Learn what Evergreen is doing to combat the virus

As we all continue to monitor the global situation regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak and its impact in the United States, we wanted to assure you of our own diligence here at Evergreen and the precautionary measures we are taking to protect people we support and our staff.

We have assembled a team to track the latest information about COVID-19. Every office, day program and community home has been well-stocked with cleaning supplies for the reduction of the risk of infection.

All staff members have reviewed and continue to follow our policy on universal precautions which includes increased cleaning protocols to ensure sanitation of shared surfaces. This includes frequently cleaning high-touch objects and surfaces (doorknobs, counter tops, faucets, light switches, toilet handles, etc.) with bleach-based or alcohol-based disinfectant to reduce the spread of germs.

In addition, Evergreen has taken the following steps to reduce the risk of exposure to the virus:

• Eliminating all non-essential in-person meetings and travel until April 30. Evergreen has the technological infrastructure to conduct all business not directly related to the care of the people we serve remotely
• Asking all staff and visitors who have traveled on a cruise or to a location that has a COVID-19 travel advisory within the last 14 days not to enter an Evergreen community home or facility
• In areas where there are any documented cases of COVID-19, community outings have been modified to reduce the exposure to public areas and large groups of people
• Frequently washing hands with soap and water
• Avoiding touching eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands
• Covering coughs or sneezes with one’s elbow or a tissue, then disposing of the tissue
• Instructing all team members to stay home if they become sick, and to avoid close contact with people who are sick

Evergreen will, as always, provide adequate staffing coverage to ensure individuals are supported. We are monitoring the people we support for symptoms and will reduce participation in day programs or other community activities if need be. We encourage family members to use caution when visiting if you are experiencing symptoms of illness. As a reminder, the symptoms are:

• Fever
• Dry cough
• Shortness of breath

More information on COVID-19 is available on the following sites:
Frequently Asked Questions (CDC)
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Overview
World Health Organization Overview

We will continue to monitor the situation and will share updates as needed.