job boards at Partnership Gwinnett (www.partnershipgwinnett.com/job-board) and Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce (www.gwinnettchamber.org/job-board), and ATL Insider Blog (https://www.atlanta.net/Blog/Atlanta-Job-Openings-and-Resources-during-Coronavirus-Crisis)

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-the Legal Network for Gender Equity and the National Women's Law Center is connecting workers to attorneys for legal help or questions about new laws that allow paid sick leave in the wake of COVID-19. Lawyers in the Network will provide a free initial meeting. https://nwlc.org/legal-assistance

 

-WorkSource Georgia is continuing to provide assistance on workforce development, including to those laid-off, losing self-employment income, unemployed for extended periods, and/or a dislocated worker. https://tcsg.edu/worksource/covid-19-employment-training-assistance

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FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

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-UPDATE: FEMA will provide financial assistance for COVID-19-related funeral expenses incurred after January 20, 2020. The applicant must be a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified alien who incurred funeral expenses after January 20, 2020; there is no requirement for the deceased person to have been a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified alien. FEMA will begin accepting applications for Funeral Assistance on Monday, April 12, 2021 through its dedicated call center: 844-684-6333. For more information on eligibility and requirements: www.fema.gov/disasters/coronavirus/economic/funeral-assistance   

 

-the $2 trillion federal stimulus package signed into law on Mar 27 will grant relief to Americans in the form of a one-time check (most will receive $1,200). You may now check the status of your check (i.e., "Economic Impact Payment") online: www.irs.gov/coronavirus/get-my-payment. There is no need to apply - EXCEPT those who aren't normally required to file federal income taxes, like individuals with <$12K income, should visit the IRS website and fill out your information here: www.irs.gov/coronavirus/non-filers-enter-payment-info-here (deadline: Nov. 21)

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-UPDATE: most people will not have to reapply to get their second or third stimulus checks (“Recovery Rebate Credit”). You can check the status of your payment here: https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/get-my-payment. However, if you are a non-filer and did not apply last year through the IRS “Get My Payment” tool – or you did receive a payment, but did not receive the maximum amount and/or have changed circumstances – you can still get your full 2021 payment by filing Form 1040 or 1040-SR for 2020. More info here: www.irs.gov/newsroom/recovery-rebate-credit

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-Previously: SSA, SSI, SSDI, RRB, & VA recipients who were unable to provide info in the spring to receive Economic Impact Payments for their children ($500/child): you had until Sep. 30 to enter your information @ www.irs.gov/nonfilereip. SSA/RRB/SSI/VA beneficiaries who are non-filers: you will receive your individual payment with no further action, but if you have a qualifying child, you must have entered your payment info with the IRS to receive the $500 per dependent payment, by Apr 22 (SSA/RRB) or May 5 (SSI/VA). The deadline for folks to enter their payment info to receive their check via direct deposit was May 13 (after which physical checks will be sent). The IRS has also updated its FAQs at www.irs.gov/coro…/economic-impact-payment-information-center. The IRS has also opened the hotline to answer questions about these payments: 1-800-919-9835.

 

-non-filers may also choose to complete and fill out your tax return for free at http://turbotax.intuit.com/stimulus-check. For additional help, see the "TAXES" section below.

 

-the Giving Kitchen provides financial assistance to food service workers who have to miss work because of COVID-19 (no unemployment covered). https://thegivingkitchen.org/help

 

-Penny Appeal USA (national org) is taking applications for financial hardship grants due to COVID-19: https://pennyappealusa.org/…/covid-19-financial-hardship-gr…
 

-One Fair Wage is accepting requests for cash assistance from service workers, through its Emergency Coronavirus Tipped and Service Worker Support Fund: https://ofwemergencyfund.org

-the National Domestic Workers Alliance has started a fund to provide emergency assistance to home care workers, nannies and house cleaners. Funds will first be distributed to for those who have participated in NDWA activities, but the fund is asking others to fill out an interest form: https://domesticworkers.org/coronavirus-care-fund

-Restaurant Workers' Community Foundation is offering a relief fund for restaurant workers. Apply here: www.restaurantworkerscf.org/covid19faq

