*Updated: September 9, 2022

This page contains information and links for Cook County programs and services that may be helpful for residents significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on the Northwest Suburbs of Cook County’s 15th District. Also listed below are local, county, and state resources that may be helpful to you. In addition to government resources, I’ve included the following information.

• Food support for residents in need
• Unemployment benefits
• Volunteer Opportunities
• Small Business Support
• Resident Services
• Housing Support
• Healthcare Support
• Utility/Cable/Telecom Companies Response to COVID-19
• Mental Health Resources
• Childcare Resources
• Education Resources
• Entertainment Resources

Some of these programs and services are available to everyone regardless of where you live. Although other qualifications may apply. This page will continue getting updated as more resources develop. Please see our disclaimer below.

Commissioner Kevin Morrison’s Office Re-Opening Statement: Now that we’ve reached Phase 5 reopening guidance, my district office in Schaumburg will re-open to the public. My staff and I are thrilled to be back in the office together and remain committed to operating a productive, effective, and responsive office, just as we strived to do during the pandemic. Read the whole statement here.

Stay updated with Cook County text alerts

Cook County’s COVID-19 information page with actions and guidance: Stay updated by visiting, www.cookcountyil.gov. Residents can also sign up for text alerts to receive the latest updates regarding COVID-19 or contact the dedicated hotline and email.

As of January 3, 2022, a new mitigation order went into effect by the Cook County Department of Public Health related to mask and vaccine requirements. For the full details, please visit their website here.

Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH) has a dashboard called Shiny App updated to show COVID-19 surveilance data for areas under their jurisdiction (excludes Chicago, Evanston, Oak Park, Skokie, and Stickney Township). More CCDPH tools are below.

CCDPH COVID-19 Text Alerts (effective since March 19, 2020):

Additional COVID-19 Resource Pages

The State of Illinois has created a website focused on providing critical COVID-19 information, resources, and news. Please visit at Coronavirus.illinois.gov.

Illinois has been in Phase 5 of #RestoreIllinois. View the Restore Illinois dashboard and how the state is sectioned into regions here. Suburban Cook County is in Region 10 which is currently under Phase 5.

All state-run COVID-19 testing sites offer anyone a free test, regardless of symptoms. No appointment, doctor referral, or insurance is required. There are hundreds of locations across Illinois where you can get tested and you can find the closest location here.

Every healthcare provider in the state can sign up for SIREN, the DPH emergency notification
tool. To sign up for SIREN, send an email to DPH.SIREN@illinois.gov.

In a Domestic Violence situation? Get help by calling the new State of Illinois Hotline at (877) 863-6338

The 15th District of Cook County is full of incredible municipalities and townships taking steps to protect their communities and residents. To see their updates and status of services visit their web sites below.

Townships

Barrington
Elk Grove
Hanover
Schaumburg
Palatine

Municipalities

Arlington Heights
Barrington
Barrington Hills
Bartlett
Elgin
Elk Grove Village
Hanover Park
Hoffman Estates
Mount Prospect
Palatine
Rolling Meadows
Roselle
Schaumburg
Streamwood
South Barrington

For the LGBTQ community

In the Northwest suburbs of Cook County, please visit Kenneth Young Center’s LGBTQ+ Center for services and programming.

Brave Space Alliance has a COVID-19 resource page for trans, non-binary, and intersex individuals. Resources include Food Pantry, Relief Funds, Telehealth, and other virtual services. Please visit here.

For those living with HIV and AIDS or who are using PrEP and experiencing financial crises due to the COVID-19 pandemic, please check out the HIV Resource Hub managed by The AIDS Foundation of Chicago in partnership with the Center on Halsted. Case managers and clients must contact the Chicago-area HIV Resource Coordination Hub at 1-844-482-4040 to access these funds.

Equality Illinois has put together a comprehensive website for a variety of non-profits and other resources specifically for LGBTQ people. Take a look here.

Food Support

Hanover Township and U-46 School District Area: Get low-cost meals at the Township Senior Center, call ahead and check the menu here.

Schaumburg Township Area: Effective May 1, 2021, The Township of Schaumburg Food Pantry at One Illinois Blvd, Hoffman Estates, IL 60169 is open with an updated schedule below.

