Información de COVID-19 en español

Get Updates: Town of Brookhaven | Suffolk County | New York State
Business: Help for Businesses
Closings / Operational Changes: Reopening | Businesses | Government | Library | Parks | Public Transit | Schools
Face Masks
Financial Issues / Help: Evictions | Financial Relief | Jobs | Price Gouging | Unemployment
Help in the Community: Burial / Bereavement Assistance | Food & Supplies | Legal Help | Internet Access | Social Workers
Medical Information: COVID-19 Testing | Cases in Suffolk| Health Insurance
Mental Health: Coping Circles | Helplines | Family Service League Programs | Stress Relief
Parents: Childcare | Parenting Resources
Share Your Story
Travel Advisory
Voting / Elections

Get Updates

Town of Brookhaven

• To keep informed on Novel Coronavirus news and information, please follow the Town of Brookhaven on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @BrookhavenTown, visit our Coronavirus Web page or call 631-451-TOWN (8696).

Source: Town of Brookhaven

Suffolk County

• Suffolk County is asking residents to sign up for Smart 911. What is it? It’s used by first responders: “The information provided in a Smart911 Safety Profile enables us to know who is at the greatest risk in our community. We can provide individuals with critical updates based on their location and health history.”
• Text COVIDSUFFOLK to 67283 to sign up for SMS text messages through their mobile devices to receive updates on the latest information, health guidance and other developments relating to the coronavirus. 

Source: SUFFOLK COUNTY EXECUTIVE BELLONE URGES RESIDENTS TO SIGN UP FOR SMART911 TO ASSIST CORONAVIRUS AWARENESS FOR FIRST RESPONDERS

More Health News from Suffolk County

New York State

Sign up for email updates on the evolving COVID-19 situation from New York State.

View coronavirus news from New York State.

Business

Reopening: See Reopening Information

Face masks: For essential workers, effective Wednesday April 15th at 8 PM, any employees of essential business or entities who are present in the workplace shall be provided and shall wear face coverings.  Businesses must provide, at their expense, such face coverings for their employees. Source: Executive Order No. 202.16

Help for Businesses

Apply for Small Business Administration (SBA) COVID-19 Loans

Important Information about Small Business Administration (SBA) COVID-19 Loans

As part of the $2 trillion federal stimulus bill (CARES Act) passed on March 27, New York State small businesses are eligible for a number of relief benefits from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). Apply now—these programs are expected to be in high demand from small businesses across the country. It’s also important to understand the programs that best suit your needs and the information needed to apply.

Suffolk County Business Recovery Unit:

The Suffolk County Business Recovery Unit serves as a:

• One Stop for Business questions and resources related to impacts as a result of COVID 19
• Data collection for economic and workforce impacts
• This unit is fully staffed and ready to help address questions, provide guidance on resources and track critical data provided by local businesses.
• Local businesses can call Suffolk 311 to be connected to the unit, email Business.Recovery@suffolkcountyny.gov, or visit the newly created webpage

(Source: Suffolk County Business Recovery Unit) [Updated 3/21/2020]

Closings / Operational Changes

Reopening:

New York will reopen on a regional basis as each region meets the criteria necessary to protect public health. See the New York Forward Reopening Guide.

Guidelines on Reopening for Child Care and Day Camps, Lake and Ocean Beaches, Religious And Funeral Services, Auto Racing, and Sports and Recreation can be found on the New York State State Guidelines Page.

Yard Sales

Garage and yard sales – as informal events for the sale of used goods by private individuals in residential settings – are permitted to operate so long as sellers ensure that (1) occupancy of the space used for the sale is limited to the number of people who can be safely and appropriate spaced such that each person is at least six feet away from others and, in no case, should the space be occupied by more than 10 people at any given time, in accordance with Executive Order 202.33, as extended; (2) appropriate face coverings must be used by people in areas or situations where they are likely to come within six feet of another individual, in accordance with Executive Order 202.17, as extended; and (3) adequate hand hygiene supplies (e.g. hand sanitizer) and regular cleaning/disinfection protocols are in place. Sellers may consult the New York Forward safety plan template for additional precautions that they should consider implementing during such sales.​

Statewide Regional Reopening Metrics

Businesses:

To report a business or restaurant that is not complying with state mandated closures or is operating unsafely:

• Submit a complaint online
• Call the NYS Attorney General at 212-416-8700
• Or call the Suffolk County Police Department non-emergency line at 631-852-COPS.

Long Island:

• Long Island is currently in Phase Four of reopening.
• For guidance on which businesses can open, see: https://forward.ny.gov/ny-forward

Source: Novel Coronavirus – Department of Health

Government:

Village of Patchogue

• As of March 16th, Village Hall and all facilities are closed to the public; the public may email pseal@patchoguevillage.org and call 631-475-4300 to address any Village business filings.
• The Village of Patchogue delivered a letter to residents of the village. You can read the letter here.

