SIDNEY — The Senior Center of Sidney Shelby County is ready to reopen its doors.
A non-profit organization that serves the members of the community aged 50 and better, has been closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“It has been a long six months since the COVID-19 pandemic forced the closing of the Center but we are happy to say that we will be reopening at 9am on Monday, Sept. 21, 2020.” said Rachel Hale, executive director.
In order to be compliant with all aspects of the Ohio Department of Health Director’s Order there will be some changes to the center’s activity schedule as well as some additional precautions that will need to be followed. Some of the changes will be the requirement of facial coverings to be worn by both staff and members, limited capacity for activities and social distancing.
“We will be easing into our day to day activities, not all will be available right away. As restrictions are lifted, we will resume those activities,” said Hale. “Sanitation plays a large part in our reopening plan. There will be hand sanitizer stations at each entrance and exit as well as throughout the building. Cleaning and sanitizing of all surfaces will be done periodically during the day. Workout equipment will be cleaned after each use and exercise classes will be on a pre-registration basis.”
A communication outlining these changes and more has been sent out to all members and will also be available on its website, www.srcentersidney-shelby.com, in the next few days.
“We encourage those that are at a higher risk due to underlying medical conditions or are not feeling well to stay home. While we are looking forward to opening and seeing everyone, the health and safety of our members is our top priority,” said Hale.
In an effort to make opening day extra special, some area companies will be joining the center with an outdoor vendor fair. Wilson Health, State Farm/Ashley Himes, Versailles Health Care, Heartland Hospice and the Shelby County Veterans Administration will be on site beginning at 9 a.m. until noon.
“We will be giving out a brown bag lunch consisting of a hot dog, applesauce, chips and a cookie to each member while supplies last. There will also be several door prize drawings throughout the day,” said Hale. “We look forward to reopening and getting back to serving our members with programming focused on Health, Education, Recreation and Socialization.”
