Partners for Peace in-person services ‘on pause’
Partners for Peace staff have been closely monitoring the rapidly evolving circumstances surrounding the outbreak of COVID-19 (the coronavirus) and sorting through the recommendations associated with minimizing the risk of spreading the virus. Out of concern for the health and well-being of Partners for Peace staff, volunteers and the survivors and community members we serve, all Partners for Peace in-person services will continue to be “on pause” at least until May 1 or until further notice. Our 24-hour helpline will remain open and available to anyone affected by abuse or violence, including community partners, at 1-800-863-9909.
What exactly does this mean?
Partners for Peace’s Bangor and Dover-Foxcroft Resource Centers are closed to the public until further notice. All outreach office hours have been canceled, including drop-in hours in Greenville, Milo, Millinocket, Dexter and the University of Maine. All Partners for Peace support and education groups are on pause. In-person advocacy services are not available at this time including court accompaniment, shelter/housing advocacy, hospital advocacy, child protective support, etc. Support over the phone for these services is available through the helpline. All Partners for Peace events, trainings and presentations have been postponed until further notice. We will be limiting staff travel and conducting as much Partners for Peace business as usual via technology.
It also means that our staff are telecommuting and getting creative to ensure that we are doing the best we possibly can for victims and survivors of abuse during these unprecedented times.
We know that for victims and survivors of domestic violence, this is likely a time of increased isolation and danger.
We really want people to know we’re still here … You can still call us if you can get a minute alone.
And if you can’t get a minute alone. Reach out in whatever way is safe for you. Online chat services are available at thehotline.org.
We will be frequently re-evaluating and examining this plan as circumstances change and as we learn more about the status of this pandemic. We will continue to use the guidance of the Center for Disease Control and the state of Maine. We will communicate any change of plans on our website and Facebook page.
If you have any questions or concerns, please direct them to the Facilitative Director Amanda Cost at 207-825-3117 or acost@partnersforpeaceme.org.