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PLEASE NOTE CREATIVE HUB AFTER SCHOOL WILL NOW BE OPEN DURING REMOTE LEARNING FOR WORCESTER PUBLIC SCHOOL STUDENTS. SEE BELOW FOR DETAILS AND ENROLLMENT. SPOTS ARE LIMITED.

Located at 653 Main St., in Worcester, Creative Hub After School programming offers students time for homework/academics, snack or lunch, and then creative/art workshop time. This is an art-focused program. Workshops can range from painting, drawing, lego building, yoga, and more depending on the day or week. Students build skills in the areas of social/emotional learning, artistic expression, skill-teamwork, persistence and perseverance fine motor, 21st-century thinking, and more. We use the outdoor park at the YMCA (Fuller Family Park - a short 5 min walk from our program) for movement/outdoor time when weather permits.

Creative Hub After School Program is an EEC (Department of Early Childhood Education and Care) licensed after-school program, and we accept Massachusetts State Childcare Vouchers. For more information, please email us!

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creative hub worcester is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing affordable and accessible opportunities in the arts for all worcester area community members

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with a focus on at-risk and underserved youth.

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Youth Programing | Creative Hub Worcester | Worcester, MA

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Spark Arts, an after school and summer program by Creative Hub Worcester. Students ages 6-14 will engage in all different kinds of art, including painting, drawing, dance, creative writing, and more. Students will also do homework, and have time for recess and snack.

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Order groceries online using your SNAP card

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Starting May 29, 2020, Massachusetts residents who receive SNAP benefits can use their EBT card to buy food online from Amazon and Walmart.

Retailers looking to join the program can contact the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) by using the link at the bottom of the page under 'Additional Resources'.

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Starting May 29, 2020, Massachusetts residents who receive SNAP benefits can use their EBT card to buy food online from Amazon and Walmart. Retailers looking to join the program can contact the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) by using the link at the bottom of the page under 'Additional Resources'.

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Information and links to food assistance programs in Massachusetts can be found below. Please note that this is not a comprehensive list of all available programs and that information is subject to change as information is continuously changing.
Click a resource below to jump directly to that section
SNAP (Food Stamps)

SNAP, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, is a federal nutrition program that provides eligible recipients with a monthly cash benefit to purchase groceries.

SNAP benefits can be used to purchase food at grocery stores, convenience stores, and some farmers' markets and co-op food programs.

SNAP benefits are given to you each month on a plastic card called an EBT (electronic benefits tansfer) card, which works like a debit card.

SNAP is a nutrition program. It is not a welfare cash assistance program (which is called TAFDC).

SNAP is a federal entitlement program. That means anyone who is eligible will receive benefits. You will not be taking away benefits from someone else if you apply.

If you have lost your job or work hours because of COVID-19, you can apply for SNAP at any time. You do not have to wait to file an application. Changes to SNAP during the crisis include:

Everyone eligible will receive the maximum household benefit

All applications will be treated as urgent. Applicants will only be interviewed if absolutely necessary to approve their application.
More information for workers who lost hours or jobs due to COVID-19: English | Español

New SNAP recipients will receive their EBT card by mail only and it may take 5-10 days to receive your card. People experiencing homelessness can use a shelter address to receive their card.

Free Meals for Kids & Teens

Project Bread is working with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and many schools and community partners to provide families with access to school meals while schools are closed.

There are more than 1,300 sites across the state providing free meals.

All kids and teens ages 0-18 are eligible to receive these free meals.

No registration or I.D. is required.

Meals may be picked up by parents and in some cases the meals are delivered to bus stops.

Learn also about Pandemic EBT, which you may be receiving,

Here is our most up-to-date information on locations providing free school meals. Please be aware, this information is continuously changing, so keep checking back if you don't find any meals in your community! Click here for a larger view of the map.

Scroll over the map to zoom, and click the pins for detailed meal site information.

WIC (Women, Infants & Children)

WIC is a federal nutrition program that provides healthy foods, nutrition education, and other services free of charge to Massachusetts families who qualify.

People who use WIC should plan to arrive at the grocery store early in the morning before items are cleared out for the day. You can call the store and find out what days they are restocking certain items.

Families should check out WIC's eligibility page and can apply online for WIC services. Families can also call WIC at 617-721-6601 or 1-800-942-1007 Monday through Friday 9am - 5pm. If you hear a recording, please leave a message with your name and telephone number.

Parents, grandparents and foster parents may apply for children under the age of five years who are in their care.

Pandemic EBT (P-EBT)

P-EBT provides households an EBT card with the value of free school breakfast and lunch reimbursement rates for the days that schools are closed to help them purchase groceries.

