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    Center on Policy Initiatives

Our Vision:

Working people throughout California, as well as their families and communities, are facing an unprecedented health and economic crisis. We are also witnessing and participating in inspiring acts of solidarity and collective action. Advocates have mobilized to provide legal, financial and logistical support to our clients, members and communities. The resources below are intended to support peoples’ immediate needs today and in the coming weeks. 

While supporting and looking out for each other now, we also invite you to join with us to define a new normal: where work provides working people with stability and safety, where we are treated fairly and with respect, and where our jobs allow us to provide for ourselves and our families, and to join together to ensure that our communities thrive in a just and inclusive economy.

Take Action

Our state legislature must ensure a #SafetyNet4AllofUs by providing ongoing relief for California’s undocumented community through the duration of the COVID-19 crisis.

Read the petition and add your name in support here!

Urge Los Angeles City Council to protect residents during the pandemic. #HealthyLA

Read the petition and add your name in support here!

More than 70 labor and community organizations throughout California are joining together to send an urgent message to Governor Gavin Newsom and top state officials: Listen to California Workers!

Read our demand letter here!

I need housing

I am worried I will be evicted.

Legally, you cannot be evicted at this time except for health and safety reasons.

  • Governor Gavin Newsom issued a limited (Executive Order N-37-20) that gave residential tenants affected by COVID-19 who are already in the process of being evicted, an extra 55 days to respond after being served with a summons.
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  • The California Judicial Council froze courts from proceeding in all evictions, residential and commercial, whether due to COVID 19 or not, on 4/6/20 unless necessary to protect public health and safety, for the duration of California’s state of emergency or 90 days after the emergency ends. 
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  • Landlords can file new evictions courts cannot proceed until the emergency ends. Court trials in pending cases will be delayed for at least 60 days.
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      • More than 100 local governments in the state have implemented stronger protections for tenants affected by COVID 19. Visit nolo.com for a list of stronger local laws updated daily.

      • Visit hud.gov for information from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development about mortgage assistance, public housing, and emergency assistance. Contact: Fair Housing (800) 669-9777 or (800) 877-8339 for TTY.

        • Visit covid19.lacounty.gov for access to housing and information.
        •  
        • Visit Los Angeles’ Homeless Services Authority’s interactive map for access to hand washing stations maintained by the LA Housing Services or retrieve a list here.
        •  
        • Skid Row residents can visit LA Community Action Network’s online collection of hygiene resources.
        •  
        • Koreatown residents can visit Koreatown For All’s collection of hygiene resources.
        •  
        • LA City Sanitation has partnered with YMCA to open 9 YMCA facilities to people for showers, bathrooms, and locker rooms
          • Time: 9:00AM – 2:00PM
            Locations:
            • Anderson Munger YMCA; 4301 W 3rd Street, Los Angeles, CA 90020; 213-427-9622
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            • Collins & Katz Family YMCA; 1466 S Westgate Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90025; 310-477-1511
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            • Hollywood YMCA; 1553 N Schrader Boulevard, Hollywood, CA 90028;
            • 323-467-4161
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            • Ketchum-Downtown YMCA; 401 S Hope Street, Los Angeles, CA 90071;  213-624-2348
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            • Mid Valley Family YMCA;  6901 Lennox Avenue, Van Nuys, CA 91405; 818-989-3800
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            • North Valley YMCA; 11336 Corbin Avenue, Northridge, CA 91326; 818-368-3231
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            • Weingart YMCA Wellness & Aquatic Center; 9900 S Vermont Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90044; 323-754-3191
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            • Westchester Family YMCA; 8015 S Sepulveda Boulevard, Westchester, CA 90045; 310-670-4316
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            • West Valley Family YMCA; 18810 Vanowen Street, Reseda, CA 91335; 818-774-2840
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        • San Francisco Residents:
          • As an essential service, the Tenderloin Housing Clinic remains open 24 hours a day in the midst of the #COVID19 outbreak to continue providing permanent supportive housing and legal, money management, and supportive services.
          • Hamilton Families offers Housing Services to families who at-risk of or currently experiencing homelessness. Provides financial assistance, income planning, legal services, and case management to help individuals stay housed. 
    • Operation Shelter to Home in the San Diego Convention Center & Golden Hall: The Regional Task Force on the Homeless in partnership with our region’s cities, the County of San Diego, San Diego Housing Commission and our homeless service providers have developed a new, system-wide, coordinated plan to further help sheltered and unsheltered individuals remain healthy during the global COVID-19 pandemic. Learn more.
  •  
  • City Heights CDC Emergency Rental Assistance available for City Heights residents.
  •  
  • Emergency Rental Assistance: 858-361-8601
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  • Emergency Food Assistance: 619-255-0649
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  • Legal Aid Society of San Diego’s guide to San Diego county, city, and state eviction moratoriums related to COVID-19 can be found here in English and Spanish

    If you need legal assistance you can reach Legal Aid Society of San Diego by calling 1-877-534-2524

    •  

Dial 911 for emergencies or 211 (211sandiego.org)

Check back soon for resources in your area

        • Riverside County is temporarily providing hotel and motel rooms for certain homeless people during Gov. Gavin Newsom’s stay-at-home order to limit the spread of the novel coronavirus, officials announced Monday, March 23. Those eligible include homeless who are 65 and older, have a compromised immune system or have a chronic health condition such as heart disease, diabetes or lung disease. Pregnant homeless women also are eligible.
        •  

Those who are eligible can be referred by calling 800-498-8847.

