Working in the service industry can be hard. Luckily, you don’t have to deal with anything alone. The following is a list of resources and information to protect your mental and financial health, whether this is your first introduction to the service industry, or you’re a seasoned vet. If you have any updates, advice, or ideas for the community, we built a place to share them. These are your service industry resources for COVID-19, mental & financial health, and general support.
Financial Resources
USBG Bartender Emergency Assistance Program – The United States Bartenders Guild provides financial assistance to bartenders affected by temporary, emergent, financial hardship due to unforeseen and/or catastrophic life events through its emergency assistance program.
The One Fair Wage Program – They are actively raising money for this emergency fund and will be making temporary cash gifts to workers as funding becomes available.
Restaurant Workers Community Foundation – Their board has approved 50% relief to individuals, 25% to restaurants, and 25% to nonprofits that serve the service industry. Individuals can apply for emergency relief funds here.
Another Round Another Rally – A nonprofit financial resource for the service industry that is providing COVID-19 relief grants, as well as emergency assistance and professional development aid.
Rent Assistance Programs – Just enter your zip code, and find relief in your area.
United Way Worldwide – United Way is a privately funded non-profit offering resources on food assistance, internet access, and mental health. All you have to do is call 2-1-1.
Modest Needs – A nonprofit organization that provides financial assistance to those living just above the poverty level and as a result do not qualify for many state or federal relief programs. Click here to apply for a Modest Needs grant.
State by State Help – For food, rent, utility, or medical assistance, find your state’s resources on this expansive list.
Need Help Paying Bills – The name of their organization says it all.
Unemployment Websites by State – This site breaks down exactly where to find assistance in your area.
Food Stamps – Find out how you can apply for SNAP, D-SNAP, or WIC benefits, here. This website also outlines what to do if you need immediate food assistance.
Resources for Younger Folks
Work Permits – Find out information about whether you need a work permit, and how to get one.
YouthRules – An initiative that provides information on protections for youth workers, as well as information on state and federal labor laws.
Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) – Information on the FLSA, which includes how many hours youth employees can work.
Resources for Formerly Incarcerated Individuals
OMH – The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Minority Health has compiled a list of reentry resources for formerly incarcerated folks, ranging from where to get health care coverage to assistance on re-entering the workforce.
RecordGone – RecordGone is a division of The Law Firm of Higbee & Associates that has compiled a list of resources for formerly incarcerated individuals from Texas. This list focuses on combating barriers to housing and employment.
Health Resources
Testing Centers – Feeling under the weather? Need to travel? Check out the CDC guidance on when and where to get tested, as well as additional info COVID-19.
Protocol Updates – You can refer to the CDC website for information on COVID-19 related travel, and virus prevention.
Vaccination – The best way to prevent the spread of COVID-19 is to wear a mask indoors, and get vaccinated. The CDC has all of the answers for FAQs on the vaccine, as well as where to get one.
Children of the Industry – CORE grants support to children of food and beverage employees that are navigating life-altering circumstances.
Online Fitness Classes – From boot camp to yoga, YMCA launched 60 free online classes for people stuck at home, or for people who don’t want to go back to the gym, yet (or ever!).
Restaurant After Hours – A charitable organization providing mental health resources for the hospitality industry, has a robust resources page with information on mental health help, restaurant-focused organizations, and online communities.
The National Association of Free & Charitable Clinics – Just type in your zip code to find a center near you.
NeedyMeds – A wealth of knowledge pertaining to drug discount cards.
Free or Reduced Cost Health Care – Here is a list of Hill-Burton facilities obligated to offer free or reduced-cost health care. Hill-Burton facilities are public and non-profit facilities that received financial assistance under the Public Health Service Act. This includes acute care general hospitals, special hospitals, and nursing homes.
Mental Health Resources
Mental Health – You can attend digital AA meetings, join the Chef’s with Issues forum, or pick out a resource from the Restaurant After Hours program.
Patients Like Me – A personalized patient network where you can connect with and learn from people who have similar conditions.
Active Minds – A mental health resource hub that aids with stress management and self-care.
Ben’s Friends – Substance abuse support network specifically focused on those in the hospitality industry.
Sanvello – An app for stress, anxiety, and depression management that offers guided meditation, learning modules, daily tips, and community discussion.
Open Path – An affordable therapy option. Each session costs $30-60, with an annual membership fee of $59.
Helpful Hotlines – The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (call 800-273-8255 or text “Hope” to 916-668-ICAN) offers free, confidential 24/7 help. The Crisis Text Line (text “Home” to 741741) lets you connect to a trained crisis counselor without having to talk on the phone. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (800-950-6264) has put together a helpful guide with coronavirus-related questions and resources.
7cups – Free online therapy and counseling. You can chat with counselors for emotional support 24/7, for free. They also offer confidential, affordable therapy with licensed therapists for $150 per month.
Resources for Businesses
Tax-Favored Financial Assistance – If you’re worried about having to lay off employees, you might be able to do more than you think.
Texas Resources
Free TABC Certification – The Texas Restaurant Association is now offering free TABC Certification.
Southern Smoke – Provides funding to those in the food and beverage industry who are in crisis, as well as resources on how to access free mental health services.
Dining at a Distance – An aggregation of every business in Austin offering takeout, delivery, and gift cards.
Get Shift Done – Providing both meals and unique employment opportunities in the city of Dallas.
*This is a living, breathing blog that we’ll update as needed*
Last Updated: 1/7/2022