Community Resources for Families Furloughed or in Need of Assistance

Dear PS188Q Families,

We understand that the current furlough and continued stop of SNAP and or WIC benefits may be creating unexpected challenges for some families in our community.

If you know of a family who is experiencing financial or other hardships due to the furlough or stop of SNAP and or WIC benefits, please forward this email which lists some resources that are available in Queens to assist families.

🔹 Key Family Support Resources

  • Queens Public Library offers case-management services for families seeking help with housing, immigration, benefits, healthcare and more. Locations include Peninsula Adult Learning Center at 92-25 Rockaway Beach Blvd in Rockaway Beach.
  • Queens Childcare Network (QCCN) assists families with childcare subsidies, enrollment into early-childhood programs like 3K, WIC nutrition support, Medicaid social-care navigation and housing resources.
  • A borough-wide “Neighborhood Guide to Food & Assistance” helps families find food pantries, SNAP/EBT support, and urgent needs services.
  • Free food pantries across Queens: you’ll find many local options for emergency groceries and essentials. needhelppayingbills.com
  • Finding local Food Banks –

o    Food Help NYC

o    Access NYC

o    Food Bank NYC

o    DYCD/NYC

✅ What You Can Do

  • If a family you know needs help or are unsure where to start, please have them contact their school’s parent coordinator or guidance counselor.
  • Anyone can call any of the agencies above; they serve families regardless of citizenship status and will work with the family confidentially.
  • If families wish to stay anonymous, families should locate their nearest food pantry or use the guide above to explore basic support.
  • Consider donating or volunteering to help at a local food bank.

We will also be posting this information to our school website. Our PTA and many of our families are also looking at ways to support our community. We are grateful to our PS188Q community for your kindness and support.

PS188Q Staff