March 26, 2020 4:10 a.m.
A number of County workers have been reassigned and are helping to deliver meals to seniors.
Information from the Douglas County Commissioners said they have been working with all County departments to develop a list of employees that are available to be redeployed to other roles during the COVID-19 pandemic. As part of the program, 37 employees coming from Public Works, the Fairgrounds and the Assessor’s Office have been temporarily assigned to the Douglas County Senior Services Department. These are employees that would have otherwise been sent home with the recent “Stay Home, Stay Safe” orders.
The release said one of the most critical areas where workers are needed is at the Senior Dining Sites. The regular route drivers and volunteers are senior themselves and are among those considered to be in the “high risk” population for contracting coronavirus. So, in order to protect the vulnerable seniors, those positions are being replaced by county employees. Douglas County Senior Services operates the Senior Dining Sites in Douglas County, which are located in the rural areas. Those are in Yoncalla, Glide, Glendale, Sutherlin, Riddle, Winston and Reedsport. Depending on the day, around 300 to 500 meals are delivered to local seniors.
Senior Services has added additional safety and health precautions during the pandemic to ensure the safety of both the seniors and the employees, including door knocks and minimal contact. They will also be conducting welfare checks via phone.
Senior Services has rolled out a new “Curb Service” to hand out meals on a drive-up basis at the dining sites. That replaces people going inside to eat.
Anyone who knows a senior who needs assistance click here or call Senior Services at 440-3677.