COVID-19 Resources for You
UJA’s network of nonprofits, synagogues, and day schools is continuing to mobilize and adapt quickly to the evolving needs of the COVID-19 global pandemic. We’ve compiled resources to help our community navigate these uncharted waters. We will update this page as new information becomes available. Please continue to check back.
- Novel Coronavirus Hotline: 1.888.364.3065 or call 311 (NYC) or 211 (other counties)
- New York State Department of Health
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- World Health Organization (WHO)
Tune in to free online learning sessions for both personal and professional use.
Past Webinars
- What Does A Second Wave Mean for New York?
CovidWatcher -- a Columbia University-founded research project -- is taking the pulse of New Yorkers and how they feel about reopening the city safely. Hear from Sue Bakken, Ph.D., R.N. and Jason Zucker, M.D., moderated by Ester R. Fuchs, as they discuss their research, latest medical and technological advancements related to the pandemic, ongoing healthcare disparities, and how we can best prepare for future waves of this virus. - INSIGHTS INTO RESILIENCE
Natan Sharansky, former refusenik who spent nine years in a Soviet prison, shares his insights into resilience. Watch the webinar or read highlights. - COPING WITH A NEW NORMAL
Talia Levanon, co-founder and executive director of the Israel Trauma Coalition, shares tips and ideas for managing calmly and effectively in this unprecedented time. Watch the webinar or read up on the key learnings. - IDEAS TO HELP TEENS BUILD RESILIENCE
Pam Schuller, director of Here.Now., a teen mental health initiative, offers insights into how teens can navigate this uncharted territory. Learn more. - TAKING CARE OF OTHERS WHILE TAKING CARE OF YOURSELVES (for Professionals)
Watch the webinar - CARES ACT BRIEFING
Listen to federal nonprofit policy experts, Stephan Kline, Interim Executive, Jewish Federation of North America’s DC office, and Steven Woolf, Senior Tax Policy Counsel, Jewish Federation of North America provide an in-depth analysis and answer questions about how agencies can apply for the various loans and other provisions available to the nonprofit community through the new CARES Act. - RESILIENCE AND VULNERABILITY: THE NEEDS OF SURVIVORS IN A PANDEMIC
Watch a panel discussion consisting of experts in geriatric care and Nazi victim services. - A SPECIAL BRIEFING ON THE CARES ACT WITH SENATOR CHARLES E. SCHUMER
Senator Schumer discusses the coronavirus stimulus package and how it helps New York State, including the resources that are available to nonprofits and houses of worship. Watch the webinar. - FINDING HAPPINESS IN A TIME OF UNCERTAINTY
In tough times, finding the joy can be a challenge. Columbia professor and world-renowned happiness guru Tal Ben-Shahar will help illuminate the way. Watch the webinar. - RECOVERING FROM CRISIS: A CONVERSATION WITH DAN DOCTOROFF
How will New York build a more inclusive and sustainable society after the pandemic passes? Watch an exclusive briefing with Dan Doctoroff, former deputy mayor of New York City from 2002-2008 and current chairman and CEO of Sidewalk Labs (Alphabet Inc.'s urban innovation organization), who helped organize New York's recovery after 9/11. Watch the webinar. - LEADERSHIP IN A TIME OF CRISIS
Featuring Amy Bressman, president of UJA, and Rob Acton of Cause Strategy Partners, this webinar explores four areas in which both board members and chief executives can support their organizations right now: counseling and supporting the CEO; managing financial implications and scenario planning; mitigating disruption in programs and services; and doubling down on resource generation. Watch the webinar. - WORK/LIFE BALANCE: WHAT'S THAT? A CONVERSATION FOR WORKING MOMS
During one of the most stressful times for working parents in recent history, how do we deal with our new normal? Hear the discussion with UJA Professional Women and Dr. Betsy Schur Levy as she offers advice, mutual support, and an opportunity to share. -
CRISIS TO CONNECTION: RESILIENCY IN THE TIME OF SOCIAL ISOLATION
Join Dr. Ruth and Ari Ackerman for a conversation about resiliency and strength. Listen here. - THE FUTURE OF EDUCATION
View a conversation moderated by David Bryfman, featuring Abby Brody, Ariela Dubler, and Ilana Ruskay-Kidd.