        • Santa Maria:
          Safer in Shelter: This location is providing additional safe beds for people experiencing homelessness.  

Location:  Santa Maria High School, 901 S Broadway, Santa Maria, CA 93454 
(Entrance: Gymnasium Gate 12 off of Stowell Rd). 

San Luis Obisbo:
5 CITIES HOMELESS COALITION: 5Cities Homeless Coalition offices in Grover Beach remain closed, but staff members are on duty, working from home and in the field. If you live in South County and need help, please see “RESOURCES” below, or you can call 5CHC at 805-574-1638 during normal business hours. Our office is open between 1-2 M-F to provide mail to anyone currently using our address for their mail. We are not accepting anyone new for mail services at this time. Good Samaritan-5 Cities Homeless Coalition’s program is continuing. Please call 805-202-3056 for more information.

ECHO: Shelter remains open and accessible, and has expanded its public shower program in the wake of COVID-19. The program is now open every weekday, Monday through Friday, from 3 to 5 p.m. Two temporary trailers have been placed outside of 40 Prado in order to isolate individuals who are exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms and need further medical evaluation.

GOOD SAMARITAN: Due to the mounting concerns surrounding COVID-19 and the health and safety of our staff and current clients, no new clients will be admitted to our shelters at this time, and no current clients will be exited until further notice. Client currently residing in our shelters are being encouraged to stay in throughout the day, only leaving for essential services and functions. All clients receiving outpatient drug and alcohol treatment services and mental health services will be able to meet one on one with their counselors/ therapists to ensure continued care.

SANTA MARIA HIGH SCHOOL: The Santa Maria High School gymnasium will now operate as a 24-hour emergency shelter to provide the homeless a place to stay and serve as a precaution against the coronavirus. Entrance into the shelter is permitted from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, with sleeping cots, showers, hand washing and phone charging stations, and three meals a day offered to clients when they walk in the door. The gym has a capacity of 80 people with sufficient space for six feet of social distancing between people.

The high school is located at 901 S. Broadway, and the entrance to the gym is at Gate 12 off Stowell Road.

ATASCADERO WARMING CENTER: Located at the Lutheran Church of the Redeemer in Atascadero. The Warming Center is open and operating when there is a 50% chance or greater of rain or when the temperature is forecast to be 40 degrees or less until April 15th.

This center provides meals, clothing, and other services.

Check back soon for resources in your area

I am currently homeless, and would like to access resources.

Click below:

        • Visit covid19.lacounty.gov for access to housing and information.
        •  
        • Visit Los Angeles’ Homeless Services Authority’s interactive map for access to hand washing stations maintained by the LA Housing Services or retrieve a list here.
        •  
        • Skid Row residents can visit LA Community Action Network’s online collection of hygiene resources.
        •  
        • Koreatown residents can visit Koreatown For All’s collection of hygiene resources.
        •  
        • LA City Sanitation has partnered with YMCA to open 9 YMCA facilities to people for showers, bathrooms, and locker rooms
          • Time: 9:00AM – 2:00PM
            Locations:
            • Anderson Munger YMCA; 4301 W 3rd Street, Los Angeles, CA 90020; 213-427-9622
            •  
            • Collins & Katz Family YMCA; 1466 S Westgate Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90025; 310-477-1511
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            • Hollywood YMCA; 1553 N Schrader Boulevard, Hollywood, CA 90028;
            • 323-467-4161
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            • Ketchum-Downtown YMCA; 401 S Hope Street, Los Angeles, CA 90071;  213-624-2348
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            • Mid Valley Family YMCA;  6901 Lennox Avenue, Van Nuys, CA 91405; 818-989-3800
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            • North Valley YMCA; 11336 Corbin Avenue, Northridge, CA 91326; 818-368-3231
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            • Weingart YMCA Wellness & Aquatic Center; 9900 S Vermont Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90044; 323-754-3191
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            • Westchester Family YMCA; 8015 S Sepulveda Boulevard, Westchester, CA 90045; 310-670-4316
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            • West Valley Family YMCA; 18810 Vanowen Street, Reseda, CA 91335; 818-774-2840
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        • San Francisco Residents:
          • Tenderloin Housing Clinic provides 24-hour assistance with permanent supportive housing and legal, money management, and supportive services.
          •  
          • Hamilton Families offers Housing Services to families who are at-risk of or currently experiencing homelessness. Provides financial assistance, income planning, legal services, and case management to help individuals stay housed. 
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                  • A Woman’s Place is a shelter open 24/7 with curfew at 10PM on weekdays, 11PM on weekends. Call for more information and availability. 211 13th St Drop in Resource Center – Women welcome 24 hours, Families welcome 6am – 3pm (male family members allowed). Services include case management, laundry, showers.
                    Phone: 415-487-2140
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                  • CHANGES: MSC South offers 24-hour drop-ins for showers. Supportive Services are provided Monday – Friday from 11:30AM – 8PM.
                    Phone: 415-597-7960
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                  • Episcopal Community Service – Next Door Shelter is operating regularly providing 24-hour access to shelter for unhoused adults in San Fransisco. Residents receive two meals daily and may access case management and mental health services. Please call for more updates. Reservations must be made through a resource center or 311.
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                  • Larkin Street Youth Services: Diamond Youth Shelter will continue operations with minimum staffing and youth shelter in place. Larkin provides coed emergency housing, crisis intervention, and case management for runaway or homeless youth age 12-17. Meals and showers provided for residents.
                  • Sun 4pm – 11:59pm, 12am – 7:30am
                    Mon 6:30pm – 11:59pm, 12am – 7:30am
                    Tue 6:30pm – 11:59pm, 12am – 7:30am
                    Wed 6:30pm – 11:59pm, 12am – 7:30am
                    Thu 6:30pm – 11:59pm, 12am – 7:30am
                    Fri 6:30pm – 11:59pm, 12am – 7:30am
                    Sat 4pm – 11:59pm, 12am – 7:30am.
                  • Phone: 415-567-1020
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                  • La Casa de las Madres drop-in center is closed however confidential emergency shelter, 24/7 crisis line, safety planning, advocacy & information and referral are open.
                    Phone: 877-503-1850 24/7 hotline; 415-200-3575 text line; 877-923-0700 teen crisis line.
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                  • United Council of Human Services – Jennings provides access, eligibility, problem solving, assessment, and housing referrals for people experiencing homelessness. Access point services can be accessed via phone to the maximum extent possible.
                    Phone: 415-671-1100.
                  • The following points are open to the public from 9AM – 4:30PM:
                    • 1138 Howard San Fransico, CA 94103
                    • 123 10th Street San Fransico, CA 94103
                    • 2111 Jennings San Francisco, CA 94124 (9am-12PM)
                    • Mother Browns Kitchen serving breakfast 7AM – 9AM and dinner 5-7PM
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                  • Restrooms available daily from 9am-8pm:
                    • Eddy St. and Jones St. ; 16th St. and Mission St.
                    • Washington Square at Union St.
                    • U.N. Plaza (Market St. and 7th St.)
                    • Hallidie Plaza: Market St. and 5th St.
                    • Stanyan St. and Waller St.
                    • Market St. and Church St.
                    • Myrtle St. and Larkin St.
                    • Grove St. and Larkin St.
                    • 24th St. and Mission St.
                    • Embarcadero Plaza
                    • Market St. and Castro St.
                    • Judah St. and La Playa St. 9am-4pm
                    • 6th St. and Jessie St. Mon-Fri 1pm-7pm
                    • 101 Hyde St. Mon-Fri – 1:30 pm to 8:30 pm; Sat – 9:30 am to 4:30 pm
                    • Eddy St. and Larkin St. Mon-Sat – 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
                    • Mendell Plaza (3rd St. and Mendell St./Palou Ave.) Mon-Fri – 10 am to 5pm
                    • Haight St. and Buena Vista Ave. West Mon-Fri – 12 pm to 7 pm
                    • 16th St. and Capp St. Mon-Fri – 11:30 am to 6:30 pm
                    • McCoppin Hub (McCoppin St. and Valencia St.) Mon-Fri – 11:30 am to 6:30 pm
                    • 133 Golden Gate Ave. Mon-Fri – 2 pm to 9 pm; Sat – 9 am to 4 pm
                    • Mission St. and Sycamore St. Mon-Fri – 12:30 pm to 7:30 pm
                    • Victoria Manalo Draves Park (Sherman St. between Folsom and Harrison St.) Mon-Fri 8 am to 4 pm; Sat-Sun 9 am to 5 pm
                    •  
                  • Hand Washing Stations available 24/7:
                    • Willow St. and Polk St.
                    • Hemlock St. and Van Ness Ave.
                    • 527 5th St.
                    • UN Plaza: Leavenworth St. and McAllister St.
                    • Ashbury St. and Haight St.
                    • Barneveld Ave. and Loomis St.
                    • Florida St. and 17th St.
                    • 456 Winston Dr.
                    • 3565 16th St.
                    • Market St. and Steuart St.
                    • Ellis St. and Taylor St.
                    • Turk St. and Leavenworth St.
                    • Mission St. and 9th St.
                    • Selby St. and Evans Ave.
                    • 1550 Bryant St.
                    • Jackson St. and Powell St.
                    • Folsom St. and 23rd St.
                    • 1634 Armstrong Ave.
                    • Thomas Ave. and Hawes St.
                    • Carroll Ave. and Ingalls St.
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          • Project Roomkey: Operation Comfort & Operation Safer Ground assists homeless individuals who tested positive for COVID19, experiencing symptoms of COVID, or exposed to COVID. Also serving homeless individuals who are over the age of 65 and/or medically fragile (high risk with a variety of specific health conditions). Referral agencies include some clinics/hopsitals, shelters, Santa Rita Jail, Outreach teams. Please check the link for more information.
            E-Mail: COVIDHOUSING@acgov.org
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        • Oakland and Emeryville Residents:
          • Call BACS Keep Oakland Housed Program if you are a family or individual still sheltered but facing crisis such as a 3 day pay or quit notice, eviction notice.
            Phone: 510-613-0330 x2
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          • Unsheltered families with a child under 18, can contact Family Front Door for first time assistance.
            Phone: 510-808-7410 ext 282
            • If your family has been assessed and you already receiving services and need to update your info text your full name and updated information to 510-435-2296
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          • Unsheltered adults and families that do not include a child under 18 who are seeking help for the first time can contact BACS Coordinated Entry. Phone: 510-613-0330 x2 or call/text EOCP Coordinated Entry line
            Phone: 510-436-4601
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          • Punks With Lunch provides mobile outreach from 56th St and MLK down to 30th and MLK from 6pm -8pm, providing snacks, water, hygiene, and harm reduction supplies. On Sundays fixed sites are set at 35th and Peralta from 3pm – 6pm.
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  • North County (Berkeley, Albany)
          • Unsheltered adults Phone: 510-495-0131
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          • Unsheltered families contact Family Front Door in Oakland: 510-808-7410 ext 282
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          • Shower services are offered at locations below:
            • City of Berkeley Shower Program, Monday – Friday 5:30 – 8:30pm. Saturday – Sunday 9AM – Noon. Location: 2701 Telegraph Ave.
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            • City of Berkeley Shower Program, Monday – Friday 9AM – 12PM, Saturday – Sunday 2PM – 6PM. Location: 2100 Browning Street (West Campus pool). Phone: 510-981-5125
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        • Mid County West (San Leandro, Alameda)
          • Alameda Residents:
            • St. Vincent de Paul is serving over 500 bagged lunches through their dining room in West Oakland. Showers for women are from 6-9AM Monday – Thursday in the Women’s Center. Showers for men are from 6-9AM Monday – Friday at the Men’s Center. The shelter is open every night to accommodate up to 100 people.
            •  
          • All unsheltered adults and families can contact Building Future
            Phone: 510-357-0205
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        • Mid County East (Hayward, Unincorporated)
          • All unsheletered adults and families can contact Adobe: 510-330-5807
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        • East County/Tri-Valley (Livermore, Dublin, Pleasanton)
          • All unsheltered adults and families can contact Adobe
            Phone: 510-371-0447
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        • South County/Tri-City (Fremont, Newark, Union City)
          • All unsheltered adults and families can contact Adobe
            Phone: 510-330-5822
    • Operation Shelter to Home in the San Diego Convention Center & Golden Hall: The Regional Task Force on the Homeless in partnership with our region’s cities, the County of San Diego, San Diego Housing Commission and our homeless service providers have developed a new, system-wide, coordinated plan to further help sheltered and unsheltered individuals remain healthy during the global COVID-19 pandemic. Learn more.
    •  

