Message from Birch Family Services CEO Matt Sturiale Regarding COVID-19 (Coronavirus)

As New Yorkers, we have all received an abundance of information about the coronavirus. As is the case every day, the health and safety of our staff and the people we support continue to be our number one priority. Birch Family Services is taking the situation very seriously across the organization and following all guidelines from authorities to best protect our staff and individuals in our programs.

At this time, there are no plans to close our offices or suspend any programs. This is an extreme measure that can be disruptive to every-day life, and the decision to do so would be with the guidance of public health experts and government officials. The Department of Health has provided guidance to prevent the infection as well as actions to take if someone contracts the virus.

We will begin to screen visitors to our administrative office and all other sites by asking questions about travel, possible exposure, and symptoms as recommended by the Department of Health. Anyone answering affirmatively will be asked to refrain from participation in the program. A sign will be posted at the entrance of all our locations.

We are receiving regular updates from the NYC/NYS Departments of Health, the NYC/NYS Departments of Education, and the NYS Office for People with Developmental Disabilities to ensure that our Staff have the latest information and to be able to answer any questions that may arise. We will continue to monitor the situation across our programs. If you have any concerns, you may email our Information Desk at info@birchfamilyservices.org.

You will find comprehensive information about the coronavirus (COVID-19) on the following websites:

NYC Department of Health

NYC Department of Education

Centers for Disease Control

Office of People with Developmental Disabilities

I hope this information can assist you in taking care of yourself and your family. I thank you for your understanding and patience at this difficult time and for your ongoing concern for the people we support.

Sincerely,

Matthew Sturiale, LCSW
President & CEO
Birch Family Services