Health Insurance

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All MassHealth Connector Walk-in Centers are closed until further notice due to the coronavirus. For enrollment assistance or to make a payment, please visit the following site for more information: https://www.mahealthconnector.org/health-connector-walk-in-centers-closed-due-to-coronavirus-concerns.

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Food Insecurity & Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP)

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If you or someone you know is in need of food, visit the Greater Boston Food Bank's partner hunger-relief agencies. Find your local food pantries, community meal programs and other food assistance providers here: https://www.gbfb.org/need-food/. If you would like to apply for SNAP (formerly food stamps) or need assistance with your existing case, visit DTA Connect today at https://dtaconnect.eohhs.mass.gov/.

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Unemployment Insurance Benefits (Filing a claim, reporting fraud, etc.)

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Are you unemployed, or worried about becoming unemployed? Visit about the state's webpage on all things unemployment and coronavirus (COVID-19): https://www.mass.gov/resource/information-on-unemployment-and-coronavirus-covid-19 You may be aware that the federal government has enacted the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, also known as the CARES Act. This new law will impact unemployment policy in Massachusetts, please refer to the state's webpage for the latest up to date information: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/update-massachusetts-department-of-unemployment-assistance-announces-guidance-on-cares. If you have more questions about employee rights and employer obligations during the coronavirus public health emergency, please visit the Attorney General’s Fair Labor Division (FLD) for general guidance on some of the most frequently asked questions: https://www.mass.gov/service-details/frequently-asked-questions-about-covid-19-employee-rights-and-employer-obligations. Going Back to Work? If you're an employee going back to work and have questions, please refer DUA's FAQ page for employees: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/unemployment-insurance-benefits-and-returning-to-work-guide-for-workers. If you're an employer going back to work and have questions, please refer DUA's FAQ page for employers: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/unemployment-insurance-benefits-and-returning-to-work-guide-for-employers. Reporting Fraud Criminal enterprises using stolen personal information from earlier national data breaches have been attempting to file fraudulent unemployment claims through the DUA system. This is part of a national unemployment fraud scheme. If you believe someone has applied for benefits using your information fraudulently, please visit the following webpage: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/report-unemployment-benefits-fraud. You will be able to report fraud on this site.

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Consumer Protection (Travel refunds, price gouging, etc.)

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Be alert for individuals and businesses that may try to take advantage of uncertainty surrounding the coronavirus. If you're seeking more information about your sick time rights, health insurance claims, or price gouging, visit the AG's office for guidance and resources specific to the coronavirus crisis: https://www.mass.gov/news/ags-office-issues-guidance-on-coronavirus-resources-warns-of-consumer-scams. Travel Refunds If you're considering cancelling travel and seeking a refund, contact your airline or travel company. If you have difficulty getting your money back, consider filing a consumer complaint with the AG's office: www.mass.gov/how-to/file-a-consumer-complaint. Price Gouging To report instances of unreasonably high prices or defective products, call the AG’s Consumer Protection Division at 617-727-8400. Medical Claims For help with health insurance claims or medical bills, visit https://www.mass.gov/health-care-resources-at-the-attorney-generals-office.

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Milton & Randolph Updates (Closures, COVID-19 Testing, etc.)

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For the most up to date information, please refer to each town's website. Milton - Access HERE for Town website Randolph - Access HERE for Town website COVID-19 Testing Sites in Milton & Randolph Milton and Randolph residents can locate COVID-19 testing sites nearest to them HERE. Temporary Closures Town Halls Milton Town Hall is closed to the public until further notice, but services will continue to be available. Randolph Town Hall is closed to the public until further notice. Any visits require appointment. Please refer to Milton's or Randolph's website for more information on how to conduct town business during this time. Schools More information about Milton and Randolph Public Schools can be found at their respective websites:

• MPS: www.miltonps.org
• RPS: www.randolph.k12.ma.us

Libraries Please refer to each library's website for more information about services offered both in-person and virtually. Milton Public Libary - Website HERE Turner Free Library - Website HERE

