Ramsey County Resources
Nutrition Services (Food)
- Class will not be in session on Friday, May 1, but meals will still be available for pick up, between 10 a.m. and 12 noon, at the following schools:
– Harding Senior High School (1540 6th St. E.)
– Johnson Senior High School (1349 Arcade St.)
– Maxfield Elementary School (380 N. Victoria St.)
- Home Meal Delivery – SPPS is now delivering meals directly to family doors. Meals are only for children ages 18 and under, or for those with a disability enrolled in a school program. For more information, please visit https://www.spps.org/Domain/16201
- City of St. Paul Meal Service – to address growing food insecurity in Saint Paul due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the City is partnering with Youthprise, Arts-Us, and the Sanneh Foundation to provide free meal service through June 5 to Saint Paul families in need. Learn more at gov/parks-covid19.
City of St. Paul Food Distribution – recreation and community center locations.
- In order to address growing food insecurity due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the City of St. Paul is providing a free meal service through June 5th to Saint Paul families in need.
– One meal bag per child per week
– Each meal bag includes 7 dinner meals and 7 snacks including fresh fruits and vegetables, juice, a variety of sandwiches, crackers, cheese, milk, and more
– Meal bags will be available for pick up at the following times and locations:
- Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1-4 p.m.
– Conway Recreation Center (Sanneh Foundation), 2090 Conway St
- Tuesday and Thursday, 2-4 p.m.
– El Rio Vista Community Center (in partnership with Neighborhood House), 179 Robie St E
– McDonough Recreation Center, 1544 Timberlake Rd
– Palace Recreation Center, 781 Palace Ave
- Wednesdays and Fridays, 2-4 p.m.
– Arlington Hills Community Center, 1200 Payne Ave
– Rice Recreation Center, 1021 Marion St
– Dunning Recreation Center (Arts-Us), 1221 Marshall Ave
- For residents who cannot safely travel to these sites, the City will offer a limited meal delivery service.
- For more information, please visit
https://www.stpaul.gov/news/saint-paul-parks-recreation-covid-19-updates#meals
- Metro Mobility Grocery and Goods Delivery
Metro Mobility customers can order groceries and household essentials online from a store that has online shipping and local pick up. Metro Mobility will pick up your order and deliver it to your house.
Provides nutritious delivery for older and disables adults who are homebound on a short-term or long-term basic. Service during COVID-19 include: Non-contact delivery, and an option to receive frozen meals weekly rather than daily.
YMCA/Loaves and Fishes – food available at the East Side YMCA
- Families may pick up food from Noon – 2 p.m., Monday through Friday at most YMCAs and choose a meal package for a family of four including a protein, vegetables and other fresh food. Also, lunch bags with a sandwich, snacks and fruit are available.
- Anyone in the community may pick up food – YMCA membership is not required
- Supplies are limited
- Please practice safe physical distancing when picking up food
- For more information: https://www.ymcamn.org/food-distribution
Additional Food Resources
- Storehouse Grocers (851 East 7th Street) is a low-cost market open to all families: https://www.storehousegrocers.com/
- The St. Paul Payne Ave Salvation Army food shelf (1019 Payne Ave., N) is open for walk-ins: Monday – Thursday, 9 – 11am and 1 – 3pm (first 15 walk-ins per shift served daily); and by appointment only, Monday through Thursday, 11 – 11:30am and 3 – 3:30pm (three spots available each time): https://centralusa.salvationarmy.org/northern/EastStPaul/cure-hunger/
- Merrick Community Services food shelf (1669 Arcade St., N) is open 4 days a week Monday 3-5pm Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10am-11:30. Appointments are necessary: https://merrickcs.org/community-services/food/
- For families of Native American heritage, The Department of Indian Work/Interfaith Action) food shelf (1671 Summit Ave) is open Monday – Thursdays by appointment; please call 651-789-3856 for more information: https://interfaithaction.org/programs/diw/emergency-services/
East Side Learning Center launches mutual aid program
- During the school year, the East Side Learning Center provides tutoring services to several East Side pre-K thru 3rd During the shutdown, they are shifting gears to launch a mutual aid (neighbors helping neighbors) program on the East Side.
