Here are posts from The Arc Arapahoe, Douglas & Elbert Counties about many different topics:

1. Budget/Public Policy discussion on Tuesday May 26, 2020 our chapter sponsored a parent support group to discuss what we know about the budget in Colorado right now (May 2020).

The Arapahoe County, Arapahoe County Alert Center & the Arapahoe County resource center is posting updates and guidance for families, business, etc. here:

• https://www.arapahoegov.com/  
• https://www.arapahoegov.com/AlertCenter.aspx
• https://www.arapahoegov.com/2096/Coronavirus-COVID-19-Resource-Center

Cherry Creek School District

The Arc chapters do not have an opinion as to whether or not your child should return to in school program or continue to participate in remote learning. The following is a checklist (Spanish checklist) that serves as a tool of different information you may wish to consider as you make decisions in relation to your child. This is important information for families to have to protect their child’s right to a Free, Appropriate, Public Education. "Document Document Document"  Updates from the Cherry Creek School District, including options to obtain food, are available here: Update 12/15/2020: Important Update about Returning to School in January https://www.cherrycreekschools.org/  View Superintendent Siegfried's presentation to the community on July 29 here.  Video presentation link: https://youtu.be/fTtZe81Fz0o  Cherry Creek School District: Planning Forward Updated 6.19.2020

Englewood School District

Updates from the Englewood School District, including options to obtain food, are available here: https://www.englewoodschools.net/

• Update on Return to In-Person Learning (bottom of the page)
• Englewood Special Education Return to School Plan 
• Englewood Schools has spent countless hours planning for students and staff to return to school in the fall of 2020. http://www.englewoodschools.net/return-2020

Littleton Public Schools

Updates from the Littleton Public Schools, including options to obtain food, are available here: Update 12/15/2020: Plans for a Return to School in January   https://littletonpublicschools.net/

• LPS Restart planning & Health Guidance Plan 
• LPS IEP Letter to Families
• LPS Delays the First Day of School Until August 24, 2020 https://littletonpublicschools.net/restart-lps-2020-2021 https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/littleton-schools-delays-start-of-school-year/ar-BB16S0ez?ocid=msedgntp
• RESTART TASK FORCE - Our goal is to build plans that best meet the needs of our students and make the most of every in-person learning opportunity we are allowed to have within the severe budget constraints we must work within. https://littletonpublicschools.net/restart-task-force

Bennett Schools

Updates from the Bennett Schools, including options to obtain food, are available here: https://www.bsd29j.com/

Byers Schools

Updates from the Byers Schools, including options to obtain food, are available here: https://www.byers32j.k12.co.us/

Deer Trail Schools

Updates from the Deer Trail Schools, including options to obtain food, are available here: http://www.dt26j.com/

Sheridan Public Schools

Updates from the Sheridan Public Schools, including options to obtain food, are available here: https://www.ssd2.org/

• In-person learning will resume January 19th, 2021 (red Highlight box-top of page)
• Sheridan School District Set to Open Monday, Aug. 17 with Host of Safety Measures in Place
• Sheridan's plan to open schools includes a classroom cap of 12 students: https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/sheridan-s-plan-to-open-schools-includes-a-classroom-cap-of-12-students/ar-BB16Pjdz?ocid=msedgntp

Strasburg School District

Updates from the Strasburg School District, including options to obtain food, are available here: http://www.strasburg31j.com/ COVID-19 and Special Education View information for educators and parents to support students with disabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Resources from CDC on COVID-19 related to individuals with disabilities:

• Guidance for Direct Service Providers
• Guidance for Group Homes for Individuals with Disabilities
• Guidance for Direct Service Providers, Caregivers, Parents, and People with Developmental and Behavioral Disorders
• People with Developmental and Behavioral Disorders
• Symptom Tracking Sheet
• CDCs web page on Coronavirus (COVID-19)   In Spanish

Coronavirus Rumor Control FEMA helps the public distinguish between rumors and facts regarding the response to coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

https://youtu.be/IN_GVlbyC4Y?list=PLvrp9iOILTQatwnqm61jqFrsfUB4RKh6J

Updated: Cases and outbreaks in child care and schools - https://covid19.colorado.gov/cases-and-outbreaks-child-care-schools

