There is a significant amount of information you are receiving each day, it can be overwhelming and hard to find trusted sources of information.  The following are organizations that provide factual updates and information related to COVID-19.  We hope you find them useful.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
This page that the CDC has developed is a one-stop-shop for background on the strain, COVID-19, as well as the class of coronaviruses; CDC-authored news monitoring the situation, including all the statistics on cases; and a wealth of resources for professionals and the general public.  The page includes resources in Spanish.

The World Health Organization
A trusted authoritative source for public health information.  The WHO announced the official name for the disease that is causing the 2020 outbreak of coronavirus disease: COVID-19.

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
FEMA supports the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services in its role as the lead federal agency for the federal government’s response.  Learn about FEMA’s response to COVID-19 and more about the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s response.

We have received inquiries for information in Spanish on COVID-19 and would like to share the following resource which includes prevention, symptoms, and how to reduce fear and anxiety.

UNIDOS US
This site on COVID-19 provides information and resources in Spanish for the Latino community.

Spanish Language Resources for Older Adults
Mi Comunidad con AARP is a new bilingual platform launched by AARP Innovations Lab that is meant to support the elderly community during the current health crisis and stay connected while practicing social distancing.  This service is free and you do not have to be an AARP member to access. 

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Spanish website has information about the virus along with printable resources.

California’s Physician Shortage During COVID-19
UCLA Latino Policy & Politics Initiative has released a report that urges state leaders and medical school administrators to take steps now to address California’s physician shortage before a second wave of the novel coronavirus causes even more disproportionate deaths among vulnerable communities. The report makes policy recommendations to address the state’s physician shortage, with a focus on improving health access among California’s vulnerable populations.

Child Hunger and the Coronavirus Pandemic
School districts have implemented grab-and-go programs and delivery services to students receiving free or reduced school breakfast and lunches since the closures of schools.  Through COVID-19 federal relief, states are eligible to provide additional financial assistance to low-income families with ATM-like cards; some are calling it the Pandemic EBT program.  Learn more about the program and steps state advocates can take to further assist recipients here.

COVID-19 Resources for State Legislators and Staff
NCSL is providing its members with timely responses to state research requests and the essential knowledge needed to guide state action. Their COVID-19 site is updated daily to reflect new resources in policy areas ranging from education to health care costs and access.

Families First COVID-19 Constituency Service Resource Toolkit
The Families First Coronavirus Response Act, codified into law on March 18, 2020, provides paid sick leave and free Coronavirus testing; expands food assistance and unemployment benefits; and will require employers to provide additional protections for health care workers.  The Families First Toolkit contains information to help better understand all the benefits that are available to you, your communities and how to access them.

Families First Coronavirus Response Act (H.R. 6201)
The Families First Coronavirus Response Act, codified into law on March 18, 2020, provides paid sick leave and free Coronavirus testing; expands food assistance and unemployment benefits; and will require employers to provide additional protections for health care workers.  This bill provides funding to the Department of Agriculture for nutrition Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Woman, Infants, and Children; suspends the work requirement for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and allow certain waivers to requirements for the school meal program.  Learn more about the Families First Coronavirus Response Act here and about the impact it has on the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program here.

State Data and Policy Actions to Address Coronavirus
Kaiser Family Foundation has developed a data tool that provides to date action taken by a number of states to mitigate the spread of the virus and reduce barriers to testing and treatment for those affected.  This data tool provides state level information on a number of cases and deaths, adopted social distancing measures, health policy actions to reduce barriers to COVID-19 testing including provider capacity.

From HHS
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced an action by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to provide resources to state and local jurisdictions in support of our nation’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.  The CDC is contacting State Health Officers to move forward with awarding over $560 million to states, localities, territories, and tribes.  The CDC will use existing networks to reach out to state and local jurisdictions to access this initial funding.  To view the list of CDC funding actions to jurisdictions, click here.

From NCSL
This page provides the latest updates on COVID-19 and provides information on the policies States have introduced to support state action related to COVID-19, including resolutions to encourage certain practices and bills that involve funding, workforce protections or medical coverage, disease surveillance, isolation, and quarantine or are related to actions taken by the Governor in a state of emergency.

Safely Re-Opening America’s Schools and Communities
American Teachers Federation (AFT) launched a 20-page, science-based “Plan to Safely Reopen America’s Schools and Communities”, guidance for imagining a new normal for public education, public health, and our economy in the age of COVID-19. The plan features five core pillars that can inform decisions to reopen the country based on the science as well as educator and healthcare expertise.

Dealing with Your Own Stress: Coping Strategies in the COVID-19 World
When a disaster hits, local government managers have the challenging task of providing leadership to the community – often while dealing with the crisis in their own home. Now, more than ever, local government managers must safeguard their emotional well-being as they deal with extreme personal and professional stressors. The 30 minute, recorded teleconference from ICMA Local Gov Life can be accessed here.

