PDX ACCESSIBLE RESOURCE GUIDE
This resource guide was developed during COVID-19 for the blind and low vision community in the Portland, Oregon area. Though this is not a complete rendering of all available resources, it is a wide collection. This guide will be updated monthly. You can find links to download, share, donate and comment in the left column or at the bottom of this page. Please share this guide, it is for everyone. Updated August 5, 2020
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- How To Read This Guide
- Accessing The Information
- Food & Essentials Support
- Grocery Delivery
- Meal Delivery
- Safe Shopping & Outings
- Transportation
- COVID Information
- Health Care
- Wellness
- Spiritual Support & Encouragement
- Exercise
- Learning Resources
- Parent Teaching Resources
- Reading
- Support For Parents
- IRS Stimulus Payment
- Employment, Unemployment & Social Security
- Small Business Resources
- Voting
- Census
- News
- Entertainment
- Blind Community Support
HOW TO READ THIS GUIDE
This guide contains a wealth of information, it is recommended to utilize the table of content links to go to the category you want to read or to scroll through categories rather than reading this entire guide at once. To scroll through categories or return to the table of contents: screen readers can use ‘heading navigation’ and visual readers can use keyboard commands for your system, or the ‘page up’ and ‘page down’ keys for faster scrolling. There are also clickable “return to Table of Contents” links at the end of each category for your convenience. In addition, this page has an accessibility toolbar located near the top left that looks like a small circle with a man inside. It can be moved around and it expands to include additional options for reading the page.
ACCESSING THE INFORMATION
It is recommended to use these websites on a computer where they may be screen reader friendly or compatible with various forms of magnification. Some websites may prompt you to download the app, which may not be as accessible. This is most often not necessary. If you are accessing a site from a device, keep in mind even though you are using a website link and not an app, these will often automatically load in the mobile version, which can be less accessible. You can try selecting the browser menu to choose “desktop version” and see if that helps, if not, use a computer instead. For some links, you may need to copy and paste the link into your browser. For certain websites, a screen reader might not work with a browser. If this happens, try using the Google Chrome browser instead. Please report inaccessible websites by email to: [email protected]
FOOD & ESSENTIALS SUPPORT
Food assistance – to apply for SNAP, find food banks & free school meals. For screen readers, use Chrome browser to access: https://www.oregonfoodbank.org/find-help/find-food/ or call Portland SNAP line: 503-945-5600
Aging & disability resource connection – for help with food stamps, caregiving, & medical insurance: call M-F 8:00am – 5:00pm 503-988-3646
Online shopping with EBT – now you can shop for groceries online with your SNAP EBT card accepted by Walmart & Amazon (see Grocery Delivery in TOC for those order links). For best results use a computer when setting up your card and making an order, some have reported it does not work with a device. Walmart has an option to add card at check out and on both Amazon Pantry and Amazon Fresh, you must first set up your EBT card online here: www.Amazon.com/SNAP
Grocery shopping guidelines & cleaning groceries:
https://www.ecowatch.com/groceries-coronavirus-health-2645656475.html
Food, essentials & medication delivery – for disabled and/ or high-risk in Portland from the Catalyst Care Network, fill out request form here: http://form.jotform.com/200877320431145
Request a food box – fill out the form here: https://airtable.com/shrZQpcnx4Et3MGCh
Emergency food delivery – Sunshine Division with Portland Police will do “no-contact” food box deliveries M-F for homebound residents in Portland or Gresham. Register here: https://sunshine-division.cyrkusevents.com
Food & essentials help via text – Alongsider’s Church can deliver food, supplies & more. To get help, text the word: CARE to 503-232-5155 you will receive an automated text with a link, click the link then fill out the form and submit it, and they will call you.
