COVID-19 Pandemic

COVID-19 is caused by a new coronavirus. We are learning about how it spreads, how severe it is, and other features of the disease. Transmission of COVID-19 in your community could cause illness among people experiencing homelessness, contribute to an increase in emergency shelter usage, and/or lead to illness and absenteeism among homeless service provider staff.
Early and sustained action to slow the spread of COVID-19 will keep staff and volunteers healthy, and help your organization maintain normal operations. (CDC, 2020)

People who are homeless are at risk of COVID-19.

Although it may not be possible to avoid certain crowded locations (such as shelters), people who are homeless should:

• Try to avoid other crowded public settings.
• If using public transportation, follow the CDC guidance on how to protect yourself when using transportation, try to travel during less busy times, and clean your hands as soon as possible after their trip.
• If possible, use take-away options for food.
• Maintain a distance of 6 feet (about two arms’ length) from other people.
• Wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds as often as possible, and cover their coughs and sneezes.
(CDC, 2020)