- Hospitality & Restaurant Worker Relief Fund
- Crisis Response Fund
- Helpful Resources
- Healthcare & Testing
- Community Cares Certificates
Hospitality & Restaurant
Worker Relief Fund
The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted communities across the United States, causing business and school closures, health concerns, and staggering need.
Through it all, hospitality and restaurant workers have increased their health and safety protocols while navigating the uncertainty of employment and the stressors of everyday living in a pandemic.
To show our appreciation to hospitality and restaurant workers for their contributions to our community, Pocono Mountains United Way has established the Hospitality & Restaurant Worker Relief Fund. As an offshoot of the organization’s Crisis Response Fund, 100% of all donations will be utilized in the form of direct mini-grants to workers.
Contents
Application Applicant FAQ Donors/Press Our Partners
Join the fight: Sign Up to Volunteer
We continue to work to combine efforts and maximize reach. To determine how your skills can be best matched to local volunteering needs, please check out VolunteerMonroe.org for available opportunities or reach out to Ryan@PoconoUnitedWay.org.
Application Process
To apply for the Hospitality & Restaurant Worker Relief Fund, please fill out the form here: https://www.PoconoUnitedWay.org/Relief
If you are a hospitality and restaurant employee and live OR work in Wayne, Pike, Monroe, and Carbon counties you may be eligible to apply for this fund.
Once you have applied for the Hospitality and Restaurant Worker Relief Fund, you will receive an e-mail with information about whether it was approved or denied. Funding is not guaranteed, and will be provided on a first-come first-serve basis. Due to the volume of applications, we will not accept phone calls or emails requesting information about individual applications.
FAQ
Where can I apply for relief funds?
You can visit PoconoUnitedWay.org/Relief to apply to receive relief funds. The application opened on December 15, 2020 at 10:30 am, and is accepting applications on a first-come first-serve basis.
What will I receive?
Eligible recipients will receive funds in the form of a $250 gift card, virtual gift card, or ACH transfer. Gift cards can be used as cash anywhere major credit cards are accepted. Funds will be provided via “Tremendous Rewards” via email or text message, with the option of choosing how you would like to receive the funds.
When will I be notified if I will receive money?
If you have applied for the Hospitality and Restaurant Worker Relief Fund, you will receive an e-mail with information about whether it was approved or denied. Due to the volume of applications, we will not accept phone calls or emails requesting information about individual applications.
When do applications open?
Applications opened on December 15, 2020 at 10:30 am. Eligible applicants are being approved on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are depleted.
Who is eligible?
All applicants must be 18 years or older and meet income guidelines.
1 Adult | 2 Adults | 1 Adult, 1 Child |
2 Adults, 1 Child |
|
---|---|---|---|---|
Maximum Annual Income | $39,100 | $54,200 | $57,700 | $72,800 |
Each Additional Child, Add: | – | – | $5,300 | $5,300 |
Individuals who are currently employed or who have been employed in the last 60 days by a restaurant or hospitality business in the Pocono Mountains (employer located in Wayne, Pike, Monroe or Carbon County, PA are eligible to apply.
Individuals who reside in Wayne, Pike, Monroe or Carbon County, PA and who are currently employed or who have been employed in the last 60 days by a restaurant or hospitality business in Pennsylvania are eligible to apply.
What do I need to apply?
Eligibility criteria includes proof of employment at a restaurant or hospitality business (paystub, etc.), 2019 tax return, and a short description of how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the applicant financially.
Can I apply if I am paid in cash?
All applicants must provide a paystub from within the last 60 days demonstrating their employment at a hospitality or restaurant business in Pennsylvania. If a paystub is not provided the application will not be processed.
How can I use the funds?
Recipient may use the gift card as cash anywhere that major credit cards are accepted and should use funds to address immediate basic needs of themselves or their dependents, including rent, transportation, medical expenses or food.
Can I apply more than once?
Individuals will only be eligible to receive a gift card once every 365 days. Gift cards will not be awarded to the same individual twice within a 365 day (one year) period.
Who can I contact if I need more help?
Hospitality and restaurant workers and their families may explore additional resources and options available by calling 2-1-1 or visiting 211.org for more information. Individual 211 agencies cannot apply for the fund on your behalf, you can only apply using our online application.
Where can I donate?
Visit PoconoUnitedWay.org/covid-19 and click on the Paypal Donate button to contribute to the Hospitality & Restaurant Worker Relief Fund.
Donor & Media Inquiries
For donors interested in contributing to the Fund, contact Pocono Mountains United Way’s President/CEO Michael Tukeva at Michael@PoconoUnitedWay.org. Donors are able to contribute by check, cash, or other assets as well.
For media inquiries and interview requests, contact Pocono Mountains United Way’s Vice President, Community Impact Sarah Jacobi at Sarah@PoconoUnitedWay.org.
Our Partners
Thank you to our partners who are coming together from philanthropy, government, and business to support the hospitality & restaurant workers in our community.