Dial 911 for emergencies or 211 (211sandiego.org)

  • City Heights CDC Emergency Rental Assistance available for City Heights residents.
  • Emergency Rental Assistance: 858-361-8601
  • Emergency Food Assistance: 619-255-0649
  •  
  • San Diego Youth Service’s Youth Emergency Shelter provides shelter and other services for youth ages 12-17 who have no safe living arrangement or are victims of physical or sexual abuse, neglect, child abuse or exploitation. Telephone screening is required before acceptance into the shelter. 24-hour crisis hotline and eligibility screening: (866) 752-2327 or (866) Place-2-Stay
  •  

Check back soon for resources in your area

        • Riverside County is temporarily providing hotel and motel rooms for certain homeless people during Gov. Gavin Newsom’s stay-at-home order to limit the spread of the novel coronavirus, officials announced Monday, March 23. Those eligible include homeless who are 65 and older, have a compromised immune system or have a chronic health condition such as heart disease, diabetes or lung disease. Pregnant homeless women also are eligible.
        •  

Those who are eligible can be referred by calling 800-498-8847.

        • Santa Maria:
          Safer in Shelter: This location is providing additional safe beds for people experiencing homelessness.  

Location:  Santa Maria High School, 901 S Broadway, Santa Maria, CA 93454 
(Entrance: Gymnasium Gate 12 off of Stowell Rd). 

San Luis Obispo:
5 CITIES HOMELESS COALITION: 5 Cities Homeless Coalition offices in Grover Beach remain closed, but staff members are on duty, working from home and in the field. If you live in South County and need help, please see “RESOURCES” below, or you can call 5CHC at 805-574-1638 during normal business hours. The office is open between 1-2 M-F to provide mail to anyone currently using our address for their mail. We are not accepting anyone new for mail services at this time.

Good Samaritan-5 Cities Homeless Coalition’s program is continuing. Please call 805-202-3056 for more information.

ECHO: Shelter remains open and accessible, and has expanded its public shower program in the wake of COVID-19. The program is now open every weekday, Monday through Friday, from 3 to 5 p.m. Two temporary trailers have been placed outside of 40 Prado in order to isolate individuals who are exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms and need further medical evaluation.