P-EBT is a crisis response program created by the Families First Coronavirus Response Act.

All Massachusetts students (K - 12 grade) who are enrolled in or eligible for free or reduced-price school meals or attend a school that offers universal free school breakfast and lunch will receive the P-EBT benefit at the end of May/early June. If you are a household that receives monthly SNAP benefits, you will receive your P-EBT benefits on your current EBT card.

Like a debit card, the P-EBT card can be used to purchase food at grocery stores.

Using the benefit will not impact a family's or child's immigration status.

View & Download: P-EBT Fact Sheet: For Partners/Providers

View & Download: P-EBT Fact Sheet: For Families

Getting your benefits

Already have an EBT Card: Households who receive SNAP or TANF and already have an active EBT card have already received their first issuance of P-EBT benefits on April 30th. To check if you received your P-EBT benefits, call the number on the back of your EBT card. If you did not get benefits, but believe you are eligible, call the DTA Assitance Line.

Households who do not have an EBT card will:

Receive a letter in the mail from the DTA informing you that you are receiving P-EBT and to look for the card to arrive in the mail. These notices will arrive in the mail starting the week of 5/25/20, they are being sent in batches and will not arrive to everyone all at the same time. KEEP THIS LETTER. It has instructions for setting up the P-EBT card pin number and includes the student's case number. If you do not receive a notice by mid-June, but believe you are eligible, call Project Bread's FoodSource Hotline.

Receive an EBT card in the mail about 10 days after receiving the letter. These cards are being printed and mailed in batches, so it is possible a neighbor could receive their card on a different day, and that your card is still coming.

KEEP YOUR EBT CARD after you spend all the benefits. These cards will be reloaded with a second issuance of P-EBT funds in a few weeks

If you are a household that is eligible to receive SNAP benefits, Project Bread strongly encourages you to enroll in SNAP as soon as possible to expedite receiving P-EBT. If you have questions or need assistance, please call Project Bread's FoodSource Hotline.

Meals on Wheels

Meals on Wheels is a program that offers well-balanced meals to adults through home delivery or congregated dining sites.

Meals on Wheels is run by senior nutrition agencies located throughout Massachusetts.

Call 1-800-243-4636 to find the closest agency.

If you need home-delivered meals, staff will make an appointment for a home-delivered meal assessment.

Food Pantries

Food pantries provide free emergency groceries to individuals and families in their local communities.

For the latest information about pantry hours and operations, please visit:
If you are seeking support from food pantries at this time, and are not currently enrolled in SNAP, Project Bread strongly encourages you to learn if you are eligible for SNAP benefits and to apply. This will provide you with consistent, monthly cash assistance to purchase your own groceries.
Project Bread's FoodSource Hotline

Project Bread's toll-free FoodSource Hotline is the only comprehensive information and referral service in Massachusetts for anyone facing hunger or needing food assistance.

If you or someone you know living in Massachusetts needs food assistance, please refer them to Project Bread's FoodSource Hotline, toll-free and confidential, at 1-800-645-8333. Monday-Friday: 8am-7pm. Saturday: 10am-2pm.

Our counselors can assist callers with:

Information, eligibility, and over-the-phone application assistance with SNAP

School meal site information

Summer meal site information

Local community resources, such as food pantries and meal services

Our counselors can assist callers in 160 languages and their is a dedicated line to assist our hearing-impaired community at TTY: 1-800-377-1292. More information can be found, here. This service is available to all Massachusetts residents.

Author(s): Project Bread

Filed under: Informing Public Policy, News and Events, Children and Schools, Community Solutions, FoodSource, Donor, For the Media, Get Help, Ways to Give, Reports and Studies

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COVID-19: Hunger & Food Resources for Households

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Information and links to food assistance programs in Massachusetts can be found below. Please note that this is not a comprehensive list of all available programs and that information is subject to change as information is continuously changing.

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Multi-lingual resources specific to your region

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$20 packages of fruit and vegetables that can be reserved online and collected at scheduled pickup times

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In an effort to meet community food needs while prioritizing community safety, the REC Mobile Farmers Market is offering pre-packaged HIP eligible fruit and vegetable bags that can be reserved online and collected at scheduled pickup times. ​Produce will be pre-packaged in the assortments listed below to reduce produce handling and customers will pay from their vehicle. Face masks are required at pickup. HIP payment will be processed upon pickup. Customers can pay with their SNAP to earn the HIP Incentive.

Households will be able to purchase up to four bags weekly at a cost of $20 each with the choice of fruit or vegetable shares or a combination.

We understand choice is important and will make increased choice available as soon as we have the staff resources and flexibility to do so safely.