Watch here. - COPING WITH TRAUMA
Eminent psychiatrists Allen Frances, MD and Philip Wilner, MD, MBA, are joined by Elmhurst Hospital Covid-19 first responder, Joan Curcio, MD to discuss coping with trauma. Watch here.
*These programs are intended as educational tools for participants. UJA-Federation neither warrants nor represents that the seminars will provide all relevant information concerning the subjects that are addressed, or that the information provided will apply to or be appropriate for all participants. UJA-Federation assumes no liability for the information that is provided. UJA-Federation urges each participant, where necessary, to consult with appropriate professionals to review their own specific needs and requirements.
CommUnity Pre-Shabbat Gatherings
Find information ranging from how to access food and financial support to engagement activities and other services.
FOOD RESOURCES
Individuals experiencing food insecurity can consider going to a food pantry or ordering food delivery. You do not need to be a citizen to receive services at a food bank.
- Individuals/families who don’t require kosher food can be helped at:
- Individuals/families who do require kosher food can find a list of kosher pantries here. We strongly recommend before going in person to a food pantry that you contact the organization by phone to find out if they are open, their current hours, and how they are handling food distribution during this emergency time. Although the kosher food pantry network always strives to provide services with dignity and choice, some modifications have been made for health and safety purposes.
- Free meal sites
Starting April 3, 2020, New York City is opening 435 free meal sites across the city, welcoming anyone who needs food to receive all three meals for themselves and their family for free. No one will be turned away. Sites can be found online or by calling 311 24 hours a day. - Grab-and-Go Meals
Students that attend New York City schools will now be able to get three free Grab-and-Go meals daily at more than 400 sites across the city 7:30 am – 1:30 pm until further notice. No registration, ID or documentation required – and parents and guardians may pick up meals for their children. - Kosher grab-and-go meals are now available.
New York City is offering 3 kosher meals/day to any New Yorker at 10 sites throughout the city. The sites are under the strict kosher supervision of Rabbi N.E. Teitelbaum, Congregation Nachlas Aron Volve, Brooklyn. For more information, and to find the kosher meal site closest to you, visit schools.nyc.gov/koshermeals. - GetFoodNYC
If you cannot go out to get food, no one can bring you food, and you are not able to use private delivery options, New York City will deliver emergency meals to you. Check your eligibility and sign up here. - Individuals who receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits should shop either in their local stores or online for fresh produce and groceries. HRA Centers are open if clients need assistance. Individuals can also apply for SNAP, manage their SNAP or Cash Assistance case, update their information, and more by visiting this site.
- If anyone needs assistance finding their nearest food pantry, please call 311 and provide the operator with a zip code. They have a comprehensive list of food pantries throughout NYC, including updated resources for kosher food. Outside of NYC, please call 211 for information.
RESOURCES FOR UNEMPLOYED JEWISH NONPROFIT PROFESSIONALS
UJA has a longstanding commitment to support and strengthen the professionals who work in our Jewish nonprofit sector. For those experiencing temporary unemployment, we offer this suite of services and networking opportunities to help you transition to your next position. Learn more here.
INTEREST-FREE BRIDGE LOANS
Hebrew Free Loan Society is offering interest-free bridge loans for anyone affected by the coronavirus who lives in the five boroughs of New York City, in Westchester County, or on Long Island. Interest-free loans of $2,000-$5,000 are available for purposes including (but not limited to) lost wages due to being unable to go to work, child care costs due to school closures, small business losses, canceled study abroad programs, and related medical costs. Anyone eligible should fill out a Coronavirus Financial Bridge Loan application specifying that the request is for coronavirus-related needs. Please indicate an amount between $2,000-$5,000 and provide information for just one guarantor.
LEGAL RESOURCES
NYLAG is supporting individuals including those who are impacted by Covid-19 (i.e. evictions, legal planning, and financial advice).
NYLAG has also launched a legal resource hotline to help NYC residents impacted by Covid-19 get answers to their legal questions. Call 929.356.9582, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm Monday – Friday.
VIRTUAL RESOURCES FOR FAMILIES
- To support families with young children who are quarantined or social distancing, UJA-Federation, PJ Library, the Foundation for Jewish Camp, and The Jewish Education Project have come together to aggregate a collection of high-quality Jewish activities and content that families can engage in together at home.
