Q: Is testing required for a participant to return?
A: Not at this time. Since testing only provides a snapshot of a moment in time it is not a reliable indicator of wellness beyond that day. Please follow all individual health screening parameters before sending a participant to day services (no symptoms of cold or virus, temperature under 100.4 with no fever reducing medication, have not been in a heightened scrutiny travel area within the past 14 days, no suspected exposure to coronavirus).

Q: Who determines when a participant returns?
A: The Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) requires a risk/benefit assessment be completed for each participant before return. This assessment is a combination of guardian/family, participant and provider input surrounding level of interest in return, risk associated with return as well as ways to support and reduce those risks. Some provider criteria may be delay start date (e.g. mask wearing and ability to social distance, space capacity).

Q: If my participant cannot follow social distancing or mask wearing how will he/she be able to return?
We are currently under guidance of the Restore Illinois Phase 4 where all businesses are subject to social distancing and masking requirements. There are a number of ways to achieve criteria for return based on individual mask assessments (virtual or in-person), clinical support, finding the right mask or an alternative mask that meets guidelines, or delaying return until restrictions ease or capacity allows. Please work with a member of our case management team for additional resources or to complete a mask assessment.

Q: Will masks be provided?
A: Having a clean, well-fitting mask is the responsibility of each participant. We will have a limited supply of disposable masks available for emergency need such as loss or breaking.

Q: What if my participant can’t wear a mask for the entire day? What circumstances will there be for mask removal?
A: Natural breaks will be incorporated throughout the day including lunch where participants will be asked to social distance during temporary mask removal, during scheduled masks breaks – occurring outside weather permitting so long as social distancing is in place and there will be designated ‘mask break’ zones for short periods of removal distanced at least six feet from the remainder of the group.

Q: Will hourly or piece work be available on September 8th?
A: Due to the collaborative nature of our 14c/piece rate work, we will not have those opportunities available during initial return. We are evaluating the most effective way to safely resume those activities that allows us to meet contract quantities and quality assurance criteria. Each participant must also complete Department of Labor required certification in Career Counseling and Self-Advocacy which have expired during the extended closure. We will be conducting in person and virtual Career Counseling to recertify related participants. Limited hourly opportunities will be available soon.

Employee Development Services will resume when determinations of safety are established with partnering businesses and will be communicated in advance.

Q: Why is transportation not available on September 8th?
A: Due to the current social distancing mandate (participants must be spaced at least six feet apart) we will not be providing transportation services at this time. Participants and families are encouraged to make arrangements to and from CDS. It is important to note that these requirements are subject to change pursuant to updated public health guidance and changing public health conditions.

Q: When will transportation become available?
A: Little City is evaluating the complexities and restrictions based on moving people and the limited capacity due to social distancing requirements (e.g. a route that could hold 14 now can hold 4).

Q: What if I do not want my participant going out to volunteer or join outside activities and trips?

A: Part of the Risk/Benefit assessment was learning preferences for community participation. The selections included No Community Access, Restrict on a Case-by-Case Basis, or Unrestricted Access. For best practice, we will be advising in advance of any planned community activities.

Q: How will you safeguard participants upon return?
A: As part of our reopening strategy, a cleaning protocol has been established for areas in use, high contact areas and vehicles. General cleaning will be incorporated into staff rotations and additional cleaning will be contracted.

Q: I’m not ready for return yet, will my participant be discharged?
A: At this time, there has been no decision surrounding discharge unless a person makes the choice to leave. The Division of Developmental Disabilities guidance suggests that the Person-Centered Plan be updated to reflect temporary halt to service. Those choosing to delay return, timing for return will be based on program capacity under existing guidelines and staffing ratios. Case management will be limited to contacts on status and working with those who do not meet criteria or are pending circumstantial change – masking, social distancing, etc.

For those electing discharge, spots will not be held but all are welcome to re-enroll. Capacity and intake criteria will still apply. A wait list will be maintained.

Q: Will the market be open or hot food service/microwaves be available?
A: No. To reduce potential exposure for food handling, individuals will eat in their room/area and should bring in a bagged, ready to eat lunch that does not require heating. No food service or snack purchases will be available in September. Water fountains are closed at this time, please bring in beverages.

Q: What other changes should we expect?
A: Schedules for initial return will be tailored to groupings of 1 staff to 9 participants. First weeks will contain orientation information, new routine expectations of movement, getting acquainted with peers and staff, and pre-set rotation of activities. Feedback from participants in groups will expand the schedules.

Support staff will be assisting with mask adjustments or reminders, covering mask breaks, assisting as needed with personal care and providing escorts as needed for arrival/departure.

Lockers will not be available during the restriction guidelines. Participants should limit personal items as they must be kept at their table.

Q: Will there be other program or service options made available for those participants not ready for return?

A: In the Risk/Benefit assessment we got an early idea of what other program types might meet the needs of our participants electing to delay return. We are focusing on roll out for hourly classes at our Center for the Arts, Horticulture and Recreation Center as well as small in community groups, virtual services and one-time events. More information will be coming for our late September/October offerings.