Skip to Main Content

COVID-19 President Update March 12

Good Afternoon Cushing Community,

We continue to assess and review the latest information and recommendations put forth by CDC and MA Department of Public Health. Our management teams continue to participate in various calls and webinars on prevention and preparation for COVID-19. We will continue to provide you with regular updates including our current practices and preparedness.

We continue to take preventative measures like cleaning and disinfecting all program areas including high-traffic areas such as door handles, faucets and railings, and cleaning hard surfaces such as desks and countertops. We also continue to remind everyone of practicing good hygiene to prevent illness:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds including under your fingernails. Singing the “ABC” song is helpful in estimating the timing. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol content) can be used when soap and water are not available.
  • Keep your hands away from your face.
  • Cover your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing with a tissue and discard it immediately. Cough into the sleeve over your elbow instead of your hand. Wash your hands often when coughing and sneezing.
  • Stay away from people who are sick and stay home when you are sick.

In addition to preventative measures, we are applying “social distancing” measures to slow down the spread of disease.  Until further notice, we have cancelled field trips as well as attendance to large group events – visiting museums, sports complexes, bowling etc.  We are requesting that staff work with their managers to review planned outings in order to minimize any risk to our staff or those we support. We will continue to make every effort to ensure those we support are provided alternate activities during this time.

Beginning next week, all external meetings including IEP’s and ISP’s  will be held via conference call. We have cancelled all Iron Kettle luncheons and facility rentals until further notice and we will also be postponing all program tours.

I know this is a difficult and trying situation for the entire community.  Please know that Cardinal Cushing Centers will continue to keep you informed of updates or changes as we are advised by our local and state departments of public health.

Thank you for your support and partnership as we strive to keep our community healthy.

Be Well,

Michelle Markowitz
Interim President & CEO