COVID-19 Resident Resources
This page contains a list of resources and information that may be useful for residents during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Benefits Support
CAPI USA
CAPI USA’s benefits enrollment center can help you sign up for services including SNAP, RentHelpMN, MNsure. Call their benefits navigators who will help you identify and sign up for support with food, utilities, healthcare, housing and more.
612-767-3681
Monday through Friday
8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. or by appointment
Bills & Rent Support
Tenant Resource Center
Support includes, eviction and homelessness prevention, emergency assistance, mediation, workforce, and legal assistance. As of March 17th, the Tenant Resource Center will be accessed through the phone at 612-302-3180. Please leave a message and your call will be returned within a day.
Learn more about the Tenant Resource Center >
Energy Assistance Program (EAP)
The Energy Assistance Program helps pay home heating costs, furnace repairs, water and utility costs for income-qualified households. The program is available to renters and homeowners with income at or below 60% AMI. Assistance can cover payment of energy bills, help with utility disconnections, advocacy with energy suppliers on behalf of customers, and repair or replacement of homeowners’ malfunctioning heating system.
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The Minnesota Department of Commerce has received an additional $167 million in federal funding through the American Rescue Plan Act to fund Minnesota’s Energy Assistance Program. As a result, the program is open for applications all year. The Department is encouraging thousands of Minnesota households to apply, especially those with past-due energy bills who are at risk of utility disconnections. Households could receive up to $1,600 for energy bills and may qualify for an additional $1,200 to cover past-due bills.
Minnesotans should apply now for the Energy Assistance Program. Request an application or find your local service provider: Call 800-657-3710 and press 1 or go online: mn.gov/commerce/eap.jsp or search online for “Minnesota energy assistance”
Hennepin County Emergency Assistance Program (HCEAP)
HCEAP provides short term assistance with foreclosure prevention, rent, damage deposit, emergency shelter, home repairs, moving expenses, utility bills, transportation for homeless families, and special diets. The program is available for families with children under 18 in a financial crisis that poses a direct threat to the physical health or safety of a child.
Community Emergency Assistance Program (CEAP)
Residents in suburban Hennepin County cities who have been financially harmed by COVID-19 may be eligible for emergency rental assistance.
If you live in Brooklyn Center, Brooklyn Park, Champlin, Corcoran, Crystal, Dayton, Golden Valley, Greenfield, Maple Grove, New Hope, Osseo, Robbinsdale, or Rogers:
- Submit your request using this online form
- If you have questions or need help applying, Contact: CEAP at 763-450-3672
Xcel Energy
Get help paying your bill. Taking advantage of lower than expected fuel costs, Xcel Energy is proposing a $25 million dollar credit to electricity customers. These credits will process automatically, just in time for the high energy usage months when air conditioners are running.
Learn more about Xcel Energy >
Because COVID-19 is creating financial challenges for many people and families, new funding is available in some states to help cover energy bills, and some application deadlines have been extended. Residential customers can find more resources on their billing and payments page or call them at 800.895.4999.
Xcel Energy also has provided some energy saving tips to also help save on bills.
Xcel Energy has begun distributing LED lightbulbs to food banks across Minnesota. The company plans to distribute 1.5 million bulbs to help families save energy and money on their utility bills. There are five locations in Brooklyn Park you will be able to pick up lightbulbs:
Christian Restoration Services
5706 Camden Ave N
Pressing Forward Inc
7540 Dupont Ave N
Family Networks Daycare People Incorporated
7600 Boone Ave N Ste 2
Brooklyn Park Evangelical Free Church
7849 W Broadway Ave
Hmong Resource Fair
7411 85th Ave N
Center Point Energy
If you are having trouble paying your natural gas bill, please contact us right away for assistance; don’t wait until you receive a disconnection/shut-off notice or your natural gas service has been disconnected.
Learn more about Center Point Energy >
Community Action Partnership of Hennepin County
Provides help with heating and energy bills. Other services include: housing counseling, food support, tax assistance, case management, financial literacy and legal services.
Learn more about the Community Action Partnership >
Hennepin County Emergency Rental Assistance
Hennepin County residents who have been financially harmed by COVID-19 may qualify for emergency assistance to help with rent and other housing costs.
