The COVID-19 outbreak has seen many business doors shut and people sent home, some with pay and others without, even here in Freestone County.
As people struggle, there are a options to help out: benefits.gov has a ‘benefit finder’ to help know what all options are available.


Unemployment
Thankfully, the government has enacted extra rulings on unemployment to help people who are not working right now, and for various reasons, unable to look for a job.
Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) is actively working with the United States Department of Labor (USDOL) to process the COVID-19 claims.
The number of calls being received by TWC is far more than their systems and/or employees are prepared to handle.
They are suggesting people use their Unemployment Benefits Center online if possible.
Moreover, they are requesting people follow the following guidelines for when to make a call:
–Area Codes beginning with 9 to call during the hours Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
–Area Codes beginning with 3, 4, 5, and 6 to call during the hours Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
–Area codes beginning with 7 and 8 to call during the hours of Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
–Area codes beginning with 2 to call during the hours of Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday 1:00 p.m. -5:00 p.m.


Small Business Aide
Small businesses are also able to receive financial help in a few different ways. Send Amy Freeman the Navarro SBDC advisor for Freestone and Limestone Counties, an email amy.freeman@navarrocollege.edu for more information on what help is available for your business.


Benefits for Families
Texas Woman, Infant and Children (WIC) Program has expanded available food items to those who are receiving this benefit.
Check online at https://texaswic.org/ to learn more, or call your local office.
SNAP benefits due for renewal in April, May or June 2020 will be automatically renewed.
Medicaid/CHIPS do cover COVID-19 testing with no need for prior authorization, if a medical provider deems it necessary.
Texas Health and Human Services has launched a 24/7 statewide mental health support line to help Texans experiencing anxiety, stress or emotional challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This new resource offers COVID-19-related mental health support for all Texans. People can call the Statewide COVID-19 Mental Health Support Line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week toll-free at 833-986-1919.