TULSA, Okla. — Families are bracing themselves as the $600 Federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance is set to expire Saturday.
As of June, 6.6% of Oklahoman's are still unemployed, according to the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission.
With some people struggling to get back to work, that pandemic assistance check might cause some to have to look for other financial assistance to pay their bills.
The Tulsa Area COVID-19 Response Fund is ready to help those facing hardships right now.
“So, this is the time to call to get that application started so that we can get you the assistance you need,” said Pam Ballard, CEO of the Community Service Council.
CSC is one of the nonprofit groups that operates the fund.
It’s the go-to resource for those experiencing temporary unemployment, a loss of income or unexpected household expenses during the pandemic.
“It just takes one missed paycheck, one expense that we really didn't know we were going to have. And any one of us could find ourselves in positions where we need that little boost in that little bit of capital," Ballard said. "So, we always say, if you know a neighbor or relative or friend, and they're looking for that assistance please, call 211. A lot of our churches have been really hit with additional calls and no cries for help and, and we tell them if you're out of resources, please tell them to call 211.”
The group is made up of several community organizations that are funded by donors.
With money running out from the PUA, Ballard is encouraging people to get their applications in now.
“So, please just go directly to our website csctulsa.org. Click on the COVID resource page and fill out the assistance form or just call 211 and talk to one of our call specialists, and they can help you with that assistance,” Ballard said.
Also, if you need meals or groceries, there are online resources to help you find food.
Here are the following resources:
CALL: 2-1-1
Click here: Tulsa Area COVID-19 Response Fund
Click here: Hunger Free OK
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