We know there is growing concern as the outbreak and impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to evolve. Ensuring the health, safety and well-being of the children, families and communities we serve has always been, and will continue to be a top priority. Because we know that you also care about children and families in crisis, we wanted to share with you some of the steps we’ve taken to help prevent the spread of the virus. As part of our ongoing efforts to protect the health of our employees, clients and volunteers from the potential impacts of the Coronavirus, Shelter leadership has made the following adjustments and accommodations: - Effective immediately, all administrative and non-essential staff are required to work remotely. Our main office in Arlington Heights is closed.
- All volunteer activities have been postponed until further notice.
- In-Kind donations (new items ONLY) will be accepted by appointment only. While we will continue to have needs for our children and families, we encourage online shopping and delivery. We even have an Amazon Wish List!
We fully expect the needs of some of our families to increase during this time and we will continue to provide comprehensive and compassionate care for those in crisis while maintaining the safety and health of all staff and our clients. Our Healthy Families, Foster Care, and Group Home staff will continue to provide essential services with the following accommodations: - Caseworkers and Family Support Workers must call ahead before visits and are required to reschedule visits until everyone in the home is healthy and fever free for at least 24 hours.
- Group Home Workers must inquire about the current health of potential clients prior to arranging for an intake. If they are sick or exposed to potential illness, an appropriate plan will be made on a case-by-case basis.
- Group Homes have been stocked with extra cleaning supplies and non-perishable food items. All homes are wiped down with a disinfectant with each shift change.
- Program staff will restrict indoor, public activities for all clients and families, using open air spaces as much as possible.
Because this is a fast-moving and ever-changing situation, we will be diligent in following official recommendations by the CDC and/or local/state authorities or health department. Please stay tuned for further information from our team on this matter as the situation warrants. Last, but not least…we care about you! Please practice social distancing and healthy habits like staying home if you do not feel well, regular handwashing, using antibacterial hand gels, and capturing coughs and sneezes in a tissue and throwing it away immediately. If you have any questions or concerns, you can reach us at 847.255.8060. Thank you for being such a valuable partner in our mission to make sure that all children grow up in save, loving and HEALTHY homes! Carina H. Santa Maria, Executive Director | 