Total Raised to Date: $139,169 |
|
---|---|
$50,000+ |
|
Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau | |
$25,000 – $49,999 |
|
Monroe County Government | |
$5,000 – $9,999 |
|
ESSA Bank & Trust | |
Karl & Ann Weiler | |
Mattioli Foundation | |
Mauch Chunk Trust | |
Serenite | |
United Way of Lackawanna & Wayne Counties | |
$2,500 – $4,999 |
|
Kevin & Erin Yurko | |
Pocono Mountain Education Association | |
The Dime Bank | |
$1,000 – $2,499 |
|
Ann & Joseph Farda Foundation | |
Baehr Family Financials, LLC | |
Dr. Joseph Conahan | |
Pocono Manor Investors | |
PPL | |
Ron & Jenette Sarajian | |
Stroud Township | |
Susan & Michael Lundquist | |
$500 – $999 |
|
Barth Rubin | |
Charles Cahn | |
Christopher Timmins | |
Donald Seiple | |
James Swetz | |
Marlyn Kissner | |
Regan Levin Bloss | |
Rene Mathez | |
State Rep. Maureen Madden | |
Tiffany Yori | |
$100 – $499 |
|
Barbara Dolhansky | Joni Oye-Benintende |
Barbara Hoffmann | Judith & Frederick Jabara |
Bill Bravo Automotive Portraits | Judy Kintz |
Bindi Bhagat | Justin Fallenstein |
Bob Schroeder Graphic Design | Karen Milan |
Brian Coyne | Kathleen Steere |
Brian Wallace | Lesley Decker |
CareerLink | Leslie Underhill |
Cecelia T Robedda | Lisa Sanderson |
Century 21 Select Group | Lorraine Malfitano |
Cheryl Feder | Lucas Ackerman |
Chris Barrett | Lydia Thorne |
Claire Dembinski | Martha Linne |
Constance Moyer | Mary Pierce |
Corey Marks | Mary Tirrell |
Dale Ford | Mary Zecchino |
David J Gonze | Maryanne Heeter |
Debbie Lawrence | Mathilda & Steve Sheptak |
Deborah Bermudez | May Ruthhart |
Debra Barker | Melissa Miller |
Donna Smith | Nancy Caiazzo |
Eleanor Buff | Peter Andrews |
Fran Jermain | Robert Uguccioni |
Gregory Oberg | Ronald Miller |
Iona Bartron | Sharon Keegan |
Jacqueline Banahan | Sherri Bartholomew |
Jeffrey Rossi | Todd Burns |
Jeffrey Warmke | Virginia Broderick |
$1 – $99 |
|
Alex Westner | Lisa Stand |
Alice Adams | Mark Mckenna |
Amanda Beam | Mary W. Altemose |
Angel Cowell | Michael F. Russell |
Antoinette Heitmann | Patricia Fretz |
Betty Gambucci | Patricia Genovese |
Camille Breslauer | Patricia Goucher |
Christopher Fenn | Paul Kennedy |
Craig Lafferty | Peter Kolson |
Donna White | Quisqueya Reynoso |
Elba Rodriguez | Robert Weidner |
Elisa Tukeva | Ruth Olsen |
Ilene Cook | Sheila Mearra |
Iyanna Tyner | SmartWay America Inc. |
James Agens | Suzanne Campbell |
Kerry Moss | Wengang Ji |
Krista Montgomery | Young Young |
Linda Schwartz | |
Crisis Response Fund
Hospitality & Restaurant Worker Relief Fund
A coalition of philanthropy, government, and business partners has joined together to create the Monroe County Crisis Response Fund that is rapidly deploying flexible resources to organizations in our region working with communities who are disproportionately impacted by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) and the economic consequences of this health crisis.
Note: 100% of donations made to the Crisis Response Fund starting 12-11-2020 will be specifically designated to our Hospitality & Restaurant Worker Relief Fund.
Contents
About Questions/Comments Our Partners FAQ Fund Recipients
Join the fight: Sign Up to Volunteer
We continue to work to combine efforts and maximize reach. To determine how your skills can be best matched to local volunteering needs, please check out VolunteerMonroe.org for available opportunities or reach out to Ryan@PoconoUnitedWay.org.
About the Crisis Response Fund
Hosted by Pocono Mountains United Way, the Crisis Response Fund is providing flexible resources to organizations in our region working with communities who are disproportionately impacted by COVID-19 and the economic consequences of this outbreak. Grants fund organizations that have deep roots in community and strong experience working with residents without health insurance and/or access to paid sick leave, people with limited English language proficiency, healthcare and tourism workers, and communities of color, among others. The Fund is designed to complement the work of public health officials and expand local capacity to address all aspects of the outbreak as efficiently as possible.