ACER
ACER is a nonprofit organization that engages community members living in the north and northwest suburbs. For rental or mortgage assistance, call 763-307-4731.
Childcare
Minnesota Childcare Resources
If you are a parent or guardian in need of child care – especially if you work in one of these sectors – call the Child Care Aware parent line to be directed to available licensed child care providers.
Phone
1.888.291.9811
Learn more from the state of Minnesota >
Cultural Resources
Casa de Esperanza
So many things seem uncertain today from our health to childcare to that next paycheck. If you are in need, please ask for support. We at Casa de Esperanza are here for you – even if it’s just to answer your questions about how to access support or other services.
Learn more from Casa de Esperanza >
COPAL (Latino Nonprofit)
COVID-19 resources in Spanish.
Council on Asian Pacific Minnesotans
In response to the impact faced by Asian Pacific Minnesotans as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Council has collected information and resources to help families during this time of crisis. Please share this document across your communities, and please let us know of any other resources that you believe will be helpful for the community.
Learn more about Asian Pacific Minnesotans resources >
Comunidades Latinas Unidas en Servico (CLUES)
COVID-Resources in Spanish Hemos establecido una línea telefónica directa en el 651-379-4243 con información específica de referencia para programa y servicios individuales. El personal también estará disponible para responder preguntas por teléfono entre las 8:30am a 5:00pm, de lunes a viernes, en los números 651-379-4200 y 612-746-3500.
Hennepin County Oficina de Servicios Multiculturales
Puede ayudar a conectarlos con diferentes recursos. Hablan en español. Lunes a viernes 8-4:30.
Lao Assistance Center
The mission of the Lao Assistance Center of Minnesota (LACM) is to increase the capacity of the Lao-American population in Minnesota by responding to community-identified needs with programs and services that promote the well-being of families and children. Here you can find COVID-19 information in Lao.
MN Council of Latino Affairs
A continuación encontrará una lista de medidas y recursos para estar actualizados sobre la prevención, respuesta y evolución de la emergencia del Covid-19. La lista será actualizada conforme haya información disponible.
MN Department of Health
Videos, PSAs, & translated documents in 12 languages
MDH Guidance for Hmong Funerals during COVID-19
City of Minneapolis’ Office of Immigration and Refugee Affairs
Minneapolis is providing information about immigration and updates due to COVID-19.
Hennepin County Oficina de Servicios Multiculturales
Puede ayudar a conectarlos con diferentes recursos. Hablan en español. Lunes a viernes 8-4:30. 612-348-2193
State of Minnesota
Minnesota recently launched a new hotline specifically for refugees and immigrants to ensure they have access to accurate, timely information about the COVID-19 pandemic.
Call 651-318-0989 to receive information at support in any language.
Elections
Absentee Voting
In Minnesota, you don’t have to wait until Election Day to vote. You can vote early with an absentee ballot. Eligible voters may vote early in person at their local elections office, or by mail. To vote early by mail, request an absentee ballot at mnvotes.org. Once your application is approved, materials will be sent straight to you!
Employment
Pandemic Unemployment Assistance
Two weeks ago Minnesota Unemployment Insurance program began making Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) payments to people who are self-employed, independent contractors, and other eligible recipients who are not eligible for regular unemployment benefits.
They have processed initial payments for nearly 60,000 people to date.
Learn how to apply for weekly PUA payments >
High school students who have lost their job due to COVID-19 are now able to apply for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance. Applications are due by December 26.
Unemployment Resources
To meet the new demand DEED has taken new steps to help streamline its response to the most common eligibility issues in order to help process application and get payments to applicants more quickly.
- They are no longer required to delay benefits for people who are taking vacation, sick pay or personal time off when they apply for unemployment insurance.
- This change will also free up staff to help assist other Minnesotans who are navigating this process and ensure more people get benefits as quickly as possible.
- This change is authorized under Executive Order 20-29 signed by the Governor today, and will help ensure they are able to immediately get benefits to the folks who need it most right now.
