Support & Care
There are many resources available to support to support the physical, emotional and mental well-being of employees working on-campus or remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Frequently Asked Questions
What support resources are available for employees?
Cornell community members are being impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic in a variety of ways and may be experiencing a myriad of emotions including anxiety, grief, loneliness and worry for the future. Those who could benefit from support are encouraged to connect with the resources below.
- Faculty and staff in Ithaca and New York City may contact the Faculty and Staff Assistance Program (FSAP). Additional health plan benefits, including telemedicine and telecounseling are also available to benefits-eligible employees.
- Confidential care and support for individuals affected by bias is also available, and any member of the community can report a bias incident or related concerns
What community resources are available to help employees?
Human Resources has developed a collection of Cornell and community resources to support the physical, emotional and mental well-being of employees and share information on caregiving, food and delivery services, how to help others in the community, and more.
What childcare options are available?
Information about Cornell and community-based childcare resources is available on the Human Resources COVID-19 Workplace Guidance website.
What is Cornell doing to support employees who are sick or are caring for dependents at home due to the COVID-19 pandemic?
Human Resources has developed the COVID-19 Employee Guidance website to provide employees with information on caring for themselves and their dependents, as well as other resources. HR encourages all employees to review this information and has specifically noted the following:
- Because some K-12 schools have closed, HR is permitting the use of Health and Personal (HAP) leave for staff to use for childcare even though their child is not sick. This is an exception to standard policy.
- Up to 10 Health and Personal (HAP) days* (pro-rated as appropriate for part-time staff) have been added to the banks of our regular full and part-time, exempt and non-exempt staff, including benefits-eligible temporary staff, who are not currently at their maximum. These days can be used for personal health situations or to care for children or other dependents.
*or Sick Leave days for staff whose collective bargaining agreements contain Sick Leave provisions - If you find yourself out of work to care for someone in your family, New York State Paid Family Leave is available to staff.
- Coverage is now available for telemedicine and telecounseling through employee health plans. Find more information on the HR website.