The pantry will be open:

Mondays and Wednesdays 9am – 2pm
Tuesdays and Fridays 10am – 3pm
Thursdays 11am – 4pm
Appointments are easy to make by calling (847) 884-0030 ex. 1013.

The Schaumburg Barn, Senior Nutrition Program Update.

The Village of Schaumburg partners with the Community Nutrition Network for this M-F program which serves a daily hot lunch to seniors and friends with disabilities.

Options:

Daily “to go” hot meals available for pick up
Mondays – 5 pack frozen meals available for pick up
All the above food options require registration by calling the Barn at (847) 524-7496.

The following Food Pantries are also available for assistance (call & check hours before going):

Christus Victor Lutheran Church, 1045 S Arlington Heights Rd, Elk Grove Village, IL 60007
Elgin Cooperative Ministry
Willow Creek Community Care Center & Food Pantry
Church of the Holy Spirit

Barrington Township Area: Call or email the Township Food Pantry for pick-up, details here.
Elk Grove Township Area: Call their General Assistance to inquire and apply for food assistance, here. To qualify, individuals must meet with a caseworker to verify residency and determine if there are other ways the Township may be able to provide assistance. For more information and any questions about the Food Pantry, please call 224-265-6111.
Palatine Township Area: their Food Pantry is also open and operational, learn how to apply here.

Find a Food Pantry nearest you at https://www.chicagosfoodbank.org/find-food/
OR by calling (773) 247-3663

Benefits Hotline: The Food Depository’s Benefits Outreach team provides application and case
management assistance for SNAP and Medicaid and can help direct families to other public benefits
programs. Constituents can call our Benefits Hotline at 773-843-5416 Monday through Friday from 8:30
am to 5:00 pm or visit us at www.chicagosfoodbank.org/benefits-outreach.

Employment Support

Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) and Unemployment Benefits – Unemployment benefits may be available to some individuals whose unemployment is attributable to COVID-19. If you have a question about unemployment insurance or are unable to file, please call Claimant Services at (800) 244-5631.

• • The Pandemic Unemployment Application is available now. Find out more information and eligibility criteria at their website here.
  • FOR ON-LINE APPLICATIONS, click here. If your last name begins with letters:
    • A through M file your claim on Sundays, Tuesdays, Thursdays.
    • N through Z file your claim online on Mondays, Wednesday, Fridays.
    • Saturdays – for those who missed their application window.
  • FOR PHONE APPLICATIONS, call (800) 244-5631. If your last name begins with letters:
    • A through M call between 7:30am – 6pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
    • N through Z call between 7:30am – 6pm on Mondays and Wednesdays.
    • Fridays (7am-6pm) & Saturdays (8am-noon) – for those who missed their call window.

Employee workplace concerns contact the Attorney General’s Workplace Rights Bureau
at (877) 470-5076 or submit a complaint online.

The Illinois Restaurant Association has opened their Restaurant Employee Relief Fund again. This fund provides grants to support restaurant employees who are facing an unforseen hardship due to COVID-19. Grants will help cover basic living expenses such as rent, groceries, and utilities. Apply here.

As part of Governor Pritzker’s Get Hired Program, Illinois Work Net is hosting Virtual Job Fairs for job seekers. Visit their website for up-to-date job postings and other virtual job fairs.

A new state law- the Employment of Illinois Workers on Public Works Act– is requiring the workforce on all public works projects to be comprised of a minimum of 90% Illinois residents.

Find out more information about the new law here.

US Bartender Guild’s National Charity Foundation Emergency Grants – The Foundation provides grants to qualified applicants in the service industry who are in need of financial assistance.

Business Owner and Customer Resources

U.S.  Small Business Administration (SBA) Grants & Loan Programs:

Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL): Apply online here. For businesses and non-profits to start applying for low-interest loans up to $2 million to help them stay open during this crisis.

Check out the Small Business Owner’s Guide to the CARES Act

State of Illinois Grant and Loan Programs – The Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is working with partners to launch emergency assistance programs for Illinois small businesses.  The initiatives included can be found here and includes a grant program specifically for the Hospitality Industry.

State of Illinois Treasurer, Michael Frerichs, has launched a Small Business COVID-19 Relief Program. The purpose of this funding is to provide vital economic support to small businesses and non-profits throughout Illinois to help overcome the loss of revenue they are experiencing.

