Important Message to the Families We Serve

March 13, 2020

A message to the families we serve:

To help slow the spread of COVID-19 and to protect vulnerable members of our community, the Tribe has made the decision to extend the spring break closure through March 20 for the Early Childhood Center and Yaghanen Youth programs. These programs include: Early Head Start, Head Start, and Yaghanen.

In making this decision, Tribal Administration is following guidance from state and federal health and public safety agencies. We will continue to closely monitor the situation, and make further decisions based on the best information available. Updates will be posted as they become available on the Tribe’s Facebook page and website: www.kenaitze.org. We will also attempt to contact families by phone, text or email.

The Tribe is taking several steps to help prevent the spread of the disease and help the people most in need. The best ways to avoid getting sick are:

• Practice good hand hygiene – This includes washing your hands frequently with soap and water for 20 seconds. Avoid touching people and things as much as possible, and avoid touching your face as much as possible. If you are coughing or sneezing, do so into your elbow instead of your hands. Use a hand sanitizer containing at least 60 percent alcohol when hand washing is not possible.

• If you are sick, stay home!

• Avoid large gatherings – The CDC recommends at least six (6) feet of distance to help prevent the spread of germs. This means avoiding concerts, rallies and other events where large groups of people gather.

• For current travel recommendations and restrictions, see the CDC’s most current information at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/faqs.html.

You may also find more information about COVID-19 at the following website: http://dhss.alaska.gov/dph/Epi/id/Pages/COVID-19/default.aspx.

Thank you for your help and cooperation to limit the spread of this virus and to protect the health of our community. Our Tribal values include love, respect and care for our family, our children, our Elders and our neighbors. The coming weeks will be challenging, but it is a challenge we can overcome.

Chiqinik, Thank you

___________________________

Wayne D. Wilson, Jr.

Tribal Council Chair

Kenaitze Indian Tribe