OUR COVID-19 REPONSE
the ark on the frontlines
In March 2020, our lives changed completely. The entire country quickly became on high alert, researching, identifying, and at times, struggling, to find ways to protect ourselves and our loved ones from contracting COVID-19, commonly known as the coronavirus. As cases increased at a rapid rate, cities had to respond just as quickly. Schools closed in Chicago on March 17, and the ARK realized that we had an obligation to continue to serve the youth in our community amidst the closures. They still needed a safe haven. For the child whose parent must still go to work, we are here. For the child without a computer to finish her new online assignments, we are here. For the child whose best meals came from his school, we are here, ready to serve.
The precautionary measures enforced by our government officials or voluntarily enacted by business owners have taken us all by surprise. However, we did not hesitate to do what was best for our community. We increased our sanitation process in the wake of COVID-19, sterilizing any and all surfaces that may be touched and mandated our youth to wash and/or sanitize their hands every hour. We carefully monitor how our youth interact with each other, how they are feeling, and remind them to be careful of physical distance where possible.
meeting an essential need
During the end of the 2019-2020 school year, we opened our doors for any youth needing a safe haven, a Wi-Fi hub, or a safe place to go between the hours of 9:00 am to 7:00 pm. Not surprisingly, there were a handful of youth who would be in our care for that entire time. Children of essential workers, students needing computers for their e-learning, and others who just loved the ARK. We were the only community center open for miles and started seeing an influx of youth from all sides of the city. To ensure the safety of those we serve, we set capacity limits for each age group and specific time constraints for older youth. Daily, we served over 60 youth from 12 schools across Chicago.
Chicago entered Phase 3 of their reopening plan in June and is currently in Phase 4. The ARK believes that we can safely execute an in-person summer experience: Essential Summer Camp. This began on July 6th and serves 55 youth per day on average. We have reduced the capacity per age group, check temperatures of all who enter the building, and continued with our heightened sanitation procedures for the building and for the youth. For 5 hours a day, we facilitate learning, fun activities, and offer appropriate meals and snacks throughout the day.
