This week, we feature the 66 residents in our group homes and Intermediate Care Facility, BARC Housing.
Their lives change dramatically changed nine months ago. During this time of resiliency they have:
• Shown strength and courage
• Adapted quickly to the new normal
• Continued to make progress on their goals
None of this would have been possible without the support of our Direct Support Professionals.
Before the pandemic, our residents frequently went on outings with our staff or family and left each weekday for a day filled with meaningful activity at our main campus in Sunrise. After the pandemic began, restrictions were placed on assisted living facilities and group homes. Our residents went months without seeing their loved ones, which was extremely difficult and emotionally trying for both our residents and their family members.
Arc Broward’s Direct Support Professionals (DSP) have worked around the clock on the front lines of COVID-19, supporting and caring for all of the residents in their group homes who have disabilities or other life challenges. They have focused on keeping our residents safe and have not missed a beat with activities, meals, hygiene, and continuing communication with the families.
This is not easy work. The hours are long and the responsibilities are nearly endless. Even in the best of times, it is physically and emotionally draining. Needless to say, the pandemic has made a difficult profession even more challenging.