-Another Round Another Rally is providing $500 relief grants to folks in the hospitality/service industry. Apply here: https://forms.gle/cBq1M6jpcbWaDW9b6

-the Restaurant Strong Fund is providing relief grants to restaurant workers who have worked for 3 months over 30 hours a week. https://thegreghillfoundation.submittable.com/…/restaurant-…

-the Professional Beauty Association is providing $500 relief grants to licensed beauty professionals unable to work due to COVID-19: www.probeauty.org/covid-relief-fund-ap…/covid-19-application

-various relief funds have been established for those in the film industry: www.georgia.org/covid19film

-the Lambda Theta Alpha Foundation Disaster Relief Fund is providing relief to displaced students, individuals who've contracted COVID-19, and families/individuals impacted even without contracting COVID-19. www.jotform.com/LTAfoundation/Covid-relief

-Modest Needs is providing financial assistance to those who are living just above the poverty level, and so ineligible for conventional public assistance: www.modestneeds.org

-COVID-19 Financial Solidarity is distributing small grants to impacted individuals: https://docs.google.com/…/1TteQjjyhmferxIT6kETUhU…/viewform…
 

-the Metro Atlanta Mutual Aid Fund is providing financial assistance to those from traditionally vulnerable communities impacted by COVID-19: www.atlantamutualaid.org/apply
 

-Expensify.org is reimbursing SNAP recipients up to $50 for essential goods and groceries purchased on their SNAP card: www.expensify.org/hunger#reimbursement

 

-Southern Equality is providing $100 emergency assistance grants to LGBTQ southerners. https://southernequality.org/fund-your-work/covid-19-rapid-response-grant-round-emergency-assistance-for-individuals-and-families

 

-RedRover Relief Emergency Boarding grant program helps animals who need temporary boarding while their owners are ill due to the COVID-19 virus. This grant will cover the cost of up to two (2) weeks of boarding while a pet owner is hospitalized, or if the pet owner is recovering at home and unable to care for their pet. https://redrover.org/relief/emergency-boarding-grants/?j=3269535&jb=3&l=395_HTML&mid=7222528&sfmc_sub=17529884&u=227030315

 

-immigrants, particularly those who don't qualify for the stimulus payment: see "IMMIGRANTS" section below.

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CONSUMER/FINANCIAL PROTECTION

-the federal and state governments have warned consumers to watch out for scams and fraudulent behavior, including those selling
bogus products, as well as fake emails, texts, and social media posts designed to steal people’s money and personal information. See http://consumer.ga.gov. Complaints to Georgia's Consumer Protection Division: http://consumer.ga.gov/consumer-services/filing-a-complaint. For more consumer protection links, check out the first section of our Know Your Rights Compilation, at www.marvinlimforga.com/neighborhood

-consumers should also watch out for price gouging, as the Governor has declared that businesses may not sell common COVID-19 response products at a price higher than they were sold or offered before the Governor's declaration of State of Emergency. To report violations, consumers should call 404-651-8600 or complete the online complaint form: http://consumer.ga.gov/…/price-gou…/step1/price-gouging-form

-the AG's office is additionally warning against 3 newer types of scams: contact tracing scams, false promises about additional stimulus money, and work-at-home/car advertising scams. https://law.georgia.gov/…/consumer-alert-fraudsters-perpetr…

-for those who need free or low-cost financial or credit counseling, see the following organizations: (a) Money Management International, call (404) 260-3196. Counseling is also available by MMI 24/7 at 1-866-550-8004 or 1-866-889-9347, (b) Hispanic Center for Financial Excellence, 2125 Beaver Ruin Rd, Ste. 200, Norcross, GA 30071, call 1-877-705-3167, or (c) Boat People SOS-Atlanta, 6107 Oakbrook Pkwy, Norcross, GA 30093, call (770) 458-6700

-all 3 credit bureaus - Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion - are now offering free weekly online credit reports (credit scores not included) through Apr. 2021. Go to www.annualcreditreport.com

 

