You are here, part of the over 1.2 million Florida residents that have applied for unemployment benefits. It’s not easy, but you will get through this. It’s no secret that Florida has had many issues with the unemployment system. With the millions of unemployment claims, just over 1,589,700 have been processed with over 1,011,200 claims being paid as of May 26, according to the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity. These numbers may help you feel a little less alone in your struggle with unemployment. Here are some tips to help you after you file for unemployment. 

There have been unemployment claims that should have been eligible for benefits but were deemed ineligible erroneously due to a system error. So, if you were denied eligibility and you filed before April 5, you can reapply. If you are still in the process of waiting to see if your claim was even processed or are one of the millions of people in the state still waiting for their stimulus check, here are some other options to help you. 

Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, Humans Crisis Center Center Inc., and Servant’s Heart Ministry are some nearby food banks you can rely on to keep your house full of food for you and your family. It’s a good idea to call the food banks before you head over there to ensure they are open during normal hours or if they still have food availability for the day. Try to get there as early as possible to ensure you can get food. 

For help with groceries, rent, mortgage, and other financial necessities related to coronavirus layoffs, visit Heart of Florida United Way at HFUW.org or call their help line at 211. This nonprofit requires you to show proof of falling behind in bills, but once you qualify for aid, you can receive money to help you stay afloat. Even if you aren’t unemployed and have reduced hours due to the pandemic or are suffering financially because of it, you also could be eligible for aid from the Heart of Florida United Way.

Another step you could take is to visit online webinars that explain in detail how to get the help you need tailored to your specific circumstances. The Florida Housing Coalition has a COVID-19 relief fund and hosts a webinar series to explain how to get aid for your housing situation. Visit their website for webinar information and times. The National Low-Income Housing Coalition also hosts webinars to help those in need. Please visit their website for details and more information on how to get the help you need. 

These are very tough times, and if you are fortunate enough to still be employed, whether it’s working from home or not needing to work due to financial support from another source, consider giving back to those who need it most. Right now is the time for everyone in the community to come together and help each other out. Volunteering at a food bank, paying for your neighbor’s groceries, tipping your Uber driver, donating money to nonprofit coronavirus relief organizations, and sending encouraging messages are just some things that those who aren’t suffering financially during this pandemic could do to help.