We hope you are doing well as we head into the final weeks of this unprecedented year. It is incredible to think of how much has changed for all of us so quickly. Although we have slowly opened up some of our Community Day Services, increasing cases of Covid-19 have led to the difficult decision to currently limit attendance to Cornerstone residents only. At the same time, the agency has also been investing in technology to help reduce the opportunity for coronavirus transmission. Most notably is an air purification system that has been installed at our offices and group homes. This, along with other cleaning and safety protocols will help to keep staff and residents safe during the upcoming winter months.
As you know, November and December are traditionally times for family gatherings, as many of us celebrate several major holidays. This has frequently been a time families choose to bring their loved one home from Cornerstone to join in the gatherings. Unfortunately, the positivity rate for Covid-19 continues to rise in Illinois. This poses a challenge for the agency and families alike, as we all share in the same goal of keeping those we care about safe.
Fortunately, we believe there is a way for families to spend the holidays together.
To keep your family, our staff, and other residents safe, we strongly encourage that—should you bring your loved one home for the holidays–you plan on keeping them throughout the entire holiday season. We feel it is a risk to have residents coming to and going from their Cornerstone home for various short-term visits, as this would increase the chance of spreading the coronavirus. We ask that families who choose to bring their loved ones home commit to keeping them in their care until the week of Jan. 4, 2021.
At the same time, we want to remind you that our current visitation guidelines remain in effect. Visits to our homes are currently restricted to outdoors. We understand that the colder weather makes visits more difficult during the pandemic, which is why we hope you will consider the option for an extended visit during the holidays this year.
We certainly hope, as you likely do as well, that we will begin to resume our traditional level of services sometime in 2021. In the meantime, please be assured that we are doing everything within our ability to maintain a safe and fulfilling environment for your love one.
Feel free to reach out to us with any questions you may have.
Ben Stortz, President/CEO
Kim Hudgens, Vice-President/COO 