Click here for more information on unemployment benefits >
Learn more about eligibility requirements >
CareerForce
CareerForce is a career development and talent matching resource for Minnesota. They aim to guide people toward rewarding careers, connect individuals to opportunities and help employers find the workers they need to grow and thrive.
The Dislocated Workers program can help those who have lost their jobs return to work. Eligible people may qualify for: individual career planning and counseling; connection with employers who are hiring now; connection to education resources; and more. Visit CareerForceMN.com/dislocated-worker to learn more.
Food Support
Food and Drug Administration
Explore information from the FDA >
West African Community Food Shelf
This food shelf has a focus on culturally specific West African foods and is open to all Brooklyn Park residents during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The food shelf practices social distancing so you are welcome to freely select your food!
7200 Brooklyn Blvd
Brooklyn Center, MN 55429
Monday – Friday
9:00am – 5:00pm
Learn more about West African Family & Community Services >
Community Emergency Assistance Program (CEAP)
We continue to serve neighbors who ask for help with groceries and basic needs through a “drive up” service. We have prepacked groceries assembled in boxes along with bags of produce and bread. Our assortment is still both shelf stable and fresh at this time.
Food Safety
The FDA compiled a list of resources related to food safety and COVID-19.
Learn more about food safety >
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Food Support
SNAP provides nutrition assistance to low-income individuals and families and provides economic benefits to communities.
Metro Meals on Wheels
View the Meals on Wheels webpage >
Lutheran Social Services
A variety of nutritional meal programs for older adults
MN Department of Human Services – Food & Nutrition Assistance Links
Minnesota’s food programs help people with low incomes get the food they need for nutritious and well-balanced meals. These programs include the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the Minnesota Food Assistance Program (MFAP), and various other food programs and services, such as employment and training. With proper nutrition, children learn more easily, adults work more productively and seniors are healthier.
View more about food and nutrition services >
MN Department of Human Services – Pandemic Electronic Benefit Trnasfer
Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT) is a temporary food benefit available to Minnesota families with children who would have received free or reduced-price meals if schools were open.
MN Department of Human Services – ApplyMN
Use ApplyMN to submit an application for: Cash Assistance, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Child Care or Emergency Assistance.
Loaves & Fishes
Free Grab and Go Meals are available on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 12-1pm at Brooklyn United Methodist Church.
Minnesota Food Helpline
Over the phone resource to help people find food and help with applying for SNAP. Multilingual assistance Mon-Fri 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call 1-888-711-1151
Minneapolis Public Schools
Minneapolis Public Schools is offering WEEKLY food pick up at nearly 50 food distribution sites across the city of Minneapolis.
ACER
ACER is a nonprofit organization that engages community members living in the north and northwest suburbs. For food assistance, call 763-307-4731.
Every Meal
Every Meal is expanding its free winter meal program to over 50 locations throughout the Twin Cities, including Brooklyn Park. The program provides bags of nutritious, non-perishable food for free through January, while supplies last. Learn more on Every Meal’s website.
Hennepin County
Hennepin County has created a new form for families who tested positive for COVID-19 or may be in quarantine and are in need to supplies (food, medication, etc). The form is available in English, Spanish and Somali.
Government Resources
Driver and Vehicle Services
Minnesotans can apply for duplicate licenses or ID cards Minnesotans who lost their driver’s license or ID card, or had it stolen, can now apply for a duplicate card while Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services (DPS-DVS) exam stations are closed.
There are two options:
- Deputy registrar and driver’s license agent offices can accept duplicate driver’s license and ID card applications that do not require a photo at their office. No face-to-face transactions are available, so offices are offering this in a way where you do not physically enter the building.
- If a local office isn’t offering this service, DPS-DVS can send a photo receipt and letter to serve as a temporary replacement for a lost driver’s license or ID card while exam stations are closed to Minnesotans who submit the request.
More information, including instructions, is on the DVS COVID-19 FAQ webpage.
Federal Emergency Management Agency
The purpose of this FEMA page is to help the public distinguish between rumors and facts regarding the response to coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
Hennepin County Public Health
Call the resource helpline (available in different languages) at 612-348-3000
- Clothing
- Financial assistance
- Groceries
- Medical care and equipment
- Medication
- Other county services
Aprenda acerca de distanciamiento social >
Que hacer en caso de estar enfermo con Covid 19 >
Hennepin County resident services
View County resident services >
MN Department of Health case updates
The Minnesota Department of Health offers daily updates to COVID-19 cases in the state.