Cook County Community Recovery Initiative: to assist small businesses, nonprofits and independent contractors struggling to make ends meet due to COVID-19.

Small Business Assistance programs offer:

• • The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) has launched the new $250M Back 2 Business grant program. Cook County was chosen to serve as one of 13 “Hubs” for the Illinois Small Business Navigator program.  This program offers funding opportunities for small businesses, hard-hit industries, and disproportionately impacted businesses in their recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. We are here to help you apply and secure the funds.
    • As a “Hub,” Cook County engages and coordinates ten partner organizations, also known as “Spokes,”
    • “Spokes” provide direct 1:1 assistance to help businesses apply for B2B grants
    • Call the Cook County Back2Business Hotline: 872.304.2785 with questions about this program
    • Two ways to apply:
      • Please visit our website to schedule your appointment at cookcountysmallbiz.org
  • Business Advising Program helps you address the unique needs of your business, including acquiring new capital and customers, understanding financial, change and risk management, adjusting business models, and operating under new safety regulations.

Arlington Heights Small Business Assistance:  Please do not hesitate to email the Village’s Business Development Coordinator if you have any questions or call 847.368.5220. Visit their Economic Development website to see what services are available. To support Arlington Heights businesses, visit their directory here.

Hoffman Estates Business Resources: The Village of Hoffman Estates remains actively engaged in serving the needs of our businesses through this crisis. Please visit their website to learn about:

• • Temporary restrictions and laws that are now in place
  • Accurate information for continuing to operate your business
  • New and existing resources available to your business offered by our state and federal partners

Mount Prospect Entrepreneurs Initiative: find the latest tools, events, workshops, and more. Contact Nellie Beckner, Assistant Village Manager at (847) 818-5305. Current and prospective small businesses in Mount Prospect can visit their website to learn more.

Rolling Meadows: Restaurant and Retail Incentive Programs: city leaders have established a series of incentives to help attract new restaurants and retail shops to Rolling Meadows, with particular emphasis on welcoming businesses to its downtown/Kirchoff Road corridor. The incentives, designed specifically for noncorporate, independent business operations, include a blend of fee reimbursements, partial refunds of sales or food and beverage tax payments, and grant funding for façade or interior work. For more information, visit: Restaurant & Retail Incentives | Rolling Meadows, IL – Official Website (cityrm.org).

Schaumburg Small Business Recovery Grant

As of 8/22/22, the Village of Schaumburg CDBG-CV Small Business Recovery Grant had $55,000 remaining in the program. To qualify for CDBG-CV funds, businesses must commit to retaining an agreed upon number of payroll hours for 1 year where at least 51 percent of those payroll hours, as computed on a Full-Time Equivalent basis, are held by low-to-moderate income individuals as defined by HUD. The application and required documents can be found here.

The approved uses of grant funds are as follows:

Rent or mortgage up to three months not to exceed 50% of total grant award.
Technology that improves customer experience, safety, pickup, and delivery platforms or website upgrades to allow for online ordering.
Marketing Campaign-must have/will have a written marketing campaign plan or using funds to hire marketing firm.
Workplace protective equipment used to respond to COVID-19 (masks, gloves, sanitizers, sneeze guards, partitions, etc.)

If you have any questions, please contact the Economic Development Department at (847) 923-3707 or economicdevelopment@schaumburg.com.

ComEd Small Business Assistance Program: The Small Business Assistance Program provides eligible small business customers with a one-time grant equal to 30% of their total ComEd balance (up to $1,000) that will be applied to the past due balance and the remaining balance which can be spread over a payment plan of up to six months. There is also assistance to help reconnect service.

To view additional program details, and to apply, visit ComEd’s program website, or call 1-877-4-COMED-1 (1-877-426-6331).

Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation has a List of Resources for Licensees and Consumers

If you have a question about business insurance coverage, please contact the Illinois
Department of Insurance (DOI). An online complaint can be filed here.

Cook County Resident Services

Under President Preckwinkle ’s Reopening Plan, Cook County offices re-opened to the public Monday, July 6, with extra sanitary precautions. Visitors should be prepared to undergo thermal screening. Call ahead or check their website listed below before going for the most up-to-date instructions. 

