3-28-2020 ONC Community Update
The State of Alaska has issued a Shelter in Place/Travel Ban effective 3/28/2020 at 5pm
For the latest COVD-19 updates in the State of Alaska please go to: coronavirus.alaska.gov
ONC Continues to Respond to COVID-19
Orutsararmiut Native Council (ONC) is continuing to provide essential services to the community members of Bethel.
Until further notice, ONC is asking clients to submit applications electronically if possible. Since most of us have cell phones we are advising clients to take pictures of their application and supporting documentation which can be attached to an email and forwarded to appropriate staff for processing. If you are unable to submit documents electronically, please schedule an in-office appointment and be advised that ONC has a screening protocol. For additional questions or to schedule an appointment please call our main office number at 543-2608.
As we continue to provide services safely and protect the Community of Bethel, ONC has taken the following actions:
- Adopted an In-House Safety Response to COVID-19, part of which included an employee Exposure Reduction Plan, and Client/Guest screening measures. Some of these measures include staying home when sick, suspending all work-related travel. Employees that have returned from recent travel may be asked to stay home and must get permission from direct supervisor to return to work. We are keeping a close eye on the recommendations of Center of Disease Control (CDC) and following their guidance.
- ONC Technology has prepared employees to work from home. In a worst-case scenario ONC is prepared to function even if the Main Offices are ordered to be closed. Some staff are currently practicing working from home as part of our Exposure Reduction Plan and to become familiar with the practice.
- ONC sponsored events, including the Annual Membership Meeting have been canceled indefinitely.
- The Housing Department has put a moratorium on all required payments for the Homebuyer Clients or any other actions that would result in ONC program clients becoming homeless or otherwise unstable.
In addition to the steps that staff has taken, the Council passed Resolution #20-03-05 which is a “Declaration of Emergency” in light of the spread of the Coronavirus. This Declaration of Emergency shows the public the seriousness of the situation, gives tools to staff to expedite purchases in response to the virus, directs staff to coordinate with other organizations regarding coronavirus response, and opens up opportunities to seamlessly pursue funding as it becomes available to address the emergency situation as it progresses.
ONC continues to stress to the community the importance of social distancing, washing your hands, and staying home as much as possible. Follow Yukon Kuskokwim Health Corporation recommendations at ykhc.org/covid-19.
As we development additional resources they will be posted on ONC’s Facebook page (Orutsararmiut Native Council-ONC) and website (nativecouncil.org)
To our beloved Elders- We will do everything we can to protect you. Never hesitate to ask us for help.
To the Community- Please maintain social distancing, isolation and follow YKHC’s guidance on calling their Covid-19 phone @ 907-543-6949
ONC is committed to working closely with the City of Bethel, YKHC, and other agencies and organizations as we all work together to slow the spread of Covid-19.
Please listen to and follow all announcements and notices from the CDC, State of Alaska, YKHC, the City of Bethel, and ONC for the latest information.
This has been a message from Orutsararmiut Native Council, Bethel’s Federally-Recognized Tribe.
Quyana!