Local Covid-19 assistance resources – to find updated resources in your area, including shelters, food banks, hotlines, rent & utility assistance, free lunches for kids, childcare and more
Online resource finder: www.211info.org
By phone – from a cell: 211 or from a landline: 503-222-5555
By text – text your zip code to: 898211
By email: [email protected]
More local resources page:
https://multco.us/novel-coronavirus-covid-19/community-resources
Rent payment delay guidelines: https://beta.portland.gov/phb/rental-services/multnomah-county-city-portland-covid-19-eviction-moratorium-faq
Utilities – many companies are delaying shut off and waiving late fees. Contact your company to find out more. Get utility assistance by calling 211 or St. Vincent De Paul at 503-235-8431
Internet – Xfinity/ Comcast: Internet Essentials is free to new customers for 60 days, this reduced price internet service is available to all qualified low-income households for $9.95/month. To apply: https://apply.internetessentials.com/ or call 1-855-846-8376
To learn about other options with Comcast:
https://wifi.xfinity.com/ Disability phone line: 855-270-0379
Sighted assistance – Be My Eyes: https://www.bemyeyes.com/
GROCERY DELIVERY
When trying a new site first enter your zip code to confirm they will deliver to you, then note the date delivery is available before going through the process of putting together an order. Currently, grocers have more fresh produce options and quicker delivery than Amazon. For best service and availability schedule deliveries in the morning if possible. Delivery services such as Insta Cart and Postmates deliver for various stores and you choose the store through their site. Both of those delivery services and Amazon Fresh often have same day delivery for a small delivery fee. Some sites have a small service fee and waive delivery fees for larger orders. To watch your budget using direct store delivery like Fred Meyer, for example, has options to clip coupons and even shop in a sale category. Sign up for the store’s free club or rewards card ahead of time if you don’t have one, these usually give you more savings when you check out and often will give you digital coupons. Be sure to be signed in to your club or rewards card before starting your order. Sometimes delivery fees vary depending on how quickly you want the items, so planning ahead gives you more savings. You can share expenses with a friend or neighbor by ordering together or arranging pick-up.
TriMet Lift grocery delivery – this service is for current TriMet LIFT customers only. You must pre-order food then order pick-up for next day or later with Fred Meyer, Safeway, Albertson’s, Walmart, Insta Cart, Food Banks or Food Pantries. For more info: https://trimet.org/lift/delivery.htm or call 503-962-8000
Radio Cab delivery – this service is for grocery, pharmacy and restaurants delivery. Items must be paid for and ready for pick up, costs $3.50 + $2.60 per mile. To order pick up, call 503-227-1212
Call In grocery delivery – GoGo Gourmet: https://www.gogogourmet.com/
Insta Cart – many stores, same day delivery available: https://www.instacart.com/
Postmates – grocery, restaurant, alcohol & more: https://postmates.com/
Amazon Fresh: https://www.amazon.com/alm/storefront?almBrandId=QW1hem9uIEZyZXNo
Amazon Pantry: https://www.amazon.com/psx/info/?_encoding=UTF8&ref_=sv_PNTRY_OS_STF_WAY_4
Amazon Prime Now – Amazon & Whole Foods: https://primenow.amazon.com
Fred Meyer: https://www.fredmeyer.com
Walmart: https://grocery.walmart.com/locations/delivery/
Safeway: https://www.safeway.com
Costco: https://www.costco.com/my-life-costco-grocery-online-delivery.html
Albertsons: https://www.albertsons.com
Target: https://www.shipt.com/target
QFC: https://www.qfc.com/i/ways-to-shop/delivery
MEAL DELIVERY
For more budget-friendly options for restaurant deliveries, use filters or browse by category. For example, on Caviar, you can browse by “free delivery” and sometimes you can filter by the amount of dollar signs (more dollar signs mean a higher price). There is the option to Google search “restaurants near me that deliver.” Some of these restaurants, like Chinese or pizza, will have their own delivery but most of them use delivery services now.
