As many programs of the Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Washington have adjusted their services to comply with widespread coronavirus precautions, its five low-barrier homeless shelters remain open and full and food programs have increased to help those in need.
Those looking to provide assistance to the work of Catholic Charities can donate online, purchase gift cards and mail them to Catholic Charities, Attn: Development, 924 G St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20001 or by emailed to giving@cc-dc.org. Catholic Charities also has a designated Amazon wish list that can be found on their website.
Catholic Charities’ food, shelter and medical care programs will continue as essential services to the local community, and modifications were made to ensure that coronavirus prevention guidelines and executive orders are followed.
Currently, the Catholic Charities’ headquarters in Washington, D.C., is closed to visitors, and the Anchor building is closed except for medication service. Those in need of help from Catholic Charities can contact them via email GetHelp@CC-DC.org or call 202-772-4300.
SHARE Food Network package distribution is suspended until April 10. For those needing food assistance, pantries and other services will distribute grocery gift cards. Food services such as St. Maria’s Meals and the Southern Maryland Food Bank will continue with social-distancing practices such as curb-side pickup and to-go services in place. Snack sacs will be discontinued for the time being.
While medical clinics will remain open, some may have limited hours. Walk-ins and new appointments will not be accepted. For those who are sick, telemedicine appointments are offered. Health Care Network services are offered remotely as available and many other programs, such as behavioral health services, are also being done remotely.
Dental clinics have closed. Those experiencing emergencies during the work week can call 202-271-8215.
Walk-in Immigration Legal Services consultations are suspended for the time being, but individuals can reach out to individual office locations regarding remote services. The Legal Network is conducting its services over the phone rather than in person.
While some educational programs have come to a halt due to school closings, the Bank Teller Certification Program and English as an Other Language (ESOL) classes are being held remotely. Electrical training class continues. Those in the supported employment programs are being served on a case-by-case basis, depending on job locations.
The Financial Stability Network is helping clients remotely with tax returns.
For updates and more information, visit https://www.catholiccharitiesdc.org/covid19-urgent-need/.