For questions contact Ashley Carter at (508)799-9139 x. 105 and leave a voicemail with your phone number, or at
farmersmarket@recworcester.org.

As always, please thoroughly wash all produce before consuming. Produce is packaged in a food safe area. All staff are required to use proper hand washing and treatments of surfaces, and wear gloves at all times when handling produce. No staff member displaying any symptoms of any illness will be allowed to work on site.

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In an effort to meet community food needs while prioritizing community safety, the REC Mobile Farmers Market is offering pre-packaged HIP eligible fruit and vegetable bags that can be reserved online and collected at scheduled pickup times. ​Produce will be pre-packaged in the assortments listed below to reduce produce handling and customers will pay from their vehicle.

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$14-$20/hour work at Trader Joe's in Shrewsbury

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$14-$20/hour work at Trader Joe's in Shrewsbury

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Crew - Temporary

Location:

#508 - 77D Boston Turnpike, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts 01545

At this time workers across the country are impacted by this crisis, specifically those employed in retail, restaurant, hospitality and the travel industry. At Trader Joe's we are working diligently to support our communities and ensure our customers have access to food and necessary household staples during this time. To those who have found their hours limited or jobs placed on hold, we invite you to join our Crew until your employer is able to welcome you back.

Is it you?
Our Crew Members create a warm and friendly shopping experience in our stores. We answer questions, offer suggestions and ensure our customers know they are welcomed and cared for. We entertain customers and make grocery shopping an exciting adventure. Some responsibilities may include:

Working on teams to accomplish goals

Operating the cash register in a fun and efficient manner

Bagging groceries with care

Stocking shelves

Creating signage to inform and delight customers

Helping customers find their favorite products

You'll learn a lot. You aren't stuck doing one task here. Each Crew Member contributes to a WOW customer experience by participating in all aspects of the job.

If you have a passion for people and a fervor for food, we'd love to meet you. We can teach you the rest.

Trader Joe's is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to hiring a diverse Crew.

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Location: #508 - 77D Boston Turnpike, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts 01545 At this time workers across the country are impacted by this crisis, specifically those employed in retail, restaurant, hospitality and the travel industry. At Trader Joe's we are working diligently to support our communities and ensure our customers have access to food and necessary household staples during this time.

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Full-time positions at Home Depot in Worcester

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Full-time positions at Home Depot in Worcester

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Job Description

Position Purpose:
Customer Service/Sales associates provide fast, friendly service by actively seeking out customers to assess their needs and provide assistance. These associates learn about products using our tools, and provide information to customers in order to sell an entire project. Associates in this position will learn how to greet, qualify, recommend and close every customer in their department, and know how to handle basics in adjacent departments. Customer Service/Sales associates maintain the in-stock condition of assigned areas, and ensure it is clean, shop-able, and safe. Each associate has the responsibility of providing a safe working and shopping environment by following all safety policies & standards, completing specified safety training, immediately correcting hazards & unsafe conditions or reporting conditions to the Manager on Duty, and working safely as not to endanger themselves, co-workers, vendors, or customers. These associates work in cooperation with their Department Supervisor and other associates in their department as well as other departments. Specific store departments may include Building Materials, Décor, Electrical, Flooring, Garden, Hardware, Kitchen & Bath, Lumber, Millwork, Paint, Plumbing and Tool Rental. The Customer Service/Sales position types may include Department Sales, Lead Generator, Pro Account Sales, Sales Specialist, Special Services, and Customer Order Specialist.

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Job Description Position Purpose: Customer Service/Sales associates provide fast, friendly service by actively seeking out customers to assess their needs and provide assistance. These associates learn about products using our tools, and provide information to customers in order to sell an entire project.

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Server job in 494 Lincoln Street, Worcester, MA 01605, United States of America | Restaurant Crew jobs at Denny's

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Apply for Server job with Denny's in 494 Lincoln Street, Worcester, MA 01605, United States of America. Browse and apply for Restaurant Crew jobs at Denny's

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We have been receiving some suspicious activity from you or someone sharing your internet network. Please help us keep Glassdoor safe by verifying that you're a real person. We are sorry for the inconvenience. If you continue to see this message, please email to let us know youre having trouble.

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We have been receiving some suspicious activity from you or someone sharing your internet network. Please help us keep Glassdoor safe by verifying that you're a real person. We are sorry for the inconvenience. If you continue to see this message, please email to let us know youre having trouble.

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Domino's Delivery Driver Worcester Job Posting

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Domino's Delivery Driver Worcester Job Posting

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We have been receiving some suspicious activity from you or someone sharing your internet network. Please help us keep Glassdoor safe by verifying that you're a real person. We are sorry for the inconvenience. If you continue to see this message, please email to let us know youre having trouble.

