We are pleased to share that we are beginning to reintroduce in-person small group sessions via a statewide pilot that kicks off on Monday, March 22. The “Meet Ups” will begin with groups of 2 participants, each accompanied by their assigned DSW, meeting out in the community.
The pilot program will last about a month and will allow us to learn and quickly pivot if any issues arise, ensuring we are well-positioned to slowly phase back in our Group Services without disruption following completion of the pilot.
The Meet Up groups will be formed based on participant and family interest and input, so please reach out to your ESH Case Coordinator if you would like to enroll. We will start Meet Ups with small numbers of participants who meet the criteria below:
Participant and their family feel comfortable with Meet Ups.
Participant receives Tier 1 group and/or individual services.
Participant can socially distance with verbal reminders.
Health and safety are our top priorities; we continue to monitor CDC and state COVID-19 guidance and all our employees will be thoroughly trained, equipped with PPE and familiar with all infection screening and control protocols. If your family member meets the above criteria and you have questions about whether they should participate in the pilot, please contact your primary care provider.
Our plans for resuming in-person services for participants in Tiers 2 and 3 are being developed and we expect to have an update on this topic by the end of the pilot, at the latest.
We greatly appreciate all your questions and support as we work through this process. To ensure your voice is central in our planning, we have formed the Easterseals Hawaii Family Council. The Council has provided input on this plan and will help guide our pilot and our broader in-person planning going forward. We will continue to meet frequently with the Council and will continue to keep you updated on our progress. We look forward to safely navigating back to these important community-based in-person services.
