FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Christine Collins, Director of Communications
ccollins@cc-md.org
667-600-2008
PLEASE NOTE: Out of respect for the dignity of our residents, you are not invited to take photos or video. Thank you for understanding.


Residents to move out of Weinberg Housing and Resource Center

Move is for protection, cleaning

(Baltimore – April 23, 2020) – To protect residents and guests of the Weinberg Housing and Resource Center from the possible spread of COVID-19, Catholic Charities, along with the Mayor’s Office for Homeless Services, city and state health department officials, and the state Rapid Response team, will move those individuals out of the center and into a hotel beginning Friday, April 24.

The decision was made after one nurse and four residents in the city-owned, Catholic Charities-operated facility’s convalescent dorm tested positive for the virus. All convalescent dorm residents were moved to other facilities for appropriate care after the positive tests were returned.

About 141 residents remain at the center for individuals experiencing homelessness following recent efforts to reduce risk by moving residents to less congested facilities. Catholic Charities and the city are working to appropriately accommodate those with disabilities requiring wheelchairs or walkers. Most of the residents will move to their own rooms in a hotel that is serving as an alternative shelter. 

All the residents will be tested for COVID-19. Individuals who develop symptoms will be reported to the Healthcare for the Homeless triage line, and a care plan will be determined for the individual. Negative-tested, asymptomatic individuals who are employed and considered essential will be allowed to continue to work.

Residents may bring one large bag and one small bag. Catholic Charities’ Weinberg Housing and Resource Center employees will staff the hotel. Security will be provided by both Catholic Charities and the City of Baltimore. Meals will be provided by a third-party vendor per city contract.

After the residents are moved out, the Weinberg Housing and Resource Center will be thoroughly cleaned.