• Testing for COVID-19
• The States Guidance for wearing masks
• The State of Colorado has created a page specifically for COVID-19 in order to quickly communicate accurate, where you can get tested and up-to-date information: https://covid19.colorado.gov/ 
• Multicultural Council (MCC) released COVID-19 Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Resources
• This page includes resources for basic needs of all Coloradans. https://stayathomeco.colorado.gov/get-help-now
• Currently not a standing state order. Stay at Home Colorado Guide; Resources and Activities.
• Coronavirus (COVID-19) Resources and Updates from Children's Hospital Colorado:
• The Kempe Center COVID-19 Resource Center

Individuals with autism may have varied levels of understanding about the COVID-19 virus, how it spreads, and how to reduce risk of exposure. Here are several strategies to use to provide additional meaning to this complex scenario.

• https://afirm.fpg.unc.edu/support-understanding
• BrainPOP website for helpful videos and ideas.
• Pepper Germs Experiment - This activity will help people understand why it’s so important to wash our hands and how soap cleans our hands!
• From SARTAC and Green Mountain Self Advocates
  • English
  • Spanish
• The Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA) recommendations
• COVID-19 Communication Rights Toolkit, with Printable Patient Accommodations Request Form
• As the facility isolation plans are public record, they have been made available online. Prevention & response plans for long-term & residential care facilities

The Douglas County & Douglas County Department of Health and Environment is posting updates and guidance for families, business, etc. here:

• https://www.douglas.co.us/douglascovid19/
• https://www.douglas.co.us/
• https://www.douglas.co.us/government/departments/humanservices/

The Douglas County & Douglas County Department of Health and Environment is posting updates and guidance for families, business, etc. here:

• https://www.douglas.co.us/douglascovid19/
• https://www.douglas.co.us/
• https://www.douglas.co.us/government/departments/humanservices/

Douglas School District

• Updates from the Douglas School District, including options to obtain food, are available here: https://www.dcsdk12.org/
• Road to Return: DCSD 2020-2021 https://www.dcsdk12.org/about/leadership/superintendent/road_to_return_dcsd_2020-2021
• Douglas County School District feeding sites. https://www.dcsdnutritionservices.org/

Returning to school?

The Arc chapters do not have an opinion as to whether or not your child should return to in school program or continue to participate in remote learning. The following is a checklist (Spanish checklist) that serves as a tool of different information you may wish to consider as you make decisions in relation to your child. This is important information for families to have to protect their child’s right to a Free, Appropriate, Public Education. "Document Document Document"  COVID-19 and Special Education View information for educators and parents to support students with disabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) The national hotline directs you to local services and professionals based on the number you’re calling.
• For help, text: LOVEIS to 22522

• http://coloradoofficeofearlychildhood.force.com/eicolorado/EI_QuickLinks?p=Home&s=EI-CO-Response-to-COVID-19&lang=en
• Emergency Care Plans for Children with Special Needs
• Visual guide to Coronavirus for children with autism
• Anxiety & Coping with the Coronavirus – Managing worry – Your Kids’ and Your Own
• Essential Baby Supplies Delivered to Colorado from FEMA - The distribution of the supplies will be at 41 locations statewide at Colorado's food banks and family resource centers.

Have you lost your job? Here's OnwardCO, a one-stop resource for the people of Colorado impacted by job loss during the COVID-19 Pandemic

• The Arc’s have joined with several disability and education organizations to create the Educating All Learners Alliance.
• Should I consider Compensatory Education for my child when in-person learning returns?
• Provider and Educator Use of Technology: https://ectacenter.org/topics/disaster/ti-service.asp#vcskills
• A webinar conducted by the Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP). OSEP is under the umbrella of the US Department of Education. Titled “Resources for Teachers and Parents to enhance the Continuity of Learning for Children with Disabilities”. There are several sites,  all of which are under US DOE, and have good resources. Please explore.
• What Parents Can Learn From Child Care Centers That Stayed Open During Lockdowns
• COVID-19 and Special Education and frequently asked questions (FAQs)

• Green Path offers Financial Education – All GreenPath counselors have completed comprehensive training.
• Operation HOPE​- ​Operation HOPE is a for-purpose organization working to  disrupt poverty and empower inclusion for low and moderate-income youth  and adults. ​
• Resources for Coloradans facing poverty while preparing for the corona virus
• Lists of banks offering relief to customers affected by covid-19
• Other Funding Support Resources

The Arc Arapahoe & Douglas Pinterest page. Stocked full of great ideas and free websites to stay entertained.