GOOD SAMARITAN: Due to the mounting concerns surrounding COVID-19 and the health and safety of our staff and current clients, no new clients will be admitted to our shelters at this time, and no current clients will be exited until further notice. Client currently residing in our shelters are being encouraged to stay in throughout the day, only leaving for essential services and functions. All clients receiving outpatient drug and alcohol treatment services and mental health services will be able to meet one on one with their counselors/ therapists to ensure continued care.

SANTA MARIA HIGH SCHOOL: The Santa Maria High School gymnasium will now operate as a 24-hour emergency shelter to provide the homeless a place to stay and serve as a precaution against the coronavirus. Entrance into the shelter is permitted from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, with sleeping cots, showers, hand washing and phone charging stations, and three meals a day offered to clients when they walk in the door. The gym has a capacity of 80 people with sufficient space for six feet of social distancing between people.

The high school is located at 901 S. Broadway, and the entrance to the gym is at Gate 12 off Stowell Road.

ATASCADERO WARMING CENTER: Located at the Lutheran Church of the Redeemer in Atascadero. The Warming Center is open and operating when there is a 50% chance or greater of rain or when the temperature is forecast to be 40 degrees or less until April 15th.

This center provides meals, clothing, and other services.

Check back soon for resources in your area

I need money

I lost my job or hours, my business closed, and/or I have to care for a child whose school is closed:

Unemployment:

Documented workers may be eligible for unemployment–even if you’re self-employed. Unemployment insurance replaces 60-70% of your wages, up to $450 per month from the State of California, plus $600 dollars per week from the federal CARES Act’s Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program.

        • Employees apply here.
        •  
        • Independent contractors and business owners will be able to apply on April 28th here.
        • I can’t work because I contracted COVID-19

        • If you are unable to work due to having or being exposed to COVID-19 (certified by a medical professional), you may be eligible for 60-70% of your wages for up to one year (or more, as necessary) as well as medical costs. File a Disability Insurance (DI) claim here.
      • Undocumented workers can apply for SDI using a paper application. Simply leave a blank in the form that requests your social security number.
  • I can’t work because a family member contracted COVID-19

    • If you’re unable to work because you are caring for an ill or quarantined family member with COVID-19 (certified by a medical professional), you can file a Paid Family Leave (PFL) claim. PFL provides benefit payments to eligible workers who have a full or partial loss of wages because they need time off work to care for a seriously ill family member or to bond with a new child. Benefit amounts are approximately 60-70 percent of wages (depending on income) and range from $50-$1,300 a week. Everyone who has paid into the system, including undocumented employees, are eligible. Health benefits are continued.
  • Find out more about workplace rights, income replacement, and protections:

Disaster assistance (available for documented and undocumented workers):

All low-income Californians, including undocumented workers, can apply for disaster assistance.

Starting in May, undocumented Californians can receive $500 per worker, up to $1,000 per household. Applications will require no income-based test or personal information. Grants to provide this assistance will be distributed through community-based organizations. Find out more here and in Spanish here.

Many cities and counties are rapidly providing income replacement for households with undocumented members.

                • Households with annual incomes below the federal poverty level prior to the COVID-19 crisis and that have fallen into deeper economic hardship during the crisis because at least one household member has lost a job or experienced a reduction in income of at least 50% can receive cash assistance. The Angeleno Card provides financial assistance for in-need households via no-fee prepaid cards provided by Mastercard’s City Possible network in amounts ranging from $700 to $1500.
                • Visit https://hcidla.lacity.org/ to learn more and to apply.

The San Francisco County Board of Supervisors has voted to create the COVID-19 Emergency Family Relief Fund, which will provide at least $500 per month for families with children or dependents under 18.

Priority will be given to families that do not qualify for other assistance programs due to their immigration status. This program is expected to provide funds to almost 5000 families in San Francisco County. As the program has not been implemented yet, information about how to apply is not available yet.

            • United Way of San Diego County has created the San Diego Worker Assistance Initiative, which will provide funds for workers impacted by layoffs or reduced working hours. The funds provided will go towards assisting workers with their mortgage/rent payments and utilities payments. As of 4/27/20 United Way is not accepting applicants for the initiative until they have raised enough funds. For more information on the fund and how to apply when it is available, visit: uwsd.org/covid19
        •  
          • San Diego County Refugee Families Emergency Fund is a collaborative program that provides small, one-time grants to cover rent, utilities, childcare, food, and other emergency needs. Contact Partnership for the Advancement of New Americans at (619) 363-6939 or info@panasd.org.
          •  
          • SDIRC Immigrant Relief Fund provides one-time grants of up to $500 to immigrants in San Diego County who have lost all or part of their income due to the pandemic, along with other emergencies that may arise in the future.
Central Valley Community Foundation has launched an Emergency Response Fund to help this region meet the developing challenges linked with COVID-19. They are identifying the highest priority community needs and have distinguished three key focus areas for the Fund: Food distribution, particularly for vulnerable populations, Urgent support for healthcare workers and Coordinated communication of reliable public information. Visit: www.centralvalleycf.org/covid-19-emergency-response-fund/ San Joaquin Valley Health Fund COVID-19 Response Cluster: The mission of the SJVHF COVID-19 Response Cluster is to ensure vulnerable families, individuals and the nonprofits serving them receive assistance for essential supplies, food, rent, utilities and other needs, including access to the services, programs and protections available under local, state and federal law. Visit: http://www.shfcenter.org/sjvhealthfund United Way Fresno and Madera Counties have established a Coronavirus Relief Fund to help assist those who have lost employment or are facing new financial hardships due to the pandemic. Applications for the first round of funding are now closed. However, they will award another round of applications so follow them on Facebook to stay up-to-date on new information. Visit: http://www.uwfm.org/covidfund