Source: Village of Patchogue Local Emergency Order

Town of Brookhaven

• While Brookhaven Town Hall currently remains open, it is strongly recommended that residents who have business with the Town use online services or contact Town personnel by phone or email in order to reduce crowds at Town Hall to help prevent the spread of the Covid-19 virus.
• SENIOR CENTERS, EVENTS AND NUTRITION PROGRAM CHANGE – Brookhaven Town has closed all Senior Centers, canceled all senior events and suspended its Congregate Meals Program at the centers. Meals are now being delivered to homebound seniors as part of the Town’s Nutrition Program. For more information, call 631-451-9191.
• CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC – The Brookhaven Town Clerk’s office is CLOSED to the public. The only services that will be provided in person are marriage licenses and the filing of death certificates by licensed funeral directors.  These services will be provided BY APPOINTMENT ONLY.  Please call 631-451-6920 for an appointment. All other requests should be completed by mail or online.
• CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC – Brookhaven’s Animal Shelter and Adoption Center is closed to the public until further notice. Those still interested in adoption, foster care and questions on redemption are asked to call the Shelter during business hours at 631-451-6950 – Monday to Friday from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm, Saturday from 10:00 am to 3:30 pm and Sunday from 11:00 am to 3:30 pm. For more information,  visit the Animal Shelter website.
• CLOSED – Holtsville Ecology Site & Animal Preserve will be closed to public access until further notice.

Source: Town of Brookhaven

DMV Offices

For information on how to access DMV services, see https://dmv.ny.gov/more-info/dmv-reopening-guidance

Suffolk County Department of Social Service

If you are having any issues with DSS or SNAP, please contact the Office of Rob Calarco: 631-854-1400

DSS will remain open.

Center	Address	Phone Numbers
Riverhead Center	893 E. Main Street Riverhead, New York 11901-2542	Telephone: (631) 852-3500 Fax: (631)852-3505
Coram Center	80 Middle Country Road Coram, New York 11727	Telephone: (631) 854-2300 Fax (631) 854-2123
Smithtown Center	200 Wireless Boulevard Hauppauge, New York 11788	Telephone: (631) 853-8714 Fax: (631) 853-8842
South West Center	2 South 2nd Street Deer Park, New York 11729	Telephone: (631) 854-6600 Fax: (631) 854-6672

All efforts to reduce public contact are being made while meeting the needs of the County’s most vulnerable residents.

Applications

Applications for assistance programs can be submitted by mail (instead of coming to a center). Please visit the SCDSS website for information or to download applications at: https://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/Departments/Social-Services/Client-Benefits-Administration

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) applications and case recertification can be submitted electronically @ mybenefits.ny.gov or by mail (instead of coming to a center).

Additionally, SNAP benefits can be used for online grocery purchases. Current participating retailers include: Amazon, Walmart and ShopRite. Amazon is available statewide; Walmart and ShopRite participate in specific zip codes. Walmart, depending on specific locations, offers delivery, pick-up or both. Clients can enter zip code on the Walmart or ShopRite websites to find availability.

Source: Suffolk County Department of Social Service

Pandemic EBT

The Families First Coronavirus Response Act of 2020 authorized the payment of P-EBT food benefits to households with children who would have received free or reduced-price school meals under the National School Lunch Act, if not for school closure. These temporary food benefits are to help cover the cost of
meals children would otherwise have received at school. If your family receives Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and/or Temporary Assistance (TA) benefits and you have school-age children (ages 5-18), you will automatically receive P-EBT food benefits for each eligible school-age child in your household. The benefits will automatically be issued to your family’s current EBT card.

When will my qualified child/children receive the P-EBT food benefits?

P-EBT food benefits will first be made available for eligible children living in households that receive SNAP or TA. They will be issued in two separate payments, to the household’s current EBT card:

First Payment: The combined food benefit amount ($193) for March and April will be available to households that receive SNAP or TA by early June.

Second Payment: The combined benefit amount for May and June ($227) will be available to households that receive SNAP or TA by the end of June. For families who do not receive SNAP or TA benefits, P-EBT food benefits will be issued over an extended period beginning in late June and concluding in early August.

Source: Frequently Asked Questions for the Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT) Food Benefits

Suffolk County Police Department

In an effort to limit person-to-person contact there will be a number of operational changes for the Suffolk County Police Department.

• While precincts will remain open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, we are encouraging residents to not visit precincts unless critically necessary. Anyone who is feeling ill especially is requested to not respond to a precinct or police headquarters.
• Instead residents should call 911 and disclose all health concerns and symptoms to enable our officers to prepare and protect themselves and the community.
• For the time being, fingerprinting services will not be available.
• The Police Department also offers our residents a number of different ways to file police reports – you do not have to go into the precinct to file a report. 
• Types of incidents that can be reported online or over the phone include harassing communications, lost property, criminal mischief, non-criminal property damage, minor motor vehicle crashes, identity theft and some larcenies.
• To report online visit www.suffolkpd.org or call 631-852-COPS to report over the phone.
• If a report cannot be filled online or by telephone, an officer will be dispatched to the individuals location, and he or she will follow specific guidelines to protect both their health and safety and the health and safety of the resident.
• Additionally, our residents have the ability to request incident reports, motor vehicle accident reports and background checks all online at www.suffolkpd.org.
• And finally, the SCPD’s Alarm Management Program will be closed until further notice. This will not change the present status of a resident’s alarm and extensions will be provided if someone’s bill is due during this time period.