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We have been receiving some suspicious activity from you or someone sharing your internet network. Please help us keep Glassdoor safe by verifying that you're a real person. We are sorry for the inconvenience. If you continue to see this message, please email to let us know youre having trouble.

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Companies Actively Hiring during COVID-19 Crisis

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Companies Actively Hiring during COVID-19 Crisis

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P-EBT provides food supports to help families with children who were receiving free and reduced-price school meals pay for food.

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1. Who is eligible for P-EBT benefits?
All Massachusetts families with school aged children who qualify for free and reduced price school meals. This includes any student in a school that provided free meals to all students.

You will be getting a letter in the mail from DTA in May. If you do not get a letter in the mail and your child received free or reduced

3. If eligible, how much money will I get?
Households will receive $5.70 per eligible student per day, or $28.50 a week. If receiving DTA benefits, your P-EBT benefits will be added to your EBT card. If not actively receiving DTA benefits, you will receive a P-EBT card for each eligible student in your household.

5. How often will I get P-EBT benefits?
The timeline for issuing P-EBT benefits depends on several variables. You will receive details specific to your situation in the notice from DTA. For more information please call Project Bread's Food Source Hotline at ).

You can use your P-EBT benefits at any store that accepts SNAP. Most retailers have signs stating they accept SNAP or EBT. 6. Where can I use my P-EBT benefits? What can I buy with them?

P-EBT benefits can be used to buy any SNAP eligible food, which is most foods, except prepared foods and foods sold hot. For a list of SNAP eligible foods, click or tap here.

7. Do I have to use all my P-EBT benefits when I get them?
No. The money will carry over from month to month. Benefits that are not used for over a year will be removed from the card.

8. Will getting P-EBT impact my family's 'public charge' status?
No. Using P-EBT benefits does not impact your or your child's immigration status. The Public Charge rule does not apply to P-EBT benefits.

9. Can I participate in the Healthy Incentives Program (HIP) with my P-EBT benefits?
No. P-EBT benefits are different than SNAP benefits, and cannot be used to receive HIP benefits.

P-EBT benefits supplement grab and go meal sites. They do not replace them. Families can find a meal site in their community through Project Bread's School Closure Meal Site Finder​.

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1. Who is eligible for P-EBT benefits? All Massachusetts families with school aged children who qualify for free and reduced price school meals. This includes any student in a school that provided free meals to all students. You will be getting a letter in the mail from DTA in May.

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Department of Unemployment Assistance

What you need

Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) provides payment to workers not traditionally eligible for unemployment benefits (self-employed, independent contractors, workers with limited work history, and others) who are unable to work as a direct result of the coronavirus public health emergency.

For more information on eligibility, please view our Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Guide.

How to apply

The Department of Unemployment Assistance will review your Pandemic Unemployment Assistance application and confirm details, including whether you are unemployed for a COVID-19 related reason, proof of your total wages, and whether, other than your COVID-19 related reason, you are able and available to work.

You must certify for benefits every week that your work is impacted by COVID-19. You can certify for benefits online at www.ui-cares-act.mass.gov/PUA by logging into your account. This is accessible twenty-four hours a day and seven days a week.

If there is a question of eligibility, you may receive a fact-finding questionnaire from the Department of Unemployment Assistance requesting information from you. You must respond to this questionnaire by the deadline specified. Failure to respond may result in a disqualification from receiving benefits. You can respond by logging into your account at www.ui-cares-act.mass.gov/PUA.

This decision tells you whether you've been approved for Pandemic Unemployment Benefits and how much you will potentially receive. If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision within 30 days. You can view decisions and file appeals by logging into your account at www.ui-cares-act.mass.gov/PUA.

If you are approved for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance benefits, a payment will be made within 4-7 business days for individuals choosing direct deposit. For all others, a payment will be made within 10-14 business days.

More info

All accepted applications will initially receive the minimum weekly benefit amount, plus an additional $600 Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (weekly benefit. Once a worker's wages are verified, weekly benefit amounts may increase. Weekly benefits, including any increase to your weekly benefit amount, will be retroactive to January 27, 2020, or the date when you became unemployed, whichever is more recent, as long as you became unable to work because of a COVID-19 related reason.

Please note that, initially, the system can only pay benefits retroactively to the week ending March 14, 2020. Eligible workers will be able to certify for and to request benefits retroactively to January 27, 2020 if their dates of unemployment make them eligible.

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Apply for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance

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Department of Unemployment Assistance Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) provides payment to workers not traditionally eligible for unemployment benefits (self-employed, independent contractors, workers with limited work history, and others) who are unable to work as a direct result of the coronavirus public health emergency. For more information on eligibility, please view our Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Guide.

