May 2, 2022
With changes to COVID restrictions, we’re looking forward to the gradually reopening of community activities while continuing to be cautious. At Quad County Support Services, we’re proud that we’ve been able to have kept COVID out of the homes we serve for the duration of the pandemic.
To continue this momentum, we continue to closely follow Ministry guidelines and best practices. This includes mandatory mask wearing for staff and visitors, a COVID vaccine policy for staff, and reminding people to stay home and get tested when feeling unwell, even mild symptoms.
We thank everyone for their ongoing patience as we navigate the challenges of living in a global pandemic.
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January 6, 2022
It’s been a while since we provided a COVID update as until recently we’ve had little changes to our operations. However, with the Omicron variant and rising COVID cases in Ontario and the communities we serve, that has now changed.
We are starting to have staff off due to testing positive, being symptomatic or having had close contact with someone who is COVID positive.
Thankfully, as of this posting, none of the individuals we support have symptoms or have tested positive. This is the result of the COVID protocols we have in place and the hard work of our staff, families and individuals to follow these protocols.
While currently the staff absences are not impacting our operations, we know this can change quickly. Staffing shortages may require us to make operational decisions that are less than ideal as we are living and working through challenging times.
Thank you for your ongoing support as we continue to pivot our operations in response to this pandemic.
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September 6, 2021
Many of our staff and the individuals we support have enjoyed connecting with family and friends over the summer months. As these visits move indoors with cooler weather, we can’t let our guard down.
With the highly transmittable Delta variant circulating in our communities, and COVID cases rising, we need to continue to follow COVID safety measures. These include wearing a mask, practicing social distancing, washing your hands as well as staying home and getting tested when unwell.
While visits with family and friends are still permitted, for everyone’s safety, please wear a mask when indoors. And to keep everyone safe, please get vaccinated. Vaccinations are our way out of this pandemic.
In terms of programming, Quad County Support Services’ focus for the fall is on virtual connections and programs. This is a safe and familiar way of supporting individuals.
We thank everyone for their ongoing patience with following the COVID protocols.
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July 2, 2021
I know many of us are excited to see restrictions easing in Ontario. After months of limited social interactions, we are all looking forward to a summer where we can get out and meet up with our family and friends.
It‘s heartwarming to see individuals reconnecting with family members they haven’t been able to see in a long time as well as getting together with friends to share a meal and have some fun. Our focus this summer is supporting those connections that have been missed for many months.
By the end of July, we anticipate the majority of individuals we support and staff who’ve received their first dose of the COVID vaccine will be fully vaccinated. This, along with the fact we remain at zero COVID cases, is something to celebrate!
We are continuing to keep a close eye on the restrictions to see what they mean for our organization and individuals.
I wish everyone a summer filled with relaxation and reconnection.
Linda Long, Executive Director
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May 1, 2020
It has now been over a year since COVID changed how we operate and live our lives. While there have been many disruptions, there has also been much growth.
We are so grateful for the flexibility, kindness and creativity of the individuals we support, staff and families in finding new ways to connect and thrive.
As of today, I’m happy to report none of the individuals we support have tested positive for COVID. This is a true testament to dedication of our community in following the COVID protocols that have been put in place to keep people safe.
Thank you to each of you for your hard work in following COVID protocols as well as going above and beyond to not only adapt but grow in this new reality.
Linda Long, Executive Director
Can I visit my loved one?
We continue to follow Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services visitation guidelines. Please visit their website for the most current update. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.
Do you have adequate personal protective equipment (PPE)?
As part of our commitment to keep individuals and families safe, we are continually monitoring our PPE needs and securing necessary stock.
Are staff adequately trained to meet COVID-19 guidelines?
Our staff are trained and continuously supported in infection prevention and control, cleaning, and disinfection protocols.
Can my loved one come home for a visit?
There is no easy answer to this question as COVID-19 restrictions continue to change in response to case counts in the communities we serve. Please contact us directly to discuss home visitations.
When will the individuals you support be able to go out and do things in the community?
This is a question many of us struggle with as we are all limited in our interactions. We continue to closely follow provincial guidelines and will resume community outings once restrictions ease.
How are individuals being supported in their socialization?
Our staff have been amazing, pivoting in-person programs to the virtual setting. Throughout the month there are a variety of online programs including crafting, baking, dance, exercise and other programs. This allows individuals to select the activity that interests them.
When will vaccines be available?
We are communicating regularly with our local public health authorities and will provide updates to individuals, staff and our families as we receive them.
Will we be required to receive a vaccine?
As we continue to navigate COVID-19, we are currently developing a policy to address this concern.
Is the vaccine safe?
We know there has been much information shared about vaccine safety – both true and false. We defer to the Province of Ontario vaccine safety website.
Why did the day program close?
While we cannot say exactly what will happen next, we know that reopening our services as we knew them is not an option. As such, we are taking this is an opportunity to redesign our services in a way that furthers our core mission of supporting the rights and choices of our community through smaller, more individualized program offerings.
Why can’t you just reopen the day programs?
The age and design of the building prohibits us from following the enhanced precautions that are required to keep people safe. Not knowing when COVID restrictions will be lifted, we need to look at new ways to support individuals.
So now what? How are you going to support individuals?
Honouring our commitment to offer services that match the choices and goals of the individuals supported, we are working with our community to determine how best to do this moving forward. Over the next few months, we will be speaking with individuals to learn more about their personal interests.