Source: SuffolkPD Facebook

Library:

• The library building is open. See details.
• Curbside pickup of materials is available.
• Digital books and movies and virtual events are also available.
• See our FAQ page for more information.

Parks:

Village of Patchogue

View a list of Village parks here: http://www.patchoguevillage.org/departments/parks-department

The Patchogue Pool will not open in 2020.
Source: http://www.patchoguevillage.org/docs/covid/pool-closure.pdf

Town of Brookhaven

See a list of Town of Brookhaven parks here: https://www.brookhavenny.gov/233/Parks

For Town of Brookhaven parks opening status, see: https://www.brookhavenny.gov/1177/8626/COVID-19-Update

Suffolk County

Find a list of Suffolk County parks here: https://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/Departments/Parks/Our-Parks

Check the Suffolk County parks website for current opening status: https://suffolkcountyny.gov/Departments/Parks

New York State

Find a state park here: https://parks.ny.gov/parks/

Check opening status of state parks here: https://parks.ny.gov/covid19/

On busy days, parks may reach capacity and close to incoming visitors and traffic. Before you go to a state park, check for capacity alerts here: https://parks.ny.gov/

Public Transit

Suffolk Transit Buses

Passengers are encouraged to pre-pay their fares using the FastFare app, which is available for download through Google Play and the Apple App Store.

Source: Suffolk County Transit

Long Island Rail Road

• Remember to wear a mask or face covering. They’re required when you ride with the LIRR.
• Off-peak fares remain in effect.
• Cash is not accepted at counters or on trains. Use ticket vending machines or the MTA eTix app instead.
• Ticket offices at Penn Station, Jamaica Station, and Atlantic Terminal are open. At Jamaica Station and Atlantic Terminal, they’ll be open from 6 a.m.-10 p.m.
• Customer areas at Penn Station are open 24/7.

Find service updates here.

New York City Subways

Beginning Wednesday, May 6, at 1 a.m., there will be no subway service from 1 a.m. to 5 a.m. while we disinfect trains and stations. Essential workers can use the Essential Connector program.

MTA says late-night riders can pre-book their one free taxi/for-hire trip.
New Yorkers must call 718-330-1234 to pre-book the ride.

Source: Mta.info

Religious and Funeral Services / Houses of Worship:

For guidance on holding religious and funeral services, see https://forward.ny.gov/religious-and-funeral-services-ny-forward-guidelines

Schools:

•  For updates and information from the Patchogue-Medford School District, look here: https://www.pmschools.org/Page/9580

Face Masks

Beginning April 17th, 2020, all New Yorkers MUST wear a cloth face covering or a mask when out in public and in situations where social distancing cannot be maintained.  Please visit the CDC website for more information. Source: Executive Order No. 202.17

For essential workers, effective Wednesday April 15th at 8 PM, any employees of essential business or entities who are present in the workplace shall be provided and shall wear face coverings.  Businesses must provide, at their expense, such face coverings for their employees. Source: Executive Order No. 202.16

Transparent Masks for Deaf & Hard of Hearing 
A college student studying education for the deaf and hard of hearing has designed a face mask with a clear window that allows others to see and read lips and facial expressions. Those who are part of the deaf or hard of hearing community who would like to request a mask are encouraged to reach out to the student, Ashley Lawrence at dhhmaskproject@gmail.com.

Financial Issues / Help

Evictions

• On March 20, 2020, Governor Cuomo issued a 90 day moratorium on all evictions.  Even if you received a 14 day notice from the sheriff, you will not be evicted until at least June 19, 2020.
• All eviction cases have been adjourned.  Tenants with cases in District Court can check their adjourn dates by going to e-courts and following the prompts to look up their case.
• Even though evictions are suspended, your rent is still due.  If you cannot pay your rent, your landlord will not be able to start an eviction proceeding until the courts re-open.  Your landlord will not be able to use this as a basis to evict you until at least June 2020.
• In NY, it is a crime for a landlord to lock someone out of their home, or to turn off the utilities or remove someone’s property to force them out.  The only legal evictions are conducted by the Sheriff’s office, and the Sheriff is not conducting evictions until June 2020.  If you have been illegally evicted, call the police immediately.
• The Courts are still taking cases related to serious habitability issues.
• If you have a section 8 termination notice, you should request a hearing. While we understand that hearings are not currently being scheduled, it is still important to make the request.
• If you have a section 8 termination hearing, the decision about holding hearings is up to each individual housing authority. 
• If you have a voucher to move, you will not be able to move until inspections resume being conducted.