The first phase of rapid-response grants is increasing resiliency in disproportionately affected communities by addressing the economic impact of reduced and lost work due to the broader COVID-19 outbreak, the immediate needs of economically vulnerable populations caused by COVID-19 related closures, the increased demand for medical information and support, and fear and confusion about the outbreak among our most vulnerable residents. We anticipate that the primary areas of need includes: Food for children out of school, housing assistance for displaced workers (renters and owners), people experiencing homelessness (shelters in Monroe County are full or no longer taking new individuals and families due to the recent crisis) and college students facing barriers. Pocono Mountains United Way reserves the right to support other areas of need that develop from the crisis.
Pocono Mountains United Way is administering grants from the Fund and the decision of funding is determined by a subset of the Board of Directors of Pocono Mountains United Way and other community leaders. Together we are proactively identifying potential grant recipients, solicit guidance on potential recipients from community advisers, and recommend final awards. Funds are being released on a rolling basis as fundraising continues throughout the outbreak and recovery phases of the crisis, making it possible to move resources quickly and adapt to evolving needs in subsequent funding phases.
Questions
General questions & inquiries about the Fund can be directed to Pocono Mountains United Way’s Development Director, Ryan Lohman at Ryan@PoconoUnitedWay.org.
For donors interested in contributing to the Fund, contact Pocono Mountains United Way’s President/CEO Michael Tukeva at Michael@PoconoUnitedWay.org.
For non-profits interested in utilizing funds, contact Pocono Mountains United Way’s Vice President, Community Impact Sarah Jacobi at Sarah@PoconoUnitedWay.org.
For media inquiries and interview requests, contact Pocono Mountains United Way’s Vice President, Community Impact Sarah Jacobi at Sarah@PoconoUnitedWay.org.
To make a donation by check or other assets, contact Pocono Mountains United Way’s President/CEO Michael Tukeva at Michael@PoconoUnitedWay.org.
Our Partners
Thank you to our partners who have come together from philanthropy, government, and business to support our community through the Crisis Relief Fund.
Total Raised To Date: $217,163 |
|
$50,000+ |
|
Sanofi | |
$25,000-$49,999 |
|
Highmark | |
$10,000-$24,999 |
|
ESSA Bank & Trust | |
Lehigh Valley Hospital-Pocono/LVHN Pocono Foundation | |
PPL Foundation | |
Wells Fargo | |
$5,000-$9,999 |
|
Michael Herzig | |
Monadnock Non-Wovens | |
Nelson Family Life Foundation | |
Scranton Area Community Foundation | |
Vigon International | |
Ann & Karl Weiler | |
$2,500-$4,999 |
|
Beta Sigma Phi Sorority | |
Bill and Barbara Cramer | |
Rotary Club of the Stroudsburgs | |
Truist Foundation | |
Chris Weiler | |
Kevin Yurko | |
$1,000-$2,499 |
|
Lester G Abeloff Foundation | |
Jeffrey Hirschman & Rhonda Rosales Fund | |
Ann & Joseph Farda Foundation | |
Duane Kerzic | |
Judith Stillinger in honor of Weiler Abrasives | |
Kiwanis Club of the Poconos – Daybreak | |
Michael Luger | |
Thomas A. Morganthau | |
Gary and Jen Olson | |
Ed Ubbens | |
Lingjia Zhang | |
$500-$999 |
|
ARM Lawyers | |
Katherine Booth | |
Grace D’Amico | |
Ricky & Christina Durst | |
Daniel Hessel | |
Russell Kemp | |
Laverne Moyer | |
Mary Frances Postupack | |
Bruce Taylor | |
$100-$499 |
|
Miguel & Ruth Barbosa | Victoria Landolfi |
Chris Barrett | George & Helen Lauscher |
Iona Bartron | Mark Lichty |
Laura Butler | Allen Lohman |
Kathleen Brunkard | Joseph Miele |
Christa Caceres | Karen Moses |
Matthew Connell | Gregory Oberg |
Cynthia Crowner | Arthur Piancone |
Megan DeLuca | Andrew Porter |
Mark Dodel & Patricia Rylko MD, FACC | Marshall Pope |
Nancy S. Dressel | Mark Rino |
Wendy Ernest | Pat Ross |
Marisa Ford | Ellyn Schindler |
Heather Garrison | Catherine Schuler |
Kimberly Godwin | Jan Selving |
Joan Glusiec | David Super |
Donald Hannig | Mathilda Sheptak |
Maureen Harrison | Charlie Trapasso |
Maryanne Heeter | Michael Tukeva |
Ethel Huff | Robert Uguccioni |
Nick Igdalsky | Leslie Underhill |
Gregory Knowlden | Colleen Walsh |
Deborah Kulick | Anonymous (1) |
$1-$99 |
|
Joseph Bedrick | Carol Hebling |
Christene Benisz | Leslie Howes |
Deborah Bermudez | Sarah Jacobi |
Breathe Easy Office Solutions | Fran Kozarsky |
Brian Bossuyt | Maureen Krinsky |
Suzanne Campbell | Robin Kunz |
Mellie Catoe | Craig Lafferty |
Linnae Cintron | Thomas Leonard |
Ilene Cook | Ben May |
Brian Coyne | Gayle Miller |
Kathleen Curnoles | Krista Montgomery |
Thomas Cusumano | Cathy Perri |
Kellie Davis | Precie Schroyer |
Lucas DeBartolo | Jennifer Shukaitis |
Nancy DeJesus | Janet Sidlosky |
Denise Dost | Sue Snell |
Steven Falgie | Sydell Spinner |
Barbara Fredericks | James Thornton |
James Furiosi | Craig Vincent |
Sheila Garl | Cheri West |
Kimberly Gay | Willoughby |
Denise Herbert | Women of Substance LLC |
Goomba’s Pizza | Carol Yates |
Honi Gruenberg | Theresa Zuba |
Jeffrey Hardy | |
FAQ
I’m an individual who’s been affected by COVID-19. Can this Fund help me?