MN Department of Health mitigation strategies
The Minnesota Department of Health offers up-to-date mitigation strategies for lessening the impact and spread of COVID-19.
MN Employment Resources
View the MN Employment Resources webpage >
MN Department of Labor & Industry
View Minnesota workers rights and protection >
MN Unemployment Insurance Program
This is the official resource for information about Minnesota Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits. UI benefits provide a temporary partial wage replacement to workers who become unemployed through no fault of their own. If you have become unemployed or had your hours greatly reduced, complete the Application Process – we will determine whether or not you are eligible and notify you.
View more about the MN Unemployment Insurance Program >
USPS Informed Delivery
Informed Delivery allows people to sign up to see what they are receiving in the mail and can sign for something without having someone come to the door.
Grocery and Food Delivery
Cub Foods
Cub has grocery delivery and store pickup options.
Learn more about Cub Food’s grocery services >
Help at your Door
Help At Your Door Grocery Assistance provides access to nutritious food, companionship, and a helpful hand in your kitchen for older adults and people with disabilities. Grocery Assistance includes: orders can be placed over the phone or online, delivery of grocery items and help with putting items away, and EBT payments/ SNAP benefits are accepted.
Visit the Help on your Door website >
Hy-Vee
Hy-Vee has next-day curbside pickup or delivery.
Learn more about Hy-Vee Aisles Online >
InstaCart
A popular same- day grocery delivery service that delivers from the follow stores: Costco Wholesale, Cub, Aldi, Total Wine, CVS Pharmacy, Sam’s Club, Petco, Fresh Thyme, HyVee, and more.
Metro Transportation (Food Delivery)
Certified Metro Mobility customers can order groceries and household essentials from a store that has online shopping and local pick up.
Learn more about Metro Mobility >
Target
Target offers same- day delivery through their Same Day Delivery Partner, Shipt, as well as order pick-up.
Learn more about Target’s grocery services >
Walmart
Walmart offers delivery and pick- up options. $30 minimum is required. Pickup is free, and the delivery fee varies based on the time of your order pickup.
Learn more about Walmart’s grocery services >
CAPI
CAPI is able to deliver food to any adult who may have tested positive for COVID or are quarantined. Call 612.767.3692 to request delivery.
Health Care Support
Testing Locations
Testing sites are designed to keep you and health care workers safe. Sometimes you may stay in your car. Other sites will screen you before you come indoors. Many sites will require an appointment before you arrive in order to ensure they’ve collected your contact and insurance information.
Please review directions specific to each site before you go.
Click here to view Minnesota testing locations >
Saliva Testing
The first metro area COVID-19 saliva testing site is open in Brooklyn Park at 8085 Brooklyn Boulevard in the Starlite Center. The site will be open seven days a week and tests are free for any Minnesotan who wants to take one.
Starlite Center, former Office Max building
8085 Brooklyn Blvd
Brooklyn Park, MN 55428
Monday – Friday: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Saturday – Sunday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Schedule Appointment
At-Home testing
Minnesota and Vault Medical Services have teamed up to offer at-home COVID-19 saliva testing for everyone, with or without symptoms, at no cost.
Results will be sent to your typically within 48 to 72 hours after testing. If you have questions regarding saliva testing, please email mn@vaulthealth.com or call 800-800-5698. Learn more about saliva testing on the Minnesota Department of Health website.
Should I get tested?
The state of Minnesota has created a screening tool can help people decide whether they should be tested for COVID-19. This tool is not a substitute for medical advice and should not stop you from seeking medical attention if you need it. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please call 911 and notify the operator that you have or think you might have COVID-19.
Click here to view the screening tool >
ACER
ACER is a nonprofit organization that engages community members living in the north and northwest suburbs.
ACER is doing a holistic intake for community needs, please call 612-314-5586 or visit their website. Additionally they are providing virtual wellness support sessions every Wednesday evenings.