How Our Cities Can Reopen After the COVID-19 Pandemic – ICMA
There is light at the end of the tunnel.  In the not-too-distant future, the pandemic will end and our cities will return to something approximating normal.  This is a time when cities and their leaders can and must show the way ahead.  Read Richard Florida and Steven Pedigo’s 10-point preparedness plan in How Our Cities Can Reopen After the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Small Business Guidance & Loan Resources
Health and government officials are working together to maintain the safety, security, and health of the American people.  Small businesses are encouraged to do their part to keep employees, customers, and themselves healthy.  The U.S. Small Business Administration has a list of resources and information on their site: Small Business Administration COVID-19.

Economic Impact Payments: What you need to now
The Treasury Department and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) distribution of economic impact payments will begin in the next couple of weeks and will be distributed automatically, with no action required for most people.  However, some taxpayers who typically do not file returns will need to submit a simple tax return to receive the economic impact payment.  Please visit IRS.gov for detailed information on who is eligible for payment.

Economic Impact Payments for Senior Retirees
For information for seniors and retirees payment please see Press Release from the U.S. Department of Treasury.

The Rural Health Care System and COVID-19
The National Rural Health Association addresses the issue areas affecting the already-fragile rural healthcare safety net.  Approximately 3.2 million Latinos living in rural areas across the United States, with the average age being 73.3.  The Rural Health Information Hub has an online guide for rural coronavirus response.

Impact Planning for COVID-19
For county specific information on COVID-19 impact here is an impact planning map with the number of cases and planning reports.  The information is updated daily, sourced by Esri.

Resources For the Undocumented Community During Coronavirus
These are unprecedented times for all of us.  This is especially true for the immigrant community who is dealing with unique challenges the coronavirus presents given immigration status. Informed Immigrants has a number of resources for immigrants during the COVID-19 pandemic, including a Social Media Toolkit: Resources For the Undocumented Community During COVID-19: Toolkit.

Senate Passes $2 Trillion CARES Act
Local governments will gain access to additional disaster relief and a wide range of stimulus grant funding and loan programs.  To learn more about what local governments can expect now that the Senate passed the Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act on March 25, please visit ICMA site for detailed information.

Real ID Deadline Extended
Due to circumstances resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic and the national emergency declaration, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, as directed by the President, is extending the REAL ID enforcement deadline beyond the current October 1, 2020 deadline, to October 1, 2021. For more information visit the DHS site here.

Resources on Childcare
National League of Cities (NLC) – Municipal officials can find resources and recommendations on prioritizing childcare for critical personnel, support childcare providers with enhanced guidelines, connecting childcare providers to small business and income support.  Click here for examples of what local and state governments have done in this policy area.  

Supporting Workers in Crisis COVID-19 Relief

One Fair Wage Emergency Fund – Cash assistance fund for restaurant workers, car service drivers, delivery workers, personal service workers and more who need monetary assistance.

USBG National Charity Foundation – Bartender Emergency Assistance Program. For bartenders, or the spouse or child of a bartender who have experienced an emergency hardship.

Another Round, Another Rally Emergency Assistance – For workers in the hospitality industry, dishwasher, bartender, server, busser, chef, cook, sommelier, manager, host, concierge, cleaning staff, or bar back may apply for funds.

Restaurant Workers’ Community Foundation – For emergency assistance for those employed by restaurants or bars or are employed by a restaurant or bar supplier.

Critical Infrastructure Workforce
The Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), issued a memorandum which sets forth an initial list of essential critical infrastructure workers.  The list will help state and local officials as they work to protect their communities, while ensuring continuity of functions critical to public health and safety, as well as economic and national security.  You can view the guide here: Guidance on the Essential Critical Infrastructure Workforce.

Local Governments Can Seek COVID-19 Relief from FEMA
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has clarified that local government expenses related to the COVID-19 outbreak may be eligible for reimbursement through FEMA’s disaster assistance program, outside of the need for state governments to declare a state of emergency before funds can be tapped.  For details about eligibility visit this site from: ICMA.

Small Business Assistance in Response to COVID-19 Pandemic
The U.S. Small Business Administration is offering designated states and territories low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital to small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19).  Visit their website for more details and information.

A Resource Guide to Coronavirus for Government Leaders
This list of resources is meant to connect leaders with useful tools to aid in response efforts.  It includes links to model policies/resolutions from other government entities in response to COVID-19.

Emerging Strategies and Tactics for Meal Services During School Closures
The No Kid Hungry Center for Best Practices page has information on program options and waivers to support meal service during school closures related to the coronavirus.  The site includes a guide on planning for emergencies and ensuring staff safety. Click here to view the guide.