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State Updates & Resources (Emergency Orders, Contact Tracing, Reopening MA)

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For the most up to date information on the Commonwealth's response, please visit mass.gov/covid19. On March 10, Governor Baker issued a state of emergency in response to the outbreak. A complete list of emergency orders and guidance can be found HERE. REOPENING On May 18, the Baker Administration unveiled the state's four-phase approach to reopening sectors across the Commonwealth. You can view and download the Reopening MA Report HERE. For the most up to date information on the state's plan, visit mass.gov/reopening. Other state resources...

COVIDMA Text Messages

Receive the latest COVID-19 updates straight to your mobile device by texting COVIDMA to 888-777. Read more about the program HERE.

211

Text courtesy of South Shore Stars

How 211 Works

211 works a bit like 911. Calls to 211 are routed by the local telephone company to a local or regional calling center. The 211 center’s referral specialists receive requests from callers, access databases of resources available from private and public health and human service agencies, match the callers’ needs to available resources, and link or refer them directly to an agency or organization that can help.

COVID-19 Community Tracing Collaborative (CTC)

In April, the Baker Administration lauched the Community Tracing Collaborative in effort to identify and support those who have tested positive for COVID-19 and those who may have been exposed to the virus. To learn more about the MA COVID Team and the Community Tracing Collaborative, visit www.mass.gov/MATracingTeam.

Nursing Home Family Resource Line - (617) 660-5399

Text courtesy of the Office of the Governor

Description: A dedicated telephone line that will connect family members of nursing home and rest home residents with the information and resources they need. This resource was created so that family and community members have one central contact that they can reach out to if they have questions or concerns about the care their loved one is receiving during the COVID-19 outbreak. Hours of Operation: The line is staffed from 9 AM – 5 PM, seven days a week. Staff will coordinate across state agencies to help callers find answers to their questions. Telephone Line: Families and community members can call the line at (617) 660-5399.

SafeLink - A service for all survivors

Text courtesy of the Office of the Governor

The state has expanded SafeLink, the Commonwealth’s statewide, 24/7, toll-free and confidential domestic violence hotline to now include resources and support for survivors of sexual assault. Previously, SafeLink served as a hotline to specifically connect domestic violence survivors to services. This expansion of services will allow SafeLink to triage calls to local area rape crisis centers and create a centralized number for any survivor of domestic violence or sexual assault to call and receive services during the COVID-19 public health emergency. This hotline is designed for crisis intervention support for those who need assistance in safety planning measures for both themselves and their families. This resource is now available through the 2-1-1 line as an additional method for victims to access help and resources. The SafeLink toll-free number is (877) 785-2020. For the hearing-impaired, the SafeLink TTY number is (877) 521-2601. Advocates are available in English and Spanish and can provide translation in more than 130 languages. If you are experiencing violence within your home or concerned about a loved one that may be experiencing violence, please call the SafeLink hotline for support and resources. If you are in immediate danger, please call 9-1-1.

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Federal Updates & Resources

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For federal resources and the most up to date information on the Federal response, please refer to https://www.coronavirus.gov/.

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Public Transportation (MBTA)

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The MBTA is still operating, but all services are now running on a reduced schedule in effort to support physical distancing, in addition to increasing cleaning and sanitation at stations. Please visit the MBTA's FAQ page ( mbta.com/covid19/faq) for more information regarding how long these changes will be in effect, how frequently the MBTA is cleaning stations and vehicles, etc.

