Information about COVID-19

City, County, State, and Federal COVID-19 Pages

• Dallas County Health and Human Services
• City of Dallas
• Texas Department of State Health Services
• US Center for Disease Control

Healthcare Resources

The best resource is the U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention.

COVID-19 Vaccination Sites 

The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) launched an interactive map showcasing vaccine availability in our state. The information is subject to change as the state continues to receive vaccine doses. The map can be found here. If you are in Phase 1 and eligible to receive the vaccine, please check the COVID-19 Vaccination Hub Providers page to find a hub near you and learn how to register.

• All Phase 1A and 1B individuals are eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine at this time. To determine your eligibility for the vaccine, click here.
• Dallas County designated Fair Park as a mega vaccination site for its residents and began distributing the vaccine on January 11, 2021. County residents must complete a registration form and be given an appointment prior to visiting the site. The registration form can be found The vaccine will be free of charge. For people with health insurance, your insurance will cover any administration fee charged by the provider. No questions about citizenship status will be asked.
• For more information about how to register online for the vaccine in Dallas County, as well as learn about the types of vaccines available, click here.
• To register for the vaccine over the phone, you may call the Dallas County Health & Human Services Vaccine Registration Hotline at 469-749-9900. The hotline hours are Monday through Friday, 8am-5pm.

The Texas COVID-19 Expert Vaccine Allocation Panel is responsible for developing vaccine allocation strategies as recommendations to the Texas Commissioner of Health.

COVID-19 Test Sites

Texas Department of State Health Services has created an interactive map of all drive thru COVID-19 testing sites across the state. The map can be found here.

• Testing and/or screening criteria may vary depending on the type of COVID-19 test and provider. For more information about the different types of tests for COVID-19 and things to consider when looking for a public drive-thru testing site, click here.

Health Insurance

If you have lost your employer-sponsored health coverage, there are some options to obtain health insurance coverage. The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) published a helpful guide about your health insurance options. Learn more here.

Mental Health Resources

• The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) launched a 24/7 statewide mental health support line to help Texans experiencing anxiety, stress or emotional challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Texans can call 833-986-1919 toll free. 
• For a list of additional mental health and substance use resources, click here.
• The North Texas Behavioral Health Authority (NTBHA) has a dedicated line to provide support within our community as we work through this difficult time. Individuals can contact the 24/7 COVID-19 Mental Health Support Line at 833-251-7544. Those needing support outside of the COVID-19 crisis can still contact NTBHA 24/7 Crisis Line at, 866-260-8000. Learn more here.
• The Metrocare Coronavirus Support Line is available from 8am-5pm, Monday-Friday for those Dallas County residents experiencing high anxiety or depression during these turbulent times. The Metrocare Dallas County Coronavirus Support Line is 214-743-1215. Learn more here.
• For veterans in crisis – please call the Veterans Administration Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1 or text 838255. Support for the deaf and hard of hearing: 1-800-799-4889.
• The Elizabeth Dole Foundation, a non-profit, is offering the Respite Relief for Military and Veteran Caregivers Program. The no-cost program may help with ensuring access to short-term relief for primary veteran caregivers. Learn more here.

Help for Individuals:

Employment: 

• Unemployment Benefits Services – If your employment has been affected by the coronavirus (COVID-19), you may apply for benefits either online using Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) Unemployment Benefits Services or by calling TWC’s Tele-Center at 800-939-6631 Sunday-Saturday – 7am-7pm. Please note that per the TWC, “a delay in filing will not impact the benefits you receive, your benefits are tied to your date of layoff, not filing date.” If you are having trouble getting in touch with TWC, you may contact my office to request assistance with your claim.
  • The TWC launched an automated virtual assistant to help Texans sign up for unemployment insurance. The artificial intelligence-enabled chatbot can instantly answer many of the most common questions about the UI process.
• Disaster Licensing for Out of State Nurses – learn more here.
• Workforce Solutions of Greater Dallas has resources for job seekers. Those seeking employment can register here.
• The Dallas Regional Chamber has launched a virtual job board that offers listings to individuals who need leads for in-demand jobs; access to online courses to upskill into high-demand, well-paying jobs; childcare resources for parents involved in essential work; and links to help workers to file for unemployment claims.
• The North Texas Food Bank has announced it is partnering with a flexible-work company to employ hospitality industry workers who have lost their employment due to restaurant and business closures. Apply online at Get Shift Done.
• Frito-Lay Job Postings: https://fritolayemployment.com/
• Pepsi Jobs Postings: https://pepsifrontlinecareers.com/
• Kroger Job Postings: https://jobs.kroger.com
• Amazon Job Postings: https://www.amazon.jobs/en/location/dallasfort-worth-area-tx
• You can email Goodwill at jobs@goodwilldallas.org with your name, city/zip code, contact number and any additional information. You can also contact a Goodwill Job Connection Center by phone at the location nearest you:
  • 3020 N. Westmoreland Rd, Dallas, TX 75212: 214-638-2800 x185
  • 1661 E. Northwest Hwy., Garland, TX 75041: 214-227-5549
  • 919 W. Main St., Lewisville, TX 75067: 972-436-7381

