People, especially the most vulnerable, are worried how they will survive this Coronavirus pandemic. Hopefully, these resources will help.
Instead of going to a hospital to get tested for the virus, one can go to go to the Northwell Health Urgent Care, 102-29 Queens Blvd. in Forest Hills, (718) 502-9798. Call before going to make an appointment. Staff will provide protective gear, like a mask, before allowing the person inside.
NewYork-Presbyterian's Virtual Urgent Care is for people not feeling well and who have non-life-threatening symptoms such as fever, cough, upset stomach, or nausea. This is an online, telehealth service. Go to nyp.org/ondemand/urgent-care
Chabad of Forest Hills North is giving out Passover Seder kits with: Matzah, grape juice, a Kiddush cup, hand-made Shmurah Matzah, a Seder plate (with each necessary item), even a Hagaddah. The kit is free for those who can’t afford to pay but there is a suggested contribution of $36 to keep the program going. One kit is given out per family and, at this time, only for Forest Hills residents. Call Rabbi Hecht at 347-423-1528 or e-mail him at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Commonpoint Queens, formerly known as the Central Queens Y, in Forest Hills, delivers hot meals that are certified Glatt Kosher by the Orthodox Union, each weekday to older adults. There is a suggested contribution of $2.50 per meal “but no one is ever turned away if they do not or cannot donate,” said Jared Mintz, director of communications for Commonpoint Queens.
They also have a food pantry, “grab and go” meals, transportation to supermarkets, and help applying for loans for those affected by the Coronavirus. IPADS, Smart Phones, and other technology are available for seniors so they connect from their own homes.
Referrals can’t be done over the phone but their website is very easy: commonpointqueens.org/commonpoint-queens-emergency-assistance/
Commonpoint Queens has free full day child care for ages 2-11 for families working “in essential services.” The program was recently approved by the New York City Department of Education. Applicants must be a New York City resident. Spaces are limited and on a first-come, first-served basis. To register go to: commonpointqueens.org/emergencychildcare
Adults 60 and older can get short-term or long-term Kosher Meals on Wheels made by Mauzone. If living in Forest Hills, Rego Park, Corona, or Elmhurst, call Queens Community House, 718-268-1412, who ask for a suggested donation of $2 per meal but won’t deny anyone who can’t pay. For those living in Kew Gardens Hills, call Services Now for Older Persons, Inc., 718-454-2385. Call 311 to find out who provides meals in any New York City neighborhood.
Invisible Hands was started recently by volunteers. They pick up groceries and/or medications for anyone in NYC. People have to pay for whatever they order but Invisible Hands can give up to $30 to help fray the cost. Go to their website, www.invisiblehandsdeliver.com or call (732) 639-1579.
More than 40 volunteers gave out their contact information “to provide food and supplies, and run errands to people in need; especially seniors who are homebound,” said Michael Perlman, administrator of the Facebook group, Forest Hills/Rego Park/Kew Gardens “Out Community,” where the list of names can be seen.
By David Schneier