- To look for OR offer support to someone in the East Side community, please use the following ESLC form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScNi0gdt965g855r_0JU1rCEtH9cMuvPtdbh7sjOyYigYW1sQ/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1
- With their permission, you can also use the form to share about the needs of a neighbor
- For more information, you can leave a voicemail for Suzanne at ESLC by calling (651) 739-7338
- Hunger Solutions Minnesota. This program works to end hunger across the state. This includes a map with locations where there are free or low-cost meals for kids, or a map with food shelves, discount groceries, and other resources. The Food Helpline can also assess your situation and provide solutions. If you’re struggling to afford or access foods, call 1-888-711-1151, use the chat feature, or visit the website – https://bit.ly/2YCm7Cx
- SNAP Outreach Specialists. If you need food assistance, specialists can give you more information about receiving the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Learn how to enroll and use the benefit to make informed decisions about buying healthy, nutritious food – https://bit.ly/35BQieP
- Food Shelves. If you have an immediate need for food or are experiencing economic hardships that prevent you from being able to purchase food, your local food shelf can help. Many food shelves provide drive thru, or other alternatives pick up options for your safety. More information can be found on Second Harvest Heartland’s website – https://bit.ly/2zdXgdE
- Summer Eats. As public schools and community meal sites are closed, this site connects kids under the age of 18 to free nutritious meals. Use the site to find more than 400 locations across the state where that are providing free meals for kids, or download the mobile app – https://www.summereatsmn.org/
- Minneapolis Public Schools is giving students free meals while schools are closed due to the COVID-19 virus. Meals are given at school locations from school buses that are parked in the school parking lots. Find the schedule and more information at https://nutritionservices.mpls.k12.mn.us/covid19
- Minneapolis Food Shelves Map and downloadable PDF list of Food Shelves in Minneapolis – https://bit.ly/3cdewhO
- Pillsbury United Communities: Everyone welcome, No zip code or income requirements. Food Shelf Grab-N-Go Bags: https://bit.ly/2L5NZqQ
To-Go Lunches and Dinners: https://bit.ly/2ylM9iV
One stop sites for helpful COVID-19 Information
- Managing Chronic Conditions during COVID-19.Older adults and people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions might be at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19. Learn about basic steps older adults can take to protect themselves – https://www.health.state.mn.us/people/conditions/index.html
- The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (e.g., grocery stores and pharmacies).
- The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) provides situation updates on the disease’s spread within the state, as well as frequently asked questions available here.
- Health Questions? Call 651-201-3920 or 1-800-657-3903. This is a state hotline staffed by MDH and will be operating from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- The Minnesota Department of Health has a new public dashboard with the latest information about the pandemic – https://mndps.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/f28f84968c1148129932c3bebb1d3a1a
Mental Health Resources
Ramsey County residents who are experiencing stress and mental health symptoms as a result of COVID-19 are encouraged to call the county’s Crisis Team for support and resources. The county’s two crisis lines continue to operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
– Children’s Mental Health Crisis Line: 651-266-7878.Adult
– Mental Health Crisis Line: 651-266-7900.
- Bulletin Board for local and time-sensitive resources: COVID-19, Mental Health, Free Food, $$ and other needs, Fun & Free Activities, Parenting/Co-parenting, School (“home school”), Physical Health – https://www.rccmhc.org/community-bulletin-board
- 16 ways to reduce COVID-19 stress – https://www.ramseycounty.us/covid-19-info/health-information-covid-19
- Crisis Text Line: The 24/7 emergency service is available if you or someone you know is experiencing a psychiatric or mental health crisis. Text MN to 741741
- Minnesota Warmline: Are you an adult needing support? Talk to a specialist who has firsthand experience living with a mental health condition. Call 651-288-0400 or text “Support” to 85511
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: The 24/7 lifeline provides support when in distress, has prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and resources for professionals. Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Disaster Distress Helpline: Offers crisis counseling and support if you or a family member is experiencing emotional distress related to a disaster. Call: 1-800-985-5990
- Disability Hub MN provides free, statewide, information, referral and assistance service to help people with disabilities, chronic illnesses and their representatives connect to community services – https://disabilityhubmn.org/health/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19
- Family Voices of Minnesota is a parent-run organization providing information, resources, and peer-to-peer support for families who have children with special health needs or disabilities – http://familyvoicesofminnesota.org/
- National Alliance on Mental Illness Minnesota. Call 888-626-4435
Family Assistance
- Families seeking childcare. If you are an essential worker and need child care, call the Parent Aware Hotline at 1-888-297-9811 for assistance. Non-essential workers in need of child care can find resources and a map of open providers at mn.gov/childcare.
