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UWSEMO has established a COVID-19 fund specifically for our network partners and programs that directly help those in financial need. These include The Salvation Army, area food pantries, senior centers and programs, and Emergency Student Funds and backpack programs at area public schools. Although schools are closed, we believe the need will be great when classes resume and the longer that working students and parents must remain at home.
Funds also will be directed to the Family Transition Team consisting of social workers throughout the region who collectively respond to immediate need. In addition to the fund, we are updating these resources as we learn of them. We encourage everyone to stay home and stay healthy. Thank you for your support.

Resources in Southeast Missouri
Anyone needing help may call 211 or first call for help: 573-334-9634 (help) to be directed to specific resources.
Information About the Covid-19 Virus
DHSS hotline, staffed by nurses and other health care professionals, is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and can be reached at 877-435-8411.
Cape Girardeau County Health Department or call 573-335-7846
Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services
For state information call 211 or visit them at: www.211helps.org/covid-19-where-to-turn/
For local resources call First Call for Help: 573-334-4357 or visit: http://www.firstcallforhelpsemo.org/
Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
- COVID-19 Virus Fact Sheet (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention PDF)
- Stop the Spread of Germs (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention PDF)
Utility Information
Ameren Missouri – Electric
*Ameren is suspending service disconnections and forgiving late payments through May 1.
Please call 800.552.7583 for more information.
Ameren/211 Income Relief Program
City of Cape Girardeau – Water
*Disconnects for non-payment have been postponed so all households will have water for hygiene purposes.
Food Pantries
EMAA is providing sack lunches to households in need. Anyone needing a sack lunch should call by 2pm the day before to get a lunch the next day. 573-334-5533
Here is the most recent calendar of locations providing FOOD PANTRIES and MEALS for the month.
Food Stamps and other resources : https://mydss.mo.gov/
Additional resources for children listed below.
Senior Citizens
Legacy Hospice is offering to get groceries and other purchased items for the elderly or fragile neighbors. Call 573-803-3862.
Many area senior centers are providing meals for carry-out and home delivery for a sliding fee.
Cape Girardeau: 921 Clark Street, 573-335-1352 http://www.capeseniorcenter.org/
Jackson: 2690 Travelers Way, 573-243-
Perryville: 4 N. Spring Street, 573-547-2188 http://www.perrycountyseniorcenter.com/
Education Resources
Spectrum: Spectrum is providing free access for any NEW customers for 60 days for anyone with a student in grades K-12. You need to call 844.488.8395 for more information.
Additional Available Internet Options for Students
Scholastic: is giving 20 days of FREE lessons.
ABCMouse: FREE membership while the schools are closed. CODE: SCHOOL7771
MORE
Online resources to help your kids learn at home during COVID-19
How to talk to your child about COVID-19:
- Talking to Kids About the Coronavirus (includes video)
- Coronavirus (COVID-19): How To Talk to Your Child (includes audio)
Small Business Owners
Cape Girardeau Area Chamber Keep Cape Strong
Business owners need to go directly to the SBA at the following link.
https://www.sba.gov/page/coronavirus-covid-19-small-business-guidance-loan-resources
https://www.sba.gov/disaster-assistance/coronavirus-covid-19#section-header-1
The SBA can provide information regarding the worksheet and process the request for assistance. When the Governor’s request for an Economic Injury Disaster Declaration is approved, that information will be distributed through the regions to the local jurisdictions.
Annuity – information about economic impact, small business help, federal benefits.
Key Reminders
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and hot water, at least 20 seconds.
- Try not to touch your face.
- Take steps to limit your time in the community, especially where people gather.
- Only use public transportation when necessary and create space between yourself and others in public.
- Make sure your prescriptions are filled and that you have the essentials.