Check back soon for resources in your area

            • United Way of Santa Barbara County has created a relief fund for members of the community who have been financially impacted by the pandemic, with preference given to those who do not qualify for other assistance programs. They have already received enough applicants to use up the first phase of their funding, but the fund is still accepting applicants and will distribute resources once more funding is available. For more information and to apply, visit: https://www.unitedwaysb.org/covid-19-response-grants 
          • Monterey County
          • California Coastal Rural Development Corporation is offering working capital loans at a low interest rate and defers interest and principal repayment for the duration of the closure. The County’s program is matching SBA deferment qualifications during this business cycle and may be a source of bridge funding until the SBA programs come online. Call: (831) 424-1099 or visit: https://www.calcoastal.org/

          • Monterey County Workforce Development Board: If you are an employer and/or worker affected by COVID-19, disaster assistance is available from Monterey County Workforce Development Rapid Response (layoff assistance or aversion). Services include on-site sessions where employees learn about unemployment benefits, job search techniques, training opportunities, and reemployment. Visit: www.montereycountywdb.org/business-services/rapid-response/
          • Call: Employers: 831-796-3341
          • Employees: 831-796-3335
      • Office of Emergency Services– This webpage has a list of services that can provide economic assistance during this time.

Check back soon for resources in your area

As of 4/27/2020, we have been unable to find information on any government-administered income replacement funds for undocumented people in the other regions of California. This list will become updated as resources become available.

Visit Legal Aid at Work for a list of relief funds for undocumented workers.

I need testing or medical care

COVID Testing

For COVID related testing and treatment, visit https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/ to apply for Medi-Cal coverage and find a doctor. Everyone is eligible for COVID 19 testing and treatment through Medi-Cal regardless of income or immigration status. As of March 18, 2020, the House Resolution (H.R.) 6201 Families First Coronavirus Response Act, Section 6004, authorized State Medicaid Programs to provide access to coverage for COVID-19 diagnostic testing, testing-related services, and treatment services, including all medically necessary care at no cost to the individual. Rules will be finalized on April 24, but coverage is retroactive and providers cannot turn you away.

Medi-Cal coverage for COVID-related care will not affect inadmissibility determinations under the “public charge” rule. Find out more at http://www.bettzedek.org/download/12006/.

Everyone is eligible for emergency and pregnancy-related medical treatment under Medi-Cal regardless of immigration status. Visit https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/services/medi-cal/eligibility/Pages/Medi-CalFAQs2014b.aspx to find out more.

COVID Testing and Treatment

COVID-19 testing is not yet widely available for people without symptoms or documented exposure. Check back here for updates.

Visit https://www.projectbaseline.com/study/covid-19/ for the state of California’s free COVID-19 testing for people who show symptoms, have pre-existing medical conditions, or have been exposed to someone with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 in the following areas:

        • Northern California
                • Sacramento (Sacramento County)
                • Stockton (San Joaquin County)
                • San Mateo (San Mateo County)
                • San Jose (Santa Clara County)
                • Salida (Stanislaus County)
                • Napa (Napa County)
              •  
            • Southern California
              • Sherman Oaks (Los Angeles County)
              • Lake Elsinore (Riverside County)
              • Long Beach (Los Angeles County)
  •  

I need time off work

    • For support with enforcing these rights, contact your union, worker center, legal assistance organization, or one of the organizations in our coalition linked to this website. 
    •  
    • For more detailed answers to how the rights below interact, visit the state’s Employment Development Department’s frequently updated COVID-19 website.

You Can Probably Take Paid Sick Leave

The amount varies based on where you live and who you work for. Every California employee is eligible for 3 days (24 hours) of paid sick leave. You accrue paid sick leave at a rate of one hour for every 30 hours worked. It can be used for yourself and almost anyone close to you, for almost any health reason. Visit the state Department of Industrial Relations website for more information and to help enforce your rights.
        • New federal and state laws give some workers two weeks of paid sick days if you are sick, quarantined, seeking diagnosis or preventative care, or caring for sick family members and school-aged kids whose school is closed. Preventative care may include self-quarantine if recommended by the government.
        • Visit the state Department of Industrial Relations for more information on COVID paid sick leave laws and enforcement here. All workers are eligible, including self-employed and independent contractors, if you work:
    • For a company with fewer than 500 workers anywhere (companies of 50 employees or less can apply for exemption)
  • Visit the federal Department of Labor for information on COVID sick leave laws and enforcement here. Workers who think they are being improperly refused leave can call 1-866-487-9243.
In the food sector, including grocery stores, restaurants, fast food, food processing and packaging, agriculture, and delivery services. Who’s left out? Workers at companies with more than 500 employees who aren’t in the food sector, at small companies whose employers get an exemption, and some health care and first responders.
      • Many cities and counties across the state offer more generous paid sick days and are expanding under COVID. Keep checking this website for updates.
                      • Los Angeles requires 6 days (48 hours) of paid sick leave. You can learn more here. New COVID expansions include:
                        • To weeks (80 hours) for workers at businesses with more than 500 employees within the City of Los Angeles or 2,000 nationwide.
        • San Francisco
          •  
          • San Francisco requires 9 days (72 hours) of paid sick leave for businesses with more than 11 workers, and 5 days (40 hours) to smaller businesses. You can learn more here. New COVID expansions include:
            •  
            • Elimination of doctor’s note.
            •  
            • Workers to stay home because they are vulnerable to contracting COVID.