Housing – Mortgage/Rental Assistance

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued an extension to the Order to temporarily halt residential evictions to prevent the spread of COVID-19, effective from September 4, 2020 – March 31, 2021. Any tenant who qualifies as a “Covered Person” and is still present in a rental unit is entitled to protections under the Order. To determine if the Order applies to you, click here.

• Dallas County issued an update on eviction cases (as of January 4, 2021), featuring a notice to landlords and tenants regarding eviction procedures. Learn more here.
• To view a CDC, CARES Act, & City of Dallas eviction flow chart, click here.
• The Texas Eviction Diversion Program (TEDP) may provide up to six months of rental assistance to eligible tenants. This program is temporary. To determine your eligibility for the program, click here.
• Dallas County has a tenant helpline and email address for tenants who have been evicted or who are pending eviction. *Please leave a voicemail or email them with your name, address and phone number. The hotline and email account are monitored by the Dallas County Unincorporated Services Department: Tenanthotline@dallascounty.org/ 214-653-6563 or 833-743-0072.
  • Prior to contacting the hotline, residents are being advised the following:
    • Tenants engaged in criminal activity or causing an imminent threat to health and safety may be subject to eviction prior to the aforementioned date.
    • Tenants maintain responsibility for paying their rent.
    • Tenants are encouraged to contact their landlord and make sure they are aware when eviction moratoriums are in place.
    • When having difficulty paying rent, tenants should attempt to make payments and/or establish a payment schedule with their landlord.
  • Once you have taken the above steps and for all other tenants, if you have been evicted or notified of a pending eviction, notify the Tenant Hotline by email or phone: Tenanthotline@dallascounty.org / 214-653-6563 or 833-743-0072.
• If you don’t have enough money to pay, contact your lender or landlord immediately. Help includes:
  • Dallas Housing Authority clients: please immediately report any loss of income in order to reduce your portion of rent and inspections will be restricted to health and safety only.
  • Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) Foreclosure Prevention – 1- 888-995-HOPE (4673). TDHCA suggest homeowners who are affected by COVID-19 to contact their loan service provider to see if they qualify for reduced or suspended payments. See additional details here.
  • Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center Social Services – 214-670-8416. Those interested in rental or utility assistance through the City of Dallas Office of Community Care, Social Services program, may call the appointment line to speak with a caseworker, Monday-Friday – 9am-2pm. To make an appointment online to be contacted by a caseworker, please visit https://appointments.dallascityhall.com.
  • West Dallas Multipurpose Center Social Services – 214-670-6530
  • Texas Attorney General Consumer Protection – 800-621-0508
  • The University of Texas School of Law has a website to track policies adopted by federal, state, and local governments to help Texas residents stay in their residences.

Bill & Utility Payment Assistance

Non-Profit Assistance:

• FindHelp.org –provides a list of local entities who may be able to provide some assistance. Learn more here.
• The Salvation Army –offers financial assistance for rent/mortgage, utilities and prescription medication; and food delivery for seniors and veterans. Income verification and other typical requirements for assistance have been suspended to serve anyone that is in need. Check here for the location nearest you.

Additional Assistance:

• Coppell Residents – If you’re having trouble paying your bill, call Utility Billing at 972-304-3695.​​​
• Dallas Residents – Dallas Water Utilities have suspended water service disconnects until further notice. Customers whose ability to pay utility bills has been impaired by COVID-19 should contact Water Customer Service at 214-651-1441 to make payment arrangements. Learn more here.
• Garland Residents – the City of Garland has resumed termination notices but continues to work with customers who have fallen behind on their utility bills. To avoid disruption of service, contact Customer Service at CustServ@GarlandTX.gov or 972-205-2671. Learn more here.
• Rowlett Residents – Customers experiencing issues with utility disconnects or suspensions are encouraged to contact the Utility Office to discuss a payment plan or learn about other assistance available. Contact utilities@rowlett.com or call 972-412-6105. Learn more here.