- Daycare – Child Care Aware/Parent Aware: 1-888-291-9811 or https://www.parentaware.org/
- Information and free tutoring for families during COVID-19 school closures: https://schoolclosures.org/ or call or text the hotline: 1-855-264-2051
- Minneapolis Public Schools – Online Learning Resources: https://sites.google.com/mpls.k12.mn.us/mpsonlinepk-12/home
- Online tutoring resources: https://www.khanacademy.org/ –really comprehensive (both for subject matter and for multiple ages)
https://thecrashcourse.com/ – geared more for high school’ers
East Side Learning Center mutual aid program
- During the school year, the East Side Learning Center provides tutoring services to several East Side pre-K thru 3rd During the shutdown, they are shifting gears to launch a mutual aid (neighbors helping neighbors) program on the East Side.
- To look for OR offer support to someone in the East Side community, please use the following ESLC form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScNi0gdt965g855r_0JU1rCEtH9cMuvPtdbh7sjOyYigYW1sQ/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1
- With their permission, you can also use the form to share about the needs of a neighbor
- For more information, you can leave a voicemail for Suzanne at ESLC by calling (651) 739-7338
Housing Resources
- May 1 is just around the corner and that means rent and mortgage payments are due. Find housing and rental assistance here – http://www.mnhousing.gov/sites/np/renters
- Virtual Home Energy Squad. Whether you are at home working, learning, or just staying safe, the additional time spent inside can mean higher energy bills. The Home Energy Squad, provided by CenterPoint Energy and Xcel Energy, is here to help with a new free service: the Virtual HES Visit. We’ll take customers on a home walk-through via video chat, and together we’ll help find ways to reduce energy bills while keeping indoor air clean and healthy. Learn more about the Virtual HES Visit. Sign up online or call 651-328-6220 – https://www.mncee.org/solutions/homes/home-energy-squad-enhanced/
- Executive order on evictions, Stay at Home, & COVID-19 information: Resources for tenants regarding these orders and general advice about tenant rights – https://homelinemn.org/6356/executive-order-on-evictions-covid-19-information/
- Rental rehabilitation loan program: Receive assistance to preserve existing affordable rental housing in Saint Paul – https://www.stpaul.gov/departments/planning-economic-development/housing/rental-rehabilitation-loan-program
- A limited number of hotel beds are available now through Monday, April 27 for unsheltered youth who are ages 18-24. To request a room, youth can call the Salvation Army Shelter Line 10 a.m. -10 p.m. any day of the week at 651-444-5757.
- Find more information about Ramsey County’s housing services and support.
- This site offers a variety of resources and information that can help renters, homeowners, landlords, and lenders. This includes FAQs and information in multiple languages – https://bit.ly/2zXUCck
- Information and resources on Housing Discrimination and Eviction Protections. This site from the Minnesota Housing and Department of Human Rights provides information in multiple languages. Contact Minnesota’s Discrimination Helpline with the Department of Human Rights at 1-833-454-0148 or https://bit.ly/2zY7mj7
- Domestic abuse and violence hotline. There are places of sanctuary open for anyone facing abuse or violence. Call Minnesota’s statewide crisis hotline at 1-866-223-1111 or send a text to 612-399-9995. Learn more about resources from Cornerstone at https://bit.ly/2L2Ap7o
Human Rights Resources and Assistance
- Discrimination Hotline – 1-833-454-0148
- Lastly, challenging times seem to bring out the extremes. If you have witnessed or experienced discrimination because of COVID-19, the MN Department of Human Rights wants to hear about it. Governor Tim Walz launched a new toll-free Discrimination Helplineto reinforce the state’s efforts to protect the civil rights of all Minnesotans. Call 1-833-454-0148 or complete this online form for help today. https://mn.gov/mdhr/intake/consultationinquiryform/
- Legal Clinic: Free of charge legal advice for community members, every other Thursday, 1-4PM. Attorneys can help with landlord/tenant issues, divorce, impounded car, employment, debt collection and other civil legal or family law issues – interfaithaction.org/legalclinic
- Southern Minnesota Region Legal Services (SMRLS) is available to help clients who need/want help in filing for their stimulus checks. Please call the intake line at 651-222-5863 or apply online at justice4mn.org/a2j/
- Immigration Resources & Assistance
Listed below are some community partners who offer services or resources related to community, advocacy, policy and accurate information surrounding immigration issues.
