The Dane County government has teamed up with the City of Madison to shelter the local homeless population amid COVID-19 health and safety risks.
Due to the high volume of residents at homeless shelters, multiple Madison hotels will to assist those experiencing homelessness in the practice of social distancing to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus.
Each effort assumed by Dane County strives to “flatten the curve” of coronavirus cases. The effect of social distancing on certain individuals — such as those experiencing homelessness — poses integral concerns toward the affected group’s livelihood, which may lead to the refrain of social distancing.
Nevertheless, Dane County searched for alternatives that may protect more people’s safety during these unprecedented times.
Dane County Executive Joe Parisi said 72 hotel rooms have been rented out to support individuals at high risk — these rooms, as well as meals provided to hotel occupants, will be accounted for via a $150,000 budget granted by the county. Move-in initiatives commenced on March 19.
“Dane County’s efforts will get us through the next couple of weeks, and we may shift that over time, but we also are preparing for potential worst case scenarios,” Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway stated in a press release.
Rhodes-Conway added those potential worst-case scenarios require feasible spaces for childcare or in which people can be quarantined due to patient maximization in hospitals.
Dane County emergency management is consequently seeking out more hotel properties that may be willing to collaborate in providing housing and other services during the pandemic.
Additional support services are being offered to the homeless population through organizations involved in Dane County’s efforts — including the Salvation Army.
The Salvation Army is assisting families in a temporary move from the Salvation Army shelter to the rented hotel rooms. More than 20 families have been assisted thus far.
Approximately $12,000 has been issued by Dane County to the case management program at The Salvation Army — this financial resource will aid the process of relocating individuals who receive benefits from the organization.
The prevailing concept of public health and safety has sparked a national discussion about cleanliness and hygiene. The Dane County government is responding by financing portable bathrooms and handwashing stations in locations with high concentrations of homeless individuals.
“Uncertainty is scary. Uncertainty when you don't have a home to 'physically distance' yourself in is worse,” The Salvation Army tweeted. “Please know that we, as an organization, are doing everything in our power to keep our clients safe, secure, and healthy.”
Jessica Sonkin is a former managing editor of The Daily Cardinal. She previously served as the news manager and campus editor. She is now a desk assistant at Fox News. Jess excels at her work and her leadership skills. Any future office would be lucky to have her as a co-worker or mentor.
