The following is a list of resources available for small business owners, workers, residents and neighbors in need of assistance during the COVID-19 outbreak. This list will be updated periodically. If you have a suggestion feel free to reach out via email at sam@bloomfieldpgh.org or phone at 412.681.8800
If you require a service not found here you can call 211 or go to pa211sw.org
For Residents:
Emergency Food Assistance
The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture put together a guide on how to access emergency food assistance during COVID-19 mitigation. Read more here.
Free Food Distribution Sites
This map shows free food distribution sites in Allegheny County. View the map here.
Childcare Providers
While many childcare sites are not currently operating the PA Department of Human Services wants to be sure the essential and life sustaining workers are still able to access childcare. This map will show you childcare centers that are currently operating.
Unemployment Compensation
If you are unable to work due to the COVID-19/coronavirus outbreak, Pennsylvania has recently updated its Unemployment Compensation webpage with new information. Now, if your employer temporarily closes, reduces your hours, or you have been told to self-isolate, Pennsylvania is waiving the Work Search and Work Registration requirements and suspending the one-week waiting period. Those eligible can apply online. Find more info here.
Hebrew Free Loan Association of Pittsburgh Coronavirus Financial Bridge Loan Program
Hebrew Free Loan Association of Pittsburgh has announced a Coronavirus Financial Bridge Loan Program to provide interest-free loans on a nonsectarian basis for up to $5,000. Find more info and apply here.
Port Authority Transit Pass Reimbursement
Port Authority riders who have purchased monthly or weekly passes but are now being told to stay home are eligible to request reimbursement. By contacting the Port Authority online or via phone at (412) 442-2000, riders can receive a credit for the remaining time on their purchased passes. Find more info here.
Federal Student Loan Payment Suspension
The office of Federal Student Aid is having interest rates set to 0% for a period of at least 60 days for all federally held student loans. Additionally, borrowers will have the option to suspend their payments for at least two months to allow them greater flexibility during the national emergency. Read more here.
Comcast Internet Services
Xfinity WiFi hotspots, located throughout the city, will be available to anyone for free, even without a subscription. Additionally, no disconnects or late fees will be assessed on current subscribers. For low-income customers, families are eligible to receive 60 days of complimentary Internet Essentials service. Find more info here.
Pittsburgh Virtual Tip Jar for Service Workers
Many of us would regularly be patronizing bars, salons, restaurants, and other businesses that have been ordered closed. Even if you are socially isolating, you can help to support our local service industry staff. Consider sending a “tip” to your favorite bartender, server, stylist, aesthetician. A Carnegie Mellon team created this online resource to do just that.
Resources for Artists
The Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council has created a list of resources for artists in Pittsburgh including their own Emergency Fund for Artists. See the list here.
PPE Connect PGH
PPE Connect PGH was created to connect Pittsburgh area medical providers in need of Personal Protective Equipment with those who have and are willing to donate new, unused PPE. This can include gloves, N95 masks, goggles, etc… Find more information here.
For Small Businesses:
Post-Gazette Restaurant Advertising
In an effort to support restaurants in Pittsburgh the Post-Gazette is offering free ad space to up to 24 restaurants in the March 29th edition. Contact kmcginley@post-gazette.com if interested.
Urban Redevelopment Authority: COVID-19 Small Business Assistance Loan Program
The URA Small Business Assistance Loan can be used for rent, insurance, payroll, and other fixed assets. Loans can be requested up to $15,000. Apply online here.
Small Business Association Disaster Loans
Pennsylvanians are now eligible for disaster loans from the Small Business Association. The SBA provides low-interest disaster loans to help businesses and homeowners recover from declared disasters. Find more info and apply online here.
Honeycomb Crowdfunded Small Business Relief Loan
To help deliver the working capital that businesses need, Honeycomb is offering 45-day payment free periods, 6-month interest-only periods and reducing our posting, success, and investor fees. They’re also streamlining their due diligence to connect businesses with local investors as quickly as possible. As always, these loans are community funded via the Honeycomb crowdfunding platform. Apply and get more information here.
Kiva Pittsburgh Small Business Zip Loan
Kiva loans are 0% interest, with no fees! Loans can be up to $10,000, paid back over up to three years. Kiva approves many loans that other lenders would not. Apply and get more information here. Schedule an online meeting here.
Note: Kiva is receiving a larger amount of inquiries than normal and will get back to you as quickly as possible.