Provider Assistance:

• Vistra, on behalf of TXU, and Ambit Energy: Payment flexibility and payment assistance may be offered. Learn more here and here, respectively.
• Tri-Eagle Electric: Customers are encouraged to reach out if experiencing financial difficulties. Deferred payment plans may be offered. Learn more here.
• Atmos Energy is currently offering solutions to help pay for gas bills and past due balances. Customers are strongly encouraged to call 2-1-1 or the Atmos Energy customer service line at 888-286-6700 to set up a payment plan or inquire about financial assistance programs before disconnections resume. Learn more here.
• Reliant Customers who have been financially impacted by COVID-19, learn about Reliant’s CARE program, payment extensions and deferred paymentplan options via online chat, at 866-222-7100, or on the Reliant app.

Internet Access:

• Charter Communications will continue to offer Spectrum Internet Assist to eligible, low-income households. Wi-Fi hotspots have also been opened for public use. Learn more here.

• AT&T is temporarily expanding Access from AT&T eligibility through 6/30/21 based on income as well as for households participating in National School Lunch and Head Start programs. Additionally, they are waiving home internet data overage fees. Learn more here.
• Garland Residents – Public WiFi is now available at most City buildings, including libraries, recreation centers, City Hall, theaters and more. Even while the buildings are closed, the Garland Public WiFi coverage extends outside and is available for free. Find a list of locations here.

Food Assistance:

• Here is a list of open food pantries inclusive of hours.
• North Texas Food Bank has shifted to box distribution model with partner agencies. Food4Kids and School Pantry programs remain fully functional, and they are partnering with the City to deliver snack/hydration kits to the homeless.
• The Salvation Army of North Texas is operating 13 drive-through grocery service locations in Collin, Dallas, Denton, Ellis and Tarrant counties to support families experiencing a loss in income or lowered wages due to the coronavirus outbreak. Case managers are also being deployed to deliver food to senior citizens, veterans and individuals in permanent supportive housing. Food pantries will continue to operate without disruption. Learn more here.
• Dallas County Health and Human Services Older Adult Services Program is currently providing meals delivered to homebound seniors. There is a drive-thru for hot meal pick-up service set up at each senior center location. Seniors can enroll for these resources by calling 214-819-1860.
• Crossroads Community Services Food Pantry details can be found here.
• Metrocrest Services food pantry details can be found here. Those in need of assistance should call 972-446-2100, Monday-Friday – 8:30am-5pm.
• Texas Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) is open and has modified services to help keep clients and staff safe. Families may call their local WIC clinics to learn more about how they can receive services.
  • Visit https://find.texaswic.org/ to find your local clinic or call 800-942-3678.
  • Start your online application at https://texaswic.org/apply. If you’re seeking benefits for the first time, please enroll at texaswic.org, and you will be contacted. You may also call 214-670-7200 or 1-800-942-3678.
  • Breastfeeding questions? Call 214-670-7222.
  • Update your contact information by emailing olga.sauceda@dallascityhall.com.
• The Texas Education Agency’s meal finder website provides information about each school district’s meal service.
• Pet food resource – any family, community organization, or rescue group who needs help with dog food; please feel free to reach out to Ninfa Beltran with the SPCA atnbeltran@spca.org. She will be coordinating and facilitating the distribution of dog food.

Misc.

• SNAP and Medicaid– Due to COVID-19, all SNAP recipients will get the maximum amount for their household size for July. Current Medicaid recipients will have their benefits automatically renewed and recipients will be notified by mail when they need to renew their benefits. Learn more here.
• 211 Texas– Dial 2-1-1 to for a list of local financial and in-kind resources available in your area. This HHSC program has a specific COVID-19 option, and specialists across the state are available 24/7 to answer the most frequently asked, non-medical, questions based on material provided by DSHS and CDC.  Learn more here.
• Driver’s License Renewal– The waiver on expiration dates for driver’s licenses and identification cards ends on April 14, 2021. The Department of Public Safety (DPS) encourages customers who need to renew to schedule an appointment at their local driver license office online.
• Vehicle Registration– The temporary waiver of certain vehicle title and registration requirements, announced by Governor Abbott on March 16, 2020, will end on April 14, 2021. Online renewal is available up to nine months past your registration expiration date. For other ways to renew your vehicle registration, click here.
  • For more FAQs about vehicle registration, vehicle inspection, vehicle titling, and disabled parking placard requirements, please visit https://www.txdmv.gov/covid-19.
• Student Loans – the US Department of Education announced that federal student loan borrowers were automatically placed in an administrative forbearance, which allows for a temporary halt in payments effective through September 1, 2021. Important details can be found here.
• Price Gouging is illegal. Please report to the Texas Attorney General if you witness it happening.
• Eldercare– Older adults who need assistance can contact the Eldercare Locator to find services available in their community. The Eldercare Locator can be reached at 1-800-677-1116. Learn more here.
• Texas Department of Aging and Disability Resource Center who provides help for older adults and people with disabilities can be reached at 1-855-937-2372. Learn more here.
• The City of Dallas has organized a community page for senior citizens. Learn more here.
• City of Dallas Senior Services Help Line – 214-670-5227