My Fit Foods – they make meals at good cost and deliver for free. Use code DELIVER for a 20% discount: https://www.myfitfoods.com/
Postmates: https://postmates.com/
Grub Hub: https://www.grubhub.com/
Caviar: https://www.trycaviar.com
Uber Eats: https://www.ubereats.com/
DoorDash: https://www.doordash.com
Radio Cab – restaurant delivery. Food must be paid for & ready for pick up, costs $3.50 + $2.60 per mile. To order pick up call 503-227-1212
Call In meal delivery – GoGo Gourmet: https://www.gogogourmet.com/
SAFE SHOPPING & OUTINGS
When going out in public, be sure to identify yourself as a blind person with your cane or guide dog. Be verbal in claiming your space when people are near. You can be friendly yet firmly let them know you can’t see them and they need to maintain the distance. To increase your safety, find out when your store offers priority hours (for seniors, high-risk & disabled) or try to arrive when the store opens. Keeping distance will be much easier when stores are not crowded. Be sure to always wear gloves and a face covering.
Running essential errands – CDC guidelines: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/essential-goods-services.html?utm_campaign=20200430_cvd_prv_gal&utm_content=english&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
Tips for social distancing while blind – The Lighthouse Guild: https://www.lighthouseguild.org/newsroom/how-people-who-are-blind-or-have-low-vision-can-safely-practice-social-distancing-during-covid-19/
Coronavirus & blindness: https://visionaware.org/blog/visionaware-blog/coronavirus-and-blindness-how-to-prepare-and-take-care/
Guide Dogs and the coronavirus:
https://www.afb.org/blog/entry/guide-dogs-coronavirus
Oregon Covid-19 guidance: The Public
Face covering instructions – CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html
Make a face mask at home: https://sports.yahoo.com/four-easy-ways-no-sew-212255257.html
Reusable masks for blind/ low vision – handmade by Mitsy Kit $3 + shipping while supplies last. Call to order: 978-419-1824
Request protective supplies here: https://www.portlandoregon.gov/civic/article/759335?fbclid=IwAR0wl-vgFk2phrQe-1EFK9ol6tqpS7xaNN-rGAeds7PWQwM6CNqxylRGw6U
TRANSPORTATION
TriMet & TriMet LIFT – service updates: https://trimet.org/health/
Reduced faire info: qualify and apply online
(also see TriMet LIFT under Grocery Delivery section)
Rideshare call in service – GoGo Grandparent offers 24 hour call in service to use Lyft or Uber without an app. A small fee is added to regular ride price. Sign up: https://gogograndparent.com/register
or call 855-464-6872
Lyft ride share credit – $25 off code for essential rides, available only to current members of the National Federation of the Blind. Contact Oregon NFB president or your chapter (see Blind Community Resources)
Get There Oregon – this is a trip planning tool that connects people to transportation options including carpool matching, transit and more: https://getthereoregon.org/
COVID INFORMATION
Accessible Covid-19 statistics tracker – for screen reader users. This may not be compatible with Zoom Text or Fusion: https://cvstats.net/
Text table with sort capability, click on column heading to sort by. 2nd click to reverse order: https://www.blindbargains.com/bargains.php?m=21613
Your Covid-19 questions answered – KGW8: https://www.kgw.com/article/news/health/coronavirus/coronavirus-covid-19-questions/283-57d7ff56-1bb6-4040-851f-7dd2aca47c51
Oregon reopening updates: https://govstatus.egov.com/or-covid-19
Cleaning up germs without vision – insight4blind: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xfBcWTY_-co
Emergency prepared supplies: https://www.ready.gov/kit PDF: Emergency Supply List – Ready.gov
The Liturgist podcast – Covid-19 the science, how to help, & handling stress: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/covid-19-the-science-how-to-help-and-handling-the-stress/id903433534?i=1000468847297
HEALTH CARE
Tele Health/ Tele Medicine – due to the Coronavirus, some insurances will temporarily cover phone and video appointments for health care and mental health appointments. This may be extended for high-risk patients. Call your medical provider directly to schedule.
