The COVID-19 pandemic is having profound economic impacts on people in our community. These resources may help.
The information in this post was last updated April 24, 2020.
Virginia 211: 2-1-1 Virginia is a 24/7 free service that connects you with local resources.
See also: Meal Resources for Families
Common questions
Am I eligible for unemployment benefits if my job ended due to COVID-19?
Q&A on Claims Related to Coronavirus from the Virginia Employment Commission.
Frequently Asked Questions from the Office of the Governor for workers that have been temporarily laid off or discharged due to the coronavirus.
Where can I get help with food?
See our Meal Resources for Families post.
Christ Episcopal Church
8951 Courthouse Road
Spotsylvania, VA 22553
For more information contact Stephanie & Roy Smith: 540-582-6162, rhsmith@umw.edu
Fredericksburg Regional Food Bank: Download a list of food pantries in your area.
S.E.R.V.E.: Visit site for list of food pantries and other emergency resources in the greater Fredericksburg area.
15 Upton Lane
Stafford, VA 22554
serve.1979@gmail.com
540-288-9603
Food pantry open Monday and Wednesday, 10:00-2:30; Tuesday and Thursday, 11:00-4:30.
Spotsylvania Emergency Concern (SECA)
8812 Courthouse Road
Spotsylvania, VA, 22553
(540) 582-2465
I’m not able to pay my utility bills. Is there help?
The State Corporation Commission (SCC) issued an order directing utilities it regulates, such as electric, natural gas, and water companies in Virginia, to suspend service disconnections for 60 days to provide immediate relief for any customer, residential and business, who may be financially impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak.
Assistance from the Dominion Energy EnergyShare Program: May be applied to the cost of heating and cooling from any source. Call 540-288-8223 for eligibility screening and more information or visit 211virginia.org.
To find additional resources, visit 211virginia.org and search your zip code plus “utilities” for areas of need.
I’m worried about getting behind on rent and being evicted. Is there help?
The Supreme Court of Virginia has suspended all non-emergency court proceedings from Monday, March 16 through Monday, April 26. This includes a prohibition on new eviction cases for tenants who are unable to pay rent as a result of COVID-19.
Federal Housing Finance Agency has information about mortgage relief during the corona virus emergency.
Tenant Housing Rights amid COVID-19 (available in English and Spanish) from valegalaid.org
See also: Quick Tips for Renters and Homeowners Facing Debt, Foreclosure, or Eviction (link to PDF) - English and Spanish
Eviction Helpline: 1-833-NoEvict
Virginia Statewide Legal Aid Number: 1-866-LEGLAID
Where do I get information about the CARES Act (Federal Coronavirus Relief Law)?
Economic Impact Payments page from IRS.gov: Check eligibility, enter payment information for non-filers, and update payment information.
FAQ on CARES Act from the Tax Foundation
Coronavirus and Forbearance Info for Students, Parents, and Educators
Nonprofits and Coronavirus, COVID-19 from the National Council of Nonprofits
How can I qualify for discounts on my medical bills?
Mary Washington Healthcare is taking several steps to help more people qualify for financial discounts in paying their medical bills. Click here (link to PDF) for updated information. To apply for this financial assistance program, call 540-741-1041 or visit marywashingtonhealthcare.com/pay-my-bill.
I’m concerned that my business won’t stay open. Is there help?
Yes. The U.S. Small Business Administration is offering disaster assistance for areas impacted by COVID-19. The number assigned to the state of Virginia for the emergency declaration is VA-00087.
Facebook is also offering grants to small businesses impacted by COVID-19.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has created a resource page for businesses.
The University of Mary Washington Small Business Development Center offers free consultations, COVID-19 resources, and virtual seminars.
The Phoenix: An online searchable database of relief programs for small businesses and nonprofits.
I have to work. How do I make sure my children are taken care of?/I run a daycare, what are the new restrictions?
During the extended school closures, Virginia is working to provide resources for emergency child care.
Child Care for Essential Personnel – Parents and families who are in search of child care for essential personnel, which is currently permitted under the Governor’s current order, can find more information on the Child Care Aware website. Families can also call 866-KIDS-TLC (866-543-7852).
The CDC has a checklist for childcare facilities to use in the event of any virus pandemic.
I can’t afford a computer or internet service. Is there help?
Please see our Internet Access During COVID-19 Pandemic blog post for resources.
Where can I find updates on local transportation?
FRED Bus Service
Effective 3/23/2020, FRED Transit will make temporary service adjustments, reducing service frequency on most routes. Go to www.rideFRED.com or call 540.372.1222 x701 for modified schedules and more information.
WMATA (Washington Metro)
Metro bus and train schedules and information, including information on availability during COVID-19.
How has the pandemic affected federal and state taxes?
See our Tax Answers page for information on federal and state taxes, including filing deadlines and online filing assistance.
Ask us for help
Library staff are available to help via email and live chat from 9:00-5:00 Monday through Saturday and 1:00-500 on Sunday while we’re closed. Contact us.
Related News and Information
Federal
Coronavirus.gov contains the latest information from The White House, the Center for Disease Control (CDC), the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and other federal agencies.
Congress recently passed and the president signed the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, to fund testing, paid sick leave, unemployment help, and food resources. The federal income tax filing deadline has been postponed to July 15. Additional federal legislative proposals are under consideration.
State
The State of Virginia official website has updates regarding coronavirus and resources for businesses on the virginia.gov website. See the links below:
Local
County websites provide news, guidance, resources, and factual information.
The Rappahannock United Way has a list of community resources on its website. This includes categories like public service agencies, abuse/violence, childcare, counseling, disability services, employment, health/medical assistance, housing, and much more.
Fredericksburg Chamber of Commerce businesses offering services at this time.