Source: Nassau Suffolk Law Services

Financial Relief

Coronavirus Tax Relief and Economic Impact Payments

The filing date for federal taxes has been extended to July 15.

• The IRS has started sending payments to taxpayers.
• Don’t call the IRS.
• The payments are automatic for most taxpayers.
• No further action is needed by taxpayers who filed tax returns in 2018 and 2019 and most seniors and retirees.
• See if you are eligible for an Economic Impact Payment.
• If you are eligible, figure out which IRS tool you should use to get your payment.

For more information about Economic Impact Payments, see the IRS website.

Emergency Financial Assistance

Through funding from the federal Community Service Block Grant (CSBG) program, the Economic Opportunity Council of Suffolk, Inc. is offering financial assistance to eligible individuals and families impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The funding originates from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. 

Financial hardships/need include mortgage assistance, rental assistance, help with utility bills, food costs, transportation, funeral costs, medical expenses, etc. Applicants’ household income must not exceed 200 percent of poverty guidelines. 

For information on how to apply, please contact: Halim Kaygisiz at hkaygisizg@eoc-suffolk.com or (631) 241-2119. 

See links below for required documentation:

1. Intake Form: Please complete this form so we can learn about who you are and your living situation. https://files.constantcontact.com/0718fale601/3b72e0e2-954a-41f1-a3bc-dfe8c65e7627.pdf
2. Emergency Assistance Application: Please complete this form so we can learn about your specific hardship/need. https://files.constantcontact.com/0718fale601/ef169154-ba65-489d-a482-d44307e0f775.pdf
3. Zero Income Attestation: Please complete this form if you have no income. https://files.constantcontact.com/0718fa1e601/dc74861f-557a-464d-bde2-6c0e6f7e711e.pdf
4. 2020 Poverty Guidelines: Find out if you meet the 200 percent poverty guideline. https://files.constantcontact.com/0718fale601/8ad2937e-b506-4c93-be90-97d3c2d6ea8d.pdf

Mortgages

Guide to coronavirus mortgage relief options (Consumer Financial Protection Board)
If you’re among those financially impacted by the coronavirus pandemic, you might be concerned about how to pay your mortgage or rent. Federal and state governments have announced plans to help struggling homeowners during this time. Read this to get information on what to do now, and what your options are for mortgage and rental relief.

Student Loans

State Debt: Effective immediately — the state will temporarily halt the collection of medical and student debt owed to the State of New York and referred to the Office of the Attorney General for collection, for at least a 30-day period, in response to growing financial impairments resulting from the spread of 2019 novel coronavirus, or COVID-19. Source: Governor Cuomo and Attorney General James Temporarily Suspend State Debt Collection in Response to Coronavirus

Federal Student Loans:

To provide relief to student loan borrowers during the COVID-19 national emergency, federal student loan borrowers are automatically being placed in an administrative forbearance, which allows you to temporarily stop making your monthly loan payment. This suspension of payments will last until Sept. 30, 2020, but you can still make payments if you choose.

Source: https://studentaid.gov/announcements-events/coronavirus

Jobs

To find jobs in Suffolk County, use the Department of Labor’s online portal, Suffolk County NY Forward.

New York State will hire and train a team of staff working remotely to support the NYS Department of Health (NYSDOH) and Local Health Departments (LHDs) to perform COVID-19 contact tracing in communities across NYS. See more information and apply.

Price Gouging:

• New Yorkers are urged to call 1-800-697-1220 to report unfair price increases of products such as household cleaning supplies and hand sanitizer amid the coronavirus outbreak. Website: NYS Division of Consumer Protection

Unemployment

Information on how to access unemployment can be found here: https://labor.ny.gov/unemploymentassistance.shtm

NYSDOL is implementing a new more efficient filing system based on the first letter of the applicants last name (alphabetical order). Here is the step-by-step process for filing:

A  – F : Monday

G – N : Tuesday

O – Z : Wednesday

Missed your day: Thursday and Friday

Filing later in the week will not delay payments or affect the date of an individual’s claim since all claims are effective on the Monday of the week in which they are filed.

To file a claim log on to:  https://my.ny.gov/LoginV4/login.xhtml

Freelancers / Independent Workers

Freelancers will be eligible to apply for unemployment under the CARES Act.

How to file an Unemployment Insurance Claim on New York State Department of Labor’s Website – Guidance for Self-Employed Individuals (Adobe Acrobat Required to open this file)

If you are having issues completing your unemployment application, contact the office of State Senator Monica Martinez for further assistance.
90-B West Main Street
Krenold@Nysenate.Gov
Patchogue, NY 11772
Phone: (631) 360-3356
Fax: (631) 360-3637

Help in the Community

Burial / Bereavement Assistance:

Suffolk County DSS Indigent Burial Assistance

The Suffolk County Department of Social Services is offering indigent burial assistance for residents in need. 

