Over the past week, JFS and NNORC staff has paid close attention to the latest news about the Coronavirus (COVID-19). With 15 cases reported in Albany, our top priority is to keep our clients, program participants, staff and volunteers safe. We are staying abreast of New York and national guidelines to ensure that safety. As such, in the immediate weeks ahead, here is what JFS and Albany NNORC is doing:
PROGRAM CANCELLATIONS
To reduce the risk of spreading the Coronavirus, NNORC and its program partners have canceled the following upcoming programs:
- An Afternoon at the Movies, Tuesday, March 17, 1 p.m., Madison Theater
- Let’s Talk about Albany, Thursday, March 26, 1 p.m., APL’s Bach Branch
- One-on-One Computer Skills, Monday, March 23, 12 p.m., APL’s Bach Branch
- NNORC Nurse Is In, Mondays, March 16 & 23, 1 p.m., APL’s Bach Branch
- Nurse Drop-in, Monday, March 16, 10:30 a.m., St Sophia
- Nurse Drop-in, Thursday, March 19, 10:45 a.m., Albany JCC
- Chair and Floor Yoga, March 17, 11 a.m. & 12:30 p.m. St. Sophia and 4 p.m. First Congregational
- Census Bingo, Wednesday, March 18, 11:30 a.m., Albany JCC
- No Library Links book deliveries
Please note that this list is fluid, and we plan to update you regularly about future cancellations. We also recommend visiting our website (jfsneny.org) and Facebook pages JFSNENY and Albany NNORC for the most up-to-date program information.
HOME VISITS & TRANSPORTATION With seniors and those with serious long-term health problems being at higher risk of serious illness from contracting the Coronavirus, we are suspending non-essential home visits and transportation to appointments until further notice. We recognize the hardship this may cause and will remain available for phone consultation to help address your needs. Your safety is our priority.
During this time, our staff will also be working to develop and offer programming and support via telephone and online. More on that in the coming days as well.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
We ask that all members of our community be conscious of recommended guidelines:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. Use hand sanitizer if soap/water is not available.
- Take care of yourself if you are sick. Stay home to avoid spreading to others or call your doctor for further consultation.
- Avoid touching your face, particularly your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Avoid physical greetings like hugs, kisses, and handshakes. A smile goes a long way!
- If possible, cough and sneeze into a disposable tissue and the discard it. Use your elbow only if you need to.
- Avoid communal food where people help themselves, such as a buffet.
CONTINUED VIGILANCE
JFS has an important responsibility to care for our community and we will continue to focus on health and security. We will remain vigilant regarding this evolving situation, will adapt our practices as appropriate, and continue to keep you updated. For more information, please visit the NYS Department of Health or the CDC website. We know this situation is very stressful and if you would like to speak with one of our clinicians over the phone, please call our offices Monday – Thursday to arrange a session: 518-482-8856.
Thank you for your support, trust, and patience – we all have a role to play in keeping our community healthy.