Ottawa homeless organizations taking action to prevent coronavirus spread

The Ottawa Mission, Shepherds of Good Hope, The Salvation Army, and Cornerstone Housing for Women are increasing cleaning in their buildings, and have disseminated information to staff, clients, residents, volunteers, and community partners so that everyone is aware of best practices to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Shepherds of Good Hope Manager of Marketing and Communications Amber Bramer released a statement on Friday, saying, all local shelters are working closely together to maintain strict cleanliness and disinfection practices, as well as to identify possible coronavirus cases and report them to Ottawa Public Health.

“Strict protocols are in place to identify possible cases of COVID-19 should they be present,” she wrote. “We are prepared to take appropriate measures for assessment, testing, and care in the event of a possible case of COVID-19.”
 
The release continued, “The wellbeing of our clients in our shelters, residents in supportive housing, community members who visit us, volunteers, partners who help provide our many services, and our employees who provide exceptional support to our vulnerable populations is our top priority.”