Accessible tool for checking risk factors: https://c19check.com/start
What to do if you’re sick: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/steps-when-sick.html?utm_campaign=20200408_gmd_prv_gal&utm_content=english&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
Avoiding disability-based discrimination in treatment rationing: https://www.centerforpublicrep.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Guidance-to-States-Hospitals_FINAL.pdf
Mental Health crisis line:
Multnomah County 503-988-4888
Washington County 503 -291-9111
Hotline finder – request phone numbers for help with substance abuse, suicide, domestic or child abuse, LGBTQ, youth & more by calling: 211 or 503-222-5555
WELLNESS
Because of the way the Covid-19 virus affects blood and oxygen in the body, many health professionals are highlighting the importance of hydration and exercise to reduce risks.
Naturopathic recommendations to prevent Covid-19: Download PDF
Stress & taking care of emotional health – CDC: https://emergency.cdc.gov/coping/selfcare.asp
Free guided meditations – Headspace: https://www.headspace.com/covid-19
Brain breaks & mindful activities: https://mindup.org.uk/mindup-activities/
Healthy living resources – meditations, tools for self-care, relationships, recovery, and more: https://AutumnLouiseSchaefer.com/resources
Healthy living head to toe – Portland Sunday Parkways
https://www.portland.gov/sunday-parkways/healthy-living-head-toe
Staying healthy during Covid-19 – Healthy Living Journal:
https://AutumnLouiseSchaefer.com/journal-stayinghealthy
Wednesday Wellness Events – American Council of the Blind
7:00 am – Healthy Living Accountability Check-in for those who want to support one another through their eating, exercise and other healthy lifestyle choices.
6:00 pm – Meditation Celebration followed by Midweek Serenity.
Anyone is welcome to join any of our events. Subscribe to the Community Events email list to get the daily schedule and Zoom links: http://acblists.org/mailman/listinfo/acb-community-events or email Cindy for assistance: [email protected]
SPIRITUAL SUPPORT & ENCOURAGEMENT
Online church finder, varied denominations: https://www.guideposts.org/better-living/life-advice/managing-life-changes/online-church-services-to-watch-at-home
Local live church service & community – Alongsider’s Church
Online service is at 10:00am on Sundays via the website, and you can access closed captions on Facebook live through your Facebook settings. Also, see calendar for more online events: www.alongsiderschurch.org
Inner Work community blog – on humanity and encountering God: https://www.innerworkcommunity.com/blog-1
Say Yes: a liturgy of not giving up on yourself:
https://www.scottericksonart.com/#/watch-say-yes/
Good newsletter: Free weekly email filled with life changing good news: https://www.goodgoodgood.co/goodnewsletter
Sounds Good podcast – conversations with optimists and world-changers who use their influence for good: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sounds-good-with-branden-harvey/id1080864041
(you can also find positive news in News category)
EXERCISE
Health professionals are recommending daily movement to reduce risks. This can be simple like taking the stairs, walking, jumping jacks, etc. For your safety, be sure to clear ample space, remember to stretch, and stay hydrated. When following a guided exercise, always pay attention to your own body’s needs and limitations.
Eyes free fitness – Blind Alive
You Tube channel workouts:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSJCXbR__C7IztG4us-8Hjw/featured
Download mp3 and text versions: www.blindalive.com
Audio described exercises & chat – Hadley
https://hadley.edu/user-login?destination=/discussion-groups/get-up-and-go%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR2yPn_JcBB91kSh1kQGYvvTSHGHVaxiczmt1z7Bx6hB9mAHqOJvLcQEp_0
Get up and go Zoom chat – Hadley: https://hadley.edu/discussions/GetUpAndGo.asp
Accessible workouts – local Northwest Association for Blind Athletes
At home workouts: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01Sf2HRrRzU&t=94s
Video library: https://nwaba.org/sports-programs/video-resource-library-1/
PE exercise worksheets: https://nwaba.org/programs/sports-adaptations/
30 day exercise challenge: https://www.youtube.com/user/nwaba1
Virtual workout programs for NWABA registered athletes. Before attending a virtual program, you must be registered with Northwest Association of Blind Athletes: register For registration assistance email: [email protected] Once registered, email the programs staff associated with the day you are interested in attending to get the workout details:
Mondays 12:00 pm – Low Impact with JoJo – [email protected]
Tuesdays 9:00 am – High Impact with Tara – [email protected]
