To those we support, our stakeholders and broader community:
Like each of you, Citizen Advocates is watching closely as the COVID-19, or Coronavirus, continues to impact our daily lives. As we adjust to this new normal, we want to share with you our plans to continue essential supports and services during this public health crisis.
We are committed to making sure the health and well-being of those we serve remains our top focus. In addition, we will share important, reliable information immediately online and at our facilities. Please check the following for the most current updates:
- Our website: www.CitizenAdvocates.net
- Facebook: @CitizenAdvocatesInc
- LinkedIn: Citizen Advocates, Inc.
OUR TASK FORCE: Citizen Advocates has formed a Task Force to manage the flow of reliable information, training and prevention measures in response to any new developments that may affect the services we provide to individuals and families.
BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES: We are developing individual plans for our daily operations to ensure the delivery of services, and to minimize the health risks posed by COVID-19. Access to our mental health and addiction services will continue, however, it is possible the delivery of those services may change. For example an adjustment in location or methods, such as tele-mental health, may be needed to ensure continued access to services. In addition, our Crisis & Recovery Center remains open 24/7 for urgent mental health or addiction services.
INTELLECTUAL/DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITY SERVICES: Likewise, our intellectual & developmental disability services are under review, and we anticipate changes there as well to minimize exposure and spread of the illness. For example, activities that result in large group gatherings will be adjusted with an emphasis on smaller group settings.
CLEANING: We are redeploying staff, where needed, to focus on education, prevention and to perform deep cleans multiple times daily at all facilities.
Please keep in mind, much like the flu, the greatest tool we have is prevention. To prevent the spread of germs:
- Wash hands, frequently
- If you are sick, stay home
- Practice social distancing – avoid close contact with people
- Cover your cough, sneeze in your elbow, avoid touching your face
- Clean/disinfect frequently touched surfaces
If you have traveled to a country where COVID-19 is prevalent, or have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19 and are experiencing symptoms like shortness of breath or coughing, contact us to let us know you don’t feel well and postpone treatment or services. It is important that you contact your Primary Care Provider for further guidance, or contact the COVID-19 Hotline at 1-888-364-3065. Do not go to Urgent Care or the Emergency Department unless you’re short of breath, or otherwise need urgent medical help.
Our 24-hour Crisis Line is always available at 518-483-3261 or 518-891-5535 if you need immediate assistance. For the latest updates and how to stay safe, visit the CDC website: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
Thank you,
James Button, MSW
Chief Operations Officer
Dr. Joshua Frank
Medical Director
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