Mothers deserve our praise and admiration…
Now more than ever
Today, when we share a special concern for the health and well-being of our community, we are deeply thankful to all mothers for the protection and care they never stop giving to their families. For the mothers who seek shelter and new hope for the future at Lucy’s Hearth, we again pledge our full resources and impassioned support in their courageous efforts to move forward.
This contagion has been a tremendous challenge for all of us — but remember that hope can be contagious, too! We’re not conducting our usual Mothers’ Day appeal this year, but if you’d like to make a donation in any amount, we’d certainly be honored by your gesture.
Since the beginning of March, we have offered that support to more than 50 people, 40% of whom are children. Three new families were able to join us during this period, meaning they now have a home to sleep in instead of a car.
While the coronavirus is not stopping or slowing our efforts, it has led to some changes we want to make you, a member of our network of concerned donors, volunteers and partners, aware of:
First, our case managers now communicate with each family remotely either by phone or Zoom teleconference. This allows us to make sure that their behavioral health needs are being met and to submit their housing applications without delay. Case managers are also providing help with applications for food assistance, medical insurance and other vital programs.
Second, we are diligently ‘social distancing’ by closing common areas and encouraging families to use the outdoor playground instead. Face masks are being worn by staff and have been issued to all residents. Within the apartments, families can prepare their own meals using the appliances and cookware provided. Staff and residents are also sanitizing both inside and outside the units, together with assistance from professional cleaners.
Third, all residents and staff are receiving daily temperature checks. Should any symptoms of COVID-19 be discovered, the protocols established by the Rhode Island Department of Health will be promptly followed. We also actively participate in daily phone meetings with the Rhode Island Coalition for the Homeless so we stay informed of any new developments which could impact the residents we serve here at Lucy’s Hearth.
Last but certainly not least, our team has created a wonderful website of children’s activities that offers positive messages and ideas for things to do at home. The site also includes links for help with homework and other useful and entertaining tools. Visit the site here.
I thank you all for your continued support and understanding.
Sincerely,
Kelly A. Lee
Lucy’s Hearth – Executive Director
P.S. A final thought. If you’d like to make a gift to Lucy’s in your mother’s name, let us know by providing her name and address on the donation form and we’ll send a letter of acknowledgement to notify her of this gift.
