Kent County Emergency Management has a need for center workers at our presumed COVID-19 negative shelter for women experiencing homelessness. These women were recently tested for COVID-19, found to be negative, but needed to relocate to take pressure off the shelter resources in the Heartside District downtown. This is part of the Kent County Health Department's strategy of social distancing, specifically in this vulnerable population.

The center is located at the Catholic Central High School gymnasium at 319 Sheldon Blvd SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. We have shifts at this point that have not been filled by other staff/volunteers (and we are especially grateful for individuals who can work shifts other than traditional daytime). Below are the tasks/duties for these positions. Everyone working will be provided appropriate personal protective equipment, but center workers at this location will not be in direct contact with known positive COVID-19 patients. Kent EM personnel and volunteers who have already worked at this shelter would tell you that it has been very rewarding, helping a vulnerable and appreciative group of women!

This site has 3 positions:

1. Site Ambassador - This position is currently scheduled to be filled around the clock. The site ambassador is the site manager’s eyes and ears. You keep an eye out for things that are not right, or needs that are not met along with safety issues. Letting the site manager know when something needs to be fixed or taken care of or issues. You will be roaming around the site in pairs and radioing back when needed.

2. Assistant Site Manager - This position is currently scheduled in the evenings to help facilitate and manage reentry and other issues. This schedule can change with a discussion with the site manager to make sure everyone is on the same page and a working schedule to accommodate those interested.

3. Cleaner / Maintenance - This position is also currently scheduled in the evenings but can change based on the needs and availability of volunteers.

To volunteer, please go to https://www.kcest.org/volunteer. We will conduct a background check but will try to fast-track applications during the COVID response.

We could not do this without the support of our great community!