Identification and Continuation of Essential Services

This procedure covers evacuation situations that have developed to the point that the facility needs to be temporarily closed. In this unlikely event, the Program Coordinator will work with the President and the Clinical Director to make this decision. The procedures that follow may be amended by the President or Clinical Director to fit the needs of the specific situation.

Staff should use the roster to make sure that all current clients are accounted for, and should make clear contacts in their files if possible. Once the clients are gone, and assuming it is safe to do so, staff should sweep the building to make sure everyone is out and that all computers and appliances are turned off and unplugged. Under no circumstances should staff risk their lives or well being while conducting a sweep. Place signs on the doors explaining that the location is closed, with referral numbers for anyone seeking help, and lock the doors.

The goal is always to make sure clients are in a safe space first.

Spera

Essential services: Detoxification in a safe environment

If the decision has been made to close Spera, staff will need to work with clients to find appropriate places for them to go based on the status of their detox, their recovery plan (if completed), the resources available to them, and the client’s preference. Options may include the emergency room, shelter, working with their CDR/insurance, or following their aftercare plan.

If staff is concerned about a client still in the midst of detoxifying, then the doctor should be consulted. If it is not safe to place the clients from Spera, the coordinator will work with the administrative team to determine where to transport the clients in the meantime. When space is available, clients may be temporarily transitioned to either the Farm or Downtown to complete the detoxification process, until Spera is able to reopen, or until a referral for alternative services can be completed.

Farm, Downtown, Outreach

Essential services: Case management, including group therapy

If the decision has been made to close the Farm, DFD, or Spera Outreach, staff will need to determine where the clients will be going. Staff will see what other Dawn Farm facility locations are available for clients to be taken to. If it is safe to enter the Farm/Downtown building, then clients should bring at least two days of clothing, bedding, and, if necessary, some food. If one of the Dawn Farm locations is not a safe option, work with the Clinical Team Leader and the administrative team to determine what the best option will be.

Clients may also be able to temporarily stay with community supports, and report to another Dawn Farm location for day treatment until the Farm is able to reopen. If necessary, staff will coordinate hotel accommodations for clients.

Outpatient

Essential services: Group and individual therapy

If the decision has been made to close Outpatient, clients will be sent home, all scheduled activities will be cancelled and clients notified. If the evacuation happens during a group, staff should use the client sign-in sheet to make sure everyone is accounted for.

If the Outpatient building must be closed for more than one week, an alternative location will be utilized for outpatient services. This may be the Farm, Spera, or another community-based location.

Transitional Housing

In the event of a housing emergency (flooding, fire, etc), residents have several options. Residents may temporarily stay with another Dawn Farm transitional housing resident, stay with a support, or family member. The decision is up to the resident.

CARF Requirement: 1.H.5.c(7 & 8)