Update on BBBSAK's response to COVID-19
COVID-19 is an evolving global, national, and statewide issue. At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Alaska (BBBSAK), the health and safety of our Littles, Bigs, families, staff, event participants, and partners is our first priority. As participants and/or supporters of our program, we want to communicate openly with you about our procedures, plans, and general tips for preventing the spread of COVID-19.
IN EFFECT NOW:
- Group Match Activities - in-person agency activities are on hold, but we are holding virtual match activities.
- Enrollment - enrollment interviews and training are done via video conference only.
- Matchmaking - initial match meetings are done via video conference or outdoors only.
- Individual Match Activities - In light of the Governor’s COVID-19 Public Health Disaster Emergency Declaration on November 6th and his additional press release on November 12th we are implementing the following recommendations and requirements:
- We recommend that matches engage in a voluntary hunkerdown and meet only virtually while the disaster declaration is in place.
- This recommendation shall remain in effect until December 15th, when the current declaration expires, unless it is extended or a new declaration replaces it.
- If matches choose to meet in-person a 6-foot distance must be maintained.
- If matches choose to meet indoors or to ride in the same vehicle masks or cloth face coverings are required.
- All matches are required to sign our COVID-19 Match Guidelines.
- Signing the guidelines DOES NOT obligate matches to meet in-person.
- We recommend that matches engage in a voluntary hunkerdown and meet only virtually while the disaster declaration is in place.
- Matches are required to comply with all state and local ordinances, as well as the CDC recommended safety measures. Matches are encouraged to focus on building their friendship through email, phone, text, FaceTime, etc. Here are some ideas for staying connected. Contact your Match Support Specialist for additional ideas.
- Clothing and household donations - open for free home pick-ups Tuesday - Saturday. Schedule your pick-up here.
- Staff - primarily working remotely Monday, March 16th until future notice.
The leadership team will continue to monitor the situation. Updates will be reflected on this page.
RESOURCES
Questions and Information about the COVID-19
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- World Health Organization
- Alaska Department of Health and Social Services
- Providence Hospital's Coronavirus Assessment Tool
- Alaska 211: Alaska Respond Volunteers will take your calls and emails
- AlaskaLawHelp: civil legal issues related to COVID-19, housing, domestic violence, unemployment, health, worker rights, debts, scams, public benefits, and stimulus checks.
Statewide
- COVID-19: Plans for Families with Children
- Food Bank of Alaska
- 211: Alaska Community Resources
- Access AK Can Do Neighbor to Neighbor assistance here
- GCI - special offers and upgrades
- Cash or Rental Assistance Options during COVID-19
Fairbanks
- City of Fairbanks Updates
- Fairbanks North Star Borough School District
- Community Food Resources
- Parenting Hotline - Resource Center for Parents & Children
- City of Fairbanks CARES Relief Fund Information and City of Fairbanks CARES Relief Fund Application
Mat-Su
Anchorage
- City of Anchorage Updates
- Anchorage School District COVID-19 Updates
- List of free meal locations and links
- Coronavirus Days of Caring
- Municipality Anchorage Rental Relief - 211
Juneau
Small Communities
Activities to keep Littles and children engaged
- New Ways to Connect
- Virtual Field Trips
- Discovery Education
- Growing Book by Book
- Virtual National Park tours
- Math Playground
- 50+ Easy Indoor Activities for Kids
- LUNCH DOODLES with Mo Willems
- Free Live Dance Classes
- Scholastic Learn at Home
Emotional Support, Self-Care, & Health