To apply for Suffolk County Social Services indigent burial assistance, you must first choose a funeral home. Please advise the funeral home that you will be applying for a social services funeral. Then you may apply using the online application at: https://apps2.suffolkcountyny.gov/dss/burial/

For additional information please call the burial line at (631)-854-9856.

American Red Cross Virtual Family Assistance Center in New York State

The American Red Cross across the regions of New York State have developed a program in response to COVID-19 to support individuals and families who have lost family members to death as a result of COVID-19. The program will link crisis counselors with families to provide emotional and spiritual support, as well as targeted short-term case management to assist with navigating through the challenging processes they might be faced with as a result of the death. This might include challenges with moving the family member’s body through the hospital, nursing home, medical examiner and funeral home systems in this time when those systems may be overwhelmed and their processes may be different than they normally are. They may also include linkage to legal resources for estate, custody, immigration or other issues related to the death.

The following links to an online intake form can be submitted by a family member, a friend who thinks someone needs help, or an agency on behalf of the family. For those without access to the needed online technology, the phone number will link the caller to an intake person who will assist with the initial steps for getting assistance.

• English: www.redcross.org/NYSCOVIDFamilySupport
• Spanish: www.redcross.org/NYSCOVIDApoyoFamiliar  

Those without online capabilities may call 585-957-8187, and a volunteer will assist them with the initial intake process. The program is expected to operate for as long as families will benefit from the service or through the month of September.

Food and Supplies:

Grocery Delivery:

A list of grocery delivery services in Patchogue and Medford is here.

Umbrella
516-882-4498
https://www.askumbrella.com/
Umbrella is coordinating grocery delivery for people 60+ across Long Island. Seniors will get matched to a local volunteer who can shop on their behalf. It typically takes 5-7 days to get groceries delivered. There is a $10 suggested contribution for this service but no other fees. Email Emma Gilszanz (Emma@askumbrella.com ) with questions.

Food Pantries:

Suffolk Cares Food Delivery-Suffolk County Community Recovery Program

Call 311 for access to emergency food. They can provide:

• Information about the nearest food pantry.
• Delivery for the homebound.
• Lyft vouchers to get to a food pantry and back for those in need.
• You will be asked a few questions as part of Suffolk’s 311 assessment
• When approved for food delivery, you will receive a box of non-perishable food items within 24-30 hours of your request
• Non-perishable food items will be dropped at your place of residence-no contact with delivery person
• Call 311 Monday-Friday between the hours of 9:00am-4:30pm (if you call on a Friday, food will be delivered on Monday)

Island Harvest
View a list of open food pantries here.

Long Island Cares
If you need to be assessed for a mobile home delivery due to the COVID-19 outbreak, please call for a phone assessment 631.582.3663 ext. 109 or email emergencyresponse@licares.org. Please allow 24-48 hours for a response.

The Library has curated a list of organizations providing food assistance in the area. We recommend you call the organization first to verify dates and times. View PDF.

Axis Church
2839 Route 112, Medford NY 11763-1403
631-732-7682 or info@axisny.org
Saturday groceries available by appointment only.
Pickup and delivery are available.

Cornerstone Church of God in Christ
631-698-8484 or 631-880-7720
Facebook Page
Monday-Friday 12-2 PM: 61 Shirley Lane, Medford NY
Sundays 12-2 PM: 576 Granny Road, Medford NY

Federation of Organizations
456 Waverly Ave, Patchogue
631-447-6460
3rd and last Saturdays of the month — 10 AM – 1 PM

God’s Provision 5
Spanish Pentecostal Church 11 River Ave. Patchogue NY 11772
Fridays 3-5pm

Harmony Cafe
Is offering a free food delivery service to the vulnerable in the Patchogue-Medford community only. To make a phone request, call 631-569-4648, or request online: https://www.harmonycafeli.org/give

Lighthouse Mission
631-758-7584
10-11 AM Saturdays: 90 Terry Street, Patchogue (The lot behind Burlington Coat Factory)

Patchogue-Medford Library
54-60 E. Main Street, Patchogue, NY 11772
631-654-4700
Lunch for kids is available 12 PM – 1 PM in the curbside pickup area. No reservations or appointment required.

Patchogue-Medford Schools

Daily grab and go bags for children are available as follows:

Lunch:

• Eagle: Tuesdays and Fridays ~ 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
• Medford: Mondays and Thursdays ~ 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

For families requiring immediate food assistance, please contact Long Island Cares at 631-582-FOOD for emergency feed-a-kid bags.

Patchogue-Medford Youth & Community Services
390 Bay Ave, Patchogue, NY 11772
NO MEALS.
Please call 631-758-4100 or email kbevis@pmycs.org
Food Pantry is open Tuesdays and Thursdays, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM.
Mobile delivery available.

