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The purpose of CovidCONNECT is to provide a resource for Maryland residents who have personal experience with COVID-19 – whether through having the disease yourself, or having it impact your life in other ways. Perhaps you nursed someone, or lost someone, who had COVID-19. Here you can read testimonials from other Marylanders who have had Covid, discover clinical trials in which you may be eligible to participate, educate yourself on the newest Covid-related information, and connect with others who have also suffered personal impact in this pandemic.

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The purpose of CovidCONNECT is to provide a resource for Maryland residents who have personal experience with COVID-19 - whether through having the disease yourself, or having it impact your life in other ways. Perhaps you nursed someone, or lost someone, who had COVID-19. Here you can read testimonials from other Marylanders who have had Covid, discover clinical trials in which you may be eligible to participate, educate yourself on the newest Covid-related information, and connect with others who have also suffered personal impact in this pandemic.

We wish you continued health and wellness, and thank you for your participation

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CovidCONNECT | The purpose of this website is to provide a resource for Maryland residents who have experience with COVID-19, whether you had the disease or cared for someone who had the disease. On this site, you can read testimonials from other Marylanders who have had the disease, discover clinical trials in which you may be eligible to participate, educate yourself on the newest COVID-related information, and connect with others who can help support your recovery. We wish you continued health and wellness and thank you for your participation. Please know that any information you may provide to Maryland CovidCONNECT is never shared with anyone outside of the Maryland Department of Health.

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The purpose of CovidCONNECT is to provide a resource for Maryland residents who have personal experience with COVID-19 - whether through having the disease yourself, or having it impact your life in other ways. Perhaps you nursed someone, or lost someone, who had COVID-19.

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Baltimore County COVID-19 Resource Guide_April 2021

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2021-02-02 Balt Co -Financial Navigator Resident Flyer

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AARP Community Connections allows users to organize and find local volunteer groups to help pick up groceries, provide financial assistance or lend emotional support to neighbors, friends and loved ones. Across the country, these informal online groups—also called “mutual aid” groups—help communities stay connected at a time when people must practice social distancing to stay safe. Also includes multiple resources to help those who are feeling isolated, depressed, overwhelmed or anxious. Users are able to:

Request a call from an AARP volunteer, or a trained counselor;

Easily create an account with Savo to make connecting with their families easier;

Join “The Mighty,” a safe, supportive online community for people facing health challenges and their caregivers.

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AARP Community Connections | Neighbors helping neighbors

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AARP Community Connections helps people find or start a mutual aid group so they can help the people in their community most affected by the Coronavirus. #AARPmutualaid

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Vaccine Info for Marylanders without Internet

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Vaccine Info for Marylanders without Internet

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Baltimore County residents who want to be vaccinated should complete the below form.

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ArcGIS Survey123 is a complete, form-centric solution for creating smart surveys & forms, collecting data via web or mobile devices and analyzing results. Start your free trial.

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This secure portal is open to all Maryland residents who were confirmed to have tested positive for COVID-19 and who are now recovered from their disease. It will be a place for you to share information, promote action and find support.

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Statewide Technology Resource Guide for Individuals with Disabilities

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Statewide Technology Resource Guide for Individuals with Disabilities

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Through funding from the CARES Act, this Resource Guide was created to assist both organizations serving people with disabilities and people with disabilities to access internet/data, equipment, and training/tech support.

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Navigating Social Security During COVID-19

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Navigating Social Security During COVID-19

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(Sent by Baltimore County 10/28/20)
Despite challenges government and businesses face at this time, we want people to know we remain ready and able to help them by phone with most Social Security matters.

Your members can speak with a representative by calling their local Social Security office or our National 800 Number.  We provide local office phone numbers conveniently online with our Social Security Office Locator.

Although our offices are not providing service for walk-in visitors, we may be able to schedule an appointment for limited, critical issues if we cannot help someone by phone and if they cannot get the information they need or conduct their business online.

Please encourage your members to call or take advantage of our secure and convenient online services to:

Apply for Retirement, Disability, and Medicare benefits,

Check the status of an application or appeal,

Request a replacement Social Security card (in most areas),

Print a benefit verification letter, and

Much more.

Most business with SSA can be done online but we know that many people still rely on phone or in-person help.  That’s why we want people to know they can still count on us by phone.

