Re: Temporary Suspension of Day Programs
Dear Families,
On Monday, November 23, 2020, Governor Cuomo announced in his daily COVID briefing that the city of Syracuse has moved into the “orange zone.” In accordance with The Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) & state directives, H.O.M.E., Inc. is hereby temporarily suspending all services for Day Habilitation effective no later than Tuesday, November 24, 2020 close of business. This program will remain closed until further notice & restrictions have been lifted.
Orange zone designation includes the following restrictions:
Schools All NYC public, nonpublic and charter schools must close and return to remote learning. Schools can reopen if they meet NYS testing requirements.
Businesses Businesses including gyms, fitness centers and personal care services (such as barbers, hair salons, spas, tattoo or piercing parlors, nail technicians and nail salons, cosmetologists, estheticians, laser hair removal and electrolysis services) must close.
Gatherings Nonessential indoor and outdoor gatherings must be limited to no more than 10 people. Any individual who encourages, promotes or organizes mass gatherings may be fined up to $15,000 per day.
We recognize that unexpected changes in scheduling & a temporary suspension of day program services all represent significant hardships for families who support their loved ones in their homes. Day program services for people with developmental disabilities allow families to meet their other needs, including earning a living and providing care to other family members. However, the health and well-being of the people we mutually support is of utmost importance and H.O.M.E., Inc., in conjunction with OPWDD, will continue to monitor the situation and provide additional updates as new information becomes available.
At this time, we do not have a date to give you as to when programs will resume, but we hope that the interruption in services is only for a short time. Please be patient as we receive guidance from the state and OPWDD & be assured that as we receive information, we will in turn share updates with our families. Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact your individual’s Program Coordinator.