United Way Member Agencies Respond to COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought many changes to nonprofits in our community. United Way member agencies adapted quickly to continue providing services in ways that maintain the health and safety of clients and staff. Your contributions to United Way network of agencies has allowed them to make these changes and ensure that people in need are receiving critical supports.
HealthNet Bloomington Health Center, formerly Volunteers in Medicine, has been working to ensure that the clinic is a safe place for people who are un- or under-insured to receive healthcare, for both COVID-related symptoms and general healthcare. They have shifted to providing appointments over the phone or computer whenever possible, and separating those with COVID-19 symptoms from those who do not in separate wings of the clinic.
Area 10 Agency on Aging has adapted many of their services to observe social distancing, as their clients are at high risk for COVID-19. An example of how they've adapted is shown with a client named Barbara, who used to utilize nutrition services at congregate meal sites and the weekly shopping bus trips. Since both of these services have been suspended during the pandemic, Area 10 paired Barbara with a volunteer named Ruth, who lives near her and now does weekly grocery shopping for her. Learn more at area10agency.org/news, and stay connected on Facebook.
Shalom Community Center continues to provide services to those in our community who are experiencing homelessness, hunger, and poverty with added health and safety precautions. The day center has implemented health screenings, handwashing, 24/7 outdoor public restrooms, to-go meals in place of their usual dine-in services, and limited indoor services such as laundry, showers, and case management. The overnight emergency shelter A Friend's Place has temporarily moved locations to a facility with more space for social distancing. Shalom has also partnered with other organizations to open a COVID-19 Isolation Shelter that provides safe shelter for those without homes who may need to quarantine.
Salvation Army has continued to provide support through their food pantry and rent and utility assistance. Requests for financial assistance have almost quadrupled in the last six weeks. Read more at bloomingtonsa.org.
Many member agencies have found innovative ways to provide services virtually.
Catholic Charities Bloomington received grants from both Phase 1 and 2 to support the technology needed for virtual services like consultation calls, Telehealth counseling services, and virtual support groups, as well as expanding in response to an increased need.
Amethyst House has moved their outpatient addictions treatment to virtual Twelve Step meetings, while continuing their residential program with changes for social distancing and health precautions. Find more information at amethysthouse.org.
LIFEDesigns was quick to limit in-person services for their clients with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They have had no cases of COVID-19 symptoms among staff or clients as a result. To keep clients involved with the community, they have created virtual programs that focus on things like social interaction, home activities, making healthy meals, and health and hygiene education related to sanitation and social distancing. Read more about LIFEDesigns at lifedesignsinc.org/category/mission-spotlight, and stay up-to-date with their COVID-19 response at lifedesignsinc.org/covid-19-operational-notice.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Central Indiana has been working to provide resources that allow Bigs and Littles to continue to interact virtually. They have also provided Bigs and Match Support Personnel case workers with the knowledge and resources needed to support Littles through the added stress associated with the pandemic, shelter in place protocols, and virtual learning. Read more at bigsindiana.org.
People and Animal Learning Services has closed to the public completely to ensure the health and safety of staff and clients. Staff continues to care for the horses and work on maintenance projects at the facility. They continue to stay connected through fun programs on social media like virtual painting and reading. Find more information at palstherapy.org.
Your continued support of United Way and the COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund assists these organizations, and organizations outside of our member agencies, during their responses to COVID-19. Thanks to you, people in need will continue to have access to established services, as well as new support systems needed to respond to emerging needs during the pandemic.
Text COVIDRELIEF2020 to 44-321 or click here to donate.
United Way of Monroe County is a nonprofit organization that improves people’s lives by addressing critical needs today and working to reduce those needs tomorrow. Through its Community Action Fund and grant initiatives, United Way works with 24 member agencies and community partners to ensure families have opportunities and everyone can meet basic living needs.