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City of Worcester Coronavirus Hotline - (508) 799-1019

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City of Worcester Coronavirus Hotline - (508) 799-1019

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YOU Inc. Worcester Family Resource Center

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YOU Inc. Worcester Family Resource Center

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Call (508) 796-1411

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Worcester Family Resource Center - YOU Inc

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Worcester Family Resource Center is a network of services to enable children and their families to obtain needed services in their communities, instead of through the court system.

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Central Massachusetts Housing Alliance COVID-19 Resources

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COVID-19

Below, please find a collection of information/resources pertaining to COVID-19 from CDC and the State of Massachusetts. The resource guide also includes information from the City of Worcester, Worcester Public Schools, Educational Resources for children and parents, as well as community resources that might be helpful to families/individuals most vulnerable right now. The list is not comprehensive and will be updated regularly, but it is a good start for anyone looking for information right now.

CDC issued guidance / resources in various languages

State of Massachusetts Resources related to COVID-19

Worcester COVID-19 resources

The City has created a dedicated Coronavirus page at worcesterma.gov/coronavirus with fresh information, including daily briefings from Dr. Hirsh, Mayor Petty and Manager Augustus.

The City has also set up a Coronavirus hotline 508-799-1019.
Worcester Mutual Aid Group
The Worcester Mutual Aid Group is a community of over 1000 Worcester volunteers and organizers working, among other things, to match community needs people are experiencing with volunteers. This is a community-based resource for families/individuals. Folks can sign up for needs they have, and a volunteer will contact them directly to meet that need/needs as best they can.
YWCA Domestic Violence Support If you do not have a health provider, and you show COVID-19 symptoms, call these numbers in Worcester: Multicultural Wellness Center
Provides 1 on 1 therapy to patients suffering with anxiety and depression, among other mental health issues, via telehealth during the crisis. Most Mass Health plans accepted. Sign up below:
Worcester Public Schools Important Resources
Resources for parents home with kids
Quarantine, Social Distancing, Education & Activity Resources: Education and Activity Resources:

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COVID-19 - Central Massachusetts Housing Alliance

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Below, please find a collection of information/resources pertaining to COVID-19 from CDC and the State of Massachusetts. The resource guide also includes information from the City of Worcester, Worcester Public Schools, Educational Resources for children and parents, as well as community resources that might be helpful to families/individuals most vulnerable right now.

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IRS Coronavirus Tax Relief and Economic Impact Payments

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IRS Coronavirus Tax Relief and Economic Impact Payments

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Coronavirus Tax Relief and Economic Impact Payments

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We are offering tax help for taxpayers, businesses, tax-exempt organizations and others - including health plans - affected by coronavirus (COVID-19).

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Enter your zip code, city or town, or full street address beside "Your Location". Extend your search radius or expand the number of locations displayed to see sites nearby from the drop-down menu. Please note: Pantries and community meal programs both assist individuals and families at no cost.

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WPS Healthy Meals To Go Google Map Locations

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WPS Healthy Meals To Go Google Map Locations

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Worcester Meal Pickup Locations - Google My Maps

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Where Worcester students can find meals beginning March 18 during the coronavirus shutdown.

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City of Worcester Division of Public Health: 

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City of Worcester Division of Public Health: 

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Worcester Together Fund Announcement

The City of Worcester has partnered with the Greater Worcester Community Foundation and the United Way of Central Massachusetts to aid in local relief efforts of COVID-19, including immediate basic aid and long-term recovery.

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The City of Worcester has partnered with the Greater Worcester Community Foundation and the United Way of Central Massachusetts to aid in local relief efforts of COVID-19, including immediate basic aid and long-term recovery.

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Worcester Public Schools Healthy Meals To Go

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Worcester Public Schools Healthy Meals To Go

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Healthy Meals To Go

Drive Up or Walk Up

FREE breakfast and lunch or supper meals for all children.

Monday through Friday.

2020 Spring Schedule

* Meals served by Friendly House
** Meals served by Worcester Public Schools
Students 18 years of age and under along with students in Transitional Special Education and English Learner programs are eligible to participate!
UPDATED MARCH 20, 2020

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FREE breakfast and lunch or supper meals for all children. Monday through Friday. * Meals served by Friendly House** Meals served by Worcester Public Schools Students 18 years of age and under along with students in Transitional Special Education and English Learner programs are eligible to participate!

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For 2020, the Worcester Free Tax Service Coalition will be celebrating its 18th year of providing free tax preparation and asset building services to low income working taxpayers throughout Central Massachusetts! Through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, IRS-certified volunteers prepare taxes and specifically look for tax credits the household may be eligible for, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), Child Tax Credit (CTC) and other credits. Utilizing the free tax preparation services allows families to retain their full refund, avoiding typical preparation fees which can often run into the hundreds of dollars.