- First Aid for Feelings: A Workbook for Families and Teachers of Young Children
Scholastic and the Yale Child Study Center have created a free workbook to help children, families, and communities foster resilience and positive adaptive skills in the face of stress and adversity. It is currently available on their website in both English and Spanish - Mount Sinai’s Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment is offering tips and activities that target socials skills in a time of social distancing, and keep children with ASD busy and engaged. There’s also a robust list of resources specific to Autism and Covid-19.
VIRTUAL RESOURCES FOR THE ELDERLY, CAREGIVERS, AND FAMILIES
JDC-ESHEL has compiled a full resource of materials and videos to support the elderly, their caregivers, and their families during these incredibly difficult times.
VIRTUAL RESOURCES FOR TEENS AND YOUNG ADULTS
- FindYourSummer.org has developed a new resources page that lists many virtual programs and other online opportunities for Jewish teens for Summer 2020. We encourage you to share these resources with teens in your community. UJA is a proud funder of Find Your Summer.
- BBYO On Demand
Tune in to learn, debate, study, laugh, connect, and so much more. BBYO and a growing list of partners are bringing together a network of teens, volunteers, and professionals and offering hundreds of programs through a brand-new virtual experience for Jewish teens worldwide. New stuff is happening every day. Connect now! - Hillel@Home: To help maintain critical connections and human interactions for students, Hillel@Home will provide a global online platform for discovering community, hearing great stories, and spending time with other Jewish college students from around the world.
VIRTUAL RESOURCES FOR CAREER ASSISTANCE
- Educational Alliance employment services are available to all. Counselors are available via email to provide a supportive, empathetic ear — especially to those unemployed. More information about resources is available here.
- Returning to Work and Unemployment Insurance: this guide from New York State provides answers to many questions about how returning to work will impact unemployment benefits.
- LinkedIn is offering free online learning to optimize remote working and set yourself and your team up for success. Learn more.
VIRTUAL RESOURCES IN YOUR COMMUNITY
Looking for a consolidated list of resources to help you find support for you, your family, and friends?
STAY ENGAGED AND CONNECTED
- 92Y@HOME is opening select live broadcasts and program archives to keep the community engaged and connected. Enjoy one-time events, lectures, and featured series.
- The Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan is keeping community connected and engaged through virtual programming accessible right in your own home. You can also enjoy JCC podcasts and video archive.
- Our Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI) Shlichim (Israeli emissaries) are ready to fill your days with interesting and engaging Israeli cultural sessions via Zoom! Learn more about JAFI activities.
STAY UPDATED
Visit the Jewish Telegraphic Agency (JTA) for an ongoing ticker of Jewish coronavirus news. Kveller has published helpful advice and personal essays about coronavirus, including life under quarantine, building community during this stressful time, and a profile of the teen who started the best coronavirus website.
VIRTUAL VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES
Our nonprofit partners are organizing virtual service opportunities to meet the emerging needs among high-risk and quarantined individuals. Sign up here.
Learn more about tips to cope with stress and build resilience in times of crisis.
CDC RECOMMENDATIONS FOR STRESS
Fear and anxiety can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children. Coping with stress will make you, the people you care about, and your community stronger. Learn more about the CDC’s recommendations for things you can do for yourself, your family, and friends here.
SUPPORT HOTLINE
Mental heath professionals are volunteering with the Amudim Anonymous Support Hotline, offering guidance and support to people struggling to cope with issues beyond anything they’ve ever experienced before. The call center can be reached at 888-726-8346, 718-972-3000 or support@amudin.org between 8:00 am and 11:00 pm.
REMOTE COUNSELING
OHEL is providing remote crisis counseling. To request a session, please sign up here. Learn more about additional resources here.
12 WAYS TO DEAL WITH STRESS AND ANXIETY
Various times and dates
Zoom Info and Registration
Join IsraAID, Israel’s leading humanitarian aid organization, for a self-care/mental health online session with trauma expert Dr. Debra Kalmanowitz. These sessions offer strategies and resources to improve emotional well-being.
STRESS REDUCTION
The Institute for Jewish Spirituality is offering opportunities for anyone who is looking for some moments of calm, centeredness, and clarity. You can find more information here.
