We know it is a scary and uncertain time for all of us. We also know that scary times are much less overwhelming when we face them together.

We are now sending the Ally weekly rather than monthly to keep you updated. Please check out each issue for the latest information about COVID-19 resources, opportunities for families to support each other and ways for all of us to make our system stronger through this crisis.

I want to hear your ideas about how Families as Allies can best support families, those working with families, our state systems and decision-makers right now. You can email me at jhogge@faams.org or call me at 601-355-0915 and I will get your message.

Here are some practical resources from our state agency partners that I encourage you to check out:

The Mississippi Department of Education COVID-19 web page. This page includes information about special education services during the time children are at home.

The Mississippi Division of Medicaids Coronavirus updates page describes a number of waivers the Division has requested to be able to provide services more easily. One result of this is that if your child receives Medicaid, appointments can be done over the phone or on another device. Contact your childs provider for more information.

The Mississippi State Department of Health COVID-19 web page and its 24/7 Coronavirus Hotline - 877-978-6453

Please keep me posted on how well the resources we provide and those we share from others work for you. In partnership and unity with all of you, Joy.