2020 Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Sites

New for 2020 - online appointment scheduling! Click button under your preferred VITA site to complete brief pre-screening for eligibility and then you can select your desired appointment time. ** PLEASE NOTE - Appointment availability will be limited in January. If appointments appear full, please try again after February 1st.

Worcester Community Action Council, Inc.
WORCESTER: Denholm Building, Room 203, 484 Main Street, Worcester, MA 01608 SOUTHBRIDGE: 61 Pine Street, Southbridge, MA 01550
Other VITA sites:

Main South CDC, 875 Main Street, Worcester 508-752-6181

Plumley Village, 16 Laurel Street, Worcester 508-770-0508

Worcester State University, 486 Chandler Street, Sullivan 206, Worcester

Worcester Community Action Council (WCAC) is among the Coalition's city wide members, comprised of a collaboration of businesses, financial institutions and non-profit organizations who work to promote free income tax credit benefits to low and moderate income working individuals and families as a strategy to build household assets and increase economic self-sufficiency.

In 2019, 29 volunteers donated 850 hours to prepare income tax returns at no cost for 910 low-income households at WCAC's two sites, generating $1.46 million in returns - among the more than $3.59 million gnerated through the Coalition! This was all possible because of our dedicated volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering at a Worcester Free Tax Service Coalition Site during the 2020 tax season, please email toliveira@wcac.net
EITC Eligibility Requirements for 2019 Tax Limits: Qualifying Children Claimed
Investment Income Limit
Investment income must be $3,600 or less for the year.

Maximum Credit Amounts
The maximum amount of credit for Tax Year 2019 is:

$6,557 with three or more qualifying children

$5,828 with two qualifying children

$3,526 with one qualifying child

$529 with no qualifying children

What to bring to the VITA Site:

Proof of identification (photo ID)

Social Security cards for you, your spouse and dependents or a Social Security number verification letter issued by the Social Security Administration

An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) assignment letter may be substituted for you, your spouse and your dependents if you do not have a Social Security number

Proof of foreign status, if applying for an ITIN

Birth dates for you, your spouse and dependents on the tax return

Wage and earning statements (Form W-2, W-2G, 1099-R,1099-Misc) from all employers

Interest and dividend statements from banks (Forms 1099)

A copy of last year's federal and state returns, if available

Proof of bank account routing and account numbers for direct deposit such as a blank check

To file taxes electronically on a married-filing-joint tax return, both spouses must be present to sign the required forms

Total paid for daycare provider and the daycare provider's tax identifying number such as their Social Security number or business Employer Identification Number

Forms 1095-A, B or C, Affordable Health Care Statements

Copies of income transcripts from IRS and state, if applicable

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Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program - Worcester Community Action Council

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For 2020, the Worcester Free Tax Service Coalition will be celebrating its 18th year of providing free tax preparation and asset building services to low income working taxpayers throughout Central Massachusetts!

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The City of Worcester continues to work with and receive guidance from the CDC and the State of Massachusetts on how to treat possible cases and prevent the spread of COVID-19. We encourage you to check out the following information to learn more about COVID-19.

A COVID-19 Information Line has been established at 508-799-1019. The line provides facts and information about COVID-19, how to stop the spread, what to do if someone is experiencing symptoms and quarantine information. The line is available in English, Spanish, Vietnamese and Albanian with an option for individuals to speak live with a nurse, Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Massachusetts 2-1-1 will now provide real-time COVID-19 information, resources, and referrals in multiple languages.

A Nursing Home Family Resource Line has been established by the State of Massachusetts at 617-660-5399. The line establishes one central contact for family members of nursing home and rest home residents and will help answer questions about the care their loved one is receiving during the COVID-19 outbreak. The line is available seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

An ASL Now Hotline from CSD (Communication Service for the Deaf) has been established where residents can ask questions about COVID-19 and get support. Visit www.csd.org or call via videophone at 833-682-7630.

Response * Relief * Recovery

Find out about employment and financial assistance available to individuals including employment assistance, the Worcester Creative Relief Fund as well as how to cope with COVID-19.

Business & Organization Assistance * Need Relief?

Learn more about financial assistance and programs available to small businesses and organizations including the Small Business Resiliency Grant Program ( application deadline closed March 27), Response and Relief Fund Grants and more.

The City of Worcester NEEDS YOU! * Help Us!

