BATTLE CREEK, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — A local non-profit organization is working to ensure that some of Southwest Michigan’s most vulnerable residents have secure lodging in the event that they are exposed to COVID-19.
The United Way of Battle Creek and Kalamazoo has unveiled a new program that will allow homeless individuals to use one of 100 rooms at a Battle Creek hotel as quarantine space if they come into contact with someone carrying the virus.
Those found to have tested positive for the illness will be transported from the clinic where they were tested to the location. The hotel lodging will be offered for individuals who show only mild or moderate symptoms and do not require additional medical care at a hospital.
Vice president of impact and engagement Alyssa Stewart told MLive that the hotel used is not being identified by the organization, but was otherwise vacant and will no longer be open to other guests while the lodging program is active.
Funded through the United Way Disaster Relief Fund, the program will pay to keep hotel employees on-staff when they may have otherwise been laid off.
Distributed funds from the United Way will pay for the cost of lodging and upkeep, though some of the costs may later be reimbursed through grants provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
The disaster relief fund has received $1,443,515 dollars so far through donations by local residents, non-profits, businesses, and government bodies like the city of Kalamazoo. Some of the programs funded include food assistance, childcare, and keeping partnering charitable organizations afloat in the Kalamazoo and Battle Creek areas.
Both Kalamazoo and Calhoun counties have agreed to use the hotel through the program as a quarantine site for homeless individuals, and more local counties could sign on in the future if they decide to.
Kalamazoo County public health officer Jim Rutherford says that the homeless population faces factors making them more susceptible to COVID-19 transmission, with a lack of secure housing and healthcare resources amplifying the risk to individuals.
The week that the outbreak began, he discussed with WKZO the department of health and community service’s plan for mitigating spread among the homeless.
“There’s specific guidance with the CDC, and our staff will maintain shelter with local shelters to make sure they’re prepared and there needs continue to be met,” said Rutherford.
Kalamazoo Gospel Ministries has also partnered with an area hotel to provide lodging for homeless residents, though that program allows anyone to make use of the space.
That organization says that while work continues at its in-house homeless shelter, the additional space allows individuals more room to encourage social distancing and prevent large gatherings.