• Free meals and Summer Fun: www.Kidsfoodfinder.org
• Locate local Food Pantries, Formula/Baby Food, Brown Bag Food Programs, Packed Lunches/Dinners, Food Vouchers at 211colorado.org searchable site: https://bit.ly/3bjGbwy
• School Food Authorities (SFAs) and other child nutrition program sponsors can serve free meals to children in the event of an unanticipated school closure.
• Food Bank of the Rockies
• Free Meals For Youth 1-18 (No ID or Registration Required)
• Hunger Free Colorado​ has set up a Food Resource Hotline for anyone who needs  help locating food. Call 855-855-4626, M - F (8 am - 4:30 pm) to find school meals,  food pantries, and SNAP and WIC enrollment.
• Community Table​- Community Table is a Colorado nonprofit 501 c (3) corporation  formed in 1982 by five church congregations to serve the needy and vulnerable in  our community. They serve the residents of Arvada and neighboring communities in  Northern Jefferson County would have a place to go for emergency food. They are  distributing food boxes.
• Spanish-language list of food banks - ​BANCOS DE COMIDA ABIERTA DURANTE DEL  CORONAVIRUS (Actualizado el 30 de Marzo)
• USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service administers 15 nutrition assistance programs that leverage American’s agricultural abundance to ensure children and low-income individuals and families have nutritious food to eat.

We are hearing that many stores are experiencing trouble filling online orders for pick-up.  Below are some grocery-delivery options.  Please note the list below is for informational purposes only as The Arc Arapahoe & Douglas Counties does not endorse any of the following companies or services:

• King Soopers Delivery. Learn more here: https://www.kingsoopers.com/i/ways-to-shop/delivery
• Walmart Grocery Delivery.  Learn more here: https://grocery.walmart.com/

• The Department of Health Care Policy and Financing and a dedicated page for COVID-19 related information here: https://www.colorado.gov/hcpf/covid
• Frequently Asked Questions Page

Please visit this page to see guidance from The Department of Health Care Policy and Financing about COVID-19, including guidance for Host Home Providers, Day Programs, etc. – https://www.colorado.gov/hcpf/2020-memo-series-communications

• Community Resources for home and rental support across Colorado
• A place for housing support: https://www.211colorado.org/housing-and-shelter/
• Rent/Mortgage - A Tenant’s Guide to rent during time of COVID-19
• Temporary Rental and Utility Assistance Program​ and the ​Spanish version of  this guide
• EMERGENCY HOUSING ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (EHAP): Mortgage and Rental Assistance available to eligible Colorado homeowners and renters in need due to loss of income related to COVID-19. https://www.brihousingassist.org/

• National Immigration Law Center   
• CUNY Citizenship Now!​: Provides free, high quality, and confidential immigration  law services to help individuals and families on their path to U.S. citizenship
• Hispanic Federation​ offers a host of direct immigration services.
• COVID-19 Immigrant Resource Guide ​- This resource guide for the COVID-19  pandemic has been compiled with attention toward undocumented and mixed  status households. Spanish: ​COVID-19- Recursos Comunitarios para los Inmigrantes 
• Community Resources​ - In light of COVID-19, questions have arisen about how  people can get assistance and support. The following list outlines a number of  resources available for those in need. Spanish: ​Recursos Comunitarios  

