Gatepath Program Updates
Dear Families, Supporters and Friends of Gatepath,
As we navigate the spread of COVID-19 in the Bay Area, the health and safety of Gatepath’s staff and those we serve is our top priority. Our Executive Team has been closely monitoring updates from federal, state, county and local officials in order to make informed decisions regarding our services. We are committed to balancing the needs of our community, while maintaining an environment that is safe for our employees and the children, adults and families in our care.
After much deliberation, in response to recommendations and directives from the State of California, Governor Gavin Newsom, and San Mateo County and Santa Clara County health officials, we will be implementing changes to all of our programs effective Monday, March 16th.
Learning Links | Milestones Preschools
We will be closing our preschool programs for three weeks, effective Monday, March 16th. Our current plan is to reopen on Monday, April 6th, assuming the situation has improved. During the closure we will be offering limited virtual instruction to currently enrolled students.
Children’s Therapy Services | Early Intervention
We have made the decision to close our therapy clinics, effective Monday, March 16th. We hope to reopen on Monday, April 6th, subject to direction from public health officials. During the next three weeks, we will be offering tele-therapy options for children and for our school district clients.
Family Support Services
Our Family Resource Center will be providing services throughout the closures using virtual tools, continuing their support for families of children with special needs. During this period, the Watch Me Grow team will provide developmental screenings over the phone. Parents and providers can contact the Help Me Grow team during normal business hours with questions about child development and services for children in San Mateo County.
Adult Services
We are asking adult program participants to please be vigilant in making the decision about whether to attend day programs. We are directing vulnerable individuals stay home. In order to avoid any potential exposure to COVID-19, we are highly encouraging all other participants to stay home as well. For additional guidelines for participants of our Adult Services, please visit Gatepath.org/COVID-19FAQ.
Effective March 16th, Job Coaching, Independent Living Skills, and Computer Education sessions will be offered remotely, and in-person services will be provided for those who may need temporary services and supports. Until further notice, Group Employment sites will remain open on a case by case basis. For those attending programs, there are important program changes that have been put into place. Our Program Staff will provide more details.
Administration
All of our administrative teams will continue to operate, working remotely as much as possible.
Volunteer Programs
We are pausing our volunteer programs until further notice.
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I want to thank you for your support during these trying times. For more information about our response to COVID-19, please visit Gatepath.org/COVID-19FAQ. We will keep you informed as we continue monitoring this rapidly evolving situation.
We’re in this together. Be safe!
Bryan Neider
CEO, Gatepath