NYC WELL
NYC Well connects you to free, confidential mental health support. Speak to a counselor via phone, text, or chat and get access to mental health and substance use services, in more than 200 languages, 24/7/365.
TOOLS FOR COPING DURING THESE TIMES OF CRISIS
Project Resilience is offering virtual workshops to strengthen your wellbeing. View the complete schedule of courses and register to join the live classes here.
Here is a list of services provided by agencies in the New York area that can help individuals and families who have faced domestic violence stay safe and rebuild their lives.*
Note: If you are in immediate danger or need emergency assistance, call 911.
EDITH AND CARL MARKS JEWISH COMMUNITY HOUSE OF BENSONHURST
Family Violence Prevention 718.331.6800, ext. 147 or 646.565.8582
This Marks JCH program, specializing in the Russian-speaking community, serves victims and survivors of domestic violence and elder abuse. A Russian women’s support group meets regularly. The program conducts assessments and provides crisis intervention, safety planning, case management, translation assistance, advocacy, information, and referrals for legal consultations on-site with the New York Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG). Referrals to other domestic violence–related services are also provided.
In addition, Marks JCH offers benefit assistance, English classes, employment assistance, child care, single parent programs, financial counseling, and immigrant services.
JE & ZB BUTLER CHILD ADVOCACY CENTER AT THE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL AT MONTEFIORE
Behavioral Health 718.920.8071
Medical Evaluations and Forensic Interviews 718.920.5833
The Butler Child Advocacy Center is a hospital-based child advocacy center that provides medical, psychosocial, and mental health services for victims of child abuse. The center serves children ranging in age from newborn to 18 and provides psychosocial evaluations, forensic medical exams, and evidenced-based, trauma-focused cognitive behavior therapies for victims of violence.
The center also specializes in treating children with problematic sexual behaviors. The center’s medical director provides on-site medical exams for Safe Horizon in the Bronx.
JCCA
Gateways Program 914.741.4524
JCCA offers Gateways, an intensive treatment program for girls who have been the victims of commercial sexual exploitation and domestic trafficking. It is one of the only programs of its kind in the northeast and provides comprehensive assessment and treatment services; addresses all medical, mental health and educational needs; and offers on-site substance abuse treatment if appropriate. All care provided uses the evidence-informed Sanctuary Model of trauma treatment.
Gateways provides five hours of individually tailored educational instruction daily, provided by licensed teachers at an on-site school. There is a therapeutic range of activities that offer positive alternatives to life on the street as well as a job training program.
Center for Healing 914.773.6137
JCCA also offers The Center for Healing, which provides evidence-based, clinical services to JCCA-referred children and families who have suffered child sexual abuse and/or exploitation. In addition, the center also provides appropriate training and support to JCCA.
For both JCCA Programs, can also contact through New York State Child Abuse Hotline 800.342.3720
JEWISH ASSOCIATION SERVING THE AGING (JASA)
Legal/Social Work Elder Abuse Program (LEAP) 212.273.5359
The LEAP program is composed of a team of attorneys and social workers who every year help hundreds of victims of abuse, ages 60 and over. All services are free. Attorneys secure orders of protection, litigate to regain misappropriated property, and contact and work with police and the district attorney. Social workers provide individual and group counseling, court advocacy, and case assistance including accessing entitlements and benefits, lock changes, and transportation.
JEWISH BOARD OF FAMILY AND CHILDREN’S SERVICES
Domestic Violence Services 212.262.7655
The Jewish Board provides a full range of domestic violence services for survivors of abuse. Domestic violence shelters provide emergency shelter for female or male survivors of domestic violence and their children. Clients are provided supportive services from their initial phone call seeking assistance through their move into transitional or more permanent housing. Clients can be referred at any time, day or night.
Shelter services are available in three boroughs. Culturally sensitive family violence services are provided specifically to meet the needs of the Orthodox community, and include education, outreach, crisis intervention and counseling.
THE MARION & AARON GURAL JCC
Project Hope – Safe Center 24/7 Emergency Confidential Hotline 516.542.0404
The Marion & Aaron Gural JCC in partnership with the Safe Center LI provides domestic violence case management services for Jewish women, as well as a broad range of other services.
