In addition to the assistance offered by DC 37, a number of resources (PDF format)* are available to help laid off members find jobs and support themselves during unemployment.

Unemployment Insurance
To file an unemployment insurance claim, call 1-888-209-8124. For hearing impaired individuals, call 1-800-662-1220. Information is available on the New York State Dept. of Labor Web site at www.labor.state.ny.us.

Government services
Several federally-funded programs exist to help unemployed people, including public assistance, Supplemental Security Income, emergency food allotments, food stamps, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families, Medicaid, Medicare and the WIC program. Call 800-342-3009.

Food Assistance
SHARE is a food assistance program, which provides you with approximately $35 to $45 worth of quality frozen meats, fresh fruits and vegetables, and shelf stable items at approximately 50% savings. To qualify, you must do two hours of community service. Call 1-800-595-3663 to find out about the closest Share Host Center or visit the Share website at http://www.sharefoodprogram.org/about_spa.htm.

Employment and Training Referral Services

Workforce Career Centers, operated with a grant from the New York City Dept. of Employment, provide comprehensive job training and employment services. It has offices in Manhattan (212-917-493-7054), Brooklyn (718-246-5219), Queens (718-557-6755), the Bronx (718-960-7099) and Staten Island (718-285-8388).

Workforce Development Program, sponsored by the New York City Central Labor Council, provides free counseling services to union and nonunion persons who are seeking help for family, emotional, stress, marital or drug and alcohol problems. For a confidential appointment, call 212-532-7575.

Municipal Credit Union
The Municipal Credit Union MCU will help members who are facing challenging times. From time to time, everyone faces situations in life, such as job loss, that test their resolve and leave a lasting impact on all areas of their life. MCU's portfolio of products & services, along with the resources they have available, can help you confront the financial challenges that arise from these situations, as well as deal with the transitions that come about because of your changing financial circumstances. The MCU can be reached at (212) 693-4900.

Internet sites
Helpful Internet sites for the unemployed include www.nelp.org (the National Employment Law Project), http://nyup.tripod.com of (New York Unemployment Project) and www.unemployedworkers.org, which helps workers fight to extend unemployment benefits; and http://groups.yahoo.com/group/freecyclenewyorkcity/ (Freecycle New York City), an innovative project that, via e-mail, connects people who have things they want to throw away with others who can use those things — for free.