• Testing: STRIDE COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER Drive-Thru Testing is OPEN. Testing is open to the General Public. Individuals MUST have symptoms, in order to be tested. Testing is offered on a first come, first served basis.
• Recommended Guidance for Extended Use and Limited Reuse of N95 Filtering Facepiece Respirators in Healthcare Settings
• Hospital Visitor Policies Nationwide Must Accommodate Patients with Disabilities During COVID-19 Pandemic
• General Health Care
  • Telehealth Visits for Uninsured Coloradans 
  •  UCHealth Virtual Urgent Care
  • Concentra Information & Resources 
  • CVS offering free prescription delivery
  • There have stories about caregivers prevented from accompanying adults into ED and hospital. Hoping AHA will advocate to change that policy soon, but in the meantime, here is an info transfer form that gives all the info the ED providers need, in the format they can best use it. It’s a fillable pdf, and can be partially filled out prior to an emergency transfer: file:///C:/Users/Owner/AppData/Local/Packages/Microsoft.Office.Desktop_8wekyb3d8bbwe/AC/INetCache/Content.Outlook/BGOZBS51/OACB_%20RCNP_Health_Passport_Hospital_Transfer_Form_PDF%20(002).pdf
  • Tricare allowing ABA telehealth 

NEW: If you are feeling stressed contact them anyway, and let’s talk. 720-707-6789 or visit them at: ALLHEALTHNETWORK.ORG/COLORADO-SPIRIT

• Families and caregivers should consider using positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS) in their homes on a daily basis. Supporting Families with PBIS at Home
• Mental Health Awareness:We’re all dealing with stress, worry and other powerful thoughts and feelings during this time. Talking to people we know about how we’re feeling keeps our minds healthy, just as physical distancing keeps our bodies healthy. Calling, texting, video conferencing or messaging the people in our lives can help us all feel better. Start the conversation with people you know. Go to LetsTalkCO.org to learn more.
• Rapid Response Round table Community Resource Center hosted Rapid Response Roundtable webinars to discuss the most pressing community needs we have heard emerge from statewide partners in the field as they respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Video – Self-care for Direct Service Providers in a Crisis
  • Mental Health Colorado Resource Page​ and ​here on COVID-19​ specifically  
  • NPR: Pandemic Panic? These 5 Tips Can Help You Regain Your Calm​
  • The  Conversation: 7 science-based strategies to cope with coronavirus anxiety​
  • STRIDE Center ​is offering telehealth visits for behavioral health services and  medication assisted treatment.
  • NAMI have some great resources​ (For support, text NAMI to 741741 or call the  NAMI Helpline at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264).
  • Colorado Crisis Services (mental health support)​ phone number:  1-844-493-8255 text "TALK" to 38255
  • ​Taking Care of Your Mental Health in the Face of Uncertainty
  • ​How to Care for yourself while practicing social  distancing.  
• National Suicide Hotline: 1-800-273-8255
• Center for Loss and Life Transition - Coronavirus and the Six Needs of  Mourning 
• Mental Health Colorado has updated its ​resource page​ with useful  information for those who are struggling with mental health or substance use  challenges.
• Colorado Crisis Services. If you are more seriously concerned about your  own mental health or that of someone close to you, you can call the Colorado Crisis Services at 1-844-493-8255 or text.
• Helping Children Cope With Changes Resulting From COVID-19

Some borrowers may be eligible for Mortgage Relief if your income has been impacted by COVID-19.  Please contact your borrower directly as each lender may be handling the situation differently.

• Broad Program Details: https://www.npr.org/2020/03/19/818322136/heres-what-is-in-the-families-first-coronavirus-aid-package-trump-approved
• Fannie Mae:  https://www.fanniemae.com/portal/media/corporate-news/2020/covid-homeowner-assistance-options-7000.html
• Freddie Mac:  http://www.freddiemac.com/about/covid-19.html

