Support For Urgent Needs
Attention International Students: Do not apply for and accept government public benefits! Accepting taxpayer-funded public benefits can jeopardize your legal status, future visa applications, change of status applications to another nonimmigrant status, adjustment of status to permanent resident and admission to the U.S. if it is determined that you could become a public burden. Public benefits that count towards the "public charge inadmissibility" rule broadly include any Federal, State, or local cash assistance for income maintenance, SNAP (commonly known as food stamps), certain government housing programs, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families and Medicaid.
For more information, see ISSO's Guidelines for Maintaining Status
Food Resources
Three Free Meals a Day for All NYC Residents
Hunger Free America PDF Guide with a list of 80 Food Pantries Citywide
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits in NYC
Morningside Heights Boxed Lunches
Health Resources
Columbia University Health Emergency Portal
Columbia University Counseling and Psychological Services Virtual Support Spaces
Free and Reduced-Cost Clinics in NYC
Mental Health Services for Asylum Seekers and Other Vulnerable Populations
NYC Free and Low-Cost Health Insurance Enrollment
Housing Resources
Catholic Charities List of Temporary Housing
Information on Temporary Housing Assistance and Shelter
Information on NYC Housing Connect
New York Department of Homeless Services
Legal Resources
Volunteers of Legal Services Resources During COVID-19
NYC Bar Association Free Legal Services
Resources for Immigrants and International Students
Catholic Charities List of Immigrant Resources
Columbia University Resources for DACA Students
International Students and Scholars Hub for COVID-19
Legal Aid Society Immigration Advocates Network
Unemployment/Financial Assistance
New York State Unemployment Payout
New York State Paid Family and Sick Leave
Bartenders affected by COVID-19 may be eligible for this grant