Updated Student Aid Flexibilities for Students, Parents, and Borrowers
The CARES Act that was signed into law is providing broad relief for federal student loan borrowers.  The federal student aid website is updated with new information for students, parents, and borrowers at StudentAid.gov/coronavirus.

Childcare Programs That Remain Open
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has developed guidance for a range of childcare programs that have remained open during the COVID-19 pandemic.  You can view the guidance here: Guidance for Childcare Programs that Remain Open.

COVID-19: Resources for Continued Learning
As COVID-19 changes in the way we learn, new methods are being found to keep learning on track for everyone at every level.  Arizona State University (ASU) has accelerated plans to provide learning tools and materials to keep all learners on track by launching ASU For You. ASU For You includes many learning tools at no cost such as virtual field trips; library access; video lessons, labs and simulations in K-12 subject areas; badge and certificate programs in areas such as health and well-being, smart cities and environmental science; tutoring, online courses and training videos for teachers or parents teaching from home; and courses for college credit.

The American Council on Education COVID-19 site contains rapid response webinars and resources for higher education community.

Mind Research Institute
Non-profit neuroscience and social impact organization, has announced that its flagship program, ST Math, a K-8 grand visual instructional program, is available at no cost to parents, schools, and districts affected by COVID-19.

Public Media Education Resources

Association of Community College Trustees has pulled together a list of resources, reports, and lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic.  Including a series of articles on how member colleges are responding in the wake of COVID-19, the challenges they are experiencing, how they are coping and what lessons learned.

NAFSCE has pulled together a comprehensive list of educational resources for educators and families on distance learning for grades K-12.  They are also holding a webinar on education resources and responses to COVID-19 on March 25, 2020, at 3:00 pm ET. Click here to register.

ExcelinEd
Find an online map, database and state-by-state updates on actions taken by education systems in response to COVID-19.

U.S. Department of Education
This page provides resources and information for Schools and School Personnel on steps to prevent the introduction and spread of the COVID-19 into communities across the United States.  It includes additional resources for Higher Education Institutions.

National School Boards Association
This page includes a list of resources, valuable news articles, and tools for School Board Members on steps to prevent and mitigate, respond, and recover highlighting key actions that can guide local efforts.

American Association of State Colleges and Universities
This resource page includes information developments on the COVID-19 outbreak concerning Higher Education Institutions. Resources on federal student aid, international and campus resources, and resources on media coverage inside higher education.

Rutgers Graduate School of Education
This page provides resources for Child Care professionals, Families and Policymakers on COVID-19.

From CLASP
This new resource outlines principles policymakers should use to support child care workers and families during the Coronavirus outbreak.

We are facing unprecedented times.  The intensity of worrying about our families, our constituents and ourselves can be very stressful.  Check out these resources that may help and/or your constituents during this time.

FundaMental Change 
Coping with Stress During COVID-19 Outbreak: (Adults)

FundaMental Chang
Coping with Stress During COVID-19 Outbreak: (Kids)

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Updates on Coronavirus

American Psychological Association – Managing Stress Related to Political Change

Health Equity for Latinos During and After COVID-19 – Visit their site to view a resource they have put together outlining how COVID-19 has disproportionally affected Latinos and other communities of color.  The paper presents 19 strategies that can be supported to ease and mitigate the long term effects of this health pandemic on the Latino community.

Wireless Industry Launches Initiative to Help School Children Get Connected
The Cellular Telecommunications Industry Association (CTIA), announced a new program to help children participate in distance learning during COVID-19.  The Connecting Kids Initiative simplifies the process for school districts to find remote learning hotspot solutions by connecting them with wireless operators working to provide broadband access to kids and families in their area.  Participating carriers include the three nationwide wireless operators as well as regional operators across the country.  More details can be found here.

Broadband Services and Resources
The COVID-19 health crisis has shed light on the need for home internet service, and the large number of households across the country who do not have it.  Some Internet Service Providers (ISPs) have responded with new or improved discount broadband plans.  Below are some resources and programs.

The National Digital Inclusion Alliance – has compiled a list of Digital Inclusion: Free or Low Cost Internet offers to help low-income households.  The list is for inclusion practitioners, community leaders, service providers, libraries, media, and those serving the community.

EveryoneOn – this bi-lingual page includes updates on low-cost internet service programs and an internet service options tool to ensure individuals and families stay connected during this difficult time.

Universal Service Administrative Co. – this page includes resources for schools and libraries across the U.S. to ensure they continue to connect to information and resources through the internet.  Their E-rate program provides funding such as internet access, telecommunications services, and related equipment for schools and libraries.
Lifeline Support – a federal program that lowers the monthly costs of phone or internet services for eligible customers.  This page provides additional information on how people can qualifying through an application process.