It is okay to ask for help! Our beautiful county has many resources available to assist you in a time of need. Listed below are just a few local resources. Social workers are trained to gather needed information about your situation and connect you with the appropriate resources to help meet your need. Please reach out to your school social worker, Erica Smithdeal, who is available to brainstorm your problem and determine a solution.
Loss of Employment Income
If you have lost your employment due to COVID-19 or at no fault of your own you can file for unemployment benefits here
Food and Nutrition Program
You can now apply for the Food and Nutrition Program (Food Stamps) online here
The Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT) was approved this week (4/20/20) and states that any student receiving free or reduced lunch will automatically be mailed a P-EBT card with $250 per child. There is a possibility of this program extending if schools remain closed past May 15th. You do not need to do anything to obtain these benefits, but will be automatically added to your EBT account.
United Christian Ministries
Emergency Assistance for utilities or housing you can apply at United Christian Ministries here
HERE in Jackson County
Homelessness case management services and temporary seasonal shelter. To learn more click here
Circles of Hope
Circles of Hope is a community based program available to assist individuals and families in reaching economic stability. You can learn more here
Mountain Projects
Mountain Projects offers housing rehabilitation, owner built housing and Section 8 housing services. To learn more about how this organization can help click here.
Information on the Governor's Executive Orders can be found here.
Executive Order 124 that was signed on March 31st, 2020 prohibits household utilities from being disconnected for the next 60 days. * Update 6/1/2020: the Governor extended this order for another 60 days.
It is important to pay what you can towards your utility bills so that you do not become overwhelmed when the State of Emergency is lifted.
There are local resources available to assist with utility bills, some are listed on this website. Please contact me if you need assistance.
6/1/2020 the Governor issued a moratorium on evictions. This executive order prevents evictions and allows renters to have up to six month to pay past due rent.
North Carolina has launched a COVID-19 website where you can find many resources and information. You can visit there website here.
Economic Impact Payments
(COVID-19 Stimulus Checks)
As most of us are aware, the United States Government approved an economic stimulus package to help Americans through these difficult times brought on by COVID-19. For more information on who is receiving payments, how much you will receive and what you will need to do to receive the payment click here.
The Highlands Community developed this program to assist residents during the COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing orders by the Governor. This organization arranges local volunteers that can do weekly grocery shopping, pharmacy pick ups, post office pick ups, simple home and auto repairs and more. These services are offered to people who are at high risk or in need. To learn more about how to volunteer or receive services you can check out their website here.
Jackson County Public School is offering JC's closet to families in need of clothing. This is by appointment only. Please contact me at esmithdeal@jcpsmail.org to get an appointment.