METROPOLITAN COUNCIL ON JEWISH POVERTY
Family Violence Services 646.872.4465
Domestic Violence Call-In Helpline 212.453.9592 (available 8 am – midnight)
Secure Text 917.540.0225 (available 8 am – midnight)
Met Council provides a range of free, confidential services to assist and advocate for survivors of family violence and sex trafficking. Committed to serving all New Yorkers, staff is trained to be sensitive to the special needs of the Jewish and immigrant communities and help people within the context of their cultural backgrounds. Met Council can serve clients in a number of languages including Hebrew, Russian, and Spanish.
The Secure Text sent from a cell phone or smartphone will automatically disappear, making it impossible for an abuser to trace it.
MOUNT SINAI MEDICAL CENTER
Sexual Assault and Violence Intervention (SAVI) Program 212.423.2140
Volunteer advocates at SAVI provide emotional support and information to survivors of sexual assault, rape, incest, and domestic violence in seven Mount Sinai hospital emergency rooms.
Sexual Assault and Violence Intervention (SAVI) Takanot Program 212.423.2147
The SAVI Takanot Program offers culturally sensitive counseling and support services for male and female Orthodox Jewish survivors.
Support for Victims of Rape and Incest (SOVRI) Helpline 888.613.1613
The SOVRI helpline in the Orthodox Jewish community is under the auspices of Mount Sinai Beth Israel.
NEW YORK LEGAL ASSISTANCE GROUP (NYLAG)
212.613.5000, Tuesday, 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
NYLAG provides domestic violence survivors with free legal consultation, advocacy, and direct representation in contested or uncontested divorce, orders of protection, child custody and visitation, child and spousal support, and appeals in domestic violence cases. NYLAG provides advocacy on behalf of survivors in criminal cases as well, and consultation and representation in the areas of public benefits, planning, and immigration. It also provides referrals to appropriate social service agencies and offers free educational seminars for professionals and community groups.
OHEL CHILDREN’S HOME & FAMILY SERVICES
800.603.6435
OHEL provides comprehensive services to help women who are domestic violence survivors.
SAFE CENTER LI
24-Hour Hotline 516.542.0404
The Safe Center offers a range of services to assist in saving and changing the lives of adult and child survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, and sexual assault. Through a nurturing and compassionate staff of professionals, services offered include counseling, housing, advocacy, legal assistance, and referrals. The Safe Center also offers a 24-hour hotline.
SAMUEL FIELD Y/COMMONPOINT QUEENS
Tikveh Program 718.225.6750, ext. 248
One-on-one counseling and case management for women who face domestic violence is available through the Sam Field Center at Commonpoint Queens.
SHALOM TASK FORCE
Shalom Task Force Confidential Hotline 888.883.2323 or 718.337.3700
Sarah’s Voice – Legal Services 718.337.3700
Shalom Task Force provides help to survivors of domestic violence in the Jewish community and offers a confidential domestic abuse hotline that offers culturally sensitive referrals, including therapists, clergy, and shelters. Through Sarah’s Voice, a service of Shalom Task Force, legal advice and assistance is also available.
SHOREFRONT YM-YWHA OF BRIGHTON-MANHATTAN BEACH
347.689.1818
Counselors provide free confidential information and referrals, including information on safety planning and available resources. All counselors speak Russian and English.
WESTCHESTER JEWISH COMMUNITY SERVICES (WJCS)
Child Sexual Abuse Treatment Program 914.949.7699, ext. 2475
This WJCS program uses a comprehensive team approach for victims of incest and child sexual abuse. Research and evidence-based methods are used to treat the trauma of children or adult survivors.
Partner Abuse Intervention Program 914.949.7699, ext. 2471
This WJCS program provides individual therapy, advocacy, and family therapy when warranted for survivors and their children. Resources and referrals are available for legal services, court advocacy, and emergency shelters.
Shalom at Home 914.949.7699, ext. 2471
The Shalom at Home WJCS program, with support from the Margery Price Foundation, offers sensitive counseling and referrals for Jewish women who are domestic violence survivors.
Trager Lemp Center: Treating Trauma & Promoting Resilience 914.949.7699, ext. 2475
This WJCS center offers individual counseling for victims of abusive relationships from a trauma perspective. Professionals provide mental health services, community outreach, and professional education on the treatment of victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse with mental health diagnoses.
