Building News - 2020

The continued presence of COVID-19 in our everyday lives, has necessitated many changes both programmatically and operationally to the Federation Housing community. Based on the CDC publication, Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employers to Plan and Respond to Coronavirus Disease 2019, February 2020, Federation Housing has developed and implemented an FHI COVID-19 Policy and Procedure guide.

Responsibility for carrying- out these procedures is being handled by two members of our Corporate Staff; Jane Lahage, Director of Operations and Megan McGinty, Facilities Manager. Jane, as lead coordinator, is involved in training of staff regarding appropriate cleaning protocols and use of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) and Megan is tasked with ordering and tracking the much-needed supplies.

To date, expenses incurred have totaled nearly $71,000 and have fallen under 2 categories: (1): PPE for staff, including masks and gloves, hand sanitizer, sanitizing wipes, sneeze guards and Tyvek suits and(2): Restorecore sanitizing of FH’s apartments, offices and maintenance shops. We are pleased to report that FH’s supply of masks and gloves is sufficient through March 2021.

In addition to these new operational procedures and expenses, the pandemic has also necessitated the suspension of our many community based programs and activities with the exception of our essential Senior Congregate Meal Program. This program now operates on a “take-out” basis, rather than in a congregate setting, across all Federation Housing communities.

Despite these additional challenges and disruptions, our residents and staff have continued to work together to adjust to these unprecedented circumstances. We are thankful for our many supporters including our Board, community friends of Federation Housing and our many foundation partners who have continued to provide additional financial support and flexibility as we navigate these uncertain times.