Visit www.acerinc.org for dates and time and to register.
CARES Act
The CARES Act requires that COVID-19 testing is covered without cost-sharing. This applies to all health insurance coverage in Minnesota. It is important to know that this applies to the test only, office visits are not covered through the CARES Act. Some insurance carriers have agreed to waive cost-sharing for in network visits associated with the COVID-19 test – it is important to check with your health insurance to find out what will be covered and what is in network.
If you have questions about your health insurance coverage call your insurance company prior to getting tested.
State hotline for health questions
651-201-3920 or 1-800-657-3903
7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
MN Healthcare Resources
Links to various healthcare resources in MN >
MN Department of Health
Learn more about COVID-19 and its status in Minnesota >
MN Department of Human Services
Many uninsured Minnesotans can get tested for COVID-19 at no cost to them during the federal public health emergency. To get free coverage for testing, you must: be a resident of Minnesota, be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national or lawfully present non citizen with an immigration status that qualifies for Medical Assistance, provide your Social Security number unless you meet an exception for not having one, and not be enrolled in any other health insurance.
Call 651-431-3994 or 800-366-5414 or visit the health care coverage web page.
MNsure
MNsure has opened a special enrollment period for COVID-19 so people can get health insurance if they’ve lost their job or otherwise need to get insured.
Read more about MSure support related to COVID-19 >
Center for Disease Control
Senior Community Services
Health insurance counseling, caregiver services for seniors
View the Senior Community Services website >
Influenza prevention information for seniors
View essential information on the flu shot during pandemic
Senior Linkage Line
The Senior LinkAge Line® is a free service of the state of Minnesota that connects older Minnesotans and their families with the help they need.
View the Senior Linkage Line website >
NorthPoint
NorthPoint is now offering drive-up COVID-19 testing by appointment only. Schedule at 612-543-2500. NorthPoint ahora ofrece pruebas de COVID-19 solo con cita previa. Para hacer la cita llame al 612-543-2500.
Learn more on the NorthPoint website >
Community Partnership Collaborative
CPC has MNsure navigators on call ready to get you insured. Call 612.481.3577 or visit cpcmn.org
Disabiltity Hub MN
Disability Hub MN has a collection of resources for you and your family during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Holidays
The Minnesota Department of Health has put together guidance on how residents can safely celebrate holidays. Visit their website for more information.
Home Education Support
Common Sense Media
Teaching Kids Media Smarts During Breaking News Don’t believe everything you read — and other lessons for kids growing up with a 24/7 news cycle.
Learn more from Common Sense Media >
Teach.com
This comprehensive list of resources covers everything from adaptive technology to the basics of reading and math. It even includes suggestions for field trips and physical education. We hope you find this list useful and encourage you to share it with your networks!
View the resource list from Teach.com >
Twin Cities PBS
TPT offers tips on how to talk to your kids about COVID-19.
Scholastic Free Online Learning
Day-by-day projects to keep kids reading, thinking, and growing.
Learn more about Scholastic online learning >
State hotline for school and child care questions
651-297-1304 or 1-800-657-3504
7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Osseo Area Schools (District 279)
Per the governor’s order, District 279 will provide childcare for currently enrolled children ages 4-12 whose parents/guardians are identified by Gov. Walz as Tier 1 or Tier 2 essential employees. Register online or call 763-585-7281 to register for childcare.
Online Subscriptions
A large number of online education services are offering free subscriptions to their services amid the COVID-19 outbreak.
View a list of online education services >
Learning Lift Off
View a resource list from Learning Lift Off >
MN Parents of COVID-19 Support
NPR Just for Kids
A comic based on a radio story that NPR education reporter Cory Turner did. He asked some experts what kids might want to know about COVID-19.
PCs for People
Receive free or reduced cost computer and internet access, please see eligibility requirements.
Kids Activities Website
Listing of education companies offering free subscriptions due to school closings.
View the Kids Activities resource list >
Learn more about Internet Essentials >
Hennepin County Library
Get homework help online >
Follow Hennepin County Library on Facebook >
PACER
As we all navigate this public health crisis, PACER is committed to being a valuable resource for families of children with disabilities and the professionals who serve them.
