Happy Valentine's Day

Over the last few years, we have asked our participants to “show our staff love" by sending some kind words.  Our staff go above and beyond each and every day and have shown their resilience during this pandemic; they are the heart and soul of our agency.  Here are some of the kind words sent by our participants:

Via Staff Receive COVID-19 Vaccines

People with intellectual and developmental disabilities are at a higher risk of infection or severe illness if they contract COVID-19 because of underlying medical conditions. Therefore, Pennsylvania designated staff who work with them to be in the first group to receive the vaccine. Our staff found the entire process to be easy to manage, from signing up to getting vaccinated. Staff and participants will continue to follow all CDC-recommended guidelines including social distancing, mask-wearing and hand hygiene as long as necessary, but being able to get the vaccine is a great step to getting this pandemic under control. As Lead Community Coach Alex said: “Getting the vaccine helps bring me closer to peace of mind knowing that I can help keep my family, those who I work with, and community safe. It represents patience and resilience during this turbulent time."

Thanks for Making Our Year-End Appeal a Success

We truly appreciate your support of our mission to ensure people with intellectual and developmental disabilities reach their full potential. Listen to this message of gratitude from Via’s President and Chief Operating Officer, Lisa Walkiewicz.

Eligibility for COVID-19 Vaccines Expanded

The Pennsylvania Department of Health updated its guidelines for eligibility for the COVID-19 vaccine on January 19th. Group 1A now includes anyone over 65 and people with underlying health conditions including Down Syndrome, obesity, cancer, heart disease, diabetes and more. https://www.pa.gov/guides/get-vaccinated/... In addition, unpaid caregivers of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are also eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccination under Phase 1A. However, you may be asked by a vaccine provider to provide documentation to verify your status as an unpaid caregiver. https://www.paproviders.org/.../cjf_in_020212_Unpaid...

Via of the Lehigh Valley | ViaNet.org

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