All of us as a community have been affected in more ways than one by COVID-19. While many of our lives have changed from this pandemic, nonprofits, businesses, and corporations in our community have come together to help those in need during these tough times. If you are facing any difficulties finding sanitary products, paying bills, finding a new job, or even just trying to figure out ways to keep the family entertained, we’ve gathered some resources that may be helpful for you.
Hand sanitizer and toilet paper have had an increase in demand since the beginning of COVID-19. Luckily, local distilleries have slowed down the production of hand-crafted beers and began the production of hand sanitizer for people unable to access any. The bottles are sold at a reasonable price and are for sale to the public. Distilleries such and Kobuza & Sons and Old St. Pete Distillery are just a couple of the many who are developing lines of hand sanitizer.
While we’re all social distancing at home and away from work, thinking about how the bills are getting paid can cause a lot of stress and anxiety, but we’ve got some good news. Tampa Electric and Duke Energy will not be disconnecting any customers who are unable to pay their bills during this difficult time. Comcast is making it easier for low-income families that live in a Comcast service area to access the internet by signing up for their services and offering the first 60 days of their Internet Essential service for free. Charter communications are offering free Spectrum broadband and internet access for all households with K-12 or college students that do not already have a subscription. Also, like Comcast, AT&T, and Xfinity WiFi, they will be offering WiFi hot-spots for free to the public.
This pandemic has laid off thousands of people in our community and millions around the world. If you are an individual that was laid off and in search of a job, corporations are hiring all over the country to keep up with the high demand for online and in-store sales. Publix, Whole Foods, Aldi, Amazon, CVS, Walmart, Instacart, are some of the companies hiring part-time and full-time positions. Numerous companies, including some of the ones listed, are even including raises for employees!
With children being out of school and some family members being home more than usual, it can be hard to keep everyone entertained. Luckily, technology has advanced in a multitude of ways that work in our benefit. Due to COVID-19, theaters have closed until further notice, but Universal Studios has released all of their films currently in theaters on streaming services for only $20.00. Amazon joined the movement by making all kids shows free to stream. Many video chatting services have created party channels so you can hang out with your loved ones from the safety and comfort of your home, and many educational platforms are giving access to their resources for free. The New York Public Library is providing free access to over 300,000 books, audible made hundreds of titles free, Ivy League classes are available online for free, and so much more!
Additional interesting resources:
St. Pete’s Friends of Strays waives all adoption fees as coronavirus fallout affects shelters
Master digital marketing on Facebook, LinkedIn, Google and more
Link to YMCA Facebook, they are streaming classes.