UCP Oregon: COVID-19 Response Update

3/17/2020

FROM THE DESK OF ANN COFFEY,
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF UCP OREGON

Dear customers, family members, providers, and community partners,

I want to update you about how UCP Oregon is navigating the impact of COVID-19. We are taking into consideration the variety of risks and support needs of the 500+ people we support; their families; and their service providers (including 200+ UCP Oregon employees).

We are here and accessible, but we’re shifting how we engage with the people we support in an effort to protect those who are at high risk of contracting COVID-19.

The following strategies are in place, effective immediately until further notice:

We are limiting face-to-face contact to essential meetings and services. Critical in-person supports will continue.
Whenever possible, our staff are working remotely. As appropriate, they will be coordinating services via phone or video conferencing. Employees will also be checking emails, voicemails and other communication options they utilize.
Our office is now open to visitors by appointment only.
The Front Desk has limited hours (Monday to Friday, 10am to 3pm). When you call the Front Desk (503-777-4166), any updates in Front Desk hours will be listed in the outgoing voicemail message.
On an on-going basis, the appropriate UCP Oregon employees are reviewing individual support plans, safety plans, high risk individuals, and other necessary considerations related to staffing and essential direct service delivery. We will continually evaluate the need to implement different strategies, and will adapt as needed.

A Note for Customers and Families:

When a member of your UCP Oregon support team is ill or unable to respond due to unexpected time off, someone will be available to assist you.
In some service departments, you will be directly contacted about staffing alterations or discontinuation of non-essential services.
For others who typically receive non face-to-face supports from UCP Oregon, you will be notified or instructed about what to do if your primary support person is not able to attend work due to illness or caring for another individual. You can expect to receive instructions via the methods you are already familiar with (e.g. phone, email, text, snail mail, etc.)

Figuring out how to take care of yourself and your loved ones can cause fear, anxiety, and stress. Breathe deep, ask for support, make a contingency plan, and check in with yourself and others.

Don’t hesitate to reach out for help. If you—whether you are a customer, a family member, or an employee—feel like you need additional support during the next few weeks, please reach out to your personal agent, case manager, supervisor, department director, or UCP’s Executive Director.

And, finally, don’t forget the basics! Wash your hands. Maintain a 6’ perimeter. Cover your cough. Take care of each other. We are all in this together--we will get through this!

Sincerely,

Ann Coffey
UCP Oregon Executive Director

UCP Oregon: COVID-19 Response Update

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