Financial Assistance, Free Masks and Supplies for the COVID-19 Outbreak

Here at Pandemic Pal, our mission is to make personal protective equipment (PPE) and cleaning supplies easier to find and buy during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. However, we also recognize that many of our site visitors have disabilities or chronic illnesses and survive on a very limited income. Finding masks, gloves and disinfectants doesn’t help if you can’t afford to buy them. Therefore, we’ve compiled a list of resources for people who need financial help and/or free supplies.

While we want to help, Pandemic Pal is not a store and does not have the ability to send free items to our site readers. We will do our best to keep this page updated with places to find support. If you know of other resources that belong on this list, please let us know!

Financial Assistance

The Mighty has compiled a guide to finding financial assistance during COVID-19. They list ways to get help with rent and housing, utilities, student loans, health insurance, prescriptions and so much more. This is the best place to start if you need help.

Free Supplies

Some states and cities are giving masks to residents in need. Google “free mask [your state/city]” to see what your area has available.
In many areas, volunteers with sewing machines are making masks for health care workers at hospitals. If you’re a home health aide or employ caregivers, they’ll probably help you too! Contact them and explain your situation, and chances are you can get some masks at no or minimal cost.
Many cities have “neighbors helping neighbors” groups on Facebook. If you join these groups, you may find someone with extra cleaning supplies or who can run errands for you if you’re at high risk and must stay home.
Food banks often have more than just food! Contact your local food bank (you can find it here) to see if they have cleaning supplies and masks available.

Free Masks for Disabled People in Need

Need a mask but can’t afford one? Diversability’s #Masks4Disability project in partnership with the Global Shapers Community provides free, accessible face masks to anyone in the disability community and their care team in the US. If you are disabled and still need a mask, visit http://bit.ly/masks4disability.