IMMIGRANTS/MULTICULTURAL/LINGUAL
 

-Stilt is a private startup providing personal lending for all sorts of visa holders, immigrants, non-U.S. citizens and the underserved - including those who do not have a Social Security Number. The minimum loan amount in GA is $3,001, and approved purposes include paying rent, car payments, medical expenses, credit card bills, among others (small business loans are not yet approved). For more info, see: www.stilt.com

-Mission Asset Fund is providing $500 grants for those who do not qualify for the stimulus payment b/c of immigration status: https://missionassetfund.org/immigrant-families-grant

-NAKASEC is providing $500 grants for those who do not qualify for the stimulus payment b/c of immigration status: https://tinyurl.com/y9qat877

-# RentRelief is providing $200 grants for immigrants and their families: https://tinyurl.com/y8bvl7tl

-the Immigrant Worker Safety Net Fund is providing financial assistance to day laborers, migrants, and other low-wage workers. There is no application, so please contact them directly. Details at: https://ndlon.org/immigrant-worker-safety-net-fund

-Movimiento Cosecha is giving financial assistance to undocumented workers through its Undocumented Worker Fund. www.lahuelga.com/undocumented-worker-fund

-the Betancourt Macias Family Scholarship Foundation is establishing a fund for undocumented immigrants who need assistance during this crisis: call (360) 524-3664

-Betancourt Macias is also providing free protective masks for undocumented immigrants. https://bit.ly/34XCuLa

-see HoPe (Hispanic Organization Promoting Education) under EDUCATION above (English and Spanish educational resources available, including virtual educational appointments in either language)

-for information on eligibility for various public programs, see https://protectingimmigrantfamilies.org/immigrant-eligibili… and & https://mydocumentedlife.org/…/resources-for-undocumented-i…

-Note: COVID-19 treatment/preventative care, even if paid for by public benefits, and unemployment benefits will not count in any “public charge” determination by the USCIS. Payment from the federal stimulus relief, for which DACA and TPS recipients are eligible having SSNs, is also not a "public charge."

-the Latin American Association, Lawrenceville Outreach Center, continues to provide rent and other assistance through its Financial Assistance program: (770) 676-2852

-for resources in other languages (Spanish, Vietnamese, etc.): Marvin Lim for GA, originally published February (www.marvinlimforga.com/find-resources); Center for Pan Asian Community Services (https://tinyurl.com/s5t9enz); Asian Americans Advancing Justice (http://advancingjustice-atlanta.org/tab/show/38); Unidos Georgia (www.unidosgeorgia.com/ayuda); Latino Community Fund (https://lcfgeorgia.org/covid-19); Georgia Latino Alliance for Human Rights (https://bit.ly/3bYZxI9); Latin American Association (https://thelaa.org/esp/covid-19)

-for those, such as Asian-Americans, who have experienced discrimination, racism, or xenophobia, please call the Stop Hate hotline by the Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights: 1-844-9-NO-HATE

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-the National Asian Pacific Bar Association (NAPABA) seeks to provide pro bono legal assistance to those who have experienced hate crimes or hate/bias incidents in the wake of COVID-19, with assistance provided on the basis of urgency and need. For their intake form, see: https://surveymonkey.com/r/XH9CWNG

 

SMALL BUSINESSES

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-the federal Small Business Administration is extending disaster assistance to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture, and most private, non-profit organizations of all sizes. See: www.sba.gov/…/coronavirus-covid-19-small-business-guidance-…. I also did a quick primer in English and Spanish available here: www.marvinlimforga.com/neighborhood. For a sample of docs to compile before applying see here: https://aceloans.org. For lenders: https://hankjohnson.house.gov/ppp-lenders-georgia. US Rep. Hank Johnson has also encouraged questions to be directed at his small business liaison Xeron Pledger, at Ga04.SmallBusiness@mail.house.gov.