THE HARRY AND JEANETTE WEINBERG CENTER FOR ELDER JUSTICE AT THE HEBREW HOME AT RIVERDALE
24-Hour Referral Hotline 800.56.SENIOR 800.567.3646
The Weinberg Center is the nation’s first elder abuse shelter serving eligible individuals 60 years and older. The Weinberg Center provides emergency short-term housing and healthcare.
*The contents of this notice are for general informational purposes only, and do not constitute a recommendation or an endorsement of any agency. Information about agencies that have no affiliation with or relationship to UJA-Federation may be included. UJA-Federation has not independently confirmed or verified the information about the agencies listed herein. UJA-Federation assumes no obligation with respect to the health or well-being of the individuals who use any information contained herein and disclaims all liability for injury or losses that may arise out of the use of information provided by UJA-Federation. Reliance on any information in this notice is at the reader’s own risk. The information is not intended to be used to promote, market, or recommend any agency cited herein.
VIRTUAL WEEKLY MEETINGS*
To accommodate the recent COVID-19 crisis, JACS will be partnering with Our Jewish Recovery and The T'Shuvah Center and hold weekly virtual meetings for those in recovery and their loved ones. These meetings are open to Jews across the country who want to meet and discuss.
12 Step JACS Meeting
Every Monday at 7:30 pm
12 Step open meeting.
Join us by dialing (515) 603-3118, passcode 793614
OUR JEWISH RECOVERY Meeting
Every Tuesday at 2:00 pm
Open Meeting
Zoom Info
12 Step JACS MEETING
Every Tuesday, at 7:00 pm
Zoom Info
RECOVERY Torah Study
Every Wednesday at 2:00 pm
Zoom Meeting
12 Step JACS Meeting
Every Wednesday at 7:00 pm
Join by dialing (712) 432-0075, passcode 895743#
OUR JEWISH RECOVERY Meeting
Every Friday at 2:00 pm
Zoom Info
ADDITIONAL PROGRAMS OFFERED BY THE T’SHUVAH CENTER
Podcast: Tattoos and Torahs
Released Every Friday
Apple Podcast | Spotify | Stitcher | Anchor
This podcast explores a variety of topics such as addiction, recovery, Talmud, Torah, culture, tattoos, and LGBTQI+ identity.
Talmud Study with Rabbi Iggy
Wednesdays 12:00 noon
Zoom Info
Study the highlights of Talmud in Rabbi Iggy’s unique style and discuss how it relates to our lives today. No prior knowledge of Talmud or Hebrew is necessary.
Spiritual Recovery with Rabbi Iggy and Rabbi Kerry Chaplin - #NotMyCorona
Wednesdays 4:00 pm
Zoom Info
T’Shuvah Center and Beit T’Shuvah in Los Angeles are starting a joint learning opportunity on the intersection of recovery, spirituality and dealing with the current disruption of our daily lives, due to the worldwide pandemic.
T’Shuvah Group with Rabbi Scott Perlo and Rabbi Iggy
Thursdays 5:30 pm
Zoom Info
T’Shuvah Center and the 92nd Street Y lead a T'Shuvah Group which creates a safe and challenging space to pause and reflect on the last week. We process what we need to do in order to get closer to creating a life of meaning.
Talmud Study with Rabbi Iggy
Friday 12:00 noon
Zoom Info
Study the highlights of Talmud in Rabbi Iggy’s unique style and discuss how it relates to our lives today. No prior knowledge of Talmud or Hebrew is necessary.
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*JACS (through The Jewish Board) is a mutual-aid support network for Jews in recovery, their loved ones, and those who may be still struggling with addiction. Contact the JACS office or Shoshana Nirenberg for more information.
Our Jewish Recovery exists to support Jews in recovery, and their loved ones, and to help find experience, strength, and hope. Contact Rabbi Ilan Glazer for more information and join our online community
The T'Shuvah Center provides addicts of all kinds with the opportunity to build a community for recovery using a model that integrates Jewish wisdom, text, and ritual; psychotherapy; the 12-Steps; and spirituality. Contact The T'Shuvah Center for more information at info@tshuvahcenter.org
Find amazing live performances and rich archival programming to keep you engaged and connected every day.
