A message from Womanspace Executive Director, Patricia Hart
Hello Friends,
I hope this email finds you and your family healthy and safe. I wanted to write and update you on what is happening at Womanspace in these days of COVID-19 but my first order of business to thank all of you for being so incredibly supportive during this time. Womanspace supporters are among the most generous and caring individuals from community members to volunteers, to Board members and Advisory Council members. We are fortunate to be a part of such a wonderful community.
Womanspace staff have made it possible to never miss a beat in maintaining communication; providing counseling and emergency services; responding to crisis calls and informational inquiries on our hotlines. Since March the Safe House continued the work of responding to survivors at risk, Barbara’s House Transitional Housing maintained a full house of families with case management continuing. Our Counseling and Support Offices closed but every client was able to continue counseling virtually via phone or doxy.me. Our response teams have continued to be available 24/7 to respond via telephone at the time of a crisis working in conjunction with law enforcement. Administrative staff maintained a virtual presence, continuing the work of the organization. We followed all the guidance offered and built a plan around the expert guidance.
Our next phase begins. On July 6, 2020 we will begin the gradual re-opening of our Counseling and Support (CSS) Office. In preparation we have installed plexiglass shields, a state-of-the-art air purifying system and we will stagger the shifts and working schedules of the counselors to allow for social distancing. Clients will be given the option of “in person” counseling sessions or continuing their counseling virtually. Anyone coming into the building will be doing so by appointment only and will be reminded that we will require masks at all times and social distancing. Hand sanitizer will be available throughout the building. All surfaces will be routinely sanitized, and the cleaning crew will come in three times a week to enhance the cleanliness of the building common areas. A no-contact thermometer will be available for individuals who wish to use them. All precautions are being taken to ensure a safe re-entry.
Like everyone, this pandemic has challenged Womanspace to be the best they can be, to offer services in creative modalities that comply with all guidelines for health and safety and confidentiality. The staff of Womanspace has risen to the challenge without hesitation. I am proud that the Womanspace team that is extraordinary in their commitment, work ethic and belief in our mission. A special thank our clients who have been patient and understanding as we have moved through this past almost four months.
Most importantly, we remain available 24/7 on our hotlines 609-394-9000; available for counseling 609-394-2532; administrative questions 609-394-0136 or if you want to live chat, visit our website www.womanspace.org and click on the “Chat Now” link to speak to one of us. You can also email us at info@womanspace.org.
To help us maintain the costs of these services during COVID-19 and beyond, please consider clicking the “Donate Today” button below.
With much gratitude I close and say thank you for your amazing support.
With Warm Regards,
Patricia M. Hart, M.S.W., LCSW
Executive Director