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-UPDATE: restaurants (and bakeries, bars, catering companies, etc.) will be able to apply for SBA COVID-19 relief through the Restaurant Revitalization Fund, beginning late April. For information on the Restaurant Revitalization Fund, see https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/covid-19-relief-options/restaurant-revitalization-fund

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-UPDATE: small businesses (inc. sole proprietors and independent contractors) are able to apply through SBA-qualified lenders for SBA’s Payment Protection Program – including some who received PPP benefits previously. Applications open on a limited basis Mon, Jan 11 to those who haven’t received a PPP loan previously IF applying through smaller banks/financial institutions only, then Wed, Jan 13 to those who have received one previously who apply through these same small banks/institutions. SBA will soon announce the procedure after that, including for those who apply through larger lenders. Applications will continue through March 31 (UPDATE: extended to May 31) , or whenever funds run out. For more info, inc. info on what will be requested by lenders: www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/coronavirus-relief-options/paycheck-protection-program

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-the American Institute of CPAs and its business and technology arm, CPA.com, have released a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan forgiveness platform, PPPForgivenessTool.com, which automates the forgiveness process for small business owners who have received funds from the PPP. www.pppforgivenesstool.com

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-for those not applying for Disaster loans, the SBA has also launched Lender Match tool, a "free online tool that connects small businesses with SBA-approved CDFIs and small lenders. Do not use if looking for Disaster loans." www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/lender-match

 

-USDA's Coronavirus Food Assistance Program, which provides direct payments, was open through Aug  28, for agricultural producers who've suffered a 5% or greater price decline. https://farmers.gov/cfap, 1-877-508-8364

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-the Farmer Fund COVID-19 emergency relief support provides grants of up to $1,000 per farm. It is intended for Georgia-based sustainable and organic farmers suffering financial loss due to the COVID-19 pandemic. www.thefarmerfund.org

-the Georgia Small Business/Nonprofit COVID-19 Pro Bono Clinic is providing a free, 45-minute remote consultation with a volunteer attorney for entrepreneurs and small businesses with fewer than 25 employees as well as 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations who have suffered adversely from the impact of the COVID-19 crisis. Sign up here: www.lawyersforgoodgovernment.org/covid-small-business-georg…
 

-CASE at Duke has created COVID19 Capital Relief, a searchable database for global, national and regional capital sources for profit and nonprofit entrepreneurs at risk due to COVID19: https://bit.ly/COVID19CapitalRelief

-the James Beard Foundation has established a relief fund for restaurants during the COVID-19 crisis: https://airtable.com/shr4d9x0OwCFCkCLn

-Facebook will be administering a Small Business Grants Program in response to COVID-19. Applications are not available yet, but stay tuned (and sign up to be updated) here: https://www.facebook.com/business/boost/grant

-LISC and Verizon are offering small businesses facing immediate financial threat because of COVID19 up to a $10K grant, especially to entrepreneurs of color, women-owned businesses and other enterprises in historically under-served places who don’t have access to flexible, affordable capital. The next round of applications will be in mid-April: https://www.lisc.org/…/small-business-relief-grants/verizon…
 

-Kiva, a non-profit that provides 0% loans to entrepreneurs serving underserved communities, is expanding eligibility for its loans in responsive to COVID-19. See here: www.kiva.org/…/support-local-businesses-during-the-coronavi…
 

-Hello Alice is offering $10,000 grants being distributed immediately to impacted small business owners: www.covid19businesscenter.com
 

-the Red Backpack Fund is making 1,000 grants of $5,000 each to impacted female entrepreneurs in the U.S.: www.globalgiving.org/redbackpackfund
 

-the SheaMoisture Fund is supporting impacted women of color entrepreneurs and minority-owned businesses: www.sheamoisturefund.com/about
 

-Opportunity Fund is providing assistance to low- and moderate-income immigrants, women, and underserved small business owners: www.opportunityfund.org/assistance-for-small-business-owner…
 

-the Doonie Fund is providing $100 grants to black women-owned businesses: www.digitalundivided.com/the-doonie-fund 
 

-Moms as Entrepreneurs is providing $500-$1,000 grants to mom entrepreneurs: www.maeentrepreneur.com/covid-19-fund 
 

-the Mom Project Stronger Together Fund is providing funding for "family friendly" businesses to help fund contractors or new full-time roles: https://work.themomproject.com/stronger-together-fund