We understand many individuals and families have been affected by the outbreak already and more will continue to be affected. On behalf of the Fund’s partners, Pocono Mountains United Way is working to move resources to community-based organizations that are directly supporting local residents and families who are most affected by emerging health, economic, and social impacts.
While the Fund is not able to provide grants to individuals, it is funding community-based organizations that have experience and history of providing people and families with services and support. As we continue to award grants, we are posting them here. Please check back for a list of the organizations that may be able to assist you. If you are looking for resources now, please check our “Helpful Resources” page, or call 2-1-1 or 570-517-3953.
My organization is interested in resources from this Fund. Can we be considered?
We understand the COVID-19 outbreak is impacting nonprofits in many ways, including increased demand for their services, lost revenue due to closures and cancellations, as well as other challenges. Pocono Mountains United Way’s Board of Directors and Staff are working to ensure that the grants awarded meet the greatest needs in communities disproportionately impacted by COVID-19. In order to move resources quickly, we are not hosting a formal application process for the Fund. Rather, please fill out this short application to apply: Crisis Response Fund Application
To confirm your application has been received, please email Sarah@PoconoUnitedWay.org.
I want to donate. Can I restrict my funding to a prioritized grantee?
We are so glad that you are interested in donating! Currently, we ask that all gifts remain unrestricted to ensure we move resources as efficiently as possible and respond to needs of communities most impacted.
Can I donate anonymously?
For transparency and our desire to thank every donor, we would like to list every donor on this page. But if you would like your donation to be anonymous, please email Michael@PoconoUnitedWay.org.
Should I give to this Fund instead of making other donations?
This Fund was not created to be the only vehicle for getting needed resources into the community, but to help facilitate getting more targeted resources into the community. This is a critical time for so many, including the nonprofit organizations who’ve benefited from your giving in the past, as well as those who’ve had to cancel their annual fundraising events or depend heavily on public gatherings. Please continue to give to organizations you regularly support, and those that need your help at this crucial time. Now is the time to double down for our community.
What is NOT be included in the first phase of funding?
We anticipate multiple phases of funding to address the both the acute needs now and the longer-term impacts of the outbreak and recovery. In this first phase, we are prioritizing community-based organizations that are serving communities and individuals who are immediately and disproportionately suffering from this crisis. In this first round, we are not able to prioritize organizations who have lost revenue or are likely to lose future revenue due to canceled events or programs, or larger public institutions that are strained by increased demand for services. We recognize these challenges, and as the crisis and long-term impacts continue to unfold, we continue to assess and evolve our funding strategies.
Based upon the charitable structure of the Crisis Response Fund, our grants are limited to 501c3 nonprofit organizations, groups fiscally sponsored by a 501c3 nonprofit organization, or other charitable organizations able to receive a tax-deductible contribution, such as schools, faith-based organizations, and other public entities. We are not able to fund individuals or businesses directly, labor unions, or other 501c4, 501c5, and 501c6 organizations.
Is there a geographic area of focus for the Fund?
The Crisis Response Fund prioritizes community-based organizations serving Monroe County communities. We are doing this with a recognition that many Monroe County nonprofits serve workers and residents in our neighboring counties. We also know that there are many organizations in neighboring counties that have broader footprints, serving Monroe County residents.
When are you sharing who you fund?
We are currently sharing who we have funded so far below. We hope that this will help the community navigate available resources, as well as provide transparency for our fund.