Lastly, we know that getting medical and other documentation can be difficult due to the pandemic.  We continue to extend deadlines wherever possible.

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How to get help with heating & energy bills

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How to get help with heating & energy bills

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410-931-2214

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Technology & Training Resources for Older Adults

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Technology & Training Resources for Older Adults

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baltimore county.Technology Assistance and Resource List PDF Revised 9.28.20 (1)

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BCDA has scheduled food distribution for seniors only at various locations around the County. To make a reservation, please call 410-887-2040 on Mondays or Wednesdays 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for pickup the following week.

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County Executive Olszewski and Baltimore County government are working to protect the health, safety and well-being of residents. We will continue to work around the clock to identify additional resources to provide food security for Baltimore County families during this challenging time.

Contact

If you have questions or need assistance with food access, call 410-887-2594 or email food@baltimorecountymd.gov.

If you are a senior, or contacting us on behalf of a senior with food access needs, call 410-887-2594 or email aginginfo@baltimorecountymd.gov

Food Distribution Map

The Food Distribution Site Map includes:

Sites for weekday meal distribution operated by both Baltimore County Public Schools (BCPS) and Baltimore County Government

Sites for Saturday family food distribution operated by Baltimore County Government

Operational food pantries

Users can search for locations closest to where they live. The map will be updated as additional food resources become available.
VIEW THE MAP
Baltimore County Public Schools Meal Distribution

Baltimore County Public Schools is offering free weekday meals for students at locations around the County. Visit the BCPS website to find designated locations and times.

Meal Distribution for Older Adults

The Baltimore County Department of Aging (BCDA) is providing boxes of food to the County's older adults. The program is supported by $590,000 in funding provided through the federal Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) to specifically target individuals age 60 and older.

Under this new program, each box of non-perishable food will include three meals and a snack for six days, and will be accompanied by a small box of fruits and vegetables. Boxes will be distributed by appointment only at designated senior center locations around the County, listed below. Quantities are limited. We will continue to assess demand and adjust the amount of food and locations accordingly.

Baltimore County residents over 60 years of age should call 410-887-2040 to schedule their pickup date, time and location. Only individuals with appointments will receive one box of non-perishable food and one box of produce per household. During the appointment, individuals will be asked to show proof of age through their BCDA Senior Center Membership Card or other identification.

Anyone unable to travel to pickup locations should contact Maryland Access Point (MAP) at 410-887-2594 to discuss other food options with the MAP staff.

Schedule and Appointment

You must schedule an appointment to pick up food. Call 410-887-2040 (the week before pickup) on Mondays and Wednesdays, between 8:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Pickup Locations

Tuesdays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Liberty Senior Center
3525 Resource Drive, Randallstown, Maryland 21133

Tuesdays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Parkville Senior Center (entrance off Hiss Avenue)
8601 Harford Road, Parkville, Maryland 21234

Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Ateaze Senior Center
7401 Holabird Avenue, Dundalk, Maryland 21222

Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. (until June 4)
Arbutus Senior Center (beside the library)
855A Sulphur Spring Road, Arbutus, Maryland 21227

Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. (after June 4)
Catonsville Senior Center
501 North Rolling Road, Catonsville, Maryland 21228

Weekday Meal Distribution

The Baltimore County Department of Recreation and Parks, with support from the Maryland Army National Guard, Maryland Food Bank and Healthy Food Access St. Vincent de Paul of Baltimore, is offering limited take-away meals for families.

Meals are available from 4 to 6 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays on a first come, first served basis.

Locations

Saturday Food Distribution

The Baltimore County Department of Recreation and Parks with support from the Maryland Army National Guard and other partners is offering limited food distribution for families on Saturdays.

Food is available on Saturdays starting at 11 a.m. on a first come, first served basis.

Available Restaurant Services: BaltCo To-Go

Restaurants can self-report whether they are offering services during this time by completing the County's online form.

Restaurant operators can share their location and what services they are providing, and the data collected will populate an interactive online map, BaltCo To-Go, that residents can search.
VIEW THE MAP
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

The Maryland Department of Human Services has been approved to issue SNAP emergency allotments (PDF) to all current SNAP households for only the months of April and May.

Learn more about SNAP to see if you qualify for monthly benefits to help purchase food.

Pet Food Assistance

Find information about how to receive pet food assistance from the Baltimore Humane Society, or make donations to their Bmore Kind Pet Food Bank.

