The COVID-19 pandemic has presented unique health and economic challenges for individuals and families, especially in communities of color where people are disproportionately affected by the virus and have a higher risk of contracting the disease.

To assist those communities of color, the following list of social services agencies have available resources for individual and families impacted by the coronavirus.

In Alameda County:

Emergency Food – The Alameda County Community Food Bank can be reached at (510) 635-3663 and its Emergency Food Helpline is 1(800) 870-3663.

Housing – Alameda County’s homeless shelter program includes supportive housing, halfway housing, transitional housing, day shelters, low-income housing and residential alcohol and drug treatment centers. For more information, visit shelterlistings.org or homelessshelterdirectory.org.

If you are experiencing domestic violence issues at home, contact, the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-(800) 799-7233 or 1-800-787-3224.  The hotline is available 24 hours a day/seven days a week.  If you are in an emergency situation, please call 911.

In San Francisco-Marin County:

Emergency Food — The San Francisco-Marin Food Bank is making sure vulnerable neighbors get the food they need.  The food bank has put into place solutions to be able to continue providing food and helping the community prepare for whatever challenges the COVID-19 presents.  Call (415) 282-1900 for more information.

Emergency Housing  – If you are in need of immediate emergency shelter and housing assistance, please contact Eden Information & Referral at (510) 537-2552 or the Bay Area Helpline at 1-(800) 273-6222.

In Contra Costa County:

Emergency Food — The Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano distributes food directly to people in need through a variety of programs including their produce, senior food, and food pantry programs. For more information, call (707 421-9777.

Emergency Housing — The County also offers temporary and permanent housing opportunities to homeless and low-income families and individuals.  To request assistance, call (925) 338-1038.

Solano County:

Emergency Housing — SHELTER Solano serves Solano County residents.  If you are seeking emergency shelter and homeless services or needing to refer someone, please call the Solano County Coordinated Entry System, Resource Connect Solano at (707) 652-7311.

Catholic Charities are open to respond to the needs of its neighbors and the COVID-19 pandemic.  Call (707) 644-8909 for food, housing, immigration and family assistance.

The Solano County Behavioral Health Dept. reminds us that the COVID-19 pandemic can be a stressful time for individuals and communities. It is not uncommon to feel anxious or worried while listening, reading or watching the news.

It’s important during times like these to monitor our own physical and mental health, as well as safely say connected to your community. Know the signs of stress and when and how to seek help for yourself, as well as loved ones.

Practicing social distancing does not mean we have to be socially isolated. Stay in touch with friends, family and co-workers by texting, sending emails, talking on the phone, and video chatting. Some people have even had online hangouts or streamed online movies as a group.

Let people know how much you care for them. Reaching out to others is an important part of staying both mentally and physical healthy. During this stressful time, it is vital to practice self-care.

Clifford L. Williams

Posts by Clifford L. Williams