- Advocacy for Human Rights 612-341-9845
- ACLU Minnesota continues to protect the civil liberties of all Minnesotans through litigation, public education, and lobbying.
- CLUES Culturally relevant resource and service nonprofit organization by Latinos for Latinos.
- Casa de Esperanza works to eliminate violence against women and children in the Latino community and the community at large.
- Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota 651-287-3715
Internet and Computers
The following links offer computers and internet service at discounted prices
EveryoneOn: https://www.everyoneon.org/?fbclid=IwAR2UDP8atoNcQdk0_E8GnABQko4nUUtZgoTC9CF18zWuVYR2zE5hdLwU1c
PCs for People: https://www.pcsforpeople.org/eligibility/
Minnesota Afterschool Advance – Discounted Chromebooks (75% off): https://mnafterschool.org/chromebooks
Minnesota Computers for Schools: http://mncfs.org/wpcontent/uploads/program_overview_application2019.pdf
Free WiFi in MINNEAPOLIS: http://www.minneapolismn.gov/wireless/index.htm
Get Connected: https://bit.ly/3b7i9o4
Affordable Internet & Computers – Internet Essentials through Comcast: https://www.internetessentials.com/covid19
Spectrum – Charter will offer free Spectrum broadband and Wi-Fi access for 60 days to households with K-12 and/or college students who do not already have a Spectrum broadband subscription and at any service level up to 100 Mbps. To enroll call 1-844-488-8395. Installation fees will be waived for new student households.
CenturyLink – 800-244-1111
For 60 days, no late fees, no disconnects for any business or residential service and no data limits.
Library Services
Ramsey County Library buildings are closed to the public. Curbside services are available at the following three locations:
- RCL- Maplewood, 651-724-6003, Press 3
- RCL- Roseville, 651-724-6001, Press 3
- RCL- Shoreview, 651-724,6006, Press 3
Services are adhering to all public health guidelines to ensure the safety of the residents and staff. The following libraries ask that participants call ahead to schedule for a hold pickup. Pick up times are Monday- Thursday 10am-9pm Friday-Saturday 10am-5pm and Sunday 12pm-5pm.
- Home delivery is available for residents of suburban Ramsey county who meet one of the following eligibility requirements: over the age of 60, an individual who is self-quarantined due to COVID-19, and or an individual with a health, disability or transportation barrier.
Financial Assistance
- Bridge to Benefits: This web-based screening tool can help you identify if you’re eligible for public works programs, including SNAP, WIC, School Meal Program, Minnesota Health Care Programs, Energy Assistance, and Child Care Assistance – http://www.bridgetobenefits.org/Home2
- Emergency Assistance: Your household may be eligible for assistance to cover emergency needs, such as help paying rent or utility bills. Contact your county or tribal human services agency to learn about availability, eligibility, and how to apply. https://edocs.dhs.state.mn.us/lfserver/Public/DHS-5207-ENG
- Community Action Agencies: This site gathers local, state, federal, and private resources that can help individuals and families with low incomes – https://www.minncap.org/
- The Energy Assistance Program (EAP): This program helps pay for home heating costs and furnace repairs for income-qualified households. Learn how to apply to your local Energy Assistance provider through June 1 – https://bit.ly/35LCQ8h
- For Unemployment Insurance questions or applications, visit the website or call the following
Twin Cities Area: 651-296-3644
Greater Minnesota: 1-877-898-9090
TTY – users: 1-866-814-1252
- Release MN8 COVID-19 Emergency Relief Funds
Community Fund is created to support those most vulnerable as we face this global crisis. Visit https://releasemn8.org/covid-19/ for more information and to qualify.