Coronavirus Update
We are closely monitoring the current Coronavirus situation (aka novel coronavirus, COVID-19) and regularly reviewing information provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other public health officials.
Thornwell has multiple programs onsite in Clinton, SC and across FL, GA, and the remainder of SC. All our service areas are deeply affected. We are keeping the faith with our mission to serve to prevent child abuse and neglect, strengthen and reunite families, and build up healthy communities in the name of Jesus Christ.
Things you may want to know about:
- As a result of the Governor’s executive order, all schools in South Carolina, including Thornwell’s Child Development Center and the Thornwell Charter School, will be closed for the remainder of the month.
- Despite this closure, the health and well-being of children and families remain a priority for us. We join Laurens District 55 and 56, along with other schools, to participate in the USDA National School Lunch Program to provide meals for children and families facing a hunger crisis during the global COVID-19 epidemic. While schools are closed, nutritionally balanced lunch and breakfast meals will be provided to all children aged 18 or younger regardless of race, color, sex, disability, age, or national origin. This is to support our Child Development Center families, Thornwell Charter School families, and those within the community who need assistance. Meals are prepared in our school facilities by trained Food and Nutrition Services Staff. All existing federal and state DHEC and FDA approved procedures for meal prep, storage, service, and sanitation will be observed.
- Families can pick up meals from 302 South Broad Street, Clinton, SC effective Monday, March 16, 2020 during weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. USDA National School Lunch Program requires children to be present during the time of meal pick up.
- The Building Families, Foster Care, and Strengthening Families community outreach programs are practicing social distancing. For the safety of our staff and those we serve, Family Specialists and staff are flexible to provide services to all established families with an active, open case by phone. This is an especially important service as families are navigating the COVID-19 crisis. Contact us if your family needs support.
- The family-like residential program is experiencing the same changes you expect in your own home. Family teachers are providing guidance and relieving stress and fear through stable, caring support of all children in the home.
- The Mission Advancement staff are reaching out to supporters to let them know how critical their support is in this time of great need for vulnerable children and families we serve. This is with the compassionate understanding that there are several implications for our donors – both individually and with foundations and businesses.
Please know that the leadership at Thornwell is doing everything possible within our experience and capability to establish short-term contingencies and long(er)-term actions. We continue to be wise in caring for our families, to trust that God is in control, and to pray for peace and healing in our communities.
We appreciate and covet your prayers and your support. Together, we will see this through.