The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic to the hospitality community is like nothing we've ever experienced before as a collective of hard-working, resilient professionals. While we are not able to offer an immediate solution, here are some suggestions for coping right now and preparing for when things do turn around:

Have more information to share with the hospitality community? Please email us ([email protected]) as we are continuing to add and update resources as the impact of the pandemic continues to evolve.

1

Apply for Government-Funded Financial Assistance

Tapping into government assistance in times of need is one way to find some financial stability. To file for programs like unemployment insurance, you'll need to apply directly with your state's office.

Pro-tip: Make sure you're applying directly on your state's unemployment website (the URL of the website will include . gov) before entering any personal information.
2

Explore Additional Financial Assistance (Organizations and Private Sector)

Fortunately in the recent years the number of charitable organizations and non-profits that offer support for the hospitality has been growing. Now is the time to explore them to see what types of financial assistance and other support for which you may be eligible.
3

Leverage Your PTO, Paid Sick Leave and Other Benefits

While benefits vary employer to employer and state by state, understanding all of your options can help you decide which benefits you can utilize in these times of need.
4

Manage Your Anxiety for Better Mental Health

If you are feeling lost, hopeless or even paralyzed by the current global climate of uncertainty and the future of this industry, know that you are not alone. Consider investing some time each day to your self-care routine. If you don't have any go-to coping methods, check out the new (and free) toolkit by Shine specifically designed for coronavirus-induced anxiety.
5

Take Precautions 

The medical community is sharing new information each day, so it is important to keep up to date. Currently we know the best ways to prevent spreading the virus include social distancing, thoroughly washing your hands often and to avoid touching your face (e.g., eyes, mouth, nose) with your hands. Visit the CDC's website to get the most updated information. 
6

Support Your Local Small Businesses

Government mandated closures and restrictions have forced many businesses to temporarily close and/or layoff their teams to survive. Call your representative in Congress at 202-224-3121 to demand the hospitality industry is included in the federal stimulus plan.
7

Prepare for Future Opportunities

While we are not able to offer an immediate solution, here are some suggestions for utilizing your Culinary Agents account to prepare for when things do turn around:

Additional Articles by Industry Publications and News Outlets: