COVID-19 Mission Control.

Resources for Living

All employees have free access to Resources for Living, a website that has information on a variety of wellness topics, including tips to handle the anxiety or stress you might feel as a result of this outbreak. It also includes helpful information on fitness, healthy eating and nutrition tips – positive habits that can be useful in taking care of yourself and keeping healthy.  CLICK HERE to access the site. Username: Learning Care Group Password: EAP

Daily Strength 

Daily Strength serves as an online forum for mental wellness and stress relief strategies. You can create a free membership on this website to access a wealth of valuable wellness & coping tools.   Please visit the website: https://www.dailystrength.org/ 

SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) Helpline: (800) 662-4357  

This organization provides information, education and access to substance abuse and mental illness programs nationwide. The Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator is a search tool to locate behavioral health and substance abuse/addiction services. You can access this tool by clicking on the following link: https://www.samhsa.gov/findtreatment. After completing the search criteria you can view a list of treatment providers, their contact information and other pertinent details. You may also call the number above to receive free and confidential information about treatment services in your area. 

National Council for Behavioral Health (NCBH) 

The NCBH operates nationally and connects individuals to local behavioral health providers in their area. For assistance in locating a therapist or other trained professional, please visit their website: https://www.thenationalcouncil.org/ 

Crisis Text Line

Crisis Text Line is free, 24/7 support for those in crisis. Text 741741 from anywhere in the US to text with a trained Crisis Counselor. Crisis Text Line trains volunteers to support people in crisis. 

Crisis Chat Line

CRISISline is a 24-hour, 7-day a week confidential hotline offering a nonjudgmental sounding board for people to talk about life's struggles. Trained phone workers are available to offer a listening ear and to provide community resources and crisis intervention. Certified by the American Association of Suicidology, the line staffs workers trained in active listening, brainstorming and crisis intervention/suicide prevention. MHAGC is also part of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (800) 273-TALK (8255). 

IMAlive Virtual Crisis Center

IMAlive is the world’s first virtual crisis center. It is the world’s first crisis center where 100% of the volunteers are trained in crisis intervention. https://www.imalive.org/ 

Financial Wellness 

 

Please note:  This is being provided as a resource to you. We do not endorse the listings below and ask that you please do your due diligence prior to following any financial advice.

 

General financial assistance:

 

Need Help Paying Bills

www.needhelppayingbills.com

Provides information on assistance programs, charity organizations, and resources that provide help paying bills, mortgage and debt relief (financial, rent and government assistance).

 

Aunt Bertha

www.auntbertha.com

An online resource that connects users to free and reduced cost local resources such as medical care, food, housing, transportation and much more. Website also offered in

Spanish.

 

HelpWhenYouNeedIt 

www.helpwhenyouneedit.org 

An online service that connects users to over 350,000 listings nationwide of private and public resources for food pantries,

stores that accept food stamps, assisted living facilities, domestic

violence and homeless shelters, mental health & substance use

treatment, free clinics, legal and financial assistance.

 

Help with Bills

www.usa.gov/help-with-bills

Provides information about government programs that help

with bill payment, temporary assistance, jobs/unemployment,

credit, etc. Website and Helpline also offered in Spanish.

 

211 United Way 

www.211.org

2-1-1 operates nationwide and connects callers to human service information. This service operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, even during disasters.  Information and resources may be provided for a variety of needs including shelter, cell phone power stations, rent/utility assistance, and disaster response programs. Dial 211 from any phone (mobile or landline) or visit www.211.org to search for contact information by zip code; service refers callers to appropriate agencies/community organizations that offer emergency financial assistance; available in most areas. Website also offered in Spanish.

 

Free Loan Association

The Jewish Free Loan Association is offering interest-free and fee-free loans that can be turned around in a matter of days to folks impacted by coronavirus, for anything from everyday expenses to childcare to lost wages. You do not need to be Jewish to apply https://www.jfla.org/coronavirus-loans

 

Tax Relief

Federal

In response to the national coronavirus emergency, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) issued guidance allowing all individuals and other non-corporate (small business) tax filers to defer up to one million dollars of federal income tax payments 3 months from April 15th to July 15th, without penalty or interest

However, you should still file your taxes if you expect a tax refund. That way, you’ll be able to take advantage of your refunds earlier and get the money sooner.