Wednesdays 7:00 am – Low Impact with Megan – [email protected]
Thursdays 6:00 pm – High Impact with Mary – [email protected]
Aaptiv audio app – www.aaptiv.com
Down Dog app – accessible workouts: https://www.downdogapp.com/
Virtual Walk Across the USA exercise group – with Oral Hull Foundation. Join others in tracking your daily activity mileage (20 minutes = 1 mile), they tally up everyone’s miles. So for the group has virtually ridden ostriches, whitewater rafted, visited wineries, backpacked through the Nez Perce Clearwater National Forrest and more. Call to join: 503-668-6195
National Blind Sports Week Sept 28 – Oct 3 – United States Association of Blind Athletes. A virtual experience focused on participation and awareness of sports and opportunities available to athletes who are blind and visually impaired. To participate, contact Cat Bouwkamp at [email protected] or (719) 866-3210
Visit the Facebook event page: https://www.facebook.com/events/2951811324925132
For more information: https://www.usaba.org/third-annual-national-blind-sports-day-expands-to-week-of-virtual-programming-in-2020/
Sports and Recreation Division – National Federation of the Blind
Living the lives we want can include fully participating in sports and recreation. This division supports, provides resources and advocates to make fitness equipment and activities more accessible: www.nfbsportsandrec.org
Join Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/176619816827189/?ref=share Join mailing list: www.nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/sportsandrec_nfbnet.org
Community Movement Events – American Council of the Blind
Mondays – Easy Chair Yoga
Wednesdays – Advance Yoga & Healthy Living Accountability Check-in
Thursdays – Resistance Workout
Saturdays – Varied Workouts (dance, kickboxing, weights, & more)
Anyone is welcome to join any of our events. Subscribe to the Community Events email list to get the daily schedule and Zoom links: http://acblists.org/mailman/listinfo/acb-community-events or email Cindy for assistance: [email protected]
Self Defense & Stamina Classes – Oregon Commission for the Blind
Available for current and previous clients of OCB
Stamina Classes currently meet on Zoom
Sightless Self Defense Jujitsu Thursdays to meet online soon
Call for details: 971-673-1588
LEARNING RESOURCES
Free downloads of Braille and Word digital books – through August 31th by National Braille Press:
Dinner Delivered: Accessible and Easy Ways to Receive Meals Direct to
Your Door by Kim Loftis and Chris Grabowski: https://www.nbp.org/ic/nbp/DELIVERY.html
Getting Visual Assistance with an iPhone by Judith Dixon:
https://www.nbp.org/ic/nbp/VIS-ASSIST.html
Navigating Healthcare, When All They Can See Is that You Can’t by Deborah Kendrick: https://www.nbp.org/ic/nbp/NAV-HEALTH.html
Zoom accessibility features & documents:
https://zoom.us/accessibility
Shortcut and Hot Keys: https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/205683899-Hot-Keys-and-Keyboard-Shortcuts-for-Zoom
Free audiobook Meet Me Accessibly – a guide to zoom cloud meetings from a blindness perspective: https://mosen.org/zoom/
Free Jaws, Zoom Text or Fusion – for students and home workers until June 30th from Freedom Scientific: https://portal.freedomscientific.com/SponsoredSoftware Customer Service: 727-803-8000
Aira for college students – app with live sighted support offering free service for distance learning, email: [email protected] or call 1-800-835-1934
Homework help hotline – for blind/ low vision students. To request support, email [email protected] or call 732-835-6672
www.vistaseducation.com/homeworkhotline/
Free daily lessons for low vision students – Paths to Literacy:
https://www.pathstoliteracy.org/resources/Virtual-ExCEL-Academy
Accessible support for students & families – for blind/ low vision students needing access to curriculum. Fill out a request form here: https://uarizona.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8kUiESiL4PSmwU5
Audio music lesions: https://www.musicvi.com/
Google meetings – Google Meet: https://apps.google.com/meet/
Meet accessibility features: https://support.google.com/meet/answer/7313544
Sighted assistance – Be My Eyes: https://www.bemyeyes.com/
PARENT TEACHING RESOURCES
You can work with your child’s school to get accessible materials, they are required to work with ALL parents. Setting a regular routine builds stability and reduces stress for your family. Find teachable moments and incorporate learning into what they are doing day to day. You can relax and have fun with activities while spending time together. Integrate daily movement breaks with your children by running, jumping rope, jumping jacks, hopscotch, etc. Always remember to make time for yourself for your own peace of mind.
