As The Nathaniel Witherell weathers the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, one thing is clear: its Greenwich neighbors have affirmed again and again that “We’re all in this together!”
As soon as this health emergency was identified, the Witherell took precautionary measures by restricting visitors and volunteers as part of a rigorous COVID-19 Response Plan. Despite this, Witherell supporters found important ways to step up and help the Witherell’s frontline workers and vulnerable senior residents.
- PPE was donated to the Witherell by First Selectman Fred Camillo, the Connecticut Department of Health, Grace Farms, and the Connecticut Mutual Aid Plan.
- Lunches for frontline workers and staff were donated by the Friends of Nathaniel Witherell, Joe Kaliko and the Liporace family. In addition, a Go Fund Me page has been created to raise funds for additional staff lunches during the crisis.
- Witherell volunteers began sewing masks for residents and staff. Volunteers Sara Erickson, Sally Van Leeuwen, Troudy Gouse, and Nicole Roque have created over 150 masks to date.
- Susan Doyle from Oasis Senior Advisors spearheaded an effort to create homemade cards for Witherell residents and staff.
- Volunteer Jeff Fiddelman created The Witherell Channel on You Tube to include musical performances, personal greetings, and other entertainment for Witherell residents.
- Residents have been partnered with Brunswick school students for friendly phone calls to “Bridge the Generations” and cards and artwork have been received from Greenwich Academy Pre-School.
- Fairfield Surgery Center donated surgical gowns to the Witherell’s healthcare team.
- Donations to support the Friends of Nathaniel Witherell Resident Life fund have risen during March and April.
“Our hearts are full from the outpouring of support we’ve received,” says Joanne Kotulski, interim administrator at the Witherell. “These are challenging times and we’re all working around the clock to provide the best care for our residents. These acts of kindness are very helpful in letting everyone at the Witherell know that our Greenwich neighbors are supporting us every step of the way.”
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues the Witherell’s needs are ongoing. To sponsor a luncheon for Witherell staff, contact Scott Neff at sneff@friendsofwitherell.org. To make a donation to the Witherell’s Resident Life Fund, go to: thenathanielwitherell.org/donate/friends-of-nathaniel-witherell
