Essential Local COVID-19 Resources
This page compiles updates, information, and guidance related to COVID-19 in Baltimore City. Visit the Baltimore City COVID-19 website for the latest developments on COVID‑19.
Since March 2020, the Mayor’s Office of Homeless Services has enacted its COVID-19 Response Plan to mitigate risk for members of our community experiencing homelessness. Since then, MOHS has worked diligently with homeless service providers and public and private agencies to implement its response and successfully prevent widespread outbreaks in shelter settings. While COVID-19 cases continue to decline in Baltimore City, MOHS prevention and response efforts remain firmly in place to ensure the health and safety of individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
Universal Testing
Call 2-1-1 for free assistance or visit the Baltimore City COVID-19 website for more information on COVID-19 testing.
Preventive Measures in Shelters
Baltimore’s emergency shelters have been expanded to accommodate social distancing best practices and to lower the risk of illness. Emergency shelter sites are conducting regular symptom screening and mandating personal protective equipment (PPE) for staff.
These procedures and guidance have helped prevent large-scale outbreaks within Baltimore City emergency shelters and save lives among some of the City’s most vulnerable residents. MOHS will continue to expand its COVID-19 prevention and response while working to protect the health and safety of those experiencing homelessness.
Preventative Measures for People Experiencing Unsheltered Homelessness
Social distancing can be challenging for people who live and sleep outside. When possible, people should try to stay at least six feet away from others and avoid sharing items such as cell phones and cigarettes. Daily, Outreach Teams deliver PPE to people experiencing unshelthered homeless that can also help limit the spread of COVID-19.
Other useful tips can be found in this COVID-19 Fact Sheet for People Experiencing Homelessness.
People experiencing unsheltered, or street, homelessness can access COVID testing, vaccinations, and isolation services by contacting our Outreach Teams at 410-545-1862 or by emailing Homeless Outreach.
Federal, State, and Local COVID-19 Resources for Homeless Service Providers
Federal
- Availability of Waivers of CPD Grant Program and Consolidated Plan Requirements to Prevent the Spread of COVID-19 and Mitigate Economic Impacts Caused by COVID-19 for CoC, ESG, and HOPWA (HUD)
- Preventing and Managing the Spread of Infectious Disease for People Experiencing Homelessness (HUD)
- Preventing and Managing the Spread of Infectious Disease within Shelters (HUD)
- Resources for Homeless Shelters (CDC)
- Interim Guidance for Responding to Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) among People Experiencing Unsheltered Homelessness (CDC)
- HUD COVID-19 Resource Digest
- CDC Graphics and Buttons
State
- Maryland Guidance for Homelessness Services and Community Service Providers
- Maryland Department of Health COVID-19 Dashboard