Property and Vital Record Services

• • Assessor
    • In response to COVID-19, the Cook County Assessor’s Office will continue the automatic renewal of the Senior Freeze, Veterans with Disabilities, and Persons with Disabilities Exemptions; the Homeowner and Senior Exemptions, will continue to auto-renew every year. More info found here.
    • Appeal deadlines for north suburban properties will be posted at CookCountyAssessor.com.
    • Reassessment notices for North suburban townships, with recent permits or special applications, do not include value adjustments due to the COVID-19 market impact.
  • Board of Review (BOR)
    • Due to newly implemented COVID-19 guidelines, the Board of Review will be utilizing a calendar to alert BOR staff members to contact you. If you would like to speak to one of their staff, or need general assistance, please click this booking page link and you will be contacted via digital means within 24 hours.
    • The Board of Review is open to the public, Monday through Friday 9 AM – 5 PM.
  • Building and Zoning
    • Inspections are happening. If you have questions, please email them at: info.bnz@cookcountyil.gov.  Staff will respond to all inquiries sent to this email address. To reach them by phone, call (312) 603-0500.
  • Clerk
    • Vital Records Customers: Please note that the Bridgeview and Rolling Meadows offices remain closed, but records can be obtained in Markham, Maywood and Skokie. Records are also available online at cookcountyclerk.com/vitals or our downtown location.
    • The Cook County Clerk’s Bureau of Vital Records, will issue Marriage Licenses remotely via an online video call. Start the application here.
    • The Clerk is accepting redemption payments in person and by mail. More information can be found here. Taxpayers and Taxbuyers who have tax redemption questions and/or concerns should email tax.redemption@cookcountyil.gov with your PIN number.
    • Apply to vote by mail online here.
    • Recordings Division, please note that NO DOCUMENTS may be recorded at the Cook County courthouse satellite offices. ALL DOCUMENTS must be recorded at the Clerk’s downtown offices at 118 N. Clark, Chicago, Room 120.
  • Treasurer
    • Taxpayers seeking property tax refunds will have new tools on cookcountytreasurer.com enabling them to file electronically instead of downloading a form and mailing it in. Taxpayers with questions on this matter can contact the Cook County Treasurer’s Office via the website as well.

Court and Criminal Justice Services

• • Circuit Court
    • Modified court operations will continue. Since July 6th, more court proceedings started to occur in-person, while most continue to be held over video conference.
    • Court proceedings are being Live-streamed at certain courthouses. View locations, schedule, and warning for viewers here.
  • Clerk of the Circuit Court
    • December 1, 2021 marks the one-year anniversary of Circuit Court Clerk Iris Y. Martinez’s taking office. Transforming this Office has been a significant task, but one that everyone has worked to achieve. The Office has developed meaningful relationships with the Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, Cook County Board of Commissioners, Chief Judge Timothy Evans, and with members of the Illinois Supreme Court. Through these relationships, the Circuit Court Clerk’s Office is now collaborative and cooperative with the other stakeholders in the court system. To view Clerk Martinez’s State of the Circuit Court Clerk’s Office Report – December 1, 2021 [click here]
  • Sheriff
    • Office is keeping the public appraised of COVID-19 cases within the jail system here.
    • To help with evictions and growing need for mental health, substance abuse, and other social service assistance, the Cook County Sheriff’s Office has launched the Community Resource Center (CRC).
    • COVID-19 resources for food and housing assistance can be found here in English and Spanish.
  • State’s Attorney
    • List of community resources available in English and Spanish here.
    • For help with any COVID-19 Fraud during this pandemic, call (312) 603-8600 or fill out a price gouging complaint form.
    • To support their health and safety, survivors of domestic violence will receive ride credits to travel to courthouses, shelters, and other safe spaces. Read full press release here.
      • The CCSAO Victim Witness Unit is available to provide Lyft codes and answer questions by calling (773) 674-7200.
  • Public Defender
    • Due to the ongoing pandemic, the Cook County Circuit Court system is operating under modified procedures incuding limited in-person operations in accordance with national, state and local public health guidelines. Protocols for in-person appearances include:
      • Face coverings are required
      • Social distancing inside court buildings
      • For more information please refer to the following: Cook County Resumption of Court Operations and Service Plan

