In the midst of covid19
The American Red Cross across the regions of New York State have developed a program to support individuals and families who have lost family members to death as a result of COVID-19.
The American Red Cross across the regions of New York State have developed a program to support individuals and families who have lost family members to death as a result of COVID-19. The program will link crisis counselors with families to provide emotional and spiritual support, as well as targeted short-term case management to assist with navigating through the challenging processes which might include challenges with moving the family member’s body through the hospital, nursing home, medical examiner and funeral home systems in this time when those systems may be overwhelmed and their processes may be different than they normally are. They may also include linkage to legal resources for estate, custody, immigration or other issues related to the death.
The following links to an online intake form can be submitted by a family member, a friend who thinks someone needs help, or an agency on behalf of the family. For those without access to the needed online technology, the phone number will link the caller to an intake person who will assist with the initial steps for getting assistance.
Those without online capabilities may call 585-957-8187, and a volunteer will assist them with the initial intake process. The program is expected to operate for as long as families will benefit from the service or through the month of September.