The Van Wert County Courthouse

Thursday, Mar. 28, 2024

YWCA releases new COVID-19 protocols

VW independent/submitted information

When a pandemic like COVID-19 (Coronavirus) strikes, shelters can be affected. Because the YWCA of Van Wert County provides 24-hour residential services, it is necessary for its services to be continuous, even in the face of a health crisis. 

The YWCA will continue to provide services to its current residents and remain open to individuals needing domestic violence, human trafficking, and sexual assault services. For more information about the services the YWCA provides, visit its website: www.ywcavanwert.org.

The YWCA of Van Wert County is adapting protocols, policies, and procedures to be in line with the recommendations from the Ohio Department of Health, as it strives to keep clients and staff safe, which, in turn, will keep the community safe.

Current safety protocols in place:

  • instituting a 14-day self-quarantine policy for all employees or residents who recently traveled.
  • taking temperature of all staff at the beginning of each shift
    limiting non-essential people into the YWCA building and limiting contact with residents and staff
  • encouraging residents to practice social distancing with each other and staff and utilize stay at home practices to reduce exposure.
  • all staff practicing social distancing
  • encouraging residents to limit or eliminate time in shared spaces
  • frequent sanitation of the YWCA facility

To protect clients and staff in the event that a resident must be quarantined or begins exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19, a protocol has been put into place in cooperation with Van Wert County General Health District.

It is during times like these that the YWCA is proud to be working to eliminate racism, empower women, stand up for social justice, help families, and strengthen communities. The staff is thankful to be a part of a community that supports its mission and hopes everyone continues to practice the protocols set forth by Governor Mike DeWine and Dr. Amy Acton, M.D.

Many members of the community have inquired about donating supplies. At this time, the YWCA has sufficient supplies for residents. If this should change, an announcement will be made on social media asking for specific items and how those may be safely dropped off at the facility. 

Currently, people can support the YWCA by purchasing geraniums. This annual fundraiser assists in providing many crucial YWCA programs for women, children, men, and families in the community. New this year is online ordering and payment through Shopify ( https://ywca-of-van-wert-county.myshopify.com/).

For those who prefer to pay with cash or check, other order options are available on  the “Events” page of the YWCA website (ywcavanwert.org) or by calling 419.238.6639, extension 101. 

POSTED: 03/24/20 at 4:03 pm. FILED UNDER: News