RELEASE — In response to COVID-19, the City of Kingston is introducing additional resources to help support our most vulnerable residents.
“Public health is top of mind for all Kingstonians. While many of us are able to go home, to practice social distancing, and to cope with the effects of this pandemic through the help and support of family and friends, there are those among us who don’t have that option. The City of Kingston is working diligently with community partners to provide those residents with the resources they need,” says Ruth Noordegraaf, the City’s Director of Housing & Social Services.
Actions the City of Kingston is taking, with community partners to support vulnerable residents, include:
* Ensuring a safe place to practice social distancing: Effective Monday, March 23, the Kingston Youth Shelter will relocate its operations from 234 Brock St. to 113 Lower Union St. This new space will provide residents with the opportunity to practice social distancing. The City is also working with community partners to identify a second location that will provide homeless individuals with a space for self-isolation.
* Identifying and addressing unintended consequences of closures: In light of the closure of City facilities, additional portable toilets have been installed at Belle Park and Artillery Park. These are in addition to washrooms available at City Hall and the Salvation Army.
* Working with partners to ensure food security: The City is working with community partners to continue food programs, as many meal programs are switching to take-out only, and the food bank is by appointment.
The City continues to monitor the information released by the provincial Ministry of Health and other public health partners, including KFL&A Public Health.
Find the answers to frequently asked questions about COVID-19 on KFL&A Public Health’s page
Stay up-to-date with the City’s COVID-19 precautions
Release: City of Kingston
Photo: Hugo Chisholm (cc2)