The IRS has temporarily closed all Taxpayer Assistance Centers and discontinued face to face service in light of COVID-19. They will be continuing to process tax returns, issue refunds, and help taxpayers in every extent possible.

State

Many states have followed the example of the federal government. The AICPA has a state by state summary of what each state is currently doing. https://www.aicpa.org/content/dam/aicpa/advocacy/tax/downloadabledocuments/coronavirus-state-filing-relief.pdf

Free financial planning

Financial advisors across the country are offering pro bono advice to people whose wallets are impacted by the outbreak. The XY Planning Network offers a search tool on its site that helps pinpoint financial advisors (more than 50 listed) who are willing to provide free advice on coronavirus relief. https://www.xyplanningnetwork.com/?_advisor_search=%22coronavirus%20relief%22

Phone and Internet

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, over 100 internet companies have pledged not to terminate services to any residential or small business customers who cannot pay their bills, waive any late fees and open its WiFi hotspots to any American who needs them.

Here are what a few of them are doing:

• Comcast - free access to WiFi hotspots for 60 days, unlimited data for customers, no late charges or disconnections, 60 days of free basic internet for all new customers
• AT&T - suspended disconnections and late fees, free access to public WiFi hotspots, and unlimited data for customers
• Verizon - waived late fees and suspended disconnections, free international calling to CDC level 3 countries, free activations and upgrades for a limited time
• Charter Communications - suspend disconnections and waived late fees
• T-Mobile - free international calling, unlimited data, free hotspots, suspended disconnections
• Sprint - free international calling to CDC level 3 countries, suspend disconnections, unlimited data and free hotspots
• Atlantic Broadband - suspended disconnections and waived late fees

In a promise to “keep American connected,” the Federal Communications Commission’s site offers a full list of companies and associations that are participating: https://www.fcc.gov/keep-americans-connected#pledges

For Car Buyers and Owners

Automakers have rolled out new benefits to ease the financial strain on car owners and buyers. Some have even gotten creative!

Here is what a few of them are doing:

• General Motors- GM Financial is open to change payment arrangements and Onstar Crisis Assist and in-vehicle data will be available for WiFi-equipped owners.
• Hyundai - revived its Assurance Job Loss Protection Program providing six months of car payments to new buyers if they lose their job involuntarily and 90 days of payment deferral on select new cars
• Ford - allowing delay of payments to provide financial relief to car owners financed through Ford as well as deferring new car payments up to 90 days
• Nissan - Nissan’s financing arm will allow current retail and lease customers to defer payments and delayed payments for 90 days for new buyers

For a complete list of automakers and their COVID-19 responses: https://www.edmunds.com/car-loan/car-payment-relief-during-coronavirus.html

Credit Cards

In general, banks, credit card companies, and lenders are asking customers who need help to contact them for personalized assistance. Some banks are waiving early withdrawal penalties on certificates of deposit. Some creditors are increasing credit lines. Extremely low interest rates may benefit those who need to borrow.

Wells Fargo 401K

Wells Fargo shared its response to the coronavirus disease, stating that “Wells Fargo is committed to helping customers experiencing hardships, including from the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19).  If in need of assistance, we encourage customers to call us at 1-800-219-9739 to speak with a trained specialist to discuss options available.”

Mortgages

Don’t think you’ll be able to pay your mortgage? Rest assured, government agencies like the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), Housing and Urban Development (HUD), United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Fannie Mae, and Freddie Mac have all announced a freeze on foreclosures and evictions for at least 60 days along with forbearance or disaster relief options for homeowners. Contact your servicer/lender to see if your situation qualifies to make reduced payments or be granted a pause in payments.

