Resources available
The Journal Sentinel is working to identify and organize resources for people looking to give or get help. Here are a few of those key resources. This is not an exhaustive list.
By calling 2-1-1, you can be connected with thousands of nonprofit and government services in your area. You also can text “COVID19” to 211-211.
A guide to filing for unemployment benefits can be found at https://bit.ly/2UliDka. If you are laid off or your weekly work hours or wages are reduced, you are potentially eligible for unemployment compensation.
The Hunger Task Force has an online map of confirmed sites in Milwaukee County (https://bit.ly/33AyH5L) that are providing emergency food safely to children or adults, including MPS and Boys & Girls Club locations.
Youth-serving agencies in Milwaukee remain active online. Safe & Sound, for example, is having youth-led conversations at 3 p.m. daily on its Facebook page at https://bit.ly/2xZWnVH.
Local restaurants are switching to carryout to try to stay in business. You can find an updated list at https://bit.ly/33yWxyV. Many restaurants, breweries and other retailers are still selling gift cards, which can provide much-needed revenue.
Local musicians and artists are seeking support with venues (https://bit.ly/3dhOIls) and other groups creating online fundraisers. You can find a list of ways to help local musicians at https://bit.ly/2vGRoby. Imagine MKE has set up an online fund at https://bit.ly/2WyMYhJ for local artists.
Charter Communication is offering free Spectrum broadband and Wi-Fi access for 60 days to households with K-12 and/or college students who do not already have a subscription. Call (844) 488-8395 for more information.
Homeless shelters remain open and serving those in need. The Milwaukee Rescue Mission, Hope House, Cathedral Center, Salvation Army Emergency Lodge, Repairers of the Breach and Casa Maria Catholic Worker House are continuing to operate.
Do you need volunteers for your agency or can you volunteer? The United Way of Wisconsin, Serve Wisconsin and the Wisconsin Volunteer Coordinators Association have created a new website to connect organizations and potential volunteers. Sign up at www.volunteerwisconsin.org.