During these extraordinary times we are working hard to ensure the safety of everyone at Bethlehem and to continue to provide support services for our residents and clients. Our support services provide the most vulnerable in our community with the essential supports needed to maintain their housing stability.
Over the past month we have continued to modify our programs and support services to promote the health and well-being of our staff, residents, clients and volunteers. At this time group sessions, life skills classes and social activities have been cancelled. All EarlyON locations across Niagara are closed, including the EarlyON Child and Family Centre located at Bethlehem Place.
We are continuing to offer our intake services for the vulnerable members of our community that require housing supports during this time. Our intake worker can be reached at 905-641-1660 ext 227.
Now more than ever our residents and clients need consistent access to their Community Support Workers to help keep them stabilized. Our support workers are working remotely and continuing to provide one-on-one support for over 400 active cases including; our residents, people on the waitlist, outreach clients and EarlyON program participants.
During this time of social distancing it is crucial that our residents and clients have the support they need to help stabilize their mental health and maintain their quality of life. Our priority is to check-in regularly and to keep them connected to resources and community supports.
In some cases, we are providing in person support to help reduce barriers for people needing access to essential services. Those receiving in-person supports participate in a screening process and are required to follow health and safety protocols.
Here are some examples of how our Community Support Workers are continuing to provide support services.
- regular phone check-ins to stay connected and offer support
- helping clients adapt to self isolation by providing accountability and encouragement to maintain daily routines
- providing access to technology for tele-health services and to keep in regular contact with medical practitioners
- picking up food at Community Care and delivering to tenants doors
- providing assistance to apply for financial and/or community supports
- providing advocacy support to help overcome barriers and navigate services
As we continue to adapt to the ever changing circumstances that we are all facing due to COVID-19 we will continue to ensure that our residents and clients are supported and that they maintain their housing stability and quality of life.
We would like to extend a special thank you to our funders and donors who continue to support our efforts during such a challenging time.