Rent

If you know you can’t make rent, it’s best to contact your landlord early to let them know and work out a payment plan. Most landlords are incentivized to work with you on a payment plan or extension that benefits both parties. If making a partial payment is reasonable in your economic situation, your landlord may be more willing to work with you on a payment plan. If you need money, the United Way has rental assistance or you could request a low interest loan from your local bank or financial institution. Additionally, many cities have eviction bans in place due to COVID-19. However, it still benefits you to work with your landlord and figure out a payment plan earlier rather than later

Student Loan Relief 

President Donald Trump announced he is waiving interest on student loans held by the federal government until further notice. The waiver doesn’t apply to three types of student loans: state, private and the majority of Federal Family Education Loans (including Sallie Mae student loans). Borrowers will still be required to pay their monthly bill, but the payments will go towards a principal balance instead of interest.

 

On March 20th, the U.S. Department of Education confirmed this measure, adding that “each of these borrowers will have the option to suspend their payments for at least two months to allow them greater flexibility during the national emergency.” Unlike the automatic interest waiver, however, you will need to request this administrative forbearance from your student loan servicer in order to receive it.

 

The office of Federal Student Aid recommends contacting your loan servicer as soon as possible if you’re struggling to make payments.

If you’re concerned about your studies or loan repayment during the outbreak, the Federal Student Aid’s site answers several important questions for students, borrowers and parents. The site will be adding information for students, borrowers, and parents on its page on a regular basis.

Savi and Student Debt Crisis

Savi and Student Debt Crisis are offering help to folks who are having trouble paying their student loans because of the coronavirus' impact to their income. https://crisishelp.bysavi.com/

Utilities 

With the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, many utility companies are easing shut-offs or allowing customers to pay late without a late fee penalty. Call your utility company to find out what they are doing.

Protect Yourself from Scams 

You must be careful to ensure you and your family members, especially the elderly, don't fall prey to scams. Verify contact information with reputable sources, such as a company's official website. Also, beware of giving any personal data that is requested via email. You can learn more about how to avoid scams or report a scam by visiting the Federal Trade Commission’s website. https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/coronavirus-scams-what-ftc-doing

 

Resources to Take Care of You

We understand that the outbreak and uncertainty of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is stressful for many people. Fear and anxiety during these unprecedented times can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions—this response is natural. Notice and accept how you feel. While there is little you can do to control the impact of the virus, practicing self-care during this emergency will help you think clearly and react to the urgent needs to protect yourself and your loved ones. Below you will find strategies and resources to help you stay present, calm the mind, and reduce high levels of stress– now and all year long.

Take Care of Your Body
 Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals, exercise regularly, and get plenty of sleep. Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs. Learn more about other wellness strategies at resourcesforliving.com.

 Connect with Others
 Share your concerns and how you are feeling with a friend or family member. Just giving your thoughts a voice offers an objectivity that can help you realize that some of your fears are unfounded. Strive to maintain healthy relationships, and build a strong support system.

Remain Realistic
 Make time to unwind and remind yourself that strong feelings will fade. Try reading a book, playing a game, or taking in deep breaths and meditating-try using one of these downloadable apps:

• Headspace offers guides to meditation and mindfulness. 
• Stop, Breathe & Think is a meditation app. 
• Calm has a free trial and offers sleep help and meditations. 
• Happify offers science-based activities and games to calm and relax. 
• Breath2relax to practice deep breathing. 

Stay Informed
 When you feel that you are missing information, you may become more stressed or nervous. Watch, listen to, or read the news for updates from officials. Be aware that there may be rumors during a crisis, especially on social media. Always check your sources and turn to reliable sources of information like your local government authorities. For most up to date and accurate information visit the CDC website, the WHO website, and your state’s official website. 

Take Breaks
 Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories—this includes social media. Coronavirus has our brains pinging on “future threat” driving global anxiety and shared fear. Stay calm and work to keep your emotions in check, particularly anxiety, which will take center stage. Try to do enjoyable activities and return to normal life as much as possible-check for updates between breaks.

Be Adaptive
 Make informed adjustments based on the information you currently have. Limit the amount of energy spent on speculation. Use mindfulness to stay in the moment. Remember to breathe throughout the day, and consider taking a moment before your meetings to pause, breath and focus. We can only control today, this moment. 

