Dear Friends,
In response to growing concerns about Coronavirus (COVID-19), Project Place is taking a number of precautions to keep our community safe and fulfill our commitment to our homeless clients by providing ongoing services and support.
Proactive steps we are taking:
Following the directives of the CDC, we have posted precautionary measures, installed additional hand sanitizers, and are cleaning our facility several times a day with bleach wipes and disinfectant sprays.
Currently, our classes remain in session. In order to reduce the numbers of people in one space and comply with recommendations for social distancing, we are now staggering class times and holding trainings in multiple rooms to maximize space and safety.
Should there be a disruption in on-site services, teachers have prepared remote education plans for students. Educational materials and resources are available in knapsacks to be distributed to all students. Additionally, tablets with online curriculum are available to students who have access to Wi-Fi connections.
Case managers are in daily communication with our clients to address any anxiety they may have during these uncertain times, as well as to work on goals for employment and housing. Case managers are ensuring that all clients have access to cell phones or email so that in the event of a disruption of services, we can conduct remote daily check-ins to provide information, resources and on-going support.
A list of emergency resources will be posted for our clients to access should they need services outside of Project Place.
We are providing each client with a gift card to purchase emergency supplies that every person should have available at this time, such as a thermometer, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, electrolyte fortified water, and food.
Our social enterprises continue to operate. There are plans to have our vans transport clients, rather than have our clients take public transportation.
We are limiting access to our building for evening activities with civic groups in consideration of the health and safety of our community.
We will be postponing our annual Open Door Gala until the fall to ensure safety for all attendees. A new date will be announced in the coming weeks.
The situation is evolving quickly and we will continue to pay close attention to the directives of the State of Massachusetts. By modifying the way we deliver services, we hope to mitigate some of the impacts of the virus. We are grateful for your interest in our work and your compassion for the community we serve. We know that those experiencing homelessness are more vulnerable to this pandemic due to close living-quarters in shelters, hygiene concerns, underlying health conditions and barriers to accessing health care. Project Place is a supportive community that our clients rely on to address the challenges they face. During these uncertain times, we are doing all we can to continue to provide the consistency and individualized care that our clients need to reclaim and rebuild their lives.
Wishing you all health in the coming weeks.
With gratitude for your support,
Suzanne Kenney,
Executive Director[/column]