SANDUSKY, Ohio [June 30, 2020] – The Erie County Community Foundation’s emergency response fund has provided vital support for residents and staff at Parkvue Community, a United Church Homes life plan community in Perkins Township.
Parkvue applied for the emergency grant early in the pandemic. The funding was needed to help offset costs incurred to protect residents and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic. The foundation awarded $8,000 for food, technology, medical and general supplies and staff and other costs for two months.
Evolving Dining Services Needs
While operating on the front line, Parkvue has experienced new and increased expenses. With communal dining temporarily prohibited, staff members have been delivering three meals a day to each resident in their apartments. While residents can’t dine together, the community’s dietitian continues working to ensure they get enough nutritional calories.
“Safeguarding the mental and physical health of residents, staff and families has been — and will continue to be — our top priority,” Executive Director Dan Miller said. “We’re the first line of defense from COVID-19 for more than 165 older adults who live in our community and the 175 staff members who need workplace safety.”
The cost for increased safety measures and other initiatives totaled approximately over $14,000 over an eight-week period.
Virtual Visits Combat Loneliness
In addition to helping with operating expenses, the grant supported the launch of Parkvue’s new virtual visitor guide program.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention restricted visits to skilled nursing and assisted living communities on March 13 to reduce the risk of the novel coronavirus entering congregate living settings. United Church Homes, Parkvue’s parent organization, immediately hired virtual visitor guides at each of its senior living communities.
Parkvue’s virtual visitor guides help residents remain connected to loved ones while they can’t visit in person. In addition to scheduling visits, they provide technical support for residents relatively new to using FaceTime, Skype or Google Duo.
“Launching this program was an important step to address one of the many challenges the pandemic imposes. Our residents have been thrilled they can still connect with friends and family during these difficult past few months,” Miller said.
To learn how you can support residents at Parkvue residents and staff, visit unitedchurchhomes.org/covid-19/.
About Parkvue Community
Parkvue Community is a full life plan community offering independent and assisted living, memory care, short-term rehabilitation and skilled nursing care to nearly 200 older adults. A United Church Homes community, Parkvue’s mission is to transform aging by building a culture of community, wholeness and peace.
Media Contact: Alissa Paolella, communications coordinator, United Church Homes, 740.382.4885 or apaolella@uchinc.org