If distress impacts activities of your daily life for several days or weeks, please contact your healthcare provider or the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) at 1-888-238-6232. EAP services are confidential and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week-at no cost to you and all members of your household.

QUESTIONS?
 For guidance on coronavirus precautions, confirmed COVID-19 diagnoses, attendance or international travel: 

• At our Schools: Please reach out to your Director, District Manager or HR Manager
• At Support Central and our Field offices:  Please reach out to Michelle Kolodziej, Manager – Human Resources (248.697.9217), or Phil Dobias, VP – HR Business Partner (248.675.1974) 

For Coronavirus updates, prevention tips and resources, please visit the Employee Lounge.  

 

Discussing Coronavirus With Children

Helping children understand events, such as the Coronavirus, can be challenging and overwhelming. As a teacher, we can support children as they learn how to work through a traumatic experience. Providing children with stability and reassurance can help them feel safe and secure as they work through their feelings. Below you will find some guidelines and tips to support children in the classroom

Tips for Teachers

• Keep routines as consistent as possible. 
  • Children thrive on routine. Therefore, if we keep their routines consistent, it can help children feel more secure in their lives. 
• Maintain classroom expectations. 
  • Children will be able to resume their daily routines if they understand that we maintain the same expectations as we did before the traumatic event. 
• Be aware of the signs of distress. 
  • Understanding the different signs of distress can help you identify when a child may need additional help. 
• Understand that children cope in different ways. 
  • Grief is not a uniform feeling. All children will cope with traumatic events in a different way. Collaborate with parents to understand more of how their child copes with stress and how you can help in the classroom. 
• Reassure. Reassure. Reassure. 
  • Reassure children that you are there to keep them safe, just like their family! Let children know that your classroom is a safe place and you are there to support them. 
• Collaborate with families. 
  • Ensure that you are communicating frequently with families. You should let families know what kinds of questions their child is asking, partner to determine how you can help them and their child, and what techniques can you use in the classroom to support the child. 

Signs of Distress Include:

• Irritability and anger
• Hard time focusing
• Loss of appetite 
• Sleep issues
• Behavior challenges
• Regression in already mastered tasks (such as toilet training, the use of a pacifier, thumb sucking, etc.) 
• Lack of interest in classroom activities
• Fear of being alone

 How do I respond to a child’s questions? 

Determining how you are going to respond to a child’s questions about trauma can be confusing for teachers.  The best thing teachers can do is have a conversation with the child’s family to determine the limitations of their response to a child’s questions.  We must be aware and respect the family’s wishes of what they would like their child to know or not. 

Tips for responding to questions in the classroom:

• Ask open-ended questions. How does that make you feel? What can I do to help you? What are some activities you think would make you feel better? 
• Acknowledge children’s feelings. I can see that this made you feel angry. Do you want to talk about it some more? 
• Understand that it is okay to answer a question with “I’m not sure”. If you do not have an answer for a child or are unsure of what the family would want you to say, you can say, “That’s a really good question and I’m not sure of the answer. We can ask your mom/dad/grandparent later today when they pick you up.”
• Help the child express their feelings. I can see this is making you feel sad. Would you like to write about your feelings in your Journal? 
• When a child is stressed, they may act out behaviorally. We can respond to those behaviors by offering the child assistance. “It’s okay to feel angry about this, but we cannot hurt others. Instead, let us press our hands tightly together like this. That can help us control some of our anger!” 
• Calm a child’s worries. Let them know that it is okay to be scared or angry about something. However, we also want to provide reassurance and let them know that we are here to protect them and keep them safe. I understand that this is scary. I am here to keep you safe. 

As Early Childhood Educators, we can sometimes find it challenging to answer questions that children have. We must be prepared and understand that children may ask questions about traumatic events and may even repeat those questions throughout the day. Through reassurance and simple, concrete answers, we can help calm a child’s worries.  If you have additional concerns about a child in your classroom or need further support, please contact the Positive Behavior Support Team.