St. Francis de Sales Parish Outreach
224 S. Ocean Avenue, Patchogue NY 11772
631-475-5402 or sanfranoutreach@gmail.com
Facebook Page.
Appointment necessary — call, email, or make an appointment on Facebook.

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Emergency Food Pantry
31 Rider Ave, Patchogue
631-475-3078
Thursdays, 10 AM – 12 PM

World Outreach Church of God
249 Washington Ave, Patchogue NY 11772
631-447-2924
Facebook Page.
Drive through Tuesdays, 9-11 AM.

SNAP:

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) applications and case recertification can be submitted electronically @ mybenefits.ny.gov.

Additionally, SNAP benefits can be used for online grocery purchases. Current participating retailers include: Amazon, Walmart and ShopRite. Amazon is available statewide; Walmart and ShopRite participate in specific zip codes. Walmart, depending on specific locations, offers delivery, pick-up or both. Clients can enter zip code on the Walmart or ShopRite websites to find availability.

Island Harvest can help with SNAP applications over the phone. Call 631-873-4775.

Medical Supplies:

The Social Brain, based in Selden, is currently giving medical supplies to those in need, especially to those with disabilities and/or impairments.  If you know of anyone who may be in need, please contact them thesocialbrainny@gmail.com or call 631-793-4311.  They are also putting together Creativity Bags which will help keep the brain stimulated for those in need.

Legal Help

Touro Law has established a helpline to answer legal questions arising from the pandemic. Volunteer attorneys will provide referrals to our own clinical program and appropriate legal partners on a wide range of legal issues. The helpline will be open Monday through Friday from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm beginning on Monday, May 11. Students and attorneys will provide community members with free assistance or referrals on a myriad of issues including landlord-tenant, civil liberties, bankruptcy, employee rights, unemployment, stimulus payment, insurance and more.

Please complete the intake form located here: https://www.tourolaw.edu/AboutTouroLaw/TLCResponse. If you cannot complete the intake form please call 631-761-7198 and a representative will be in touch with you shortly. 

Internet Access:

Free Home Internet for Students

Optimum is offering Altice Advantage Internet free for 60 days, to any household in our service area that has a student in K-12 and/or college. Find out more here.

WiFi Hotspots

Emergency Optimum WiFi outdoor hotspots have been opened up for public use to non-subscribers. To find an Emergency Hotspot, click here.

To join, in the Wi-Fi settings on your device, select the
“optimumwifi-Emergency” network name and follow the prompts to log in.

Wi-Fi Hotspots are available at the Library and the Teen Center’s Back Parking Lots.

Social Workers:

The library’s social workers are available to help you. Email them and they will call or email you back as soon as possible.

Medical

Check the Suffolk County Department of Health Services page for the latest updates and general information about the virus.

COVID-19 Testing

Online Self-Screening

An online self-screening tool is available here: https://covid19screening.health.ny.gov/

Get Tested

To make an appointment for a Coronavirus test, call the NYS COVID-19 hotline at 1-888-364-3065. The test is free to all eligible New Yorkers as ordered by a health care provider. Individual test results are sent to the individual by phone, texted, or they can access the online patient portal at http://www.Bioreference.com.

If you would like to call Stony Brook Hospital, please call 631-638-1320.

There are also locations in the Patchogue area, but you may see costs for these tests:

Hudson River Health
501 North Ocean Avenue, Patchogue NY 11772
(631)-886-2030
The cost of the Visit is 15$, the cost of the test is based on the ability to pay. Payment plans are available. Available for Tests Monday – Thursday.

Patchogue Urgent Care
152 North Ocean Avenue, Patchogue, NY 11772
(631) 730-1189

Caremed
1 E Roe Blvd, Patchogue, NY 11772
(631) 475-3900

CVS Pharmacy
CVS Pharmacy, 107 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713
470 West Main Street, Patchogue, NY 11772
729 Portion Road, Ronkonkoma, NY 11779
105 Montauk Highway, West Sayville, NY 11782
Patients must register in advance at CVS.com to schedule an appointment.

There are also health clinics that serve everyone who does not have health insurance. You must call 844-474-2273 to make your first appointment.
That is the number for Hudson River Health.

If You Tested Positive

If you tested positive for COVID-19, follow these instructions from the Suffolk County Department of Health Services.

If you’ve tested positive and recovered, please consider donating plasma.

Statistics (Suffolk County)

The latest number of cases countywide and by town can be found here.

Source: Suffolk County Department of Health News

Health Insurance

New Yorkers without health insurance can apply through NY State of Health through July 15, 2020.

DEADLINE EXTENDED: New York State of Health Special Enrollment Period
The Special Enrollment Period for uninsured New Yorkers to apply for coverage through NY State of Health has been extended to September 15, 2020. In Suffolk, HWCLI provides enrollment services and individuals can set up an appointment by calling 516-505-4426.

