Monday, April 20th, 2020
Good afternoon,
It is a busy Monday as different parts of IDHS continue to adjust to meet the demands of this crisis.
- While the FCS local offices are closed to the public, hundreds of local office staff will be serving the dramatically increased need for benefits by processing applications in the back offices of fifteen offices across the state.
- Three of our state operated facilities -- Madden Mental Health Center, Shapiro Developmental Center, and Ludeman Developmental Center -- will be welcoming additional temporary staff this week to help fight COVID-19.
- Further, we would like to thank the Illinois National Guard for supporting staff at Shapiro and Ludeman by helping with staff temperature check. Their help will enable our staff to devote more time to the needs of our residents.
Your health and safety and that of those we serve always has been, and continues to be, our top priority. Your dedication to serving the public during the challenging COVID-19 pandemic is deeply appreciated.
We continue to assess ways to best meet the increased care needs of our resident and patients related to COVID-19 and will continue to improve and adjust our responses and interventions. Thank you for your understanding of the demanding and changing conditions under which we work.
Todays Bright Spot: Mayor Jon Vanderbilt; LaRonda Jackson, RN; Deon Myles, Assistant Center Director; Martin Hagen, Painter; Glenda Grey, Rehab Workshop Instructor II; Ehis Brown, R.N.; Pat Sullivan, Engineer; and Eddie Camilli, Trades.
The Elisabeth Ludeman Center is one of seven developmental centers in Illinois and has been taking care of individuals during this challenging time. The Ludeman teama number of whom are recognized, aboveand the Capital Development Board have set up six negative air flow homes where individuals may be cared for. With the efforts of devoted staff, in partnership with the Village of Park Forest, they have ensured the best care possible for the people living there. Mayor Jon Vanderbilt has rallied the Village of Park Forest to support the staff and individuals through donations from multiple business, corporations, and individuals.
"Together we will get through this" has not only been heard by all residents of Park Forest but has been shown in the love and support for the Ludeman Center.
Thank you to all the courageous and loyal staff at Ludeman, the Mayor, and the Village of Park Forest! Park Forest Strong!
Sincerely,
Grace
Grace B. Hou
Secretary, IDHS