Looking for more? Here’s your daily guide to Zoom events, livestreams and other online resources. Remember to check back daily - new events are added all the time.
Access information and connections specific to nonprofits in our catchment area.
COVID-19 REOPENING AND REENTRY RESOURCES
The Community Security Initiative (CSI) – a joint program of UJA-Federation of New York and JCRC-NY - has created Reopening and Reentry: a guide for New York Jewish organizations.
Looking for more information? Have a question you want to ask? Email your regional security manager here.
THE CARES ACT AND SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION LOANS (SBA)
The President signed into law the Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The bill includes a provision for $350 billion in Small Business Administration (SBA) loans. 501(c)(3) nonprofits with less than 500 employees are eligible for these loans.
- Learn more about the CARES Act here.
- Learn more about the loan program here.
- Find a list of qualified lenders here and a useful guide to help crunch some numbers on JewishTogether.org.
JFNA has set up a national resource bank of professionals and volunteers who can assist institutions with this process. If you have questions, please email SBALoans@jewishfederations.org or call (212) 284-6625.
LEGAL RESOURCES
- Paul Weiss’s Coronavirus Relief Center is a clearinghouse of the most up-to-date information about available city, state, federal and nonprofit resources available to those contending with Covid-19 economic impacts.
- Lawyers Alliance’s website is updated regularly for updates on guidance for nonprofits including guidance on frequently asked questions. You can also access the Resource Call Hotline and sign up for ongoing updates.
- NYLAG is supporting individuals including those who are impacted by Covid-19 (i.e. evictions, legal planning, and financial advice).
OPPORTUNITIES FOR FUNDING
- Grants up to $250,000 and no-interest loans for Human Services and Arts / Cultural Organizations responding to Covid-19 are available. Visit NYC Covid-19 Response and Impact Fund site.
- Robin Hood's Covid-19 relief fund is accepting applications from organizations on a rolling basis for immediate response grants. Visit this site for more information and to apply.
- The Main Street Lending Program is intended for small and mid-sized businesses with up to 10,000 employees and $2.5 billion in revenue; 4-year unsecured term loans, no prepayment penalty, and applications managed through borrower’s bank. Unlike PPP, there will be no loan forgiveness. Learn more here for summarized information from JFNA and read an article from Venable LLP here.
- Brooklyn COVID-19 Response Fund operates in alignment with the Brooklyn Community Foundation’s racial justice lens. The Fund is accepting applications on a rolling basis for immediate response grants of up to $10,000. Learn more about eligibility here.
- North Star Fund - Future of Organizing Fund supports direct assistance and grassroots organizing of NYC and Hudson Valley communities in response to the crises created by COVID-19. Find out more information and determine eligibility here.
- The Covid-19 Long Island Philanthropic Response Fund, a collaboration between funders such as the Claire Friedlander Family Foundation, Greentree Foundation, and Long Island Community Foundation, will provide financial support to Long Island nonprofits involved in health and human services, food insecurity, and arts and culture. Learn more here.
HUMAN SERVICES ALERT
The Human Services Council has created this free emergency communications system specifically for human service professionals. It will offer disaster-related information designed to inform nonprofit management decisions about actions to take following a disaster. Learn more and sign up here.
COMMUNITIES HELPING COMMUNITIES
Looking for what communities can do to help themselves and others while in Quarantine? This list of tips, gleaned from the experiences of the Westchester Jewish community, can help guide communities looking to adapt communication methods, support the emotional needs of their community members, and provide Jewish learning experiences during the Covid-19 quarantines.
JEWISH MEDITATION FOR CALM AND RESILIENCE
Information and Registration
Join JPro for bi-weekly sessions led by experienced Jewish mindfulness meditation instructors who can help you develop your ability to pay attention to the present moment, cultivate calmness, practice kindness towards yourself and others, and respond to this difficult moment more wisely and skillfully.
Open and welcoming to all, regardless of religion or job title. No prior experience with meditation or mindfulness practice needed.
GOOGLE HANGOUT
Google is making the premium version of its workplace video chat tool free until July, to help businesses and schools working remotely due to coronavirus. Learn more here.
FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT DURING TIMES OF CRISIS
Watch a seminar given to participants in UJA’s Institute for Jewish Executive Leadership 2020 program, including scenario planning and many helpful resources at the end of the session.