Hospital and Group Home Visitations

Governor Cuomo announced that hospitals and group homes will be allowed to accept visitors at their discretion. . Any facility that chooses to allow visitors must follow state guidelines, including time-limited visits and requiring visitors to wear PPE and be subject to symptom and temperature checks.

Mental Health

Coping Circles

NYS COVID-19 Coping Circles
Six New Yorkers. Six weeks. Coping together. The New York State Office of Mental Health has developed a program called Coping Circles. Coping Circles are free six-week support and resilience groups, held by video or phone, facilitated by licensed mental health professionals. Coping Circles are for all New Yorkers (18+ years old). Most Circles will be open to the general public. If there is demand, Specialized Circles will be available for Healthcare Workers and First Responders, Survivors of COVID-19 Infection, those who have experienced Job Loss due to COVID-19, and those who have experienced Loss of a Loved One to COVID-19. Click here for more information.

Helplines

Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Line
1-800-272-3400 

NAMI Helpline
1-800-950-NAMI (6264)

Call Monday through Friday between 10AM & 6PM EST for information on mental health resources.

NAMI-NYS Temporary Helpline
1-518-248-7634

For inquiries about resources and services, support groups and classes.(https://www.naminys.org/)

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
1-800-273-8255

The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals. (https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/)

New York OMH Emotional Support Line
1-844-863-9314
Or Text HOME to 741741 to reach a Crisis Counselor.

The Emotional Support Line provides free and confidential support, helping callers experiencing increased anxiety due to the coronavirus emergency. The HelpLine is staffed by volunteers, including mental health professionals, who have received training in crisis counseling.  (https://omh.ny.gov/omhweb/covid-19-resources.html)

Response Crisis Hotline
631-751-7500

24/7 Crisis intervention/suicide prevention. ( https://www.responsecrisiscenter.org/ )

SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline
1-800-985-5990 (Spanish-speakers: press “2” for 24/7 bilingual support)

Provides 24/7, 365-day-a-year crisis counseling and support so people experiencing emotional distress related to natural or human caused disasters. (https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/disaster-distress-helpline)

Veterans Crisis Line
1-800-273-8255
or Text 838255

Veterans Caregivers Support Line
1-855-260-3274

Domestic Violence

Long Island Against Domestic Violence
631- 666-8833

National Domestic Violence Hotline Live Chat
https://www.thehotline.org/what-is-live-chat/

New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence
844-997-2121
Online chat: www.opdv.ny.gov

Family Service League Programs

As this situation continues to evolve, most FSL counseling and support programs are operating via secure digital telehealth methods such as video conferencing, email, and phone.   Visit www.fsl-li.org for a full list of services.

If you or a loved one is struggling to cope with extreme depression, anxiety, substance addiction, feelings of isolation, or other issues please know that FSL is offering immediate assistance. DASH Crisis Care Center is open 24 hours. Call anytime 631-952-3333 to speak with a therapist or schedule a visit.

Stress Relief

Uplifting Media

• The Happy Broadcast: Good news happening in the world, plus coronavirus news and safety tips presented in colorful, easy to digest ways.
• PassItOn: Inspirational videos and quotes.
• Upworthy: Uplifting news from around the world.
• SomeGoodNews: YouTube show hosted by John Krasinski focusing on good news in the world today.

Parents

Childcare

Y Emergency Child Care

Emergency Child Care for health care professionals and first responders is available at the Patchogue Family YMCA. Learn more and register here.

Patchogue-Medford Child Care Program for Mandated Emergency Responders

Patchogue-Medford schools have instituted a Child Care Program for Mandated Emergency Responders effective Monday, March 23, 2020. The program will be limited to Canaan, Eagle and Medford Elementary Schools, and there will be a maximum enrollment of ten (10) elementaryaged children per site. Parents/Guardians who are declared Emergency Mandated Responders will need to submit an application through the online Child Care Registration website located at www.pmschools.ce.eleyo.com. In addition to the online registration, Emergency Mandated Responders need to provide proof of employment including a picture of your employment identification and a payroll stub demonstrating that you are a Mandated Emergency Responder. Identification and paystubs should be emailed to Emily Moss, Director of School-Aged Child Care, at emoss@pmschools.org. Questions regarding the Child Care Program for Mandated Emergency Responders should be emailed to emoss@pmschools.org.

Suffolk Childcare Consortium

Suffolk Childcare Consortium is a free childcare program for first responders, medical professionals, transit workers and where space permits, other essential workers. The new program, which provides assistance to employees on the front line working to combat the COVID-19 outbreak, will be open Monday – Friday from 7:00 AM to 6:30 PM. Enrollment is on a first come first serve basis and will be limited based on space and staffing. Residents with any questions regarding the Suffolk Childcare Consortium should call Suffolk 311. (County News, 3/27/2020)

To apply, click here.

