If you don’t personally need this information, please share it with those who do and encourage them to sign up for city alerts at www.somervillem.gov/alerts.

How to file for unemployment:
The MA Department of Unemployment Assistance has resources for employees.

• To file for unemployment benefits online, click here.
• For assistance by phone, call (617) 626-6338, daily 6 a.m.–10 p.m. Voice relay 711 via their website.
• The Boston Globe published this helpful article on applying for unemployment in MA due to the health crisis.
• The MA Department of Unemployment Assistance gives daily presentations online and by phone detailing the process of filing for unemployment step by step.
• Información de desempleo de Massachusetts sobre el virus COVID-19 en Español esta aqui.

How to apply for cash assistance:

• The MA Department of Transitional Assistance is now allowing phone applications for cash benefits. Their website also has easy-to-use tabs to determine eligibility and apply.
• The TAFDC (Transitional Aid for Families with Dependent Children) program is for families with minor children, and the EAEDC (Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled, and Children) program is for seniors over 65 (who do not receive SSI Supplemental Security Income), disabled individuals, and certain guardians and caretakers who are not yet on SSI. Call 617-348-5354 to apply by phone.

Where to find additional supports:

• The City Website: Check www.somervillema.gov/coronavirus for additional information such as relief for student loans, information for renters and homeowners who may not be able to make full payments, and more. As federal and state aid packages are passed or local measures are instituted, we will keep the website updated.
• The Findhelp website: On Findhelp you can enter your zip code and find additional programs and services in your area. Findhelp includes food access, monetary, housing, and other resources.
• Somerville Office of Housing Stability, and Health and Human Services: The City’s social service and housing staff are all working remotely while City buildings are closed. If you need assistance, please call 311 (617-666-3311) to be connected to them or to schedule a phone appointment.

Start of Street Sweeping Delayed and Updates on Other City Services
The start of street sweeping in Somerville has been delayed by two weeks to Wednesday, April 15. Normally, street sweeping takes place from April 1 until December 31. As we continue to monitor the COVID-19 emergency, we will decide if the delay will be extended and share that information as it becomes available.Below are updates on other City services while City buildings are closed:

• Trash and recycling collection remain on a normal schedule.
• Yard waste collection will begin on schedule during the week of April 20. Visit www.somervillema.gov/wizard to find out when your pickup day is.
• But please note, there will be no yard waste drop-off.
• Textile recycling (in the pink bags) is suspended until further notice.
• Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off days are suspended until further notice.
• E-Waste drop off is suspended until further notice.
• Rain Barrel Pick-Up Day is canceled, but the vendor will contact anyone who has placed an order.