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The CDC and IDPH strongly promote the COVID-19 vaccine for all persons age 12+ as the leading public health prevention strategy to end this pandemic. The Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine is widely available for free to students ages 12 and older. While it is not a requirement for eligible students to be vaccinated for COVID, it is highly recommended. School District 189 remains committed to supporting all eligible students, staff, parents and community members to become fully vaccinated. We have partnered with East Side Health District to provide multiple vaccination events and will continue to do so as appropriate. Contact East Side Health District if you are interested in receiving the COVID vaccine for your eligible child or yourself.
RESOURCES DURING COVID-19
There are resources available to those needing assistance now – anything from where to find food and childcare support to numbers for County Health Departments and mental health and counseling hotlines. This resource document is a snapshot of federal, state and community agencies providing assistance in all or parts of Missouri and Illinois — compiled by United Way 2-1-1. For the most up-to-date resources, please go to www.211helps.org, download the smartphone app by searching for “211Missouri” or dial 2-1-1 or 800-427- 4626. United Way 2-1-1 is available 24 hours a day. Note: Due to the health concerns surrounding COVID-19, some nonprofits may be closed or may not be accepting face-to-face applications during the pandemic. Please contact these agencies before visiting.
MENTAL HEALTH
Mental Health is more important than ever during #COVID-19. Resource list here.
Adults: Dial 2-1-1 to reach support from the United Way of Greater St. Louis. Our United Way 211 is still here to connect you to the resources you need. For Behavioral Health support, dial 211 (1.800.427.4626) and press 1 to get connected.
The Illinois Department of Human Services has launched a free text support line called Call4Calm. Individuals who want to speak with a mental health professional can text the word “TALK” or “HABLAR” (for Spanish speakers) to 552-020. Within 24 hours, that individual will receive a call from a mental health professional employed by a local community health center.
People can also text other terms, like “unemployment” or “food” or “shelter” to the same number to receive information on how to navigate and access supports and services. Call4Calm is free, and individuals who use it can remain anonymous.
