Resources

Montgomery County Updates and Resources

November 15, 2020

MCPS

  • MCPS is providing meals at these sites for students. Meals will be provided at MCPS sites from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM at school sites and from 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM at bus distribution sites. Meals will be provided four days a week: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday. 

Libraries

  • Library branch book drops are open and contactless holds pick up service has resumed. 

COVID-19 Renter Relief Act

  • The Council passed the COVID-19 Renter Relief Act, which became effective April 24, 2020 and prohibits landlords from increasing existing tenants’ rent by more than 2.6% after April 24th and during the COVID-19 catastrophic health emergency. FAQs are online.

How You Can Help

  • Volunteer Opportunities: The County has compiled a list on how you can to help. If you are a medical or public health professional willing to assist, the state has a site for specialized volunteers.
  • Give Locally: The Greater Washington Community Foundation has a COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund to bolster nonprofits working to help low-income hourly workers, gig workers, small business owners, families in need of childcare services, homeless individuals and many more who will continue to be severely impacted during this public health emergency. In particular, the County is looking for private matching funds for food security under the Food Security Fund.
  • Support Neighborhood Restaurants: Please support local employers by getting take out or delivery. Search the Visit Montgomery list here.
  • Donate Blood: American Red Cross now faces a severe blood shortage due to an unprecedented number of blood drive cancellations during this coronavirus outbreak. Sign up for an appointment now.

If You Need Support

  • Domestic Violence: There is support available during this time and all services are free of charge. If you know someone that may need help, the County has a guide on how best to assist them.
    • Contact the Family Justice Center by calling ​​240-773-0444 or emailing safe@montgomerycountymd.gov ​
    • The National Domestic Violence Hotline (24 hours) can be reached at 800-799-7233
    • There are many organizations available to assist including:
  • Internet: Low income families and older adults can get Home Internet Access for as little as $9.95 per month. Click here for additional information.
  • Food Assistance: Call 311 and you will be connected to our new food call center or you can look at Montgomery County Food Council’s Resource Directory, which includes information on the location, hours, and eligibility guidelines of more than 100 sites where residents can access food and benefits application assistance.
    • Poolesville Grocery Distribution Service: Orders can be placed online by visiting www.mysaval.store/ Order on Tuesdays before 4:00PM and pickup Thursdays between 2:00-3:30PM at the United Methodist Church in Poolesville. Drivers are asked to remain in their cars as orders will be loaded into the backs of vehicles. If you have any questions please call John at 443-896-7244.
    • Taxi Delivery: The Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) announced that it has partnered with local taxi companies during the COVID-19 health crisis to initiate a new program available to participants in the Call-n-Ride program to use taxis for delivery of essential goods from grocery stores, food banks and restaurants. This program is for low-income older adults and individuals with disabilities.
    • For Individuals with Disabilities: The State and other partners are collaborating to supplement existing programs for people with disabilities who may be experiencing food insecurity during this pandemic. To connect with these feeding opportunities, constituents should call 2-1-1.  The  2-1-1 call specialist will connect the caller to a variety of statewide program options. 
    • My Groceries To Go! for Seniors: Montgomery County applicants are required to provide supporting documentation to prove income eligibility. Participants receive get eight pounds of free, fresh produce every month. Please call the Grocery Plus main line at 202-921-7471 or email mg2g@capitalareafoodbank.org for more information. The Capital Area Food Bank’s website on this program is here.
    • Senior Nutrition Program: Frozen meal packs are available to seniors through the County’s Senior Nutrition Program. Partners and volunteers are operating “grab and go” locations and are making a limited number of home deliveries to the County’s senior population. To be eligible, most people must be 60 years of age or older. Spouses of participants or a person with a disability living with a participant, are also eligible. To register for the meal program contact the Senior Center closest to you. D1 Locations:
  • Health Care: If you do not have insurance and want to get health insurance through the state marketplace, Maryland has a Coronavirus Emergency Special Enrollment period if you have recently lost your job. You can compare prices and possibly receive financial help in order to afford coverage. Apply by December 15th. 
  • Unemployment Claims: You can start your claim online or by phone.
  • Housing Issues: If you are behind on your rent, please click here. If you are facing eviction, please contact our office at 240-777-7828 or dial 311.
  • Seniors: You can sign up now for a new free program called Senior Call Check by calling toll-free to 866-502-0560 or by registering online. Under the program, participants receive an automated call every day. If the participant does not answer, they will be called two additional times in the same day. If those calls go unanswered, an alternate person, selected by the participant, will be notified in order for them to check in on the participant. 

*Additional resources listed at InfoMontgomery