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County Executive Olszewski and Baltimore County government are working to protect the health, safety and well-being of residents. We will continue to work around the clock to identify additional resources to provide food security for Baltimore County families during this challenging time. If you have questions or need assistance with food access, call 410-887-2594 or email food@baltimorecountymd.gov.

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Connects people with local volunteers who can help with things like grocery shopping, medication pick-up, or similar daily chores, etc.

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A volunteer-run organization with the mission of connecting frontline healthcare workers and other essential workers with aspiring healthcare professionals to help provide childcare, pet care, tutoring, online classes, errands (e.g. meal prep, grocery trips), and other household services in Maryland.

Due to our strong grassroots campaign and assistance of partner organizations, they currently have 250+ unmatched student volunteers in over 18 counties within Maryland who are ready to help.

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A tool to support self-care and overall mental health during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

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The COVID Coach app was created for everyone, including Veterans and Servicemembers, to support self-care and overall mental health during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Features:

Education about coping during the pandemic

Tools for self-care and to improve emotional well-being

Trackers to check your mood and measure your growth toward personal goals

Graphs to visualize progress over time

How to Use COVID Coach

COVID Coach can be used as a stand-alone education and self-care tool, or as a supplement to professional mental health care. You can mark your favorite coping tools and track your mental health over time. Set reminders to visit the app each day and work toward your goals. The app can also help you create your own personal support network.

NOTE: COVID Coach is not intended to replace needed professional care related to COVID-19 or mental health conditions, such as PTSD.

Several of the questionnaires used in COVID Coach, including the PTSD Checklist (PCL-5), are reliable and valid self-report measures used across VA, Department of Defense (DoD), and the community, but they are not intended to replace professional evaluation.

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The COVID Coach app was created for everyone, including Veterans and Servicemembers, to support self-care and overall mental health during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

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Tips, support or info on caring for Dementia during COVID-19

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Tips, support or info on caring for Dementia during COVID-19

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Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 resource line: 1-800-272-3900

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SAFE provides confidential, free services to older adults who are experiencing abuse and to those who suspect an older adult is being abused.
410-843-7571

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Every older adult deserves to be respected and protected. Every older adult has the right to safety and self-determination.

One in ten older adults age 60+ experience abuse annually. Many older adults experience more than one form of abuse or neglect.

What is elder abuse? Whether physical, emotional, financial, sexual abuse or neglect, elder abuse is about power and control. As the abuser limits or controls the victim's rights and freedoms, victims face difficulty making choices because they are afraid of being hurt, humiliated or left alone. Elder abuse is marked by an expectation of trust - the victim trusts the abuser. We know that 66% of abuse is at the hands of adult children/grandchildren and 42% of murder victims are killed by their children.

Who does it happen to? Older Americans of all genders, races, incomes, and cultures experience abuse each year. Elder abuse can happen to anyone whether the older adult is a CEO of a corporation or struggles with dementia. What might surprise you is that family members - adult children, other relatives and spouses - are the abusers in 66% of these cases.

What are the signs of elder abuse? ? It isn't always easy to recognize elder abuse. Some signs are more obvious than others. See below for a list of signs to be aware of in your life or in the life of someone you care about.

What is SAFE: Stop Abuse of Elders? SAFE: Stop Abuse of Elders (SAFE) provides confidential, free services to older adults who are experiencing abuse and to those who suspect an older adult is being abused. SAFE teaches professionals and community members about recognizing and responding to elder abuse. The first program of its kind in Baltimore, SAFE brings together social workers, lawyers, therapists and advocates to address elder abuse in Northwest Baltimore and beyond. CHANA founded SAFE: Stop Abuse of Elders in 2013.
Learn more about elder abuse "
Elder Abuse: How SAFE Can Help

No victim should suffer in silence.
SAFE's crisis intervention services encompass short-term immediate assistance and support for urgent safety issues. Regardless of whether someone chooses to remain in her or his home or seeks to leave, we encourage people to discuss their situation with one of our experienced, caring staff members. Together, we will evaluate the danger level and help the client devise a plan for increased safety at home, work, and in the community.

