Volunteers of America Ohio & Indiana is partnering to provide temporary housing for healthcare workers during pandemic
COLUMBUS, IN (April 17, 2020)
Volunteers of America Ohio & Indiana's Columbus Fresh Start Recovery Center, 703 Washington Street, will be temporarily used as housing for healthcare workers in the Columbus Regional Health system, who remain healthy, while treating individuals exposed to COVID-19.
This move will provide a safe opportunity for healthcare workers who have been exposed to provide necessary services in the Columbus community while keeping their families safe from further risk of exposure. This is a collaboration with Columbus Regional Health (CRH).
The remodeled post office has 17 bedrooms and bathrooms, common space, kitchen and laundry facilities available. Local restaurants will provide food for the healthcare workers staying in the “Heroes House,” according to CRH spokesperson.
Planning for the opening of Volunteers of America Ohio & Indiana's Columbus Fresh Start Recovery Center was underway when the pandemic hit and Gov. Eric Holcomb issued a stay at home order on March 23. The facility will open and begin providing addiction treatment for expectant women and mothers with up to two children under the age of five on a future date when the pandemic is no longer a threat to the community.
“Columbus Regional Health has always been a partner and friend to our organization and the community has embraced us. During these troubled times, we must pull together and help each other when we can. Anything we can do to support individuals working on the frontlines of this crisis and keep their families safe is an absolute honor.”
John R. von Arx III
President & CEO
Volunteers of America Ohio & Indiana