Accessible platforms – (not all teachers’ post accessible files)
Moodle: https://moodle.org/
Google classroom: https://classroom.google.com/u/0/h
Quizlet flashcards & study tools: https://quizlet.com/
Tools for online learning when the classroom closes. Instructure Canvas: https://www.instructure.com/canvas/tools-for-online-learning-when-the-classroom-closes
Google Meet: https://apps.google.com/meet/ Accessibility features: https://support.google.com/meet/answer/7313544
Learning & activities with NFB – learning from your living room. New activities are posted Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Live Zoom activities Thursdays at 8:00am PST, and more:
https://www.nfb.org/resources/distance-education-resources
To request more learning resources, email Karen Anderson at: [email protected]
The blind parents connection & education podcast: https://www.nfb.org/resources/publications-and-media/nations-blind-podcast/blind-parents-connection-podcast
Accessible activities, experiments, lessons, art, & free webinars – API: https://www.aph.org/athomewithaph-resources/
Free daily lessons for low vision students – Paths to Literacy:
https://www.pathstoliteracy.org/resources/Virtual-ExCEL-Academy
Accessible support for students & families – for blind/ low vision students needing access to curriculum, fill out request form: https://uarizona.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8kUiESiL4PSmwU5
Accessibyte apps – free access to a full range of apps for 45 days: https://www.accessibyte.com/stay-safe
Math Robot app – for iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/math-robot/id704570512
Amazing educational resources for parents & kids: https://www.amazingeducationalresources.com/
Scholastic learn at home: https://classroommagazines.scholastic.com/support/learnathome.html
Storyline online – free remote learning resources: https://www.storylineonline.net/?fbclid=IwAR2IlL_Qh_Mjxsbch2C6ViIxSFGtwlIMDFHeVCelDaVRO9Xm-oxlrML7Fls
Cincinnati zoo Facebook page – fun animal training videos and live streaming most days at 3:00pm: https://www.facebook.com/cincinnatizoo/live_videos/
Free educational website & app – Khan Academy: https://www.khanacademy.org
READING
Audible – free audiobooks for kids: www.audible.com/stories
Libby local library – free downloadable eBooks and audiobooks with your library card: https://libbyapp.com/welcome
Or app: https://www.overdrive.com/apps/libby/
Tales2go – Audio books with a free 30 day trial: https://www.tales2go.com/
Book share: https://www.bookshare.org/cms/
National library service BARD: https://nlsbard.loc.gov/login//NLS
Oregon site: https://www.oregon.gov/library/print-disabilities/pages/about-us.aspx
News line NFB – see News section for all details. For kids: there’s an app & magazines like Highlights, National Geographic Kids & more (no pictures, can be used with speech or braille display)
Learning Ally – reading for dyslexia: https://learningally.org/
At home: https://learningally.org/Solutions-for-Home/Overview
Covid-19 book for kids – “In response to the extraordinary spread of Covid-19” to help kids and grownups everywhere: https://akidsbookabout.com/pages/covid-19
SUPPORT FOR PARENTS
Blind parent resources from NFB: https://www.nfb.org/our-community/blind-parents
How to adjust to being home with kids: https://www.nj.com/coronavirus/2020/03/stuck-working-at-home-with-the-kids-due-to-coronavirus-here-are-some-experts-tips.html
Mindful activities for being home with kids – Mind Up: https://mindup.org.uk/mindup-activities/
Parents who are blind raising blind or low vision children – Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1322245404456277/?ref=br_rs
National organization of parents of blind children – Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/331066810353777/
Blind parents NFB group – join mailing list here: http://www.nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/blparent_nfbnet.org
Request resources by email: mailto:[email protected]
IRS STIMULUS PAYMENT
Electronic payments have started and paper checks started going out May 4th. Checks can take up to 20 weeks to receive.