SAFE's crisis intervention services include:

Education and guidance about legal options and resources

Support to help victims secure needed community resources for increased safety

Legal advocacy to review the legal process, make informed decisions, and investigate pursuing civil and criminal legal remedies

Referrals to therapists, attorneys and medical professionals

Assistance to maximize financial resources

Shelter

Prepare for the possibility of an incident happening.
No one can control an abuser's behavior. At SAFE, we work with every client to develop a safety plan, whether or not the client will stay in the relationship. Each plan is individualized. There are factors to consider inside and outside of the home when seeking safety.

Justice and healing for survivors.
Through our legal advocacy program, SAFE seeks justice for victims of elder abuse. SAFE's team of attorneys, paralegals and legal advocates provides information and support, including legal services, referrals and court accompaniment.

Legal services: Discuss the legal process; provide information to help make informed decisions; and pursue civil and criminal legal remedies.

Referrals: Make referrals to volunteer attorneys or private attorneys when necessary

Court accompaniment: Accompany clients to court proceedings; provide legal guidance; offer support throughout the entire legal process and advocate for the client.

Jewish legal process: Work closely with Beit Din, the Jewish arbitration system.

Begin to heal and rebuild lives.
SAFE's trauma-informed counselors help clients understand the dynamics of elder abuse and discuss the vast array of feelings associated with it. SAFE's trauma-informed mental health professionals listen and offer helpful tools and skills on ways to process the complex emotions, heal from trauma, connect to community resources and move forward with life.

Gain sense of hope and empowerment.
In a safe nurturing environment, support groups allow participants to learn about the dynamics of elder abuse. Group counseling also provides victims with ample support, not only from peers (other victims) but also from the mental health professional leading the group.

Groups are led by trauma-informed professionals. CHANA provides a range of support groups throughout the year.

CHANA provides a variety of shelter options for victims, including a specially-designed safehouse equipped to meet the needs of older adults.

At SAFE, the role of consultation takes many forms. SAFE offers training and community education programs tailored especially for professionals, caregivers and older adults. These outreach programs aim to increase professional and public awareness and response about elder abuse and neglect. Specific programs include CEU-credit training for professionals, specialized training for caregivers, public awareness programs and presentations at national, regional and local conferences.

2019 Organizational Achievement Award from the Maryland Gerontological Association

2018 Governor's Citation Award

2018 NPEIV Founder's Award from the Institute on Violence, Abuse and Trauma

As a program of The Associated: Jewish Community Federation of Baltimore, CHANA understands the needs of the Jewish community across all denominations. CHANA has experience working within the Jewish arbitration process, in addition to the civil court system.

10 Warning Signs

Do you recognize any of these signs of elder abuse?

1. Injuries such as bruises, sprains, broken bones or scratches - especially when the explanation doesn't fit the injury

2. Changes in behavior such as depression, withdrawal or fear

3. Changes in regular social activity, such as missing social events

4. Changes in living arrangements, such as previously uninvolved relatives or family moving into the home

5. Changes in finances, such as the cancellation of services or unpaid bills

6. Changes in hygiene

7. Suicide attempts

8. Things disappearing from the home

9. Signs of neglect, such as no food in the house, being left alone for long periods, not having glasses, hearing aids, medications or proper clothing

10. An older adult says he or she is being neglected, exploited or abused. It is important to take them seriously even if blatant signs are not visible.

Abuse is Never Okay

Abuse creates dangerous situations and isolates an older person from people who can help. Many cases of elder abuse are not reported because older adults are afraid or unable to tell police, family or friends. Victims often have to decide whether to tell someone they are being hurt or continue being abused by someone they depend upon or care for deeply.
Ask yourself:

Is someone treating your body in a way that makes you uncomfortable?

Do you feel like you are losing control of your money?

Are you afraid of anyone in your life?

Help is available.

Live without fear

Be treated with respect

Be safe

Make your own decisions

We are dedicated to helping people who have experienced elder abuse find safety and healing. Through counseling, legal advocacy, support groups and shelter, SAFE: Stop Abuse of Elders provides a safe and supportive environment for victims, while educating communities as part of the movement to end elder abuse.

At CHANA, we stand with you.

"Stand up in the presence of a person with gray hair, show respect for the old"

- Leviticus 19:32
For Help: 410-234-0030
A Jewish Perspective
Jewish values promote care and support of our elders. SAFE's work is informed by Jewish values and traditions and respects each client's faith and belief system. SAFE cares for all clients, regardless of faith. Together, we recognize that the most important step toward preventing and responding to elder abuse is to recognize that no one - regardless of age - should be subjected to violent, abusive, humiliating or neglectful behavior.

