Help During Covid-19

The current Covid-19 health crisis has created a great economic hardship, as well as emotional stress, for many individuals and families. Here we have collected ministries and organizations that offer help to those in need, and also mental health resources to help with the new anxieties and stress many are feeling. Scroll below to find:

• • Help available through parish ministries and local organizations
  • Organizations taking donations to help those in need.
  • Tips for parents to help their children during this difficult time.
  • Mental health resources to manage stress and anxiety.
  • Prayer lines and special ways to pray for our community.

Scroll below to find organizations that help those in need, parental support and mental health resources.

With the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic, help with affording food is an issue for an increasing number of our neighbors. Saint Vincent de Paul Society offers help, and is collecting donations for a variety of needs within our community. For more information on the ways the society is helping, and ways you can help, visit the SVdP webpage by clicking the button below.

Our sharing parish, Most Blessed Trinity, in Waukegan supports community members in need through their food pantry. You can donate to supporting the MBT food pantry by clicking the donate button below.

Catholic Charities resource page highlights the latest information on COVID-19 from our national office and from Catholic Charities agencies across the network. Check out the latest news, advocacy efforts and stories from our ministry, along with general guidance from the federal government. Find help or donate to help those in need.

Food banks are responding to COVID-19 by doing what they do best – feeding people in need. No one should go hungry during the COVID-19 pandemic. With school closures, job disruptions, and health risks, millions of Americans will turn to food banks for much-needed support and they need us now more than ever. Feeding America and our network of food banks are continuing to provide food to people in need during these times of uncertainty. They can’t do it alone and you can help. Learn more about how Feeding America is responding to this crisis.

Fremont Township offers a food pantry and other services for people living in Fremont Township. The township can also direct people to the correct township to find help. For those in need of food or other services, they can contact the township at caseworker@fremonttownship.com or by calling  (847) 223-2847. The township gratefully accepts donations to help those in the community. The township building is currently closed, however, those who wish to donate can bring non-perishable food donations outside the office by placing on a bench outside of the front door at 22385 W. Route 60. Mundelein, IL 60060.

After several weeks under Illinois’ stay-at-home order, most of us are adjusting our routines and practicing social distancing to care for our physical health. However, this life-altering pandemic has also affected our mental well-being and many are experiencing new stress that can be difficult to manage on our own. Click on the links below for helpful mental health resources. If you need further resources or to talk more please email Diane Mulroe, Director of Human Concerns at dmulroe@stmota.org

Managing Emotions and Self Care

Rush University Healthcare offers information on how to watch for signs of anxiety or depression, and navigating very complicated emotions in this ever-changing new normal. Also information on maintaining self care and combatting the effects of social isolation. Visit the Rush website to read more.

Archdiocese Grief Support Groups

If you have experienced loss during this difficult time online grief groups are here to help. Online grief group facilitators are present to listen and to guide each grief group in prayer and discussion. Ae click here to visit website.  Or here for Printable flyer.

CDC – Managing Stress and Anxiety

Fear and anxiety about Covid-19 can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children. Coping with stress will make you, the people you care about, and your community stronger. The CDC offers helpful information to help people to manage stress and anxiety. Click here to visit the CDC site.

Grandparents are uniquely positioned to offer spiritual and emotional support and have a Biblical mandate to do so. Visit The Legacy Coalition for helpful resources on grandparenting.

Your teen might be asking many questions. How can you make sure teenagers are informed just enough without feeling overwhelmed, yet also have accurate information? Click here for an article from Harvard Health to help with sharing information at home.

Volunteers from across the Archdiocese of Chicago who feel called to accompany anyone feeling the need to pray during this time of uncertainty and isolation. A phone line staffed with prayer partners from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, as well as 24-hour voicemail and e-mail connections. Click here or  Call 312.741.3388

Click here for printable flyer.

Cardinal Cupich has called all the faithful of the Archdiocese of Chicago to common prayer and the ringing of church bells five times a day. By pausing and lifting up in prayer all those affected by the pandemic, we can offer those in need our support and let them know that they are not alone.  Click the image above for the intentions throughout the day.