Volunteers, nurses and donations help with wellness

DAYTON-Public shutdown and protective preparation for the COVID-19 event was assessed during the Columbia County Commissioners teleconferenced meeting recently.

Martha Lanman of Public Health state that the office is seeking volunteer help for delivery of food, prescriptions and other needs to those in isolation. This would be done without any contact. Volunteer nurses are also being sought for help in receiving and making calls. The office has worked on the distribution of information to the Food Bank. Lanman also reported that playgrounds are taped off with signs restricting access.

Public Health is also working with the restaurants remaining open to make sure that they are following the added safety guidelines to prevent the spread of germs and making sure they have what they need to do this. The Public Health office is closed but has a drop box to leave things. The office is handling WIC including applications and giving information about food guidelines by phone. Lanman gave an update about a housing grant for those who are in isolation and quarantine. Signed contracts are expected in early April.

Ashley Strickland of Emergency Management reported that Harbor Freight delivered donated pallets of personal protection equipment for distribution to the hospital, public health, the fire department and the sheriff’s office. Another delivery for more from the state is expected. Strickland indicated the number of emergency calls coming in to the center is down.

David Ocampo of Columbia County Public Transportation (CCPT) shared that beyond the grocery delivery now being offered to residents of Dayton and Waitsburg, that they are now looking at offering service to Starbuck. CCPT is already delivering meals to Starbuck from the Senior Center. Ocampo said, “The goal is for people not to be out, keeping people in their homes.”

Sheriff, Joe Helm said that there are low numbers in the jail. During the first full week of the extended restrictions shutting most businesses, there were five DUI arrests. The good news is call volume is down.