Outdoors and Recreation

• • Brookfield Zoo
    • Advanced reservations are no longer required: Once the state moved into Phase 5, the zoo was no longer under any capacity limitations.
    • All “Bringing the Play Zoo to You” episodes can be found at: https://www.czs.org/BringingTheZooToYou. Each episode is available in English and Spanish, and has a corresponding Family Nature Notes newsletter (also available in both English and Spanish) which includes additional information and activities related to that week’s theme. New episodes are posted every Thursday. Encourages young children to celebrate wildlife and nature from their own home.
  • Chicago Botanic Garden
    • Admission is per person; buy your admission tickets in advance to get the best pricing and to ensure your preferred date and time. Members always receive free admission and parking.
    • Because accessibility is a priority for the Garden, we will provide 52 free general admission days each year. Preregistration is required; parking fee not included. Learn more about free admission days and preregister for a day and time slot.
  • Forest Preserves of Cook County
    • Has updated guidelines in lieu of Illinois’s move into Phase Five of the Restore Illinois plan. You are urged to follow their guidelines to ensure that your visit to a preserve or time on the trail is as safe as possible.

Housing Support

Visit https://chicookilrenthelp.org/ to find which Emergency COVID-19 Rental Assistance Programs are available. It includes programs for Illinois, Cook County, and Chicago residents.

Legal Aid with Cook County

Evictions, foreclosures, and unresolved debt issues can have a long-lasting, negative impact on your future. Call the Early Resolution Program (ERP) to speak with a lawyer and get connected to other resources. This program is available to all residents of Cook County free of charge. You do not need to have a case in court to get aid.

Call 855-956-5763 or apply online to get help today.

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) has allocated $275 million in funding for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) programs.

• Eligible Illinois residents and families can apply to receive assistance with food, rent, utilities, temporary shelter, medicine and other essential household services.
• To learn more, Illinoisans may visit this website.

For families and individuals who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, please refer to the following:

• Emergency shelter: Due to changes in shelter operations due to COVID-19, please call the Homeless Prevention Call Center at 1-877-4-Cook-15 (1-877-426-6515) if possible, to be directed appropriately to shelter resources. If you are not able to call, please see shelter providers in suburban Cook County.
  • If you are a suburban Cook County resident and need financial assistance with mortgage, rent payments, rent deposits, utility payments, or other housing issues, please call the Homeless Prevention Call Center at 1-877-4-Cook-15 (1-877-426-6515). Listen carefully to the prompts to choose which kind is needed. City of Chicago residents should call 311 or 312-744-5000 (outside of Chicago).

Renters living in multifamily properties with Enterprise-backed mortgages who need support should reach out to the Fannie Mae Helpline at 877-542-9723, if Fannie Mae backs their building’s mortgage, or the Freddie Mac Helpline at 800-404-3097, if Freddie Mac backs their building’s mortgage.

See Fannie Mae’s Multifamily Loan Lookup Tool here.

See Freddie Mac’s Multifamily Loan Lookup Tool here​.

Chicago Volunteer Legal Services (CVLS):

COVID HELP (Housing and Economic Loss Prevention) is a statewide initiative providing no-cost legal guidance and representation to Illinoisans experiencing common legal problems due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Illinois residents can access free legal assistance 24/7 at www.covidhelpillinois.org. This is a coalition of organizations including CARPLS Legal Aid, the Lawyers Trust Fund of Illinois, and several other legal aid nonprofits.

Chinese Mutual Aid Association

Chinese Mutual Aid Association (CMAA) is now providing housing related legal services to individuals and families facing eviction, in partnership with Greater Chicago Legal Clinic (GCLC). Residents of Cook and Kane county who have current eviction cases filed against them, are delinquent on rent, or are seeking counsel in anticipation of falling behind on rent may seek the expert services of a GCLC attorney within CMAA’s office.

Contact CMAA for assistance:
773-784-2900
evictionhelp@chinesemutualaid.org

Their staff speak multiple languages with which to assist you, including:

Vietnamese
Mandarin Chinese
Cantonese Chinese
Lao
Nepalese
Hindi
Burmese
Tagalog
Spanish

Rolling Meadows Emergency Fund

Rolling Meadows has formally launched a new city financial assistance program — funded by public donations — for residents in emergencies and crisis situations.

Managed by the Rolling Meadows Police Department’s social workers, find out more and contact Dr. Natalia Nieves here. An application with documentation is required. The police department’s social workers will determine eligibility, and the city’s finance department will disburse the money.