                • San Jose
                  •  
                  • San Jose adopted comprehensive emergency paid sick leave for all workers for two weeks (80 hours) effective immediately that you can learn more about here. This includes:
                    •  
                    • Workers at businesses with more than 500 employees who aren’t in food service.
                    •  
                    • Workers misclassified as independent contractors, such as drivers and couriers at companies like Uber, Lyft, GrubHub and DoorDash
                    •  
                    • Workers at all businesses of 50 employees or less, who can otherwise apply exemption from paid sick requirements.

Check back soon for resources in your area

Check back soon for resources in your area

Check back soon for resources in your area

Check back soon for resources in your area

Check back regularly for updates, and download this summary chart to learn more about longer paid sick leave laws in cities and counties throughout the state.

You Can Probably Take Paid Family Leave (CFRA)

      • People caring for ill or quarantined family members with COVID-19 (certified by a medical professional) can also file a Paid Family Leave (PFL) claim. PFL continues health benefits and replaces up to 70% of your regular wages, from $50-$1,300 a week, for 6 weeks (8 weeks July 1, 2020). Everyone who has paid into the system, including undocumented workers, is eligible.
      •  
          • In addition, California Family Rights Act (CFRA) protects your job for 12 (unpaid) weeks. You are eligible if your employer has 50+ workers within 75 miles, and you have worked at least 1 year & 1,250 hours for that employer.
          •  
  • Disability Insurance (SDI)

  • If you are unable to work due to having or being exposed to COVID-19 (certified by a medical professional), you may be eligible for 60-70% of your wages for up to one year (or more, as necessary) as well as medical costs. File a Disability Insurance (DI) claim here.
  •  

Undocumented workers can apply for SDI using a paper application. Simply leave a blank in the form that requests your social security number.

Unpaid Leave
(Job Protection for Sick Workers) (FEHA)

Requires reasonable accommodations for health conditions. For COVID-19 this is unpaid leave and job protection. This applies to employers with 5+ employees.
 
Under FEHA employees cannot be discriminated against for being sick, cannot be asked about medical conditions that put you at greater risk for contracting the virus.
 
Employees have the right to reasonable accommodations, including telecommuting.

 

Due to school closures/childcare

Employees at worksites with 25 or more employees may also be provided up to 40 hours of leave per year for specific school-related emergencies, such as the closure of a child’s school or daycare by civil authorities (see Labor Code section 230.8).
 

    • Find out more about workplace rights, income replacement, and protections:
    •  
      • Visit bettzedek.org to download information in English and Spanish.
      •  
      • Visit legalaidatwork.org for information in English, Spanish, Chinese, and Vietnamese.
    •  
    • Visit edd.ca.gov/about_edd/coronavirus-2019/faqs.htm for general guidance as to what programs are available and what situations may be applicable to your circumstances. Available in English and Spanish.
 

I don't qualify for benefits

Medical Care

    • For COVID related testing and treatment visit dhcs.ca.gov to apply for Medi-Cal coverage and find a doctor.
    • Everyone is eligible for COVID 19 testing and treatment through Medi-Cal regardless of income or immigration status. As of March 18, 2020, the House Resolution (H.R.) 6201 Families First Coronavirus Response Act, Section 6004, authorized State Medicaid Programs to provide access to coverage for COVID-19 diagnostic testing, testing-related services, and treatment services, including all medically necessary care at no cost to the individual. Rules will be finalized on April 24, but coverage is retroactive and providers cannot turn you away.
      • Medi-Cal coverage for COVID-related care will not affect inadmissibility determinations under the “public charge” rule. Find out more at bettzedek.org
      • Everyone is eligible for emergency and pregnancy-related medical treatment under Medi-Cal regardless of immigration status. Visit dhcs.ca.gov to find out more.

