As Open Door Mission cares for our most vulnerable neighbors amidst concerns of the coronavirus and other illnesses, we remain committed to the safety and well-being of all — our residents, guests, volunteers, staff, and the community we serve. We are closely monitoring the Coronavirus COVID-19, as well as proactively seeking and following the latest guidance from federal, state and local officials and other community partners. We are thankful for our supporters who help make it possible to continue our work.
We continue to offer essential residential and shelter programs, as well as meals, and food pantry. Our response balances the consideration that our guests and clients are often health-compromised. Our organization has a duty to continue potentially life-saving services to this vulnerable population.
Please know that guests and volunteers continue to be welcomed at our locations and can reference our website for any program changes.
As Open Door Mission cares for our most vulnerable neighbors in the face of the coronavirus and other illnesses, we are taking proactive measures that include:
- Educating program participants to protect themselves and others from COVID-19
- Conducting ongoing verbal and visual health screenings of participants and volunteers
- Adjusting our emergency care (meals, clothing, shelter) to allow for screening and avoid crowding
- Isolating participants in separate areas when necessary or getting them to medical care
- Continuing with daily cleaning, safety procedures and supplies
- Through this time of uncertainty, we resolve to stay open to serve one of the most vulnerable populations in our region — so we are reliant on friends like you who choose to give financially.
- Reduction in volunteers and volunteer hours to help reduce the risk of exposure.
Open Door Mission is also mindful of our volunteers, partners, and guests. Our team is connecting with each of these groups to ensure safety for all. If you are feeling sick and registered to volunteer, please cancel by notifying our volunteer coordinator, Rachel Cabrera at rachel@opendoor-ny.org
How can you get involved during this challenging time?
- Support financially and with needed supplies — Your gift will help keep our programs running and can help us with unexpected costs of supplies. Give today here. See details of specific supplies needed here.
- Pray with us — For the safety and health of everyone in our Open Door Mission family and their loved ones, and the care of our vulnerable neighbors who are experiencing homelessness or other crises.
Programs will continue; however, we need your support:
- Donations: Monetary and food donations may be put on shelves in our foyer at 226 Warren Street, Glens Falls. At this time only staff, residents and scheduled volunteers will be permitted entry into the main building. Please do not bring clothing donations at this time.
- Soup Kitchen: Open Door Mission will continue to provide food-to-go at 47 Lawrence Street. Note, the Soup Kitchen will be open Monday through Friday from 12 Noon – 1PM. Guests will receive a day’s supply. To help, Churches and Restaurants are asked to provide brown bag lunches or hot meals to help support our neighbors. please contact Jamie Munyon, Program Director at (518) 792-5900 ext. 300.
- Food Pantry will remain available to the community on Monday and Thursdays from 2-5pm. Those in need should call our office at 518-792-5900 to schedule a pickup time.
- Backpack Program: Open Door Mission will continue our commitment by providing over 450 students with food. We are collaborating closely with schools on distribution in the midst of school closures. Needed Backpack Program items can be found here.
Your gifts make an impact.
Your gifts are received with tremendous gratitude.
Your gifts not only enable us to provide food but the care and love that our guests so desperately need.
Thank you again for your support and concern. We will continue to monitor the situation and share updates as they come.
Kim Cook
President and CEO