Rolling Meadows residents with a verifiable economic or personal crisis — such as abuse survivors or fire and flood victims — are eligible to receive up to $1,500 within an 18-month period for housing, utilities, health care or transportation, according to the program guidelines.

For example, that can mean a month’s rent or mortgage payment, up to $1,500, or electric, gas, sewer, trash and water bills over the course of three months, up to the $1,500 maximum.

Eligible medical costs include prescription drugs, bills, supplies or services, up to $1,500 per household within a 12-month period, under the program guidelines.

Affordable Housing Opportunities

The Housing Authority of Cook County is your hub for forms, applications, and information. Learn more about the basics of Housing Choice Vouchers, Project Based Vouchers, and other HACC programs. This page also contains information and forms for applicants and residents.

For people on the frontlines of the COVID-19 crisis, please visit Airbnb to get connected with temporary housing and be closer to your patients. Airbnb is waving hosting fees and hosts have the option to offer their space for free, discounted, or full price.

Healthcare Support

Check Cook County Health’s website for changes in accessing its hospitals and health centers. Check out past Health School webinars here.

CVS and Walgreens – Get FREE deliveries of prescriptions and daily essentials, as well as virtual and by phone appointments and consultations.

For those living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), please read this newsletter from the Respiratory Health Association, a lung health organization focused on helping those impacted by lung disease.

For more information, visit: https://resphealth.org/covid-19-what-you-should-know/

IMPORTANT TOOLS FOR DIALYSIS PATIENTS:

Cigna Healthcare Response – waving co-pays and and out-of-pocket costs for all COVID-19 testing and related medical visits.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois – see what’s covered in COVID-19 related visits.

Find a testing site nearest you for COVID-19 here.

In the meantime, if you feel sick I encourage you to contact your main physician before you go to the hospital. Please see the following Center for Disease Control guidelines to stop the spread of germs:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick and practice social distancing.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
• Stay home when you are sick, except to get medical care.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

Mental Health Support

Dealing with a infectious disease outbreak can cause anxiety and stress. The recommended social distancing can also take a told on mental health. Below are a few resources:

CDC Guidance on Coping with Stress and Anxiety during COVID-19

Call4Calm – speak to a mental health professional for those experiencing stress and mental health issues related to COVID-19.

text “TALK” or “HABLAR” for Spanish to 5-5-2-0-2-0
Individuals will receive a call within 24 hours
It is free and anonymous.

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)

Guide and Resources on COVID-19

NAMI Hotline: (800) 950-6264

NAMI General Resource Guide

Substance Abuse & Mental Health Service Administration

Disaster Distress Hotline (800) 985–5990 or Text “TalkWithUs” to 66746

Tips for Social Distancing and Isolation with Mental Illness

Find Treatment with their Online Tool OR (800) 662-HELP

National Mental Health Consumers’ Self-Help Clearinghouse https://www.mhselfhelp.org

Kenneth Young Center’s SMART RECOVERY: Meetings are now web-based

SMART RECOVERY is cost-free, peer-led support program for those who are in recovery from substance use as well as other problematic, addictive behaviors to video games, gambling, self-harm, shopping, and just about anything else.

Child Care Facility Resources

Child Care Restoration Grant Applications

• For more information, visit this link.

Utility Company Response

Governor Pritzker launched a statewide initiative in August 2019, Connect Illinois, to expand broadband access across the entire state. Connect Illinois includes a capital investment from Rebuild Illinois, the creation of a Broadband Advisory Council and Broadband Office, and a new program that will provide all Illinois public K-12 students access to high-speed broadband at no charge. The initiative also includes a $400 million broadband grant program and a $20 million capital program for the Illinois Century Network, a high-speed broadband network serving K-12 and higher education institutions, among others.

Nicor Gas Response

Contact Information: 1-888-642-6748

Emergency Assistance Resources

Cable/Internet/Telecom Company Responses

National Digital Inclusion Alliance is keeping a List of national Free & Low-Cost Internet Plans – being updated daily

Each major company has had different reaction to supporting customers during COVID-19. Below are highlights but please read each company website thoroughly for details. Be aware that social media posts with incorrect information and fraudulent numbers are being circulated to scam information and money out of consumers. If you have questions, reach out to companies directly on official websites and through sanctioned numbers.