Fund Recipients
Organization Name | Amount | Purpose |
Feeding Families Inc | $2,000 |
For gas, extra food pickups, masks, gloves, and food purchases through Second Harvest |
Monroe County Meals on Wheels | $2,120 |
For shelf stable meal items and to purchase approximately 400 frozen meals to be provided to homebound individuals who would not normally qualify but are temporarily homebound. |
Stroudsburg Wesleyan Church | $5,000 |
For food pantry operations which have increased to 14-16 days per month. Funds will be utilized to purchase food for distribution, and to begin home delivery of food to those who are elderly/shut-in, or unable to come and receive food. The pantry distributes approximately 5,000 lbs of food per week, serving 300-400 families. |
The Salvation Army East Stroudsburg | $5,000 |
For direct food purchases. |
Family Service Association of Northeastern Pennsylvania | $5,000 |
For increased call volume from Monroe County residents to provide information and referral services to callers presenting with needs for food, rent assistance, utilities assistance, and information related to COVID-19. |
Northampton Community College Foundation | $5,000 |
For the Spartan Aid Fund for support for Monroe Campus students to provide emergency relief in the form of technology, food, utilities, or other resources that support student’s progress toward their degrees and certificates. |
Women’s Resources of Monroe County | $2,800 |
For costs associated with installing and upgrading internet wifi in shelter for children staying in shelter to do school work and for additional food expenses for shelter residents. |
ESU Foundation | $5,000 |
Emergency Response Fund for ESU students who are struggling to move to online learning and need WIFI hot spots, electronic keys, and textbooks. Due to the loss of employment, many students need financial support for transportation, rent, necessary medications and food. |
The Salvation Army East Stroudsburg | $5,000 |
For non-congregate sheltering and emergency food for 5 homeless individuals, already registered in the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS), to be moved into temporary shelter motel rooms through at least April 30, 2020, followed by transition into the Emergency Shelter facility at 226 Washington Street, East Stroudsburg. |
Meals on Wheels of Monroe County | $2,880 |
For meals for at least 10 private pay clients for 1.5 months of meals. This will cover costs for clients who have no ability to contribute to the cost of their meals. |
Top of the Mountain Ecumenical Food Pantry | $5,000 |
Funds would help cover additional bags, cleaning supplies, gloves, masks etc. And to purchase additional food. |
Roots Living Ministry | $1,000 |
All funds will be used to support the food pantry, including to purchase protective equipment, sanitation supplies, for an additional refrigeration unit and for gas to pick up food. |
East Stroudsburg United Methodist Church | $5,000 |
Funds will be used to purchase food for meal prep, food for the food bank, and paper products for carry out. The money will also be used to fill the vans with gas when needed for the weekly or biweekly pick up from Second Harvest. It will supply volunteers and patrons with gloves, sanitizer, and masks. |
Jo’s Outreach | $5,000 |
For personal protective equipment, other cleaning supplies, gasoline reimbursement to volunteers using their personal vehicles; and for vehicle maintenance costs for the truck owned by Jo’s Outreach as needed. Other expenses to be covered are food, formula, and baby food; paper goods like paper towels, baby wipes, diapers, and toilet tissue; and hygiene products such as tooth paste, shampoo, body wash/soap. |
Family Promise of Monroe County | $5,000 |
For non-congregate sheltering and meals for homeless families. |
Passion for Christ Church Food Pantry | $2,500 |
The funds will be used to purchase food as well as to cover increased truck rental cost and gas usage increase. Portions of the funds will also be used to purchase masks, gloves and sanitizers. |
Pleasant Valley Assembly of God | $1,000 |
Purchase of grab and go style meals and family care packages for the community, as well as PPE for volunteer use |
Arlington Heights Elementary School | $5,000 |
For Backpack program that will provide 7 days‘ worth of meals (3 meals and snacks) for 28 families (40 children, including younger age) |
Salvation Army East Stroudsburg | $5,000 |
For community meals in June that follow USDA MyPlate guidelines per meal, including; protein, whole grains, fresh fruit and nuts, and low-fat milk, cheese, yogurt. fresh fruit (when available), snacks, beverages, and water. |
Pocono Family YMCA | $2,400 |
Purchase of PPE and increased sanitation costs for summer care in June |
Pocono Mountains School District | $2,246.25 |
To provide the “Ready 4K” program to up to 750 families through August 31, 2020 |
Salvation Army East Stroudsburg | $5,000 |
For utility assistance to those impacted by COVID-19 |
Pocono Family YMCA | $2,400 |
To add WiFi and additional work stations to their school aged childcare classrooms to support blended or distance learning for local students |
Salvation Army East Stroudsburg | $5,000 |
To provide hotel accommodations and emergency food for individuals and families to quarantine for 14-15 days before entering the congregate shelter |
Monroe County Meals on Wheels | $5,000 |
For purchase of meals for clients |
Feeding Families | $5,000 |
For purchase of storage and purchase of fresh fruit and vegetables |
Pleasant Valley Assembly of God | $1,000 |
For purchase of meats and shelf stable food, single serve containers and plastic ware |
Northampton Community College Foundation | $5,000 |
For purchase of 100 $50 grocery store gift cards to in need NCC students that visit the on-campus food pantry |
Stroudsburg Wesleyan Church | $5,000 |
For purchase of fruit and vegetables, shelf stable goods, meats, and poultry |
Family Promise of Monroe County | $5,000 |
Non-congregate shelter for families |
Passion for Christ Church | $2,250 |
For purchase of food, truck rentals to pick up food, PPE and cleaning supplies |
Total Distributed To Date: | $119,596.25 |
COVID-19 continues to negatively impact our entire region and we are working to help those affected in a variety of ways. See below for our compilation of helpful resources. If you need other forms of assistance, please call 2-1-1 or 570-517-3954 to speak with an Information and Referral Call Specialist.
