May 28, 2020

Dear Families, Residents, and Friends,

Once again we thank you for your generous support and assistance over these past weeks. In the news we often hear about medical staff on the front lines tending to the sick struck with this invisible virus. We are proud to say that we have our own set of heroes here at our Home. All our staff members are considered essential workers and no matter which department, we have joined together as a team to do our best and to give of our best on any given day to bring the spirit of Jeanne Jugan to the fore as we see Jesus in those who we care for.

We also have a set of heroes beyond the four walls of this building – all of our benefactors who have shown support through your prayers, monetary means, those who have done shopping or made deliveries. DC Health and Epidemiology Team, many parishes throughout the archdiocese, the Knights of Columbus, and countless individuals and groups have also offered assistance. Our Foundress used to say, “Making the elderly happy, that is what counts.” Please know of our gratitude and be assured of our prayers for all you are doing for us.

This past week we have seen significant improvements among our sick Residents. Of the 21 who originally tested positive for Covid-19, 4 Residents have passed away. Of the remaining 17, 14 have tested negative twice and are now considered recovered; 3 are awaiting a second negative test. No one is currently hospitalized.

We have been able to remove the barriers in the two nursing units that were used to separate the Covid negative and positive Residents, but are still following current CDC and DC Health restrictions until further notice. Residents will be encouraged and assisted to wear a cloth mask while personal care is being provided.

As of May 26, 2020 all Residents in the boarding home tested negative and 14 of those in the apartment area of the Home have also tested negative; 1 test is pending and the 3 who are home with their families will be tested before returning.

Of 10 staff members who have tested positive to date, 7 are now considered recovered. Unfortunately 2 of these employees have not been able to return to work due to work-related childcare issues. One staff member is currently awaiting a second negative test result before returning to work.

The last piece of news we’d like to share is bittersweet for us here at Jeanne Jugan Residence. Many of you — in fact, all of you who currently have a Resident in our Home — have had some contact with Cindy Finelli, our Admissions and Social Services coordinator. After nearly 26 years of devoted service to our Home as an advocate for our Residents, Cindy will be retiring at the end of May. We are grateful for her service and wish her many blessings.

God bless you and your family,
Sr. Mary Michael and all the Little Sisters

P.S. As a result of the generosity of so many people we now have a stockpile of the following items: cereal and other food/snack items, laundry soap, and most paper goods. Thank you again for your generous donations.

Previous Updates:
May 21, 2020
May 12, 2020
May 5, 2020
April 28, 2020
April 22, 2020
April 14, 2020

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Together let’s pray to Saint Jeanne Jugan to stop the spread of the virus. Click here for her novena prayer.

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