UPDATED 3/27/2020
Like so many of you, Harlem United has spent the last several days and weeks learning about the recent outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19), processing what this pandemic means for our staff, clients, and communities. Many of our colleagues, clients, neighbors, and friends are more vulnerable to COVID-19 because of underlying chronic conditions, homelessness, undocumented or uninsured statuses. Our communities need more care in the face of this pandemic and depend on our extra help. At Harlem United, this means changing the way we work to keep our communities safer and healthier. We’re all in this together, and we are committed to keeping essential services open to provide for those most in need.
Therefore, Harlem United will suspend some services and change the hours of other services through April 19. These timings are pending any necessary extensions to comply with potential government orders.
This page will be updated with our latest timings, resource links, and emergency protocols, as events unfold.
The Nest Community Health Center (169 W. 133rd Street, NY, NY) – The clinic will continue operations on a limited basis, with reduced on-site staff, Monday – Friday from 8:30 am – 5:00 pm, with the last appointment being scheduled no later than 4:00 pm. There will be no Health Services operations on Saturdays.
Dental – Dental services will be open from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm, Monday – Friday for emergencies only.
Specialty Services – Gynecology services will be provided on an emergency basis only. All other specialty services (podiatry and cardiology) will be suspended.
Appointment Protocols – If a patient has fever, cough or shortness of breath they will be given an appointment after the provider has contacted them. They should not walk in. Patients that do not have fever, cough or shortness of breath and have another urgent medical issue should contact the call center (646-762-4950).
Telehealth visits – Telehealth will be offered to patients, to avoid large patient gatherings in waiting areas and ensure continuity of care for patients who require medication refills.
Willis Green Jr. Community Health Center and ADHC (123-125 W. 124th Street, NY, NY) – ADHC will temporarily suspend regular services as directed by the State Department of Health, AIDS Institute. Willis Green will open from 8:00 am – 11:00 am for distribution of “Grab and Go” breakfast and lunch. In addition, a nurse will be on-site during these hours to provide a 30-day supply of DOT medication for those clients in need.
Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) – FNS will continue in a limited capacity to ensure coverage of meal distribution. Effective March 30th, FNS will provide pantry bags one day a week on Thursdays at Willis Green from 11:15 am – 2:30 pm. Pantry bags will include nonperishable food to cover 5 meals. Assessments, reassessments and individual counseling will take place by telephone.
Mobile Syringe Exchange – Mobile Syringe Exchange will operate outside of 290 Malcolm X Blvd., on Tuesdays from 9:00 am– 4:30 pm. The mobile unit will also be at Coney Island every other Thursday starting April 9 from 11:00 am – 3:00 pm and on East Treamont in the Bronx every Friday from 9:00 am – 3:00 pm. Please note that the basement of 290 Malcolm X Blvd (Lenox Ave) will be closed until further notice.
Though face-to-face meetings have been suspended, we are still working with our clients to make sure they get what they need. From Housing to Health Home, our programs are continuing to operate remotely, connecting clients to care, stability and health.
Also, we are stepping up on all facility cleaning efforts, working to ensure that our essential services can go on without interruption, while additionally considering the safety and security of our staff, clients, and other community members. Though Harlem United services may need to be temporarily altered considering the City’s (and nation’s) recent declarations of a State of Emergency, we pledge to take care of our clients in the best way possible, with compassion.
Stay home if you are sick or if you have been around those who are sick. Consider working remotely, if possible.
Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer when water and soap are not available.
Cover your mouth when you cough/ sneeze with a tissue or do so into your elbow.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily
Avoid going to places with large groups of people. Practice social distancing when possible.
We encourage you to take this opportunity to reach out to neighbors, family, and friends, checking in to see who might be in need of additional care in this difficult time. See how you can help, offer to pick up groceries for someone who cannot leave their home or stay in contact with community members who may be isolated.
We are strongest when we act as a community, together.
More information:
NYS Info Hotline: 1-888-364-3065
NYC Department of Health
Centers for Disease Control
World Health Organization
NYS Department of Health
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