COVID-19 Resource Hub

We’ve gathered a robust collection of resources to help navigate the coming weeks as we respond to the coronavirus pandemic. We’ll continue to update as new practices and information become available.

Please feel free to submit useful resources to info@episcopalpgh.org

Newly Added:

Metrics to Watch When Evaluating the Risk of In-Person Worship (PDF): In deciding when and how to reopen their churches, some clergy and lay leaders in the Diocese have asked for advice about metrics they might use as the basis for their conversations. This document offers some advice.

Allegheny County Health Department COVID-19 Resource Site

The Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency opened applications for a new rental and mortgage assistance program on, Monday, June 29, 2020. This program is funded through the Federal Coronavirus Relief Fund allocated by the Governor and the Legislature and totals $175 million.

  • To view the applications and apply for funds click here.
  • To view an FAQ about rent relief click here.
  • To view a fact sheet about mortgage relief click here.
  • For more information about the program from PHFA, read their press release here.
  • For the Housing Alliance analysis of the program click here.

FAQs: Employer and Employee Rights during Covid-19

What Reopening Means for Scout Troops, 12-Step Groups, including a sample COVID-19 Acknowledgement form.

Communications from Bishop McConnell

Resources for Pastoral Needs in a Crisis

Resources for Response to COVID-19

Financial Information and Assistance During COVID-19 Crisis

  • CARES Act Charitable Giving Incentives – A valuable resource published on April 7 by the Episcopal Church Foundation
  • Families First Coronavirus Response Act – This poster explains employer’s requirements and employee rights regarding paid sick leave and expanded FMLA under the FFCRA
  • CARES Act Signed into Law on March 27, 2020 – See the Coronavirus Tax Relief posting at https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus for links to specific key provisions. Key programs expected to provide assistance to churches and other religious organizations include:
    • Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) forgivable loans (loans up to 2.5x average monthly payroll costs)
    • Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) forgivable loans (loans up to $10,000)
    • Employee Retention Tax Credit available for churches and other religious institutions financially impacted by COVID-19
    • For a detailed overview, see CARES Act Offers Relief for Struggling Nonprofits, Including Churches
  • Church Pension Group announcements of interest to parishes: