Emergency and humanitarian assistance helps members in need

CSEA takes care of its members on the job, but it also lends a helping hand in times of crisis. The Dorothy Bjork Assistance Fund provides financial relief to members in need and is disbursed through two different programs: the Emergency Assistance Program and the Humanitarian Assistance Program. To be eligible for either of these programs, you must be a CSEA member in good standing or a CSEA staff employee in paid status.

Emergency Assistance Program

CSEA policy 1010.4

If a member’s primary residence is deemed uninhabitable as the result of a catastrophic event such as an earthquake, fire or flood, that member can apply for up to $1,000 in immediate emergency assistance. This program may also be used to assist eligible organizations that are providing aid in areas that have been declared federal disaster areas as a result of a catastrophic event (e.g. fire, earthquake, or flood).

Emergency Assistance Application

Questions and assistance: Contact CSEA Member Benefits

Humanitarian Assistance Program

CSEA policy 1010.3

When a member incurs significant financial hardship due to circumstances beyond their control, that member can apply for up to $500 of financial relief through the Humanitarian Assistance Program. Applications and corroborating documentation must be submitted to CSEA Member Benefits within 30 days of the financial emergency. If approved, payments will be made directly to appropriate vendors (utility company, landlord, mortgage lender, etc.).

Humanitarian Assistance Application

Questions and assistance: Contact CSEA Member Benefits

This fund provides assistance to members truly in need and relies on donations from fellow members. Learn how to make a tax-deductible donation.

COVID-19 Funeral Expense Reimbursement Assistance

FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) is offering financial assistance for funeral expenses relating to COVID-19. Members who have incurred these funeral expenses on or after January 20th, 2020 can apply for this assistance.

Please note: An official death certificate will need to be provided. More information

To apply, call COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Helpline at 844-684-6333 during their hours of operation Monday through Friday, 9:00am to 9:00pm Eastern Time. A representative will assist you with completing the COVID-19 Funeral Assistance application. Multilingual services are available.

For questions or concerns, please see the FEMA Funeral Assistance FAQ page.

Read the Funeral Assistance Individuals and Households Program Policy.

For more information view the COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Flyer.