OAK BLUFFS, MA. (March 13, 2020) – MV Community Services (MVCS) announces it will remain open to the community with a few exceptions until further notice, adhering to the COVID-19 response recommendations