Outschool
Outschool is committed to supporting those affected by closures in the wake of COVID-19. Browse their free schooling resources for educators, families, and learners.
Housing
Renters and apartment owners
City of Brooklyn Park
The city has a wide variety of resources and information for renters and landlords in Brooklyn Park. Visit our Renting page to learn more.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
In the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision that invalidated the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) eviction moratorium, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is using every tool at our disposal to help safeguard the millions of the nation’s individuals and families now in danger of losing their homes.
HOME Line
HOME Line COVID-19 information on Executive Orders >
ACER
ACER is a nonprofit organization that engages community members living in the north and northwest suburbs.
For housing resources and support for tenants (including help writing to landlord) call 612-430-8678 or visit www.acerinc.org.
Rental and mortgage assistance hotline: 763-307-4731
Tenant Resource Center
Supports Hennepin County residents who are at risk of eviction or homelessness with emergency assistance, legal assistance, mediation and more.
Learn more about the Tenant Resource Center >
HOME Line
Information about the executive order suspending evictions. HOME Line’s tenant hotline provides free and confidential legal advice for Minnesota Renters
Law Help MN
A fact sheet on court changes during the pandemic.
View the Law Help MN fact sheet >
Minnesota Housing
We created this webpage to provide a centralized location for all Minnesota Housing updates and information related to COVID-19. We will continue adding to this webpage on a regular basis so check back often.
View housing resources from the state of Minnesota >
Minnesota Multi-Housing Association
Guidance for apartment owners and renters.
Hennepin County
If you’re unable to make rent or have fallen behind on rent or utilities due to COVID-19, apply now for Hennepin County’s rental assistance.
CEAP
CEAP, a local nonprofit organization, also has rent assistance funding that Brooklyn Park residents can apply for. More information available on their website.
Homeowners
HomeHelpMN
The HomeHelpMN COVID-19 Homeowner Assistance Fund is currently under development and is not yet open to the public.
The initial plan calls for funds to assist homeowners with:
- Mortgage Reinstatement (catching homeowners up on their mortgage);
- Loan Modification (principal and/or mortgage payment reductions) subject to loan product/servicing guidelines; and
- Other past-due property charges.
The program is not available yet and the amount of funding available will likely not meet the anticipated needs of all eligible Minnesota homeowners. It is important that lenders, servicers, and homeowners work together to explore the full range of options available to preserve homeownership.
Lenders and servicers who are working with Minnesota homeowners should take these steps:
- Engage with homeowners to explore an affordable loss mitigation work out solution. Provide additional resources such as those available through the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
- Connect homeowners with a local HUD-approved housing counselor. HUD-approved housing counselors provide free, unbiased, confidential services to help homeowners make choices to address their housing needs. Homeowners can connect with foreclosure prevention services via the Minnesota Homeownership Center.
- Homeowners who are struggling with energy bills may qualify for assistance. Refer homeowners to the Minnesota Department of Commerce or call 651.657.3710 to apply for Energy Assistance.
At this time, do not refer homeowners to Minnesota Housing for HomeHelpMN assistance because the program is not yet available and we are not able to provide direct assistance to families.
Have questions about HomeHelpMN? Write to us at homehelpmn@state.mn.us.
Federal Housing Finance Agency
Mortgage help for homeowners during COVID-19 and information on the 60-day suspension on foreclosures for FHA-issued mortgages.
Learn more about mortgage assistance >
Office of the Attorney General
General information on foreclosure and tips if you fall behind on payments.
Read more from the Office of the Attorney General >
31 Minnesota financial institutions have committed to providing mortgage-relief options to customers facing financial hardship caused by COVID-19. These also apply to homeowners not covered by the CARES Act.
Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
Resources for property owners, homeless service providers and HUD-assisted residents.
Internet
Emergency Broadband Benefits (EBB)
The Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) is a new federal program, which provides discounted or free internet to many households. You can apply if your household meet any of the following categories:
- Anyone currently receiving Medicaid, SNAP, or SSI Benefits
- Families with students who receive free or reduced-price school meals
- Anyone with a current Pell grant
- Anyone currently eligible for Comcast Internet Essentials OR
- Anyone that has experienced a substantial loss of income since February 29, 2020
The benefit is limited to one monthly discount per household. Some plans also offer a one-time discount for a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer.