 

-ACCION is a non-profit that provides loans to small businesses in various industries. https://us.accion.org/small-business-loans/see-if-i-qualify
 

-the Georgia Insurance Commissioner has directed insurers not to cancel any commercial insurance policies for 60 days beginning Mar 20. If your insurer violates this directive, visit the Consumer Complaint Portal: www.oci.ga.gov/consumerservice/complaintprocess.aspx

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-the Georgia Restaurant Association (GRA) is offering THRIVE Georgia – a training program that allows businesses with up to 500 employees in the Georgia restaurant sector to educate their employees virtually on the latest state regulations to ensure they are compliant and safe. THRIVE Georgia courses cover dining room configuration and layout; employee safety; and environmental safety and sanitation, ensuring employees understand what is expected of them and to keep themselves and their colleagues safe. www.garestaurants.org/news/covid-19-safety-training-for-georgia-restaurants

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-the UndocuFund for Entrepreneurs is a grant that provides financial support to undocumented entrepreneurs and small business owners of diverse descent currently engaging in commercial activity in Georgia with annual revenues up to $100,000. $1,000 grants are to be used to support, basic equipment, materials and supplies, occupancy, and other expenses related to re-starting commercial activity as a way to provide food, shelter and self-sufficiency for immigrant families. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeETocaedoYyteg0hwZyYVbD_eraRhLLWBoOK9q2uFUpfBiPQ/viewform

 

-the Federal Reserve has opened application for its Main Street Lending Program, which offers 5-year (non-forgivable) loans beginning at $250,000 to small and medium-sized businesses and non-profits in sound financial condition before COVID-19. See website for more info, including lenders in Georgia who will be accepting applications directly: www.bostonfed.org/supervision-and-regulation/supervision/special-facilities/main-street-lending-program/main-street-lending-program-overview.aspx

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TAXES & RETIREMENT

-the deadline for federal and Georgia state income tax filings AND payments was moved to May 17, 2021. For assistance to those making $57,000 or less, persons with disabilities, seniors, and limited English speaking taxpayers, the federal VITA program is administered locally to provide assistance with taxes, as well as free virtual programs. See www.unitedwayatlanta.org/2021/01/15/freetaxprep

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-those who had an adjusted gross income (AGI) of $72,000 or below also qualify for free file software via the IRS. www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free. See also the AARP Foundation for additional free sources of filing software. https://signup.aarpfoundation.org/preparing-your-taxes-online-v2

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-the North Georgia Low Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC) provides free tax law services to low-income people, inc. responding to  IRS letters, contesting tax  adjustments,  refund  litigation, and collections matters. They do NOT assist in preparing tax returns to taxpayer ID  applications. www.gataxclinic.com

 

-per the federal stimulus package, you may quality to withdraw up to $100,000 from your 401(k), IRA, or workplace retirement plan without penalty, if you've experienced certain physical or negative consequences because of COVID-19. As of June 2020, this now comprises individuals who themselves, their spouses, AND/OR dependents have been diagnosed with COVID-19, and have faced adversed financial consequences of their/their spouse's/their dependents': (a) being quarantined, furloughed or laid off, had work hours reduced; (b) unable to work because of childcare, (c) having had businesses they owned or operated closed or hours reduced; (d) having had pay or self-employment income reduced; and (e) and/or having had job offers rescinded or start date delayed because of COVID-19. www.irs.gov/newsroom/relief-for-taxpayers-affected-by-covid-19-who-take-distributions-or-loans-from-retirement-plans

 

GWINNETT COUNTY GOVERNMENT INFO

-Gwinnett service updates are here: www.gwinnettcounty.com/portal/gwinnett/Alert

 

-Gwinnett Qualify of Life Unit (to report violations of litter and other ordinances on private property): gwinnettcounty.com/web/gwinnett/departments/planninganddevelopment/codeenforcementqualityoflife, (770) 513-5020 (or (770) 513-5004 for 24-hour reporting)

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-Gwinnett Clean and Beautiful (to report graffiti), gwinnettcb.org/contact-us/report-graffiti, (770) 822-5187

