We are pleased that we have joined forces with Bergen New Bridge Medical Center to begin the process of testing all staff before we reopen Friendship House for our members. Our plan is to test staff every two weeks. Furthermore, we will commence shortly with temperature testing everyday along with a daily health questionnaire, ensure proper social distancing and personal protective equipment is worn by all staff.

In addition to staff testing, Friendship House is working with Bergen New Bridge Medical Center to efficiently conduct COVID-19 testing of all members prior to their return for on-site services.

The COVID-19 Saliva Testing, developed by Rutgers University, is the most preferable method of testing for our members, as it is less invasive and stressful than the nasal swab testing. It also decreases the amount of contact between client and health care worker, as it can be self–administered, by placing saliva in a test tube. The turnaround results time is usually within 24 to 48 hours.

We have 163 Partial Care members, 53 Extended Employees in our Vocational Department, and 99 clients in Supported Employment. The COVID-19 Saliva Test will be provided on-site to all of our returning members. Testing will be done in phases and on a gradual level, as small groups of members will be returning in phases to program.

Also, in the Adults with Autism Day Program, there are 144 members enrolled in our Day Habilitation and Supported Employment Programs. Given the challenges of some of the individuals we serve, for some, New Bridges Medical Center will work with us and send kits home for ease of doing the test in the comfort of the members’ own homes. For others, we will be sure to have senior staff on hand at the testing sites in an effort to provide additional support to our individuals and help them understand the testing process.

As with staff, daily temperature testing, along with a daily health questionnaire will be completed for all members returning and entering the building on a daily basis. Personal protective equipment will be worn throughout the day and we will maintain proper social distancing to ensure the safety and health of all our members and staff. This will give us the greatest confidence that all at Friendship House are given the maximum protection from the virus we can provide.