Hays County has provided a list of resources for its residents dealing with the effects of the coronavirus. If residents live within a city limit in Hays County, they are asked to check their city website for additional assistance. Texas State University students have resources available here.

Residents who do not need help and would like to support agencies and nonprofits with monetary donations are invited to do so or volunteer where help is needed.

The following items were supported in a release by the county:

  • Texas Health and Human Services Commission offers a 24/7 mental health support toll-free line at 833-986-1919.

  • Residents can call the Hays County nonemergency coronavirus hotline at 512-393-5525 from 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday through Friday. Residents are also invited to go online in English and Spanish for symptoms, prevention and treatment. If a resident is experiencing symptoms, call a health care provider to describe the symptoms and get instructions. Residents are asked not to drive directly to clinics, urgent care center or hospital. Call 911 if symptoms are severe.

  • The bipartisan CARES Act signed in March means individuals and families within certain income ranges will receive financial assistance directly as will small businesses, health care providers and others.

  • The Texas Workforce Commission has information about eligibility, programs and a signup to get alerts about job opportunities, especially for those who have lost their job because of the coronavirus.

  • Some individuals could now be eligible for the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which provides funds to supplement family food purchases and has a limited program for single adults.

  • The Hays County Food Bank holds drive-thru and walk-up distribution locations for low-income families and persons experiencing a food emergency. Even if a resident does not meet the usual guidelines for the food bank, if there is a job loss or related issue, residents may quality for a set period of time. Call the food bank at 512-392-8300 to sign up before visiting a distribution center.

  • The Women, Infant and Children’s program has temporarily expanded approved foods for clients. For more information or to apply, visit the Central Texas WIC Facebook page or the WIC website.

  • The United Way for Greater Austin provides information about food, health, child care and more. Call 211 to find help and resources related to coronavirus.

  • For those experiencing family violence, sexual assault, dating violence or child abuse in the community, the Hays-Caldwell Women’s Center is ready to assist. Call the 24-hour crisis line at 512-396-4357.

  • The Greater San Marcos Youth Council offers resources for children and family members. Tips on reducing stress, activities for children and other helpful information is online, and staff is available for additional resources.

  • The National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation is assisting employees in the food service industry who are experiencing hardships due to the coronavirus.

  • AuntBertha.com is a free service that shows by ZIP code many organizations that can assist in a variety of ways, such as food, medical care, job training and more.

  • Small businesses and nonprofits can apply through the Small Business Administration for emergency grants and a forgivable loan program for companies with 500 or fewer employees. Small businesses that already have SBA loans may get help with payments.

  • Check with cities and chambers of commerce for more information for help in Hays County.