August 2020 Newsletter: Responding to COVID-19

Editor’s Note: A version of this article appears in the August 2020 LIFTT Connection Newsletter

Weathering the pandemic is difficult for all humans, but for disabled people, it can often be devastating.

Carlos Ramalho, executive director of Living Independently for Today and Tomorrow (LIFTT) said, “in many cases, people with disabilities face a greater negative impact during challenging world-wide events.” Normally, LIFTT  hosts classes, counseling sessions, and peer groups, on site, but as a safety precaution, the office remains closed. LIFTT is committed to serving disabled individuals and their families in all ways possible during this crisis.

Through the CARES Act, the federal government awarded LIFTT a major grant  which specifically targets individuals and families who are experiencing difficulties due to COVID-19. A portion of LIFTT’s grant was used to assemble kits carrying cleaning disinfectants, hygiene products and face masks. Funds also are available for a variety of expenses, including financial assistance to clients to cover household expenses such as rent, utilities, and access  to technology.

To access these funds, applicants must go through LIFTT’s information and referral process. Recipients can only receive COVID-19 funds once. The  funds must be distributed by September 30, 2021, and are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Please contact LIFTT at (406) 259-5181 or via our website at liftt.org/contact to discuss the application process and whether you and/or your family are eligible.

LIFTT’s CARES Act funding featured on Yellowstone Public Radio

Yellowstone Public Radio reporter Jess Sheldahl recently stopped by LIFTT to learn more about how LIFTT is utilizing the funding it has received as as a result of the CARES Act passed by Congress in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

You can read and hear the story here: https://www.ypradio.org/post/direct-cares-act-award-boosts-billings-nonprofit-supporting-people-disabilities

COVID-19 CARES ACT FUNDS AVAILABLE TO PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

Due to a recent CARES Act Award, Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow (LIFTT) is pleased to announce the availability of limited financial assistance to persons with disabilities in our service area. The award, made possible by a grant from the Administration for Community Living, targets individuals and families who are experiencing difficulties due to COVID-19.

To access these funds, applicants must go through LIFTT’s information & referral process.

Recipients can only access  COVID-19 funds once. The funds must be distributed by September 30, 2021, and are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Funds can be used for a variety of expenses, including access to technology and technology training; purchase of masks and gloves; personal care necessities; and payment of household expenses such as utilities and rent. Contact  LIFTT to discuss the application process and whether you and/or your family are eligible.

LIFTT’s offices remain closed to the public at this time. Those seeking COVID-19 assistance or any other services from LIFTT can contact us Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. by calling (406) 259-5181, or (800) 669-6319, contact us at liftt.org/contact. You can also find LIFTT on Facebook and Twitter.

LIFTT is deeply appreciative of all those helping Montanans navigate this unprecedented time in our history. We know that by working together, we will find a way through this.

Stay Safe & Healthy,

Your Friends at  LIFTT