Can you sew face masks? Do you have needed items to donate? Do you wish to volunteer as a medical volunteer or volunteer at emergency shelters? Do you want to contribute to the Worcester Together Program? If the answer is yes please help us! *Staffing is an immediate need at DCU Center Field Hospital!*

Heroes Among Us

City of Worcester Mayor Joseph M. Petty, City Manager Edward M. Augustus, Jr. and Medical Director Dr. Michael P. Hirsh wish to recognize those city employees, hospital staff and community members who are helping combat the COVID-19 pandemic and are truly Heroes Among Us!

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The City of Worcester continues to work with and receive guidance from the CDC and the State of Massachusetts on how to treat possible cases and prevent the spread of COVID-19. We encourage you to check out the following information to learn more about COVID-19. A COVID-19 Information Line has been established at 508-799-1019.

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Department of Unemployment Assistance

What you need

To apply for unemployment, you need to provide personal information including your Social Security number, birth date, home address, email address (optional), and phone number.

You also need information about your employment history from the last 15 months, including:

Names of all employers, plus addresses and phone numbers

Reasons for leaving those jobs

Work start and end dates

Recall date (if you were laid off but have a set date to return to work)

You may need additional information in certain situations:

If you are not a U.S. citizen - your Alien Registration number

If you have children - their birth dates and Social Security numbers

If you're in a union - your union name and local number

If you were in the military - your DD-214 Member 4 form. If you don't have it, you can request your DD-214 online.

If you worked for the federal government - your SF8 form (optional)

To receive payments by direct deposit, you'll also need your bank name, account number, and routing number. Otherwise, the Department of Unemployment Assistance (DUA) will send you a debit card.

How to apply

To file a claim online, you must create an account on the UI Online portal. Please follow the steps below to create your UI Online account. For additional tutorials, please Click Here

1. When prompted, you will be asked to enter your Social Security number twice.

2. Proceed with the application by following the computer prompts.

3. You will eventually be prompted to set up a password as well as a security verification question in case you forget your password. You will use the password you created every time you log in to UI Online.

If you have previously filed for unemployment benefits and forgot your password:

1. When prompted, you will be asked to enter your Social Security number twice.

2. You will be prompted to enter in verification information including:

Your Social Security number

The answer to your security question (if you can't remember the answer to your security question, you must contact DUA to confirm your identity)

3. You will be prompted to set up a new password. You will use the password you created every time you log in to UI Online.

Non-English speakers can apply in their own languages on DUA's foreign language application site.

You can also file for unemployment benefits or get help with your application by calling the TeleClaim Center. The number you call depends on your area code:

(877) 626-6800 from area codes 351, 413, 508, 774, and 978

(617) 626-6800 from any other area code

711 for Voice Relay

The TeleClaim Center hours are 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday. Please follow the call-in schedule below:

Next steps

You must request weekly benefits every week that you are unemployed. You will make your first weekly benefit request the week after you file your claim for unemployment benefits.

You must begin searching for work immediately (3 work search attempts). Track your search for new employment by using the Work Search Activity Log.

DUA will review your application and confirm details of your application with your former employer. If you provided an email address when you filed your claim, you will receive an email from DUA asking you to verify your email address.

This notice tells you how much you'll potentially receive in unemployment benefits.

If there is a question of eligibility, you'll receive a fact-finding questionnaire from DUA requesting information from you. You must respond to this questionnaire by the deadline specified. Failure to respond may result in a disqualification from receiving benefits.

This notice tells you whether you've been approved for unemployment benefits. If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision within 10 days.

If determined eligible, you will receive your benefit payment according to the payment preference that you selected upon applying for benefits. After your first payment, you will receive benefits via the debit card unless you set up for direct deposit to a checking or savings account.

More info

It can take a few weeks to process your claim. You should continue to request weekly benefits after you apply even if you haven't heard back from DUA yet.

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Department of Unemployment Assistance To apply for unemployment, you need to provide personal information including your Social Security number, birth date, home address, email address (optional), and phone number.

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Provides 1 on 1 therapy to patients suffering with anxiety and depression, among other mental health issues, via telehealth during the crisis. Most Mass Health plans accepted. Sign up below:

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Domestic Violence Helpline number: 508-755-9030

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Charter is offering free Wifi access for 60 Days For New K-12 and College Student Households

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Update: May 12, 2021 - The Remote Education Offer below is no longer available. Charter is participating in the FCC's Emergency Broadband Benefit Program. Learn more here.
STAMFORD, Conn. - In the coming weeks, many Americans will be affected either directly or indirectly by COVID-19 and Charter is focused on serving and supporting our 29 million customers. Americans rely on high speed broadband in nearly every aspect of their lives and Charter is committed to ensuring our customers maintain reliable access to the online resources and information they want and need. To ease the strain in this challenging time, beginning Monday, March 16, Charter commits to the following for 60 days:

Charter will offer free Spectrum broadband and Wi-Fi access for 60 days to households with K-12 and/or college students who do not already have a Spectrum broadband subscription and at any service level up to 100 Mbps. To enroll call 1-844-488-8395. Installation fees will be waived for new student households.