Suffolk County Subsidized Child Care

The Suffolk County Department of Social Services (DSS) provides free or low cost subsidized child care services for eligible families living in Suffolk County. Child care is available for children ages 6 weeks through 12 years. Children with Special needs may be able to receive subsidized child care through 18 years of age. Find out more about Subsidized Child Care.

Child Care Council of Suffolk

If someone is need of Day Care, they can call the Child Care Council of Suffolk Parent Counselors @ 631-462-0303 to find available slots for their children. Website: Child Care Council of Suffolk, Inc.

Association for Mental Health and Wellness

MHAW’s Children’s Care Management For new referrals or information: (631) 471-7242 x1470

MENTAL HEALTH HELP LINE: (631) 226-3900 HELPLINE@MHAW.ORG WWW.MHAW.ORG

Care Management Services
Care Managers assist children with physical and behavioral health challenges to access and coordinate all of their healthcare and social service needs. Services include:
• Develop a personal plan to meet one’s physical, mental health, chemical dependency, and social service needs.
• Coordinate, monitor, and evaluate the ongoing effectiveness of the child’s care.
• Provide follow-up from inpatient and emergency room care to help prevent re-admissions. Assist children and families with access to important resources such as public assistance, housing, child care, food pantries, transportation, and more.
• Provide physical and behavioral health education and support for the child, their family members, and other caregivers.
• Ensure that all providers share vital information electronically to ensure the most safe and effective services.

ELIGIBILITY:
MHAW offers Child Care Management Programs which is provided in coordination with Hudson River Healthcare and Northwell Health for those who are Medicaid eligible and who have:
• One single qualifying condition of – Serious emotional disturbance (SED); or – HIV/AIDS
• Or, two or more chronic conditions, such as: – Alcohol and substance use – Mental health condition -Cardiovascular disease (such as hypertension) – Metabolic disease (such as diabetes) – Respiratory disease (such as asthma)
• Complex Trauma – Children/or adolescents’ exposure to multiple traumatic events, often of an invasive, interpersonal nature

Parenting Resources

• What To Do With Kids At Home On Coronavirus Break For Who Knows How Long (Without Losing It) Source: Colorado Public Radio
• Virtual Breastfeeding Support Group is being held on Thursdays, 10:00-11:30 AM.

Teaching Kids About COVID-19

• COVIBOOK by Manuel Molina: A short book explaining the virus, meant support and reassure children under the age of 7. It is recommended to print this material so children can draw on it.
• Free eBooks About Coronavirus / COVID-19 for kids Source: New York City School Library System
• My Hero is You, Storybook for Children on COVID-19.
• Sesame Street in Communities: Health Emergencies. Information, tips, activities, videos, and more, from Sesame Street.

Learning at Home

• Suffolk Libraries at Home: Links and resources for learners of all ages, curated by the staff of the Suffolk Cooperative Library System.
• How can we support the social and emotional needs and development of our students at home? Source: Patchogue-Medford School District
• Scholastic Learn at Home: Day by day projects for kids that include readings and creative assignments.
• Finding Vincent: Virtual Van Gogh Museum Scavenger Hunt

Share Your Story

COVID-19 Travel Advisory

In response to increased rates of COVID-19 transmission in certain states within the United States, and to protect New York’s successful containment of COVID-19, the State has joined with New Jersey and Connecticut in jointly issuing a travel advisory for anyone returning from travel to states that have a significant degree of community-wide spread of COVID-19.

If you have traveled from within one of the designated states with significant community spread, you must quarantine when you enter New York for 14 days from the last travel within such designated state, provided on the date you enter into New York State that such state met the criteria for requiring such quarantine.

The requirements of the travel advisory do not apply to any individual passing through designated states for a limited duration (i.e., less than 24 hours) through the course of travel.

Examples of such brief passage include but are not limited to: stopping at rest stops for vehicles, buses, and/or trains; or lay-overs for air travel, bus travel, or train travel.

The travel advisory requires all New Yorkers, as well as those visiting from out of state, to take personal responsibility for complying with the advisory in the best interest of public health and safety.

To file a report of an individual failing to adhere to the quarantine pursuant to the travel advisory, please call 1-833-789-0470 or visit this website. Individuals may also contact their local department of health. (COVID-19 Travel Advisory)

Voting / Elections

Every voter that is in active and inactive status and is eligible to vote in a primary or special election to be held on June 23, 2020 shall be sent an absentee ballot application form with a postage paid return option for such application. Source: Executive Order 202.23.

Please note that you must be registered to vote in order to receive an absentee ballot.

To check if you are registered to vote, visit Lookup your Voter Registration and Polling Place.

Registration forms (English Form, Spanish Form) CANNOT be completed online. You can print out this form and mail it to the Board of Elections (PO Box 700, Yaphank NY, 11980) or visit the NYS DMV website and register.

To contact the Suffolk County Board of Elections, email BOEInfo@suffolkcountyny.gov.

For more information, see the Suffolk County Board of Elections website.