Our first priority during this coronavirus pandemic is to keep our most vulnerable residents safe. That includes older adults and people with disabilities and pre-existing conditions.
While statewide a majority of COVID-19 illnesses and deaths have been recorded in nursing homes, Berea has not logged any issues in its long-term facilities so far. If we all follow the guidelines by wearing masks in public and keeping six feet of social distancing, we can help ensure that all of us remain safe.
To make sure our seniors are OK, the City has sent out postcards to residents 60 and older, offering help with everyday chores like grocery shopping and calling them to check on their well-being.
Many seniors are following the Stay at Home guidelines. They don’t venture out unless it’s for medical appointments or shopping for essentials. And sometimes those trips just aren’t possible or even advisable.
The Berea Community Outreach Office will relieve some of those burdens. City workers will stop by the grocery store, pick up prescriptions, cleaning and household supplies or run simple errands. A phone visit can check on a senior’s health and welfare and can also bring some much-needed human contact and socialization. Staying quarantined is not just an issue of physical health. It can lead to loneliness and emotional and mental health concerns as well.
For more information or to ask for assistance, contact the Community Outreach Office at (440) 826-4891 or email bco@cityofberea.org.
The post cards open with “Hi, neighbor! During these difficult times, we’re here to help!” And that’s just what Berea is all about – especially in trying times like this. We are indeed our brothers and our sisters keepers. So, wash your hands, cover a cough or sneeze, don’t touch your face, keep your distance, wear a mask if possible and stay home. That protects others. And they will, in turn, protect you.
With that in mind, we’ve noticed used masks and gloves discarded along City sidewalks and lawns. Please, if you’ve used a mask and gloves when visiting a local business or other facility, discard them in an appropriate container or take them home to throw in the trash. Wearing masks and gloves protects others. Throwing them on the ground does not.
To keep up-to-date on the latest local pandemic news and guidelines, click on the COVID-19 Updates link on this web site.
Please be safe and be well.
