To the extended JRI community: 

Our entire agency has rallied around the programs where the greatest stress has been: 24-7 settings for kids and adults. Community based programs have “adopted” their residential counterparts and are sending support, both material and spiritual. 

Community-based and day school programs have embraced remote learning and telehealth, doing our best to continue to support students, families, and adults in need. 

The can-do spirit that was always a part of our DNA has emerged even more clearly. We are not yet getting the materials we need from the state or other suppliers. You may have seen that Governor Baker is very frustrated about the failures of the national supply chain for hospitals and places like JRI. So for now we need to fend for ourselves. Staff and family members are manufacturing masks and hand sanitizers, people are reaching out to their extended networks for masks, face/eye shields, gowns, and other protective gear …. if you have any contractor friends, for example, see if they have access to those materials. If you email me (apond@jri.org), I can supply a letter to support your efforts on behalf of our staff and clients. 

Giving: 

If you want to support JRI’s efforts by program, or by supporting the flexible fund we have for clients in need (Hope for All Seasons), give here: https://jri.org/donate 

JRI has always had one overarching mission: Social Justice. 

In the past, it was sometimes a challenge for people to be aware of the work of their colleagues, and to see the ways in which we are connected. But in these weird, strange, unprecedented times, that’s no longer true—every day more lasting connections are forged. 

• Our state partners-who I truly believe “get it” -- have been excellent so far. They have expressed a clear commitment to support us to maintain current service levels, and maintain capacity for the coming years. We serve the very communities and individuals--already struggling with the long-term effects of discrimination on many levels-that are most likely to be further hammered by the health and economic damage this epidemic is inflicting. 

We still have a long way to go—a marathon is an apt metaphor for this whole thing. But with your help, JRI has the strength, endurance, and will to reach the finish line. And then be ready for whatever the next challenge is! 

The last part of this message: 

Take care of yourself as you take care of others. Even 15 minutes of exercise per day can help you sleep better, and be ready for the next challenge. 

With gratitude, 

Andy