Resources

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One in ten older adults age 60+ experience abuse annually. Many older adults experience more than one form of abuse or neglect. What is elder abuse? Whether physical, emotional, financial, sexual abuse or neglect, elder abuse is about power and control.

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Online grocery shopping with SNAP benefits

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Online grocery shopping with SNAP benefits

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Schedule a COVID-19 Testing Appointment online

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Schedule a COVID-19 Testing Appointment online

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Baltimore County residents can now quickly and easily reserve a slot online for free COVID-19 testing by visiting Baltimore County’s website. Appointments are currently available at both walk-up and drive-through sites for Thursday, June 4, through Tuesday, June 9, 2020. New dates will be added on Wednesdays each week.

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Resources and mental wellness tips for older adults and beyond.

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MHAMD has compiled a list of trusted resources to help Marylanders stay informed & take care of their mental health during this time. Go here.

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There are several programs that provide free or low-cost cell phones with limited minutes and even texting.

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Unfortunately, there are no financial assistance programs specifically designed to help pay telephone bills that are past due. Your best option is to contact your phone company and ask to negotiate a payment plan.

There are several programs that provide free or low-cost cell phones with limited minutes and even texting. Visit the individual company web sites for information on how to apply. Assurance Wireless and Safelink Wireless are the largest free cell phone providers in Maryland. You are eligible if you receive benefits from any of these programs in Maryland:

Electric Universal Service Program (EUSP)

Food Stamps (SNAP)

Maryland Energy Assistance Program (MEAP)

Medical Assistance (MA)

Public Assistance to Adults (PAA)

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA)

Temporary Disability Assistance Program (TDAP)

You may also qualify if your Total Household Income is at or under 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

Search the database for discounted telephone services or dial 2-1-1 for more information.

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Unfortunately, there are no financial assistance programs specifically designed to help pay telephone bills that are past due. Your best option is to contact your phone company and ask to negotiate a payment plan. There are several programs that provide free or low-cost cell phones with limited minutes and even texting.

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Baltimore County Coronavirus information line

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Baltimore County Coronavirus information line

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410-887-3816

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Pastoral Emotional Support- Salvation Army

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Pastoral Emotional Support- Salvation Army

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If you're looking for spiritual guidance, local services, or if you just need someone to talk with, Salvation Army officers who are pastors and emotional-care personnel are there to listen.  Staff are available from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. EST. Counselors speak English and Spanish.
844-458-HOPE (4673)
https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/covid19/

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Balt. Co Senior Center May 2020 Newsletter

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Balt. Co Senior Center May 2020 Newsletter

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Includes:

At home exercises (pg 4)

County resources and senior center social links (pg. 6)

How to sew a Face cover (pg 7)

40 things to do while social distancing (pg 8)

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Call 2-1-1 to connect with a variety of food service programs including grocery and meal delivery.

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1. Close your blinds during the day - especially when the sun is coming directly through your windows.

2. Fill a bowl or bucket with ice and place it in front of a room fan. You will feel a cool breeze circulating through the room (for a while, anyway!).

3. Put a box fan in a window - but face it outward so the air blow outside, removing some of the hot air in your home.

4. Take a cool bath or shower. Just let the water cool you down for 5 or 10 minutes.

5. Put your feet in an ice bath. The sensation helps to make your body feel cooler. Remember, don't do this for too long, though - no frostbite in the summer, please!

6. Wet washcloths in cold water and put them on your pulse points - wrists or around your neck. Surprisingly, this really works.

7. Stay hydrated - sip iced tea, cold water, or low-calorie sports drinks to keep your body hydrated and your temperature down.

8. Lighten your bedding. Choose cotton, lightweight sheets and wear loose, light sleep clothes to bed.

9. Eat light. The less you eat, the less your body will be working to digest. At night, have a very light meal. Save your big meals for during the day.

10. Don't use the oven or the stove. Grill if you can.

11. Have exhaust fans in your kitchen and bathroom? Turn them on to keep air moving.

12. Turn off your lights. Incandescent lights are actually heat producers. Go as long as you can without turning them on - or switch to CFL lights.

13. Have a hot water bottle? Fill it with water, freeze it, put a pillow case on it, and make it your new snooze buddy.

14. If you have a basement, make it hang-out friendly. The cool air makes it a great escape.