• The Arc of the United States – Plain Language Guides about the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic.
• Colorado Cross-Disability (CCDC) - http://www.ccdconline.org/covid-19-resources-links-and-information/
• Video: Supporting Grayson’s Family, includes key themes that are relevant to home visiting during the COVID-19 pandemic
• Spanish Video: Una visita en el hogar con la familia de Liam (A Home Visit with Liam's Family), Ohio occupational therapist Marta Gonzalez delivers an early intervention home visit during the COVID-19 pandemic, illustrating how home visits using video conferencing can continue to support children and their families (in Spanish with English sub-titles)
• United Way of Douglas County – https://www.unitedwaydgco.org/
• Alliance (information for PASAs) – www.alliancecolorado.org/covid19
• Free ASD Family Consultations - www.autismoncall.com
• Celebrate EDU offering their community courses for FREE to the disability community - https://celebrateedu.org/online-classes/
• National Council on Severe Autism (NCSA) site: https://www.ncsautism.org

• Assistance with pet food: (303) 818.0618
• https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/are-you-having-trouble-affording-yo ur-pet 

• BBC - Coronavirus: How to work from home, the right way​  
• Forbes - Leading Remote Workers: The Coronavirus’ Impact On Effective  Management​ 
• HBR - A Guide to Managing Your (Newly) Remote Workers​
• Fast  Company - 8 strategies to set up remote work during the coronavirus outbreak​ 
• Moving In-Person Meetings to Virtua​l - Part of the way to get information  out effectively even while we are in social isolation.

• Elderly resource list
• Senior Hub​: Delivery of meals to home-bound seniors
• Telephone reassurance other resources for the elderly: ​Find Meals

Resources to help people self-isolate who may not want to or know how? The Alzheimer’s Association has two online resources that might be helpful:

• COVID-19 Tips for Dementia Caregivers in Long-Term or Community-Based Settings (Alzheimer’s Association)
• COVID-19 Tips for Dementia Caregivers (Alzheimer’s Association)

• Information on Second Round of Coronavirus Economic Impact Payments 2021 (Spanish)
• Fact sheet that provides the answers we (The Arc) currently have on Coronavirus Stimulus Payments - Recovery Rebates
• People on Social Security are eligible for the one-time stimulus payment.
• Non-IRS Tax Filers: Enter Payment Info Here

• https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/home/index.html
• Visual Aids from the CDC: ​English​ | ​Spanish​ | ​Simplified Chinese
• Colorado Department of Public Health
• US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• World Health Organization (WHO)

The National COVID-Ready Caregiver Certificate Training Program for Front line Staff - Provides practical guidance to staff about how to keep themselves and those they care for safe. Topics include: infection control practices, personal protective equipment, changes to health and safety practices, and tips for managing stress and anxiety. Draws on current CDC and WHO recommendations and guidance. Features key experts in healthcare and long-term care https://covidcert.nextstep.careers/

• Testing for Home and Community-Based Service Providers COVID-19
• Testing for COVID-19 | Colorado COVID-19 Updates
• New Community Testing Site Now Open in Lone Tree

• RTD public transit, as critical infrastructure, continues to operate for essential travel.
• RTD - Fare collection will change Jan. 1, 2021. RTD is encouraging riders to use contactless payment options such as their mobile ticketing app to lessen contact with the farebox on vehicles. More information.

https://www.tchd.org/818/Coronavirus-COVID-19 COVID-19 vaccination rates in Adams, Arapahoe, and Douglas counties: An interactive dashboard from Tri-County Health Department shows vaccination rates, case counts, and other data points for these three counties.

Closures due to COVID-19 can create a financial burden due to loss or reduction of employment.  Visit the Colorado Department of Labor to explore options if your employer is closing or your hours are being reduced due to COVID-19: https://www.colorado.gov/cogov-now#1

• Arapahoe/Douglas County Workforce Center information:

1. 1. Phone: 303-636-1160
   2. Arapahoe/Douglas County Workforce Center Website
   3. Online Workshop PowerPoints - http://www.adworks.org/index.php/job-seekers/online-powerpoint-workshops/

Link to Register on Connecting Colorado - Connecting Talent with Opportunity https://www.connectingcolorado.com

• As the moratorium on utility disconnections expire customers falling behind on utility bills arevvencouraged to make payment arrangements or apply for assistance.
• Utility Customers Needing Assistance Have Options to Help Pay Their Energy Bills: To avoid disconnection, customers who have fallen behind in their payments are encouraged to contact their electric or gas utility. Information about how to contact the utility can be found on the customer’s bill, the utility’s website or the PUC’s website
• If customers need further help with their bills, Colorado has additional resources available. The Colorado Department of Human Services provides payment assistance to low-income customers through the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP). Individuals can call toll free 1-866-HEAT-HELP (1-866-432-8435) to get assistance.