HOUSING ASSISTANCE
If you are at risk of becoming homeless or are looking for other assistance, please call 2-1-1 or 570-517-3954 to speak with an information and referral specialist.
Resources for Tenants
The new Rental and Utility Assistance Program put in place by the state of Pennsylvania is not operating yet. Please continue to check this page for updates.
An eviction moratorium is in place until March 31. 2021. This moratorium prevents covered individuals from being removed from their home for non-payment of rent. You must meet certain requirements and provide information to your landlord to be protected by this eviction moratorium.
More information is available here about the National Eviction Moratorium.
A sample declaration form can be completed and provided to your landlord. Be sure to keep proof that you provided this to your landlord (email with read receipt, photo of the letter in drop box, etc.)
Resources for Landlords
The new Rental and Utility Assistance Program put in place by the state of Pennsylvania is not operating yet. Please continue to check this page for updates.
Pocono Mountains United Way offers an Eviction Mediation Program in which landlords and tenants work together with a mediator to reach an agreement with the goal of avoiding a costly eviction. The program is free, voluntary and confidential. Mediations are limited to tenants with incomes below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level and have been economically impacted by the COVID-19 crisis. To schedule a mediation or for more information, please contact our Eviction Mediation Manager at 570-261-8023 or email Mediation@PoconoUnitedWay.org.
This Landlord Toolkit for responding to COVID-19 Effects on Tenants includes sample letters, modified rent and payment plan agreements, and other resources for both landlords and tenants.
Resources for Homeowners
The Monroe County Emergency Mortgage Assistance Grant Program can provide individuals with a minimum of 3 months mortgage assistance with maximum monthly amounts of $1,000. The program is for residents in Monroe County, East Stroudsburg Borough, and Stroudsburg Borough that have a current annual household income at or below 80% of the Area Median Income. Residents must be economically impacted due to COVID-19 and have a housing unit located in Monroe County. For more information, please contact the Redevelopment Authority at 570-421-4300. Deadline to apply is February 26, 2021.
FOOD ASSISTANCE
If you need food assistance, please call 2-1-1 to find a list of food pantries and community meals near you. You can also access an updated list of food pantries and community meals in Monroe County below:
Food Pantries and Community Meals (Excel – Most up to date)
Food Pantries and Community Meals (PDF – Updated February 2021)
A search tool from Pocono Mountains Hunger Coalition is available here: https://poconohunger.org/find-food/. Enter your address and determine which pantries and community meals are closest to your location.
Local School District Food Service Websites (including info about free meals for any child 18 and under):
East Stroudsburg Area School District: https://www.esasd.net/domain/984
Pleasant Valley School District: http://pleasantvalleyfoodservice.com/
Pocono Mountain School District: https://www.pmsd.org/Page/116
Stroudsburg Area School District: https://www.sburg.org/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=412693&type=d
SNAP & OTHER BENEFITS
Do you qualify for benefits such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Health Care Coverage, Cash Assistance, Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), or more?
Find out if you qualify here: https://www.compass.state.pa.us/Compass.Web/Screening/DoIQualify#/SelectBenefits
Apply online using the following link or call the Monroe County Assistance Office at
1-877-905-1495 or 570-424-3030.
https://www.compass.state.pa.us/Compass.Web/Public/CMPHome
Temporary Increase in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Benefits:
https://www.dhs.pa.gov/Services/Assistance/Pages/SNAP-Temporary-Increase.aspx
More SNAP on your EBT Card: What you need to know:
https://clsphila.org/coronavirus/snap-supplement-coronavirus/
MENTAL/BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
Persevere PA: COVID-19 Crisis Counseling Program
Trained professionals are available by phone 24/7 to help navigate the stress and uncertainty of these unprecedented times. Call 1-855-284-2494.
National Crisis Text Line
Text HOME to 741741 to reach a Crisis Counselor
Carbon Monroe Pike Mental Health and Developmental Services
Carbon, Monroe, and Pike counties operate a mental health and developmental services program with offices in each county.
Monroe County: 570-421-2901
Carbon County: 610-377-0773
Pike County: 570-296-6484
24/7 Mental Health Crisis Hotline
Carbon, Monroe, Pike Counties: 570-992-0879
New Perspectives Toll Free: 800-849-1868
Advocacy Alliance Warm Line
Warm Line is a confidential, one-on-one telephone support service for individuals from Carbon, Monroe, Pike, Lackawanna, Susquehanna and Wayne counties who have a mental illness and are experiencing sadness or loneliness. It is staffed by individuals who are in recovery and understand the needs of their peers. Call 866-654-8114.