Help for Parents

Tracking COVID-19: A COVID-19 data tracking system for public schools was created by TEA and DSHS. Public schools are required to report positive COVID-19 cases on campuses. The data is updated weekly and can be found here.

Food Service: Visit the Texas Education Agency’s meal finder website. Please check with the meal site beforehand to confirm hours and availability.

School District Coronavirus Update Webpages:

• Dallas ISD
• Carrollton-Farmer Branch ISD 
• Coppell ISD 
• Garland ISD 
• Highland Park ISD 
• Irving ISD 
• Richardson ISD

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) continues to work with the Office of the Governor, DSHS and the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to coordinate and plan the state’s response to COVID-19.  Learn more here.

The Texas Workforce Commission’s subsidized childcare program is making changes to their requirements in light of the COVID-19 crisis. Please check their website regularly for announcements.

Childcare providers – HHSC published new emergency rules for child care facilities during coronavirus outbreak. 

Help for Small Business Owners

Federal Financial Resources

If COVID-19 has created a cash flow emergency for your business, you may be able to obtain an emergency loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) through a program created specifically to address these circumstances.

• There are four (4) primary programs available through the SBA and the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act established several new temporary programs to address the COVID-19 outbreak.
  • Paycheck Protection Program – This loan program provides loan forgiveness for retaining employees. SBA will forgive loans if all employee retention criteria are met, and the funds are used for eligible expenses. The Paycheck Protection Program resumed on January 11, 2021.
  • Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Emergency Advance – The EIDL program is designed to provide economic relief to businesses that are currently experiencing a temporary loss of revenue due to COVID-19. While the SBA is currently accepting new EIDL applications from qualified small businesses, the EIDL Advance is no longer available as all funds for the program have been allocated.
  • SBA Express Bridge Loans – allows small businesses who currently have a business relationship with an SBA Express Lender to access up to $25,000 quickly. These loans can provide vital economic support to small businesses to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they are experiencing and can be a term loans or used to bridge the gap while applying for a direct SBA Economic Injury Disaster loan.
  • SBA Debt Relief – The SBA will automatically pay the principal, interest, and fees of current 7(a), 504, and microloans for a period of six months. The SBA will also automatically pay the principal, interest, and fees of new 7(a), 504, and microloans issued prior to September 27, 2020.
  • Visit an SBA Local Office – SBA District Offices offer counseling, training and business development to help you start and grow your business.

• The U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship has a webpage dedicated to resources available for small businesses and entrepreneurs. Learn more here.
• Small Business Administration has information and guidance for small businesses on the different loan resources available.
• Department of Treasury has a webpage dedicated to the CARES Act.

State Financial Resources

Shared Work Program – As an alternative to layoffs, the TWC is encouraging employers to enroll in the Shared Work program. A voluntary program, it was developed as a way to help Texas employers and employees withstand a business slowdown, such as occurred due to COVID-19. Under this program, an employer can supplement an employee’s lost wages because of reduced hours worked with partial unemployment benefits. Learn more here.

The Product Development and Small Business Incubator Fund (PDSBI) is a Texas economic program. The fund provides asset-backed financing to companies doing business in Texas through loans with competitive lending rates. Loans can be amortized up to the life of the asset. More information on the loans can be found here.

Loan and Grant Options

Dallas’ Small Business Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) have developed COVID-19 loan products:

• Lift Fund: Disaster relief loans of up to $50,000 available for small businesses with up to 120-day payment deferment. Learn more here.
• PeopleFund: Their website features a number of loan programs available to assist small business owners. Learn more here.

Alliance Lending Corporation can provide fixed-rate loans to for-profit, owner-occupied businesses across the state. More information, including contact numbers, can be found on the organization’s website.

Carrollton Business Owners – Economic Development Staff is available by phone at 972-466-3299 or by email at ecodev@cityofcarrollton.com to assist local businesses and offer guidance. Learn more here. Additional resources for businesses can be found here.

The Texas Department of Insurance has a coronavirus resources page that provides information for stakeholders in the Texas Workers’ Compensation system. Learn more here.