Ways to enroll
- Online at www.GetEmergencyBroadband.org
- Through the mail by calling 833-511-0311 for an application
- Directly with a participating internet service provider. To find a local provider, you can use the Companies Near Me search tool.
Internet Essentials from Comcast
Beginning Monday, March 16, Comcast is offering 2 months free to new Internet Essentials customers in response to COVID-19. New customers will receive a free self-install kit that includes a cable modem and WiFi router. This is a no term contract.
Apply for Internet Home Essentials >
Xfinity Free Hotspots
Until further notice, all Xfinity WiFi Public Hotspots are now open to everyone on the “xfinitywifi” SSID. Public hotspots can be found in small/medium businesses and outdoors in commercial areas. Non-Xfinity subscribers need to accept Terms and Conditions to access the network and repeat when requested to continue to receive free unlimited access.
Learn more about Xfinity’s free public hotspots >
View a map of available Xfinity hotspots >
Media
KMOJ Radio (89.9 FM)
The current organizational vision of KMOJ is to develop the African American community through informing and educating people via vehicles of mass communication, including computer Internet, television, radio, and print journalism.
National Public Radio
National Public Radio is a privately and publicly funded American non-profit membership media organization based in Washington, D.C.
Star Tribune
The Star Tribune has lifted paywalls for coverage related to COVID-19. Free daily newsletter to get email updates.
Mental Health
TPT Twin Cities
TPT NOW in partnership with four cultural media agencies, the MN Department of Health and Wellshare International, funded in part by Blue Cross Blue Shield, are producing four culturally specific guides for mental health: “Coping with COVID-19, a guide to mental health resources.” Each piece is in native languages and features experts from cultural communities. Cultures represented will be Hmong, Latinx, Somali and Black.
Broadcast/Streaming information:
- Hmong – Available July 15 – YouTube
- Latinx – Broadcasts on July 25 and August 8 at 10:30 a.m. – Univision Minnesota
- Somali – Available July 20 – Facebook
- Black – Broadcast on July 29 at 1:00 p.m. – KMOJ FM
Change to Chill
Change to Chill is a free, award-winning, mental well-being resource offered by a subdivision of Allina Health. Their interactive website is tailored to both teens and the adults who work with them.
Change to Chill helps teens become more aware of the things that stress them out and equips them with relevant tools and resources to better manage stress and anxiety, so they can live happier, more resilient lives.
Check out the Change to Chill virtual care package >
Hennepin County Mental Health Center
The Hennepin County Mental Health Center is providing services by phone and video conference. Immediate openings for children, adolescents and adults. If you, or a loved one, live in Hennepin County and might benefit from talking with a mental health professional, please contact them at 612-596-9438.
Mental Health MN
Warmline assists anyone by peer support to address loneliness, isolation, increased feelings of anxiety and depression, as well as help people living with mental health conditions with recovery and wellness before a crisis occurs.
Learn more about Mental Health MN >
National Child Traumatic Stress Network
The National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN) was created by Congress in 2000 as part of the Children’s Health Act to raise the standard of care and increase access to services for children and families who experience or witness traumatic events. This unique network of frontline providers, family members, researchers, and national partners is committed to changing the course of children’s lives by improving their care and moving scientific gains quickly into practice across the U.S. The NCTSN is administered by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and coordinated by the UCLA-Duke University National Center for Child Traumatic Stress (NCCTS).
Hennepin County Mobile Crisis Team
The Cope mobile crisis teams can come to where you are. The teams respond to anyone in the county who needs an urgent response.
Adults 18 and over: 612-596-122
Children 17 and under: 612-348-2233
Walk-in Counseling Center
Walk-In is offering free counseling over the phone and online.
Veteran Suicide Prevention Hotline
24-hour hotline for veterans in crisis and their families or friends.
Call 800-273-8255, press 1
Mental Health MN
Mental Health MN – The Voice of Recovery is offering resources to help with social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Call 877-404- 3190 or text “Support” to 85511 for more information. Visit the Mental Health MN website.