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Legal Aid Services

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Courtesy of Massachusetts Legal Assistance Corporation (MLAC) Information and Self-Help Tools Court Website - Updates on Courts and Emergency Orders: www.mass.gov/guides/court-system-response-to-covid-19 MassLegalHelp.org - Information and tools addressing: Unemployment, Immigration, MassHealth, Housing, and other civil legal issues: www.masslegalhelp.org/health-mental-health/covid-19 National Consumer Law Center - Information on Consumer Protections: www.nclc.org/special-projects/covid-19-consumer-protections.html MassLegalServices.org - Information on specific types of law, by category: www.masslegalservices.org/covid-19 Find a Legal Aid or Pro Bono Lawyer Legal Resource Finder - Contact info for agencies and nonprofits: www.masslegalservices.org/findlegalaid Free Legal Answers Online - Get advice from a volunteer lawyer online: mass.freelegalanswers.org/ Regional and Statewide Legal Aid Offices - Find the office in your area: mlac.org/help/ Volunteer Lawyers Project - FAQs about coronovirus and the law: vlpnet.org/coronavirus-faqs/

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Interfaith Social Services

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Courtesy of Interfatith Social Services, 105 Adams St., Quincy, MA 02169 Interfaith Social Services is OPEN FOOD PANTRY Interfaith Social Services’ food pantry is an essential program and is open regular hours (Monday-Friday, 10-11:45am, and Wednesday evenings 5-7pm). We’re following guidance from the CDC and local health officials and have implemented protective measures to limit person to person contact. We are also having our building professionally disinfected on a regular basis. We strive to continue providing exceptional service as well as food and emergency assistance to our neighbors in need. Clients who drive will wait in their cars instead of waiting in the food pantry waiting room. They will pull up to our front doors and a volunteer will come out to their car and check them in. Groceries will then be brought out to the car. Clients who walk or take public transportation to the pantry will check in at the front desk as usual and may wait in the waiting room. We are limiting the number of clients in the building so that people can keep a safe distance from each other. New clients are welcome. Please arrive during regular pantry hours and bring:

• Identification for each member of the household
• Proof of residency (ex. A utility bill, rental agreement, etc.). Our food pantry only serves residents of Braintree, Cohasset, Hingham, Holbrook, Hull, Milton, Quincy, Randolph, Scituate and Weymouth.

More details here: https://interfaithsocialservices.org/food/ BUREAU DRAWER THRIFT SHOP The Bureau Drawer Thrift Shop is CLOSED until further notice. We are unable to accept Thrift Shop donations at this time. NEW DIRECTIONS COUNSELING CENTER Interfaith cares deeply for all who depend on our programs. We want to make sure counseling clients can still access services, even if they cannot or do not feel comfortable coming into the office. The Counseling Center remains open, though therapists and clients may choose to conduct sessions over the phone. The Counseling Center is accepting new clients. Please call 617-773-6203 ext. 12 to schedule an appointment.

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Check Your Symptoms Online (Buoy Health Care Tool)

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Massachusetts residents who suspect they might have COVID-19 can now use this Buoy Health COVID-19 Web App, which will help to screen them based on a series of questions and connect them to a health care provider via telehealth. Visit Buoy.com/mass to learn more and use the tool.

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COVID-19 Vaccine Roll Out

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Please refer to mass.gov/vaccine for the most up to date information regarding the COVID-19 vaccine roll out in Massachusetts.

• When can you get the vaccine? https://www.mass.gov/info-details/when-can-i-get-the-covid-19-vaccine
• Where can you get the vaccine? https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-vaccination-locations-for-individuals-in-eligible-groups-and-phases
• Frequently Asked Questions: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-vaccine-frequently-asked-questions

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Massachusetts Caregiver/Companion COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility

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Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services Massachusetts Caregiver/Companion COVID19 Vaccine Eligibility 10 February 2021 Massachusetts Caregiver/Companion COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility Effective Thursday, February 11th, an individual who accompanies a person age 75 or older to one of four mass vaccination sites to receive the vaccine will be eligible to receive the vaccine too, if they have an appointment booked. Both the companion and the individual age 75 or older must have an appointment for the same day and both individuals must be present. Only one companion is permitted. The companion must attest that they are accompanying the individual to the appointment. Companions may begin booking appointments the morning of February 11th. Individuals age 75 and older should make an appointment to get vaccinated as soon as possible. The COVID-19 vaccine is safe and free.

