COVID-19 Database for People with I/DD, Caregivers, and Staff

City FHEPS is one of the programs that provides ongoing rental assistance to New York City residents. This is a benefit that is made available to clients who are in shelter or for some individuals facing eviction. 

This resource is for New York City residents.

As a result of the COVID-19 crisis, many Americans may find it harder to afford their medicines. Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) member companies are dedicated to helping patients access resources when they need them most.  PhRMA created the Medicine Assistance Tool (MAT). MAT is a free and confidential search engine that focuses its searches on helping people who visit the site be more aware of the various programs that make prescriptions more affordable for those in need.

IncludeNYC created a helpful tip sheet on creating and applying schedules for children with disabilities. Schedules are important when creating consistency and structure for your child, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Creating a daily plan with clear timeframes can help increase a child’s independence and help them plan and prepare for transitions throughout the day. Schedules can also benefit caregivers, by helping them plan their own day and accomplish the items on their to-do list. 

The New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) has become aware of instances in which school districts are requiring parents or guardians to waive certain legal rights or give written consent for services as a condition for receipt of special education or related services. The purpose of this guidance is to clarify the legal rights of students and parents during COVID-19. It explains how the practice of requiring parents or guardians to waive certain legal rights violates the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and NJDOE regulations.

YAI has compiled a list of mental health resources and apps that can be used by people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), parents/caregivers, family members, and service providers during the COVID-19 pandemic. The resource list contains information on suicide prevention, coping strategies, helplines, meditation, and mindfulness. 

“My Hero is You” is a book written by the Inter-Agency Standing Committee Reference Group on Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in Emergency Settings (IASC MHPSS RG) for children around the world affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. “My Hero is You” should be read by a parent, caregiver or teacher alongside a child or a small group of children. It is not encouraged for children to read this book independently without the support of a parent, caregiver or teacher. 

The NYC Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities (MOPD) created an Accessible Virtual Meetings Guide. This guide is meant to provide information on how you can make your virtual meetings accessible to people with disabilities. It includes information on what you should do before the meeting, using an accessible virtual conferencing platform, providing accommodations as well as online disability etiquette.