Charter will partner with school districts to ensure local communities are aware of these tools to help students learn remotely. Charter will continue to offer Spectrum Internet Assist, high speed broadband program to eligible low-income households delivering speeds of 30 Mbps.

Charter will open its Wi-Fi hotspots across our footprint for public use.

Spectrum does not have data caps or hidden fees.

As the country works collaboratively to contain this pandemic, broadband internet access will be increasingly essential to ensuring that people across the country are able to learn and work remotely, that businesses can continue to serve customers, and that Americans stay connected and engaged with family and friends.

Charter's advanced communications network will ensure our more than 29 million customers - including government offices, first responders, health care facilities, and businesses - across 41 states maintain the connectivity they rely on. The network is built to sustain maximum capacity during peak usage which is typically in the evenings, so a surge during the day would be well within the network's capabilities to manage. Charter will continue to closely monitor this dynamic situation, and is well-prepared to continue delivering reliable connectivity. Charter has extensive business and workforce continuity plans in place that will be adjusted as needed to best serve all our customers and employees.

About Charter

Charter Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ:CHTR) is a leading broadband connectivity company and cable operator serving more than 29 million customers in 41 states through its Spectrum brand. Over an advanced communications network, the company offers a full range of state-of-the-art residential and business services including Spectrum Internet, TV, Mobile and Voice.

For small and medium-sized companies, Spectrum Business delivers the same suite of broadband products and services coupled with special features and applications to enhance productivity, while for larger businesses and government entities, Spectrum Enterprise provides highly customized, fiber-based solutions. Spectrum Reach delivers tailored advertising and production for the modern media landscape. The company also distributes award-winning news coverage, sports and high-quality original programming to its customers through Spectrum Networks and Spectrum Originals. More information about Charter can be found at corporate.charter.com.

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Charter to Offer Free Access to Spectrum Broadband and Wi-Fi For 60 Days For New K-12 and College Student Households and More

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Update: May 12, 2021 - The Remote Education Offer below is no longer available. Charter is participating in the FCC's Emergency Broadband Benefit Program. Learn more here. STAMFORD, Conn. - In the coming weeks, many Americans will be affected either directly or indirectly by COVID-19 and Charter is focused on serving and supporting our 29 million customers.

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The WRTA is suspending fares  through May 1st

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The WRTA is monitoring the COVID-19 situation closely. We are also following a regular cleaning schedule at the Hub and on the buses. Each bus is cleaned nightly and as of last week all surfaces on the buses are disinfected each night. Our customer service staff is prepared to handle any questions that may come in from the public regarding the situation.

We're following the current CDC and FTA advisories regarding the situation and we are prepared to handle any changes.

The WRTA requests all passengers board and exit the bus through the rear door. Front door boarding is still available for customers with accessibility needs. WRTA will suspend enforcement of the WRTA fare policy during this time. This policy will be in effect for thirty (30) days. At the end of the thirty (30) day period current conditions will be reviewed to determine the need for continued implementation.

For the safety of both our drivers and passengers we ask that riders only travel for essential trips. All riders are required to exit the bus at the end of its route and may not re-board the same vehicle for a return trip. Multiple or consecutive round trips are not permitted and riders who appear to be loitering on the bus will be asked to deboard.

The WRTA highly recommends all passengers wear a medical or cloth mask to cover their mouth and nose as recommended by the CDC while on board WRTA vehicles. Visit cdc.gov for a tutorial on making your own cloth face cover and important information on how to wear a face cover.

If you are experiencing any Covid-19 symptoms (cough, fever, shortness of breath) or have been in contact with someone that tested positive, please do not use public transportation. Help prevent the spread of Covid-19. If urgent medical care is needed, use a personal vehicle or call an ambulance to get to the provider's location.

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The WRTA is monitoring the COVID-19 situation closely. We are also following a regular cleaning schedule at the Hub and on the buses. Each bus is cleaned nightly and as of last week all surfaces on the buses are disinfected each night.

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*Provided by Central MA Housing Alliance:

If you do not have a health provider, and you show COVID-19 symptoms, call these numbers in Worcester:
UMass Medical Control Center: 508-334-6688
Worcester Department of Public Health: health@worcesterma.gov
City of Worcester Coronavirus FAQ Line: 508-799-1019
Massachusetts Department of Public Health Epidemiology Line: 617-983-6800