Guidance and Best Practices for Community Residential Providers

This holiday season brings many reasons to celebrate.   It is also the time of year when we typically gather with family and friends.  This year, your support of the people we serve and the approach you take could make all the difference.  As community residential providers, you can support a positive experience while reducing the health risks associated with holiday gatherings.

Remember all Certified Community Residential Services and Support (CCRSS) providers must follow the Safe Start plan for CCRSS providers and their county’s Safe Start phased reopening plan.  The CCRSS Safe Start plan details visitation, screening, communal dining and more.  Educate your staff on local county status and restrictions; and your agency’s policies to reduce spreading the coronavirus.

Here are some additional resources for agencies and staff include:

• Some creative ways to celebrate the holidays and avoid crowded tables.
• CDC’s guiding principles to assess gathering risk levels under consideration.
• DOHs checklist for safer gatherings.
• Remember to use DOH’s symptom screening for clients, staff and guests to lower the chances of spreading the virus.

• Wear a mask, stay six feet apart, and wash hands often with soap and water.

Happy Holidays - have fun and be safe.

Contact us for questions or feedback.