Other Mental Health Resources
Managing Anxiety and Stress about COVID-19, and reducing stress in yourself and others (CDC)
View more resources for substance abuse, recovery (AA), suicide prevention and more here
UTILITIES
A utility moratorium is in place until March 31, 2021 for protected customers that are at or below 300% of the Federal Poverty Level.
The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) grant assists low-income families pay their heating bills. LIHEAP offers cash grants and crisis grants. Cash grants help families pay their heating bills and the payment is sent directly to the utility company and deducted from their current balance. Crisis grants are for emergency situations where individuals are in jeopardy of losing their heat. If you have a heating emergency, please contact the Monroe County Assistance Office.
Toll Free: 1-877-905-1495
Phone: 570-424-3030
LIHEAP: 570-424-3517
You can apply online at www.compass.state.pa.us or call the LIHEAP hotline at 1-866-857-7095 to request an application. Applications are due April 9, 2021.
If you are having difficulty making payments to your utility provider:
- Pay what you can to establish good faith payment efforts.
- Contact utility company, explain financial situation and provide income information.
- Apply for all available assistance programs. Most companies have different forms of Customer Assistance Programs (CAP).
- Request an affordable payment arrangement.
FILE YOUR TAXES
The IRS filing season for Federal, State, and Local taxes is open until April 15, 2021.
You can file your taxes for free online at MyFreeTaxes.com, sponsored by United Way. MyFreeTaxes is a free, safe and easy way to file your federal and up to three state tax returns for free. This is a direct to consumer, self-preparation product with intuitive and guided questions meant to walk individuals simply through the steps of entering their own data to complete their tax return.
My Free Taxes Offers:
- No Income Limit – Use this free software no matter how much you earn.
- No Geographic Limit – Prepare from anywhere and prepare any number of state returns you need.
- No Age Limit – Prepare your taxes no matter your age.
- All Common Tax Forms – 1040 or 1040-SR (W-2, 1099-MISC, 1099-SSA for Social Security, 1099-R, Schedule A, Schedule B, Schedule C for businesses, Schedule D, etc.)
- Help With Stimulus Payments – If you have not received your stimulus payments, you can utilize the software to receive your Recovery Rebate Credits from the CARES Act or COVID Tax Relief Act.
- No Catch – United Way provides this software completely free to the communities connected with us, as a way of giving back. Please utilize this software and share around!
- Support – A regularly staffed helpline will be available for phone support with your tax return.
Need Help? Call 866-698-9435. Helpline is staffed daily from 10:00am to 10:00pm EST.
STIMULUS CHECKS
SCAM ALERT: Do not respond to any email, letter, or phone call asking for your personal information – the IRS WILL NOT email or call, nor will ever ask for personal data.
IRS webpage on Economic Impact (Stimulus) Payments:
https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/economic-impact-payments
If you didn’t get the full Economic Impact Payment, you may be eligible to claim the Recovery Rebate Credit using Free File: If you didn’t get any payments or got less than the full amounts, you may qualify for the credit, even if you don’t normally file taxes. Learn more about the Recovery Rebate Credit here: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/recovery-rebate-credit
Get My Payment will confirm if the IRS sent your payment(s) and how the IRS sent your payment: https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/get-my-payment
Get My Payment FAQs: https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/get-my-payment-frequently-asked-questions
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR SMALL BUSINESSES OWNERS/NONPROFITS
Federal: SBA COVID-19 Small Business Guidance and Loan Resources
State: COVID-19 Relief Statewide Small Business Assistance
Information on how to support local businesses is available through the Pocono Chamber of Commerce: https://www.greaterpoconochamber.com/
CHILDCARE
Search for child-care and other early learning programs near you: findchildcare.pa.gov
Fee-based School Care Programs:
- The Growing Place Child Care Centers
- Website: https://www.thegrowingplacecenters.org/
- Phone: 570-992-6206
- Pocono Services for Families and Children
- Website: https://psfc.org/
- Phone – East Stroudsburg Location: (570) 421-2711 or (570) 421-2676
- Phone – Tobyhanna Location: (570) 894-3272
- Big Wheel
- Website: https://www.bigwheelskating.com/all_day_program.html
- Phone: 570-424-5499
- Pocono Crimson Dragon
- Website: https://www.got-karate.com/
- Phone: 570-839-2930
- Pocono YMCA
- Website: http://www.poconoymca.org/
- Phone: 570-421-2525
- Stroudsburg Wesleyan Church
- Website: http://www.stroudsburgwesleyan.org/
- Phone: 570-421-0750
- Quiet Valley Farm
- Website: https://quietvalley.org/
- Phone: 570-992-6161
MEDICATIONS
FamilyWize offers a discount code on prescription medications. You can use the FamilyWize Prescription Discount Savings Card to save money on your prescriptions. Provide the pharmacist with the following information:
BIN: 610194
Card ID: FW100
Group ID: FW100
PCN: FW
This card can be used with or without insurance. This discount is also available on prescription deliveries.
