On March 9, Governor DeSantis declared a State of Emergency in Florida to curb the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Since then, schools have closed, public spaces have emptied, and restaurants have pivoted to take-out and delivery operations only. Families and small businesses are feeling the squeeze.
Many essential personnel are still reporting to work: first responders, health care workers, food service teams, and, crucially, the early learning providers who care for their children.
We have compiled the following list of resources for Floridians navigating a changing society in the face of the Coronavirus pandemic. If you are a parent navigating a loss of health insurance or looking for home schooling resources, we have resources below for you. If you are a child care provider looking for the latest guidance from the CDC or the Florida Department of Education, we have linked the best destinations for you below.
The Florida Department of Health also has a COVID-19 Call Center Available 24/7 at +1 (866) 779–6121 or you can email COVID-19@flhealth.gov.
SNAP Maximum Monthly Allotment: All Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients’ benefit amounts will be increased to the maximum monthly allotment based on household size.
SNAP and TANF Work Requirements Waived: The Department of Children and Families (DCF) will waive work requirements for individuals participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program.
Online Purchasing Pilot for SNAP: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients can purchase groceries online with the use of an EBT card. SNAP participants are automatically eligible to participate in this program and do not need to apply.
From Florida Phoenix: “Their rights under the American Disability Act guarantee that their children are entitled to go to school, to be safe in school.” Read the full article here. View more articles here.
From Florida Phoenix: “Parents across the nation who have yet to get their children COVID-19 vaccines cited reasons including potential side effects, lack of research on vaccines for children, and lack of concern about the new coronavirus.” Read the full article here. View more articles here.
From WUSF Public Media: “In the first week, Hillsborough County reported 435 students — up from 41 in the first week of school last year — and 228 staff had tested positive for coronavirus.” Read the full article here. View more articles here.
From The Hechinger Report: “It is so clear in our data and it’s been clearer over time…that children’s social and emotional well-being has suffered. It has been hard for them.” Read the full article here. View more articles here.
From CNN: “When one layer is removed, like when social distancing is foregone so students can gather in a classroom, the other layers of virus protection become even more crucial.” Read the full article here. View more articles here.