Many Utility companies are not disconnecting service during the COVID-19 outbreak.  We have a summary of the information available as of March 18th, 2020 below.  Please contact your utility directly if you are having a hard time paying your bills as this is a rapidly evolving situation.

• CenturyLink: “We’ve committed to waive late fees and to not terminate a residential or small business customer’s service due to financial circumstances associated with COVID-19. We are also suspending data usage limits for consumer customers during this time period due to COVID-19.”  Visit https://news.centurylink.com/covid-19 to learn more.
• Comcast: “Company Opens Xfinity WiFi Network Nationally for Free, Offers Unlimited Data for Free, Confirms Its Commitment to Connecting Low-Income Families”  For more info, please visit https://www.internetessentials.com/covid19
• Restaurant Worker Support: ONE FAIR WAGE — Emergency Coronavirus Tipped and Service Worker Support Fund https://ofwemergencyfund.org/?fbclid=IwAR29kMAXfOxBE-W2cRcF6njtyEutGs-0uuJFnFJy1FnnKKQejg49sex6NAg&eType=EmailBlastContent&eId=887c14ad-5ce1-48c4-a43d-549e61c7b4ef
• Sprint: (see full details or learn more here: https://newsroom.sprint.com/covid-19-updates-sprint-responds.htm)
• Verizon: “Verizon will waive late fees for 60 days from March 16, 2020 to May 16, 2020, and will not terminate service to a customer who’s been impacted by the events involving the Coronavirus. If our customers are experiencing a hardship, they should call our customer service team to discuss their situation and available options.” Learn more at https://www.verizon.com/about/news/our-response-coronavirus
• Verizon's response to COVID, and increasing access to cellular data: https://appleinsider.com/articles/20/03/23/verizon-is-giving-customers-15gb-of-free-data-as-part-of-covid-19-response
• Xcel Energy: “We will not disconnect service to any residential customers until further notice. If you are having difficulty paying your bills, contact us and we will arrange a payment plan that works for you.”  For more information, visit https://www.xcelenergy.com/covid-19_response
• Xfinity WiFi hotspots across the country will be available to anyone who  needs them for free - including non-Xfinity Internet subscribers. Find the closest hot spot to you ​here​.

• Douglas County was recently the recipient of a state grant providing emergency assistance to veterans struggling with housing (mortgage and rent payments), transportation, employment, healthcare or other emergency needs. https://www.douglas.co.us/community/veterans/veterans-emergency-assistance-funds/
• The Arapahoe County Veterans Service Office assists Arapahoe County veterans in obtaining the federal and state benefits they may be eligible to receive. We also can assist eligible dependents of veterans. https://www.arapahoegov.com/352/Veterans-Services

• Lost my Vaccine card, what do I do?
• A tool to help you track down COVID-19 vaccine appointment openings at Colorado pharmacies.
• Op-Ed by LLOYD LEWIS, president and CEO of arc Thrift Stores on Vaccinating People in Colorado with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and How it Should be a Priority
• COVID-19 Vaccine frequently asked questions
• COVID-19 Vaccine Information in Plain Language
• Elevated COVID-19 Mortality Risk Among Recipients of Home and Community Based Services: A case for prioritizing vaccination for this population
• Family Guardian Vaccine Letter
• Family/Guardian COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions about the Vaccine
• Joint Position Statement on Equity for People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Regarding COVID-19 Vaccine Allocation and Safety.
• Vaccines can save lives, but so can you! (In Spanish)
• Vaccines letter sent to the Colorado Governor’s Office to prioritize people with disabilities for COVID-19 vaccination.
• Vaccine providers and public health professionals.
• Vaccines – What is The Arc Doing to Advocate for People with IDD?