Covid-19, popularly known as coronavirus, has been hitting the headlines ever since it was first detected in Wuhan, Hubei Province, in the People’s Republic of China. Although the initial outbreaks were initially limited to this Chinese province, this virus has now spread globally.
The coronavirus is officially a global pandemic. Most jurisdictions have been quick to introduce measures aimed at curbing the spread of this virus. While restricting international access at all major entry points and self-quarantine have been effective, additional measures such as working from home have also been instrumental.
If you have been rendered jobless by the outbreak of coronavirus, there is no cause for despair. Looking at the current turn of events, the fight against this contagious virus could soon be over. Everyone deserves the right to a good life, whether employed or out of work. That said, here are some essential resources designed to ease the burden caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Unemployment Benefits
If you have just lost your source of livelihood, you need to apply for unemployment benefits. These benefits are made available from the taxes paid by your former employer. Although these benefits might not match your earnings, they will be applied to meet your expenses as you explore other options. Unemployment benefits, however, are only offered to workers who lost a job because of an unforeseen occurrence that was beyond their control. Closure of business due to the Covid-19, therefore, is a perfect example. Please visit TWC to apply.
Health Insurance
In attempts to curb the spread of the Covid-19 virus in the US, the Washington Health Benefit Exchange has opened its doors to qualified individuals who do not have insurance on their name. This opening runs through to April 8, 2020, allowing individuals to register for health insurance.
Helpline Center – Call 211
If you have trouble accessing social services, food, or emergency help, you can call the toll-free number, 211, for all manner of community resources. The support team will help you find community-based programs that you are eligible for.
For easy access to a variety of services, you might also utilize the Washington Connection. This platform allows individuals that are out of work because of the Covid-19 or any other reason to apply for a variety of services ranging from childcare, long-term care, medical saving programs, food, to cash.
Support from Utility Companies and Lenders
If you are impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic, in any way, some utility companies and lenders are willing to help you ease the effects. All you need to do is call them. Texas residents affected by the coronavirus, for instance, will not be facing electricity and water shutoffs. Other service providers from all over the country have and will be expected to follow suit. Some lenders, particularly those with hardship plans, have expressed their desire to help anyone affected.
In light of massive job losses, the government has formulated alternate plans to help people out of work to cope with the brunt of the corona pandemic such as the historic stimulus bill passed by the United States Congress. While additional plans are yet to be finalized, you can always utilize those that are already available as different stakeholders join in this fight.
Although Workforce Solutions has closed to walk-in traffic, we are still prepared to serve our customers via phone or email…no fooling!
Stay safe!
Tiffany Armington is a Regional Facilitator for Workforce Solutions in the Houston-Galveston region. Tiffany brings her studies in special education and 12 years’ experience in marketing, sales, and training to the team. Her chief cornerstone is customer service that is centered and focused on removing all barriers to full time employment. She truly enjoys assisting job seekers with career readiness courses that will ultimately lead them to the perfect career opportunity. She is very passionate about building up and encouraging others to reach the possibilities in their lives.
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