If you are required to file: you must either have filed for 2018 previously or have filed for 2019 and not exceed the gross income limit to receive the stimulus payment. The filing deadline has been extended to July 15, 2020. To receive it quickly, it is recommended to file online and provide bank deposit information if the IRS does not have it.
For more info: https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus-tax-relief-and-economic-impact-payments
Or https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/economic-impact-payments
If you have not filed due to low-income and you are NOT on social security: if you made less than $12,200 in 2019 and if you also have a qualifying dependent, you just need to fill out this application: https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/economic-impact-payments
If you do not file because you are on social security retirement, disability (SSDI), railroad retirement or survivor benefits: you should automatically receive the $1200 payment and it may arrive at the time of your normal deposit in May. You will not receive a payment for your child. To receive more clarification or to provide the IRS your direct payment information, go here: https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/non-filers-enter-payment-info-here
More stimulus information: https://www.nfb.org/resources/covid-19-resources/cares-act-economic-impact-payments
EMPLOYMENT, UNEMPLOYMENT & SOCIAL SECURITY
Resources for blind and visually impaired job seekers – Ibvi Industries: https://ibvi.org/blog/resources-for-blind-visually-impaired-job-seekers/
USA Jobs – Individuals with disabilities page: https://www.usajobs.gov/Help/working-in-government/unique-hiring-paths/individuals-with-disabilities/
Jobs by location: https://www.usajobs.gov/
Seasonal jobs with the IRS – Hiring early summer annually, they provide accessible technology and training. Apply during hiring season by searching “Department of Treasury”, your location, and “Contact Representative *Seasonal*”: https://www.usajobs.gov/
Unemployment with SS & self-employment info – NFB: https://www.nfb.org/resources/covid-19-resources/unemployment-insurance
SMALL BUSINESS RESOURCES
Oregon small business resource navigator – for grants to help during Covid-19: https://www.oregon4biz.com/Coronavirus-Information/
Coronavirus relief – USA Small Business Administration:
https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/coronavirus-relief-options
Small business resources: https://greaterportlandinc.com/covid-business-resources
Free access to Aira support – live sighted support app provides free service for blind/ low vision business owners: https://aira.io/access-business
VOTING
Register or update registration for the November election before October 13th: https://sos.oregon.gov/voting/Pages/registration.aspx?lang=en
To vote online or find Oregon resources – requirements for your online ballot to be counted: you must print your completed ballot and place it in the official return envelope you receive in the mail, then sign the outside of the envelope on the signature line before mailing or dropping off your ballot: https://sos.oregon.gov/voting/Pages/instructions-disabilities.aspx
To request a large print ballot, get more voting help, or to schedule a dual party voter assistance team to mark your ballot: in Multnomah County call 503-988-7021
More accessible voting resources: https://www.nfb.org/programs-services/center-excellence-nonvisual-access/national-center-nonvisual-election-3
CENSUS 2020
Reporting blindness is important because more resources can be allocated with a more accurate reporting of our numbers. This only happens every 10 years. You should have received a card in the mail with your Census ID printed on it and a questionnaire which can be filled out and mailed. If you are doing the questionnaire online, having your ID will make the process go faster, but it’s not necessary. Be aware there is a 15 minute time limit, it’s best to read through all the instructions before starting. For help with time out and other troubleshooting tips, listen here: https://youtu.be/NeHV_0e8xr8
Fill out the Census online here: www.my2020census.gov or by phone: 844-330-2020
Large print guide: Your Guide to the 2020 Census (Large Print Guide)
For braille requests call: 800-992-3530
NEWS
The CDC recommends taking breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories.