Disaster assistance (available for documented and undocumented workers):

      • Starting next month, undocumented Californians can receive $500 per worker, up to $1,000 per household. Applications will require no income-based test or personal information. Grants to provide this assistance will be distributed through community-based organizations. Check back here for updates.
      •  

Many cities and counties are rapidly providing income replacement for households with undocumented members:

              • Households with annual incomes below the federal poverty level prior to the COVID-19 crisis and that have fallen into deeper economic hardship during the crisis because at least one household member has lost a job or experienced a reduction in income of at least 50% can receive cash assistance. The Angeleno Card provides financial assistance for in-need households via no-fee prepaid cards provided by Mastercard’s City Possible network in amounts ranging from $700 to $1500. Visit hcidla.lacity.org to learn more and to apply.
        • San Francisco Bay Area
        •  
          • The San Francisco County Board of Supervisors has voted to create the COVID-19 Emergency Family Relief Fund, which will provide at least $500 per month for families with children or dependents under 18. Priority will be given to families that do not qualify for other assistance programs due to their immigration status. This program is expected to provide funds to almost 5000 families in San Francisco County. As the program has not been implemented yet, information about how to apply is not available yet.
United Way of San Diego County has created the San Diego Worker Assistance Initiative, which will provide funds for workers impacted by layoffs or reduced working hours. The funds provided will go towards assisting workers with their mortgage/rent payments and utilities payments. As of 4/27/20 United Way is not accepting applicants for the initiative until they have raised enough funds. For more information on the fund and how to apply when it is available, visit: uwsd.org/covid19

Check back soon for resources in your area

Check back soon for resources in your area

            • United Way of Santa Barbara County has created a relief fund for members of the community who have been financially impacted by the pandemic, with preference given to those who do not qualify for other assistance programs. They have already received enough applicants to use up the first phase of their funding, but the fund is still accepting applicants and will distribute resources once more funding is available. For more information and to apply, visit: https://www.unitedwaysb.org/covid-19-response-grants 
        •  
          • Monterey County
                    •  
          • California Coastal Rural Development Corporation is offering working capital loans at a low interest rate and defers interest and principal repayment for the duration of the closure. The County’s program is matching SBA deferment qualifications during this business cycle and may be a source of bridge funding until the SBA programs come online. Call: (831) 424-1099 or visit: https://www.calcoastal.org/

          • Monterey County Workforce Development Board: If you are an employer and/or worker affected by COVID-19, disaster assistance is available from Monterey County Workforce Development Rapid Response (layoff assistance or aversion). Services include on-site sessions where employees learn about unemployment benefits, job search techniques, training opportunities, and reemployment. Visit: www.montereycountywdb.org/business-services/rapid-response/
          • Call: Employers: 831-796-3341
          • Employees: 831-796-3335
                  •  
      • Office of Emergency Services– This webpage has a list of services that can provide economic assistance during this time.

Check back soon for resources in your area

As of 4/27/2020, we have been unable to find information on any government-administered income replacement funds for undocumented people in the other regions of California. This list will become updated as resources become available.

Visit Legal Aid at Work for a list of relief funds for undocumented workers.

I'm concerned about my health and safety at work

What should my employer be doing to protect me?

By law, employers must identify hazards in the workplace, including COVID 19, and have a written plan to eliminate or reduce them. This includes providing effective training, providing adequate personal protective equipment, and providing handwashing facilities. Workers have the right to do the following without retaliation: report hazards, illnesses or injuries; file or participate in a Cal/OSHA inspection; and refuse dangerous work. 

Cal/OSHA and the CDC has issued general guidance for all employers and specific guidance for particular industries.

For more information, including factsheets for workers in specific industries in various languages and resources for advocates and trainers, also visit:

Labor Occupational Health Program, UC Berkeley

Labor Occupational Health Program, UC Los Angeles

For additional resources for legal and worker advocates, contact:

Worksafe

SoCal COSH

I am working, but am worried about my health & safety on the job. What can I do if I’m not being protected?

Workers have a right to a safe and healthy workplace. The Division of Occupational Safety and Health, or Cal/OSHA is the agency responsible for enforcing health and safety laws to protect workers from injuries and illnesses caused by workplace hazards. Cal/OSHA has issued COVID-19 guidance for employers, including for specific industries.   

If your employer is not adequately protecting workers from COVID-19 or other workplace hazards, including cleaning products, you can file a complaint online or by contacting one of the Cal/OSHA enforcement offices. It is helpful to file together with other co-workers and document the problem as much as possible. You can submit written testimony from yourself and others, and arrange to meet with Cal/OSHA inspectors away from the workplace. 

You may also contact your county’s public health department

For more information, see resources from the National Employment Law Center.

What can I do if I was exposed at work? 

If you think you might have been exposed at work, let your employer know, preferably in writing.  CDC guidance recommends self-isolating if you have symptoms, but talk with your employer about self-isolating even if you don’t have symptoms, especially if you are in a high-risk category. Practice social distancing and hand hygiene, disinfect all shared surfaces, and use appropriate Personal Protective Equipment, like masks or gloves.

If it’s confirmed that you were exposed through work, you may have access to workers’ compensation to replace for 60-70% of your wages for up to one year (or more, as necessary) as well as medical costs. File a Disability Insurance (DI) claim here.

Do I have the right to refuse dangerous work?

Yes, you have the right to refuse dangerous work that you know or believe creates a real and apparent hazard and that violates health and safety regulations. In this case, you should advise your employer and let them know you can do the work if the hazard is eliminated or that you can do other work that is safe. If possible, seek the support of a union, worker organization, or legal aid office. If your employer retaliates against you, you have the right to file a claim with the Division of Labor Standards Enforcement. 

Check back soon for more detailed information on the right to refuse dangerous work.

Justice for Warehouse Workers/ Justicia Para Trabajadores de almacen

join the fight against wage theft/ Unéte a la lucha contra robo de salario