• The mass vaccination sites (Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Fenway Park in Boston, Eastfield Mall in Springfield, and the Doubletree Hotel in Danvers) have the most capacity and availability for appointments. 53,000 appointments will be opened at these sites on Thursday (2/11).
• Getting vaccinated at one of the mass vaccination sites is safe, easy and agefriendly. These sites:
  • o Strive to provide an experience without long lines or long wait times
  • Allow one person to accompany you to the appointment, if you need assistance
  • Are fully wheelchair accessible, do not require people to use stairs and have some wheelchairs available on-site o Have accessible drop-off and pick-up areas
  • Gillette Stadium, the DoubleTree Hotel in Danvers, and the Eastfield Mall Springfield, have accessible parking available o Have accessible restroom and seating areas
  • Require every person who enters to wear a mask and support social distancing throughout the site
  • Offer vaccinations for staff who are administering the vaccines and give staff access to regular COVID-19 testing to ensure safety
  • Have friendly staff on hand to help guide the individual through the process

Older adults should not accept calls offering assistance from someone they do not know or trust. If traveling to a vaccination site with someone who is not part of your household, please continue to wear masks, practice hand hygiene, and social distance to the greatest extent possible. For information on the COVID-19 vaccines for people ages 75 and older visit mass.gov/covidvaccine75. Frequently Asked Questions

• Question: How does the caregiver/companion book an appointment?
  • You must book a separate appointment, one for individual who is age 75 and older and one for the caregiver/companion. Go to mass.gov/covidvaccine and schedule two separate appointments at either the same time or adjacent.
  • For the caregiver appointment, select the option ‘Individual accompanying someone who is age 75+ to their vaccination appointment (both must be present at the same time, both must have same day appointments).’ You may also be asked to orally attest onsite that you are accompanying an individual age 75 or older who otherwise would not be able to get to and through the mass vaccination site.
  • If both the caregiver and older person are unable to use or have difficultly accessing the internet, they may call 2-1-1 for assistance booking both appointments.
• Question: Does this only apply to the four mass vaccination sites?
  • Yes. Mass vaccination sites have the capacity to accommodate companion appointments.
  • Additionally, we recognize that it is challenging for some to get to a mass vaccination site and individuals may be reluctant to go without assistance.
  • In the future, some other sites may have limited capacity to accommodate companion appointments.
• Question: I am scheduled to get my second dose, can my caregiver/companion receive their first dose?
  • Yes, if the caregiver/companion is able to schedule a same day appointment for the same time or adjacent to the older person’s second dose appointment, the caregiver/companion is able to receive their first dose.
  • The caregiver/companion will need to schedule their second dose appointment either at the site or the website by acknowledging they have received a first dose and need a second dose.
• Question: How is caregiver/companion defined?
  • ​​​​​​​For the purposes of the COVID-19 vaccine eligibility, the individual age 75 or older needs a caregiver/companion to get to or participate in the vaccination appointment. This may be due to transportation or accessibility challenges, including visual or hearing impairments or health factors, such as dementia that require the caregiver to be with the person for the appointment. The caregiver/companion may or may not be a family member.
• Question: Will this continue for the 65+ and 2+ co-morbidities group?
  • Supply levels and impact of this initiative will be evaluated in the coming weeks prior to making a determination of the continuation.
• Question: Will 2-1-1 be able to assist making these appointments?
  • Yes, for people who are unable to use or have difficultly accessing the internet, 2-1-1 can assist in making the appointments for both the individual over the age of 75 and the caregiver/companion accompanying them to the appointment.
• Question: We heard there were long lines and wait times outside at the Eastfield Mall in Springfield?
  • The Eastfield Mall site in Springfield has worked to reduce lines by increasing staffing and reducing the number of appointments per hour.
  • Adjustments have been made to the queuing system to reduce outdoor wait times.

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