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-Gwinnett Citizen Self-Service (to report public road/signage, water, and parks issues): gwinnettcounty.com/web/gwinnett/Services/CitizenSelfService

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-Gwinnett Solid Waste Management (to resolve waste management issues or request 65-gallon recycling bin): gwinnettcounty.com/web/gwinnett/services/solidwastemanagement/residentialservices, (770) 822-7141. For other ways to recycle: gwinnettcb.org/recycling

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-Gwinnett Animal Shelter (enforcement of animal leash laws and provision of shelter for abandoned animals): (770) 339-3200

 

-Gwinnett County Senior Services: (404) 463-3333, gwinnettcounty.com/web/gwinnett/departments/communityservices/healthhumanservices/seniorservices

 

-Gwinnett County Police Department, West Precinct (serves HD 99 in unincorporated Norcross & Lilburn): (678) 442-6551. See also website for helpful numbers and personnel: bit.ly/2L5Gtww

(for community outreach: henry.mesa@gwinnettcounty.com, for crime-prevention in rental units: christian.matos@gwinnettcounty.com); GCPD Complaints and Commendations: (770) 513-5500

 

-Gwinnett County Police, Emergency Management Office (for disaster preparedness and response): (770) 513-5600, gwinnettcounty.com/web/gwinnett/Departments/Police/EmergencyManagement

 

OTHER

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Resources Related to Policing  (added Jun. 1):

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-protesting: staying healthy (https://publichealthinsider.com/2020/06/01/answering-questions-about-protests-and-covid-19); Know Your Rights - ACLU (www.aclu.org/know-your-rights/protesters-rights); our Know Your Rights compilations (www.marvinlimforga.com/neighborhood); keeping technology secure (Electronic Frontier Foundation, https://bit.ly/2TZYOPS)

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-policing Know Your Rights: iAmerica (https://iamerica.org/know-your-rights); AAAJ (https://advancingjustice-atlanta.org/page/47)

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-surviving law enforcement encounters: “10 Rules of Survival If Stopped by the Police,” by The Dare To Be King (www.youtube.com/watch?v=wqJ-psD9vJw)

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-Gwinnett County Police Department: GCPD West Precinct, which serves our area (678-442-6551; for community outreach, henry.mesa@gwinnettcounty.com;  crime-prevention in rental units: christian.matos@gwinnettcounty.com); GCPD Complaints and Commendations, (770-513-5500

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-human trafficking: National Human Trafficking Hotline (888-373-7888, text 233733)

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-crime victims: Georgia's Crime Victims Compensation Program (http://crimevictimscomp.ga.gov/about-us; 800-547-0060); Crime Victims Advocacy Council Helpline (770-333-9254)

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-for other resources and numbers, see www.marvinlimforga.com/find-resources (“Most Commonly Requested Resources” document)

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Beyond these programs, please peruse our extensive "COMMUNITY RESOURCES" guide, which regards existing resources/organizations: www.marvinlimforga.com/find-resources (in English, Spanish, Vietnamese, & Korean). This guide includes various categories, inc. mini-outlines on re: various forms of public assistance, from economic to employment (inc. filing for unemployment in Georgia) to healthcare, as well as multicultural resources for helping various minority groups navigate. (Note: there are two versions, the original and the “Most Commonly Requested” version). These organizations are experiencing higher volume than usual, but equity of access to information is important, so I want to provide it.

 

Feel free also to check about other 15 resources I've developed that might be helpful in your situation @ www.marvinlimforga.com/neighborhood. These include:

-Know Your Rights Compilation (inc. section on rights in emergencies, utilities, etc.), 
-General Labor Jobs (inc. workplace rights)
-Tenant Rights 
-Emergencies & Crises: Prevent & Plan

-Healthcare: Advocate for Yourself | Managing Your Costs
-Local Business, Global Flavor, for supporting local restaurants in HD 99 (uninc. Norcross/Tucker/Lilburn)

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NEED ADDITIONAL ASSISTANCE?

 

Are you in HD 99, have reviewed this information, but still need further assistance? Please fill out this Contact form.