UNEMPLOYMENT
How to File for regular Unemployment Benefits:
https://www.uc.pa.gov/unemployment-benefits/file/Pages/Filing%20Instructions.aspx
Self-employed individuals Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA):
https://www.uc.pa.gov/unemployment-benefits/file/Pages/Filing-for-PUA.aspx
Pandemic Unemployment Assistance FAQ:
https://www.uc.pa.gov/COVID-19/CARES-Act/Pages/PUA-FAQs.aspx
For assistance with unemployment issues, please call CareerLink at 570-620-2850
WORKER’S COMPENSATION
Worker’s Compensation and COVID-19 FAQ:
https://www.uc.pa.gov/COVID-19/Pages/WC-COVID-FAQs.aspx
EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES
Each school district has a list of educational resources for children. Please view your school district’s website as well as the resources below.
Resources for parents and children: https://www.pbs.org/parents
Scholastic Learn at Home: https://learnathome.scholastic.com/thanks.html
Twelve famous museums offering FREE virtual tours: https://www.travelandleisure.com/attractions/museums-galleries/museums-with-virtual-tours
CONTACT LENDERS
If you have be impacted financially by the COVID-19 pandemic, please reach out to your service providers. Call your credit card companies, lenders, mortgage holders or landlords. They may have payment plans or can inform you about options that are available to you.
If you are experiencing COVID-like symptoms or feel sick, please contact the following to schedule a test or appointment.
Lehigh Valley Health Network: 1-888-402-LVHN (5846)
ST. LUKE’S: 1-866-785-8537, option 7
For more information about COVID-19 please visit the following health networks:
St. Luke’s University Health Network: https://www.slhn.org/covid-19
Lehigh Valley Health Network: https://www.lvhn.org/testing-services/coronavirus-covid-19-care
COVID-19 Vaccinations:
For more information about the COVID-19 vaccine or to find a location, please visit https://www.health.pa.gov/topics/disease/coronavirus/Vaccine/Pages/Vaccine.aspx
Community Cares Certificates
Pocono Mountains United Way has launched the Community Cares Certificate fundraiser to support families in need as well as locally owned establishments. Simply donate in increments of $25 AND list the local establishment that you want to support.* There are no administration or overhead fees.
Every $25 donation provides a $25 gift certificate to a local restaurant for a family or individual in need.
Donate now on GoFundMe →
You are supporting local businesses AND local families in Monroe County! To Date: 286 clients of 11 Nonprofit agencies have received $25 gift certificates to 29 Restaurants around Monroe County and counting!
We would like to specially thank Kiwanis Club of the Stroudsburgs for their $3,000 contribution to this program, and Kiwanis Club of the Poconos – Daybreak for their $1,000 contribution to this program (and contribution to our Crisis Response Fund). We have now raised $7,150 for our Community Cares Certificates program, exceeding our goal of $5,000!
*Local establishment must be able to produce and mail certificates as directed by Pocono Mountains United Way. If chosen restaurant cannot provide a certificate, another restaurant will be chosen. Certificates will be provided to individuals and families that are existing clients of Women’s Resources, Pocono Services for Families and Children, Pocono Area Transitional Housing, Salvation Army, Red Cross, Pleasant Valley Ecumenical Network and Pocono Mountains United Way.
Gift Certificates Per Restaurant | Nonprofit with Clients Receiving a Gift Certificate | |||
Barley Creek | 14 | Big Brother Big Sisters of the Bridge | 18 | |
Besecker’s Dinner | 12 | Center for Vision Loss | 20 | |
Bovino’s PIzzeria | 12 | Family Promise | 24 | |
Brodhead Brew Coffee House | 7 | PATH | 20 | |
Cafe Duet | 7 | PSFC | 42 | |
Comptons Diner | 12 | PVEN | 28 | |
Cooks Corner | 7 | Salvation Army | 29 | |
Crystal Mexican Restaurant | 20 | Street2Feet | 32 | |
Cure Cafe | 8 | The Growing Place | 24 | |
Desaki | 5 | VALOR | 25 | |
Doughboys | 4 | Women’s Resources | 24 | |
Frogtown | 7 | Total | 286 | |
Gem & Keystone Brew Club | 12 | |||
Goombas of NY | 6 | |||
Kasa’s Pizza | 11 | |||
Kitch-en | 4 | |||
Maritas Cantina | 12 | |||
MiCasa Restaurant | 2 | |||
Mikes Pizzeria | 18 | |||
Momentos | 9 | |||
New York Street Grill | 4 | |||
Quench Cafe | 18 | |||
Spinellis | 21 | |||
Stroud Pizzeria | 12 | |||
Teddy’s Tavern | 2 | |||
Trackside | 14 | |||
Vinny’s D’s Deli & Catering | 6 | |||
Willow Tree | 12 | |||
Wings & a Prayer | 8 | |||
Total | 286 |


Thank you for donating and showing our Monroe County community you care. #LiveUnited #PoconoProud