QUESTIONS, CONCERNS, OR INFO TO SHARE?
It has never been more important to share local needs so we can learn and determine how we might lend support. Nonprofits in UJA’s network should contact local UJA Community mobilizers to help process emerging issues and promote potential solutions. Not sure who to speak to? Email Rebecca Saidlower at and she’ll make the connection.
Stay connected to Jewish life and find shared community in new virtual ways.
GENERAL GUIDANCE
Access practical guidance that pertains to your Jewish denomination, or contact your local rabbi for more tailored recommendations.
- The Union for Reform Judaism has shared its recommendations for congregations.
- The United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism is offering resources in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
- The Reconstructionist movement has shared materials created in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
- The Rabbinical Assembly has shared halakhic guidance about coronavirus.
- The Orthodox Union is regularly updating halakhic and practical guidance for synagogues.
- The Agudath Israel of America has shared answers to 12 FAQs.
- More resources and webinars for clergy can be found here.
FINANCIAL MODELING AND PLANNING PROGRAM
UJA’s new Financial Modeling and Planning program, developed specifically for New York day schools, yeshivas and synagogues offers concrete tools and strategies for financial analysis and decision-making which will complement and enhance your synagogue’s scenario planning and is a next step to prepare for what’s ahead.
We strongly encourage synagogues to participate in this process with a team of professional and/or lay leaders, including at least one organizational leader setting strategic direction and one leader involved with the financial direction.
For more information, contact Nadine Kochavi at or Jonathan Marx at
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HIGH HOLIDAYS RESOURCES FROM NATIONAL MOVEMENTS
As we approach the High Holidays, the movements have provided resources around use of technology, guidelines, ritual considerations, innovation and more. Check out their sites for ideas and resources while navigating preparing for the high holidays.
Resources from the Union for Reform Judaism
Resources from the Conservative Movement
VIRTUAL SYNAGOGUE SERVICES
In this time of unprecedented anxiety and uncertainty, staying connected to Jewish life can provide a solace and connection to our community that is more important than ever. To meet these growing needs, the following congregations have made services and other ritual observances available via livestream to all who would like to join in. Learn more.
RELEVANT PRAYERS
My Jewish Learning has guides to traditional prayers that may be particularly useful at this time, including the Prayer for Healing, the Prayer for Hand Washing, the Prayer for Travelers, and the Prayer for Doctors.
MEANINGFUL MORNINGS WITH UJA's SCHOLAR-IN-RESIDENCE
Join Rabbi Menachem Creditor each weekday morning at 9:00 am on Facebook Live as he offers our community words of comfort throughout this challenging time.
For more information, please contact Nadine Kochavi, Director of Synagogue Strategy at .
Find guidance, webinars, and resources for day schools and other learning settings.
THE JEWISH EDUCATION PROJECT RESOURCES AND WEBINARS
The Jewish Education Project is compiling school-related guidance on how Jewish day school, congregation, JCC, early childhood, and independent settings are responding and planning in their communities. Learn more here.
PRIZMAH RESOURCE GUIDE
Prizmah Center for Jewish Day Schools is offering a Coronavirus Covid-19 Guidance and Resource Center, including information on webinars and general policies and procedures.
FINANCIAL MODELING AND PLANNING PROGRAM
UJA’s new Financial Modeling and Planning program, developed specifically for New York day schools, yeshivas and synagogues offers concrete tools and strategies for financial analysis and decision-making which will complement and enhance your school’s scenario planning and is a next step to prepare for what’s ahead.
We strongly encourage schools to participate in this process with a team of professional and/or lay leaders, including at least one organizational leader setting strategic direction and one leader involved with the financial direction.
For more information, contact Chavie Kahn at or to Jonathan Marx at
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Access resources and support specifically addressing the needs of the healthcare community.
SUPPORT FOR PROFESSIONALS
The Jewish Board is offering help and support for all healthcare professionals. For more information, or to speak to a professional, connect here.
NYS RESERVE HEALTHCARE WORKFORCE
New York State is looking for qualified health, mental health, and related professionals who are interested in supporting the state’s response to Covid-19. Learn more about how you can help.
NYC’s REGIONAL ENRICHMENT CENTERS
Get info for child care centers for frontline workers.