News You Can Use: Community Resources

Happy Friday Families!
An article on the Gillispie Gives Back initiatives went out in the La Jolla Light yesterday – here is a link to it:

Community Resources for Those That Need Assistance

During this unique and unprecedented time in our world, families may be finding themselves in need of temporary assistance or know of others who need support.  The following resources are available in our community. Please feel free to share this with others who might benefit.

Calling 211 or contacting 211sandiego.org is the best way to access a broad array of services and to find out what you or your family may be eligible for.


FOOD:

You can call 211 ( or email 211sandiego.org) to access food distribution sites closest to you.  Some ask income questions (though don’t require paperwork) and others do not ask any questions. Some options include:

  • San Diego Food Bank – SanDiegoFoodBank.org/response/ or 1-866-350-FOOD (3663) – distribution schedules vary weekly, so please call or go online each week for the latest information.
  • Feeding San Diego – feedingsandiego.org/get-help/ – they have food distribution each Tuesday at 3 p.m. at the Jacobs Center at 404 Euclid Avenue, 92114.

UTILITIES:

  • There are some special utility reductions for those negatively impacted by COVID-19.  Contact SDG&E at 1-800-411-7343 to see if you qualify for any of its programs.

SAFE PARKING:

  • Jewish Family Service of San Diego operates several Safe Parking Programs throughout San Diego County.  Families/individuals who are living in their vehicles can park in a safe, staffed, and supervised parking lot setting, where food and other social service amenities are made available.  Serves all people regardless of faith. Call 858-637-3373 or go online to jfssd.org/our-services/adults-families/safe-parking-program/

WORKER SUPPORT:

  • United Way has a Worker Assistance Initiative that is providing financial and resource assistance to individuals whose jobs have been lost or reduced due to COVID-19. Please contact UWSD.org/covid19/.
  • Big Table at big-table.com is a resource for individuals in the restaurant hospitality industry who have been laid off from work. They provide relief funds (via application) as well as a list of other resources on their website.

HOUSING/RENTAL ASSISTANCE:

For those looking for rental relief or assistance finding affordable housing, the following websites provide a robust list of resources:

  • SanDiegoCounty.gov – click on Housing & Community Development Services tab; then click on rental assistance tab.

LEGAL SERVICES:

  • The ACLU of San Diego is continuing to operate and can provide assistance with a number of legal issues related to Covid19 – employment, housing, work status, etc. Please go to ACLUSanDiego.org.

MENTAL HEALTH:

For those experiencing mental health issues as a result of Covid19, please consider the following resources:

  • San Diego Access and Crisis Line – staffed 24/7 with behavioral health professionals, and is FREE and confidential – 1-888-724-7240
  • 24-Hour Crisis Center – 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
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