Leaders should talk to staff and members about their concerns, as well as the potential fears and anxiety that may result from rumors or misinformation. Be sure to share resources that provide reliable COVID-19 information and speak out to prevent stigma and discrimination.
Consider how your organization is uniquely able to assist the local community. Determine whether your organization can work with local health departments, if needed, so that your facilities can be used as temporary care facilities; quarantine facilities; or central distribution sites for food, water, supplies, or medicine. Coordinate with local health officials on ways to ensure care and services for vulnerable populations. Congregations and organizations with experience working with underserved communities (e.g., people who are incarcerated, people who are experiencing homelessness, immigrants, refugees, those with limited English proficiency, single-parent families, public housing residents, migrant-, farm-, and other low-wage workers) can work with local health officials to ensure these groups receive appropriate care and services.