By Debbie Gregory.

LinkedIN Debbie Gregory VAMBOA VAMBOA Facebook VAMBOA Twitter

 

Are you a Veteran looking for resources, information, and assistance during this pandemic? We have compiled a list of resources just for you. If you are experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19 contact your local VA hospital immediately by phone. They will assist you further.

VAMBOA, the Veterans and Military Business Owners Association is working hard to provide you valuable and timely information.   We also want to say that we send everyone our heartfelt best wishes during this most challenging time in our history.  Stay well and check out our posts too on Twitter:  www.twitter.com/vamboa and FB:  www.facebook.com/vamboa.

STAY SAFE & WELL!!!!!

 

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA):

The VA has their own dedicated website on the Coronavirus that includes links to resources as well as tips to remain healthy and prevent the spread of COVID-19. Visit https://www.va.gov/coronavirus

The VA also posts regular blogs that include really helpful information. Visit https://www.blogs.va.gov/VAntage/?s=covid-19

 

U.S. Federal Government:

The U.S. Federal Government also has a dedicated website filled with the most up-to-date information and guidance on the Coronavirus. Visit https://www.coronavirus.gov/

 

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC):

The CDC’s website shows up-to-date information on the number of cases currently reported and gives guidance for protecting yourself from infection and what you should do if you, or a loved one, become sick. They also offer resources for traveling, schools, childcare, businesses, community, and more. Visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.

 

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA):

The FDA’s website tracks the medical product and food supply chains for potential shortages and disruptions. The site also has information about ventilators, testing kits, monitoring vital signs, and more. Visit https://www.fda.gov/coronavirus

 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture :

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s site has information about food safety as well as pet safety. Visit https://www.usda.gov/coronavirus.

 

Finances & Scams:

Scammers are taking advantage of fears surrounding the coronavirus pandemic. Their scams range from robocalls, fake online stores, fake vaccines or medicines, and even fake officials. Worried about scammers? The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has a page on their website dedicated to helping people avoid coronavirus scams. Visit https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/coronavirus-scams-what-ftc-doing

Another good place to look for information to protect your finances from scammers is The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau/s website includes information on how to handle consumer complaints, protecting your credit, dealing with debt, and much more. Visit https://www.consumerfinance.gov/coronavirus

 

Small Business Administration (SBA):

If your small business has been impacted by the pandemic, The SBA’s website is filled with information and resources to help you put together a plan to weather this, loans to help you get through the next few months, directories for people to partner with, counsel, mentor, or train, along with a wealth of other resources.

Even if you are self-employed, you may now be entitled to Unemployment Benefits so check your state and remember that the federal government may increase your state weekly benefits by another $600.    You probably need to file online and it takes time and patience but it will be a big help to you.

 

Housing:

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s website has helpful information for homeowner relief and HUD assisted residents. Visit https://www.hud.gov/coronavirus

 

Social Security and Medicare:

If you receive social security and need information on any potential changes please visit https://www.ssa.gov/coronavirus/

If you receive Medicare and need information on any potential changes please visit https://www.medicare.gov/medicare-coronavirus. Their site also includes information about testing, hospitalizations, and what is covered.

 

Individual States Department of Public Health:

Every U.S. state has its own Department of Public Health. If you need more information from your specific state please visit https://www.usa.gov/state-health and select your state to go to their website.

 

Blood Donations:

The American Red Cross is in urgent need of blood and platelet donations. They are urging all healthy, eligible individuals who are feeling well to give. Donating will help maintain sufficient blood supply levels and prevent shortages as the pandemic continues. Visit their website at RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to schedule an appointment.

 

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA):

FEMA is working closely with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services on our COVID-19 pandemic response. FEMA is aware that there is a lot of misinformation out there about COVID-19 and to help combat false information they have a rumor control page with the latest facts–versus myths–on the federal response. Visit https://www.fema.gov/coronavirus-Rumor-Control

FEMA also has a page dedicated to how you can donate or volunteer, if possible. Visit https://www.fema.gov/coronavirus/how-to-help