Facts not fear news updates on the Coronavirus in Oregon: https://www.kgw.com/
NFB Newsline – breaking news, emergency weather alerts, newspapers, magazines, kid’s publications & more. Sign up by calling 866-504-7300 or apply online: http://www.nfbnewsline.net/Nl2/NL2NewUserReqInput.jsp
Access the news here: https://www.nfb.org/programs-services/nfb-newsline
For more info: www.nfbnewsline.org
Positive News
Sunny Skyz: https://www.sunnyskyz.com/
Good News Network: https://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/?fbclid=IwAR2Psq5O7t2eR0Nx6WOnMf2Oy7raeMjRvH1T6NqwswcQOxI15QoERWUgJIg
See more positive resources in Spiritual Support & Encouragement section
ENTERTAINMENT
Games
RS Games – social games: http://rsgames.org/rsdownloads/rsgclient/rsgames-client-setup-2.01.exe
Dice World! Games: http://diceworldgame.com/dw/
iAssociate2 Games: http://iassociate2.ticbits.com/
QuentinC’s playroom – social games: https://qcsalon.net/en/
Virtual movie night – with iBUG on Fridays at 5:30pm PST on Zoom. The movies are the audio track with audio description. The social starts at 5:30pm, the movie starts at 6:00pm with a discussion to follow. See details at: http://www.ibugtoday.com/
Audio only TV & movies – Audiovault: http://audiovault.net/
List of audio described TV & movies – ACB: https://acb.org/adp/masterad.html
Comedy news & entertainment – The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon At Home Edition: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8-Th83bH_thdKZDJCrn88g
Comedy music Covid-19 spoofs: https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=covid+19+parody+chris+mann
The office ladies podcast – A lighthearted series with The Office co-stars and best friends as they do the ultimate The Office re-watch: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/office-ladies/id1480311435
Netflix party – Pairs with Chrome on your computer. Stream movies and shows and invite your friends to join your viewing party online: https://www.netflixparty.com/
Lego instructions for the blind – instructions for 30+ sets of commercially available LEGO sets: http://legofortheblind.com/
ACB radio: http://acbradio.org/
BLIND COMMUNITY SUPPORT
Hadley discussion groups
Writing, gardening, resources, cooking, tech, fitness, travel, crafting, braille, Spanish, etc.: https://hadley.edu/discussions/?utm_source=ESS+Learner+List&utm_campaign=7470658d7d-3-23-2020-discussion-groups&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_01363d0cec-7470658d7d-47945525&mc_cid=7470658d7d&mc_eid=98cd6fa06b
International low vision support group (ILVSG) – monthly meetings by phone, for details: http://www.mdsupport.org/support/telesupport/ or call 888-866-6148
Oregon Commission for the Blind resources
https://www.oregon.gov/blind/livingwithvisionloss/Pages/Resources.aspx
National Federation of the Blind (NFB) “You can live the life you want” National contact: 410-659-9314 or https://www.nfb.org
Portland Central Chapter or NFB meets every 1st Wednesday from 5:30 – 7:00pm, currently meeting on conference call or zoom. Usually meets at the 5th Ave building 1400 SW 5th Ave, 6th floor conference room. Guests are welcome to join. To get Zoom/ call-in details email [email protected]
NFB virtual events – learn about virtual events by sending an email request. Put in subject line “sign up for virtual events” and send to: [email protected]
Find current week events by clicking the following link and listening for “Virtual NFB Events”: https://www.nfb.org/resources/covid-19-resources
American Council of the Blind (ACB) “Together for a bright future” National contact: 1-800-424-8666 or https://www.acb.org/
ACB community conference calls:
https://acb.org/ACB-community-conference-calls
PDX Accessible Resource Guide contributors:
Autumn Louise Schaefer, Craig Cooper, Lisa Ferris, Nik Petersson and Sean Carlson, Portland Central Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind; Teresa Christian and Mary Lee Turner, Metro PDX chapter of the American Council of the Blind; Mary Holmes, Northwest Association for Blind Athletes; and Orion Lumiere, Portland Oregon Commission for the Blind.
Disclaimer
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