The following is a list of resources available for residents and neighbors in need of assistance during the COVID-19 outbreak. This list will be updated periodically. If you have a suggestion feel free to reach out via email at [email protected] or phone at 412.681.8800
If you require a service not found here you can call 211 or go to pa211sw.org
For Residents:
Buddy System
If you need help with things like picking up groceries or prescriptions we can match you with a Buddy who lives nearby and can offer assistance. Sign up here.
Bloomfield Food Pantry
The Bloomfield Food Pantry distributes on the third Saturday of the month. Find more info here.
Department of Human Services Emergency Assistance Program
The Emergency Assistance Program (EAP) is meant to help low-income families who lost wages experiencing financial challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Families who qualify will be eligible for a one-time payment to assist them in meeting basic needs and help them secure more stable financial footing in the future. Find more info and how to apply here.
Emergency Food Assistance
The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture put together a guide on how to access emergency food assistance during COVID-19 mitigation. Read more here.
Free Food Distribution Sites
This map shows free food distribution sites in Allegheny County. View the map here.
Housing Assistance Resource Portal
The City of Pittsburgh has launched an online resource portal to help find available housing resources that you qualify for. View the portal here.
Childcare Providers
While many childcare sites are not currently operating the PA Department of Human Services wants to be sure the essential and life sustaining workers are still able to access childcare. This map will show you childcare centers that are currently operating.
Unemployment Compensation
If you are unable to work due to the COVID-19/coronavirus outbreak, Pennsylvania has recently updated its Unemployment Compensation webpage with new information. Now, if your employer temporarily closes, reduces your hours, or you have been told to self-isolate, Pennsylvania is waiving the Work Search and Work Registration requirements and suspending the one-week waiting period. Those eligible can apply online. Find more info here.
Restaurant Employee Relief Fund
The Restaurant Employee Relief Fund was created to help restaurant industry employees experiencing hardship in the wake of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak. Through this Fund, grants will be made to restaurant industry employees who have demonstrated being financially impacted by COVID-19, whether through a decrease in wages or loss of employment. Find more info and apply here.
Hebrew Free Loan Association of Pittsburgh Coronavirus Financial Bridge Loan Program
Hebrew Free Loan Association of Pittsburgh has announced a Coronavirus Financial Bridge Loan Program to provide interest-free loans on a nonsectarian basis for up to $5,000. Find more info and apply here.
URA Housing Stabilization Program
The Urban Redevelopment Authority and the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh have partnered to provide short term rent/mortgage/utility financial assistance to city residents. Read more about the program here.
Economic Impact Payment
If you don’t usually file a tax return, you can submit your information to get your Economic Impact Payment from the IRS. Submit you info here or check on the status of your payment here.
Federal Student Loan Payment Suspension
The office of Federal Student Aid is having interest rates set to 0% for a period of at least 60 days for all federally held student loans. Additionally, borrowers will have the option to suspend their payments for at least two months to allow them greater flexibility during the national emergency. Read more here.
Comcast Internet Services
Xfinity WiFi hotspots, located throughout the city, will be available to anyone for free, even without a subscription. Additionally, no disconnects or late fees will be assessed on current subscribers. For low-income customers, families are eligible to receive 60 days of complimentary Internet Essentials service. Find more info here.
Pittsburgh Virtual Tip Jar for Service Workers
Many of us would regularly be patronizing bars, salons, restaurants, and other businesses that have been ordered closed. Even if you are socially isolating, you can help to support our local service industry staff. Consider sending a “tip” to your favorite bartender, server, stylist, aesthetician. A Carnegie Mellon team created this online resource to do just that.
Resources for Artists
The Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council has created a list of resources for artists in Pittsburgh including their own Emergency Fund for Artists. See the list here.
PPE Connect PGH
PPE Connect PGH was created to connect Pittsburgh area medical providers in need of Personal Protective Equipment with those who have and are willing to donate new, unused PPE. This can include gloves, N95 masks, goggles, etc… Find more information here.
Virtual Resume Workshops
The Eastside Neighborhood Employment Center is now offering resume workshops virtually. Register for an upcoming workshop here.