Minnesota Associations for Children’s Mental Health
MACMH has resources designed to help families and professionals support both their own mental health as well as the mental health of the children in their care as this public health crisis unfolds.
National Suicide Prevention Hotline
The 24/7 lifeline provides support when in distress, has prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and resources for professionals. Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Public Safety
Hennepin County
Hennepin County has published a quarantine and isolation calculator that can help you determine what to do if you test positive for COVID-19 or come in contact with someone who does.
Restaurants
Interactive Map
The COVID-19 pandemic has been difficult on restaurants. Click the link below to explore restaurants in the city and support a local business!
Click here to view a map of restaurants in Brooklyn Park >
Testing
Testing Locations
Testing sites are designed to keep you and health care workers safe. Sometimes you may stay in your car. Other sites will screen you before you come indoors. Many sites will require an appointment before you arrive in order to ensure they’ve collected your contact and insurance information.
Please review directions specific to each site before you go.
Click here to view Minnesota testing locations >
Saliva Testing
The first metro area COVID-19 saliva testing site is open in Brooklyn Park at 8085 Brooklyn Boulevard in the Starlite Center. The site will be open seven days a week and tests are free for any Minnesotan who wants to take one.
Starlite Center, former Office Max building
8085 Brooklyn Blvd
Brooklyn Park, MN 55428
Monday – Friday: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Saturday – Sunday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Schedule Appointment
At-Home testing
Minnesota and Vault Medical Services have teamed up to offer at-home COVID-19 saliva testing for everyone, with or without symptoms, at no cost.
Order and at-home saliva test >
Results will be sent to your typically within 48 to 72 hours after testing. If you have questions regarding saliva testing, please email mn@vaulthealth.com or call 800-800-5698. Learn more about saliva testing on the Minnesota Department of Health website.
Should I get tested?
The state of Minnesota has created a screening tool can help people decide whether they should be tested for COVID-19. This tool is not a substitute for medical advice and should not stop you from seeking medical attention if you need it. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please call 911 and notify the operator that you have or think you might have COVID-19.
Click here to view the screening tool >
Transportation
Metro Transit
Starting May 18, all passengers on Metro Transit buses and trains are required to wear a face covering. Visit the Metro Transit website for more information on the new policy.
Metropolitan Council
The Metropolitan Council announced today it’s marshaling its resources for the region’s frontline healthcare workers to provide a safe and stress-free trip to and from work. Starting Monday (April 13), Metro Mobility will be providing free door-to-door service from home to work and work to home for any person who works at a healthcare facility, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
This effort comes as doctors, nurses, home health aides, clinic staff, janitorial and all other healthcare support staff put their lives on the line to bring Minnesotans through the COVID-19 (coronavirus) outbreak. With Metro Transit service reductions, we understand those who are dependent on transit to reach their jobs may not have the transit access they previously had.
Healthcare workers can schedule a ride up to four days in advance, although the Met Council will try to accommodate same day requests whenever possible. As service demands allow, the goal is that each bus will arrive within 20 minutes of the agreed-upon pick-up time.
Changes or cancellations should be made at least one hour in advance. Learn more at Metro Mobility Transport for Essential Health Workers.
ACER
ACER is a nonprofit organization that engages community members living in the north and northwest suburbs. For transportation assistance, call 763-307-4731.
Vaccinations
Vaccine Connector
Minnesota has launched a Vaccine Connector tool to help connect residents to vaccine opportunities in their area when they become available and help schedule appointments.
Minnesota Department of Health
MN Health has put together a webpage about COVID-19 vaccines and updates on their availability.
The State of Minnesota has launched a public vaccine data dashboard to detail the progress of COVID-19 vaccine allocation, distribution, and administration across Minnesota. The dashboard provides a visual and user-friendly way to view key vaccination data for our state.
Hennepin County
Hennepin County Public Health is offering COVID-19 vaccine appointment notifications at vaccine clinic to Hennepin County residents. Register online and you’ll be contacted when you’re eligible for an available appointment.
Hennepin County has put together some frequently asked questions about COVID-19 vaccines.
Helpful Links