Unemployment, Testing, Food: 10 Resources In Coronavirus Crisis

HARRISBURG, PA — As the ongoing coronavirus crisis unfolds, you likely have many questions on how it will continue to impact you and your family's daily life. From employment, to food, health care, and more, there are many new struggles that area families are facing.

Pennsylvania now has 133 cases of the novel coronavirus, and new cases are added daily. Schools have been closed and non-essential businesses have been forced to shut their doors to mitigate the spread of the virus.

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Here's a look at where the cases have been reported so far:

Here are 10 resources for you and your family to utilize as you navigate through the outbreak:

UNEMPLOYMENT

Pennsylvania workers impacted by the ongoing coronavirus crisis may be eligible for unemployment and workers' compensation benefits, state officials announced Monday.
According to an announcement from Secretary of Labor & Industry Jerry Oleksiak, residents may be eligible if their employer temporarily closes or goes out of business because of the spread of coronavirus, or COVID-19. MORE

To file for unemployment visit bit.ly/3a2qARW

TESTING

For testing through the Pennsylvania Department of Health, a consultation is required. Call 1-877-PAHEALTH. You can also be tested through a commercial laboratory, and many hospitals have set up drive-thru testing sites. Contact your primary care physician for specifics. MORE.

RELATED: How Does The Coronavirus Test Work? 5 Questions Answered

MENTAL HEALTH

The crisis has swiftly forced families to adjust their routines, and take on additional pressures and responsibilities. With social distancing in place, many families may feel overwhelmed with juggling it all on their own. To utilize mental health resources, text PA to 741-741

GROCERY STORES

While the governor has closed most businesses, grocery stores are permitted to remain open. Many chains in Pennsylvania, including GIANT and McCaffrey's, have implemented special hours for those most at-risk during the growing outbreak of the new coronavirus. MORE.

BUSINESS IMPACT

The coronavirus outbreak is already having a major impact on Pennsylvania businesses, forcing closures and even layoffs. The PA Chamber has set up a special page designed to help local businesses navigate the crisis. MORE.

FOOD ASSISTANCE

Pennsylvania officials have provided guidance for accessing emergency food assistance for Pennsylvanians at risk of hunger due to measures to slow the spread of coronavirus. MORE.

Additionally, schools closed due to the coronavirus will continue to serve meals to students through the National School Lunch Program. MORE.

VOTING

Pennsylvania residents can sign up online to vote by mail-in ballot for the April 28 primary. To sign up to vote by mail ballot, visit VotesPA.com/ApplyMailBallot

TAX QUESTIONS

Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said Tuesday that the tax payment deadline will be extended 90 days due to the coronavirus crisis. If you need answers to tax questions in Pennsylvania visit revenue-pa.custhelp.com

PUBLIC TRANSIT

SEPTA and Amtrak will be operating on a limited schedule moving forward as they respond to and work to address the ongoing coronavirus outbreak. MORE.

ONLINE DRIVER'S LICENSE SERVICES

Driver's license centers are closed for in-person service, but you can access driver services online at dmv.pa.gov/online-services

>>>See full coverage of coronavirus in Pennsylvania here