AT&T RESPONSE

Contact Info: 1-800-288-2020

Won’t terminate service of any wireless, home phone or broadband residential or small business customer due to an inability to pay their bill as a result of the pandemic.

Waiving late-payment fees that any customer may incur because of economic hardship related to the pandemic.

Unlimited data for all consumer wireless internet users.

Business customers currently on or who purchase AT&T World Connect Advantage package receive 50% off current rate in a monthly bill credit.

COMCAST RESPONSE

Contact info: Xfinity.com/Support

Low-income families who live in a Comcast service area can sign up for 60 days of free Internet Essentials service. They will also increase internet speeds for the Internet Essentials service for all new and existing customers.

Need more time to pay Comcast bills? log into xfinity.com/myaccount. Select Billing, then Bill and Payment Settings. Click on Schedule a Payment. Then go to Payment Date and choose a new due date.

Making Comcast Wifi hotspots available to anyone

Pausing data plans through May 13, 2020, giving all customers unlimited data for no additional charge

T-MOBILE RESPONSE

Contact: 611 from T-Mobile Device or T-Mobile.com

If you are past-due, you can set up a payment arrangement.

Customers have unlimited smartphone data for the next 60 days (excluding roaming) + an additional 20GB of mobile hotspot/tethering service for the next 60 days (beginning on 3/13).

Increasing the data allowance, at no extra charge, to schools and students using EmpowerED digital learning program for next 60 days.

Some free international calling to certain countries. See website for details.

Offering free two-day shipping on devices for 60 days.

VERIZON RESPONSE

Contact 1-800-922-0204

Waiving late fees for residential and small business customers if negatively impacted by the global crisis for 60 days (starts 3/13)

Offering free international calling to certain countries through the end of April. See website for more details.

Unlimited calls will be included to mobile and landline termination.

Educational Resources

A lot of schools, teachers, and parents want students to #keeplearning during the school closures. Many of our amazing school districts are already communicating with parents about how to #keeplearning. Keep in touch with your child’s school and follow guidance from teachers. For Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) Guidance visit: https://www.isbe.net/covid19.

Additional resources for parents:

Illinois State Board of Education #Keeplearning Resources

Learning Technology Center of Illinois: Resources Google Doc

Education Websites:

https://www.renaissance.com

https://www.khanacademy.org

https://classroom.kidshealth.org/?WT.ac=ms_tab

https://www.activelylearn.com

https://www.commonlit.org/

https://www.illustrativemathematics.org/

https://www.zearn.org/

Entertainment Resources

Take a walk in a Cook County Forest Preserve while social distancing. Read more on their website here.

Libraries – Public libraries are open. Check their website or call ahead before going. Most libraries provide access to stream and download: ebooks, digital audiobooks, movies, TV shows, and music. You can also find online learning courses including mastering a new language, learn computer skills or research your family’s genealogy. Contact your local library to find out how you can access their digital collection

Schaumburg Township District Library

Poplar Creek Public Library District

Barrington Area Library

Gail Borden Public Library

Elk Grove Public Library

Palatine Public Library

Rolling Meadows Public Library

Arlington Heights Memorial Library

Bartlett Public Library District

Roselle Public Library District

Mount Prospect Public Library

Virtual Museum/Visits

Brookfield Zoo – watch or re-watch their “Bringing the Zoo to You” videos and more on YouTube here.

Chicago Botanic Garden – visit their Garden Stories blog for some fun and educational projects to do from home.

Take a virtual tour of Chicago’s museum, libraries, and cultural institutions from home

Take a virtual tour of the U.S. Botanic Garden

Google’s Arts & Culture platform offers digitized access to many Chicago and worldwide cultural institutions.

Arts for Illinois – browse works from talented artists – performers, singers, poets, painters, writers, and many more from across Illinois – who have made their works available for the public’s enjoyment while at home during these challenging times.

Bored at home? Here’s a Massive List of Museums, Zoos, and Theme Parks Offering Virtual Tours

Take a virtual tour of a National Park including: Kenyan Fjords National Park in Alaska, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park in Hawaii, Carlsbad Caverns National Park in New Mexico, Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah, and Dry Tortugas National Park in Florida

Take a Virtual Field Trip with Discover Education.

Fitness Studios & Gyms – List Offering Live-Stream Workouts

The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum launched a weekday newsletter filled with nature and science activities for families. Sign up and learn more here: http://bit.ly/396cWw1

450 Online Ivy League Courses you can take right now for Free

Volunteer Efforts

The State of Illinois is working with community partners to connect with those who want to safely volunteer during the COVID-19 pandemic. There will be in person and virtual volunteer opportunities. If you are a non-profit you can also submit a request for needed volunteers.

Start your volunteer search at: http://serve.illinois.gov/

Are you a licensed healthcare professional? Register at https://illinoishelps.net/ to part of an alert system and respond if available, when activated, to a significant disaster or public health emergency.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Needs

The State of Illinois is asking for donations from any person or business with personal protective equipment (PPE) that can be spared to help protect first responders. Please contact PPE.Donations@Illinois.gov.

You can also donate PPE through Cook County by emailing: donate@cookcountyil.gov.

If you are interested in donating lunch to clinic staff who are working against COVID-19, contact Jack Daley at jadaley@cookcountyhhs.org.

If someone wants to manufacture PPE in Illinois: ima@ima-net.org (Illinois Manufacturing Association).

Be part of the Illinois PPE Network (a non-profit) to request PPE or sign up to make it.

American Red Cross: Due to cancellation of blood drives, the American Red Cross faces a blood shortage. Health individuals are needed to donate. Call 1-800-RED-CROSS to find a location donation site.

Food banks: many area food banks are still working to provide support to those most vulnerable during the pandemic. Contact your local food bank to see how you can support through volunteering or donations. See our food support sections for a list of 15th District food pantries or find you local food bank here.

Emergency Shelters: shelters for people experiencing homelessness or domestic violence are working hard to ensure the safety of and health of those in need. Many need either volunteer support or donations. Below is a list of local shelters. Reach out and see how you can support:

WINGS https://wingsprogram.com

Journey the Road Home https://www.journeystheroadhome.org

Northwest Compass https://northwestcompass.org

Older Adult Service Opportunities

AgeOptions: volunteers are needed to help with meal deliveries and calling older adults to prevent social isolation. Age Options works with a network of agencies to serve the needs of older adults in suburban Cook County.

Volunteer sign up: https://bit.ly/2Up8fJr
For more information, email volunteer@ageoptions.org or call (708) 383-0258

Sign up to be a Wellness Check Volunteer: do wellness check-in calls to seniors in our community from the comfort of your own home!

Transportation Services

Pace Bus Service Updates.

Metra Train Updates. For all other information relating to Metra’s response to the pandemic, click here.

Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) Updates.

Rideshare Companies – before requesting a ride, check the websites of Uber, Lyft, or any other rideshare company to see what they are doing to protect their drivers and passengers around COVID-19.

Translated Resources

Visit the State of Illinois Resources website for guidance, executive orders, and other important information in the following non-english languages: Español, Chinese, Polish, Arabic, Tagalog, Urdu, and Hindi. Check back for any additional language needs.

Immigration-related Resources

IDHS and the Immigrant Funders Collaborative have launched the COVID-19 Immigrant Family Support Project, which will provide pandemic-related emergency assistance funding to Illinois immigrants.

• The fund will support immigrants regardless of status to help families address unemployment, medical costs, food and housing insecurity, and loss of income that have resulted from the pandemic
• It is meant for immigrants ineligible for federal funding relief
• More information can be found here.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) – Please check the USCIS office closings page to see if your Application Support Center has reopened before coming to an appointment.

Visit CoronaVirus.gov for a complete list of CDC travel health notices.

Learn about the Department of Homeland Security’s response.

General FAQs

As more and more questions are raised during the COVID-19 pandemic, below are some Q&As from our local governments and public health departments.

World Health Organization

Center for Disease Control

State of Illinois

City of Chicago

Disclaimer

All content provided on this page is for informational purposes only. Commissioner Kevin Morrison makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this page or found by following any link on this page, with the exception of links to information hosted at cookcountyil.gov and other official government websites. We have not checked or verified content, and please use discretion when viewing. Any action you take upon the information on this website is strictly at your own risk. Cook County Government nor Cook County Commissioner Kevin Morrison bear any responsibility for the accuracy, legality, or content of the external site or for that of subsequent links. Contact the external site for answers to questions regarding its content.