COVID-19: A Year Later

In March 2020, our world turned upside down. COVID-19 was declared a pandemic as the virus spread across the globe. Schools and workplaces went virtual, businesses shut their doors, and unemployment surged.

Through it all, Joppa provided uninterrupted homeless services while taking measures to keep our clients, volunteers and staff safe.

As we reflect on the past year, we’re thankful for our compassionate volunteers, donors and partners who helped us serve those in need when they needed us most. We’re continuing to maintain safety protocols while we face increasing homelessness—particularly first-time homelessness—as a result of the pandemic.

Here’s a look back:

• We continued all services for people experiencing homelessness while following CDC and state guidelines
• We educated homeless individuals about how to stay safe, how to get tested and where to go if positive
• We delivered masks, hand sanitizer, soap, gallons of water, toilet paper, hygiene items and cleaning products
• We referred homeless individuals for testing and medical help upon symptoms
• We worked with Polk County to identify unsheltered individuals, assess vulnerability, and find temporary and permanent housing options

If you’re looking for ways to help, please make a gift to Joppa, volunteer, or donate supplies. Together, we can overcome any obstacle and continue moving forward in our mission to end homelessness.