Resources available for those in need

Many individuals may find the current state of affairs difficult to navigate. For some, there is the loss of employment, some may find themselves playing the new role of teacher, while others may be looking for a reliable source of information on current shelter in place orders and COVID-19 updates and guidelines for best safety practices.

For those in search of spiritual leadership, many local churches are holding services online. Many, including Linden United Methodist Church and First Baptist Church of Linden, are going live via Facebook for Sunday services. Some local churches are also offering a food pantry for those in need. Please check with local churches for more information on dates and times.

For those in need of employment or wanting to file for unemployment, Texas Workforce Commission is working tirelessly to continue to keep their site up to date with job postings, as well as information on filing for unemployment.

Many locations are still hiring and many of those jobs can be applied for using TWC’s website. Additionally, if one would like more information on applying for benefits due to a COVID-19 layoff, they can call (800) 939-6631 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday to speak to someone with TWC.

Parents who are trying to navigate the new norm of homeschooling, there are a plethora of resources available. The CDC website has many tips for creating a new schedule structure, managing stress, and even talking to kids about COVID-19. For the new homeschooling parent, responsiblehomeschooling.org has many resources to help. With everything from resources for students, educational resources, and even words of encouragement. If one needs a tutor, care.com can provide a list of local tutors and provides pricing and years of experience.

Finally, for those who are looking to put their newfound free time to good use, there are many sites that one can visit for craft ideas, ways of giving back to the community, and fun projects.

Those who can sew are encouraged to make homemade masks to donate. Random Acts of Kindness, a nonprofit organization, promotes the idea that kindness is a powerful tool. Their website, randomactsofkindness.org has ideas for inspiring kindness, even during this time of social distancing, with activities for all ages, including links to many museums, zoos, and aquariums, games that students can play that promote both fun and learning, and even coloring pages to keep little ones busy.

This is a time when all must work together, but separately. Call neighbors to see if they need anything or just to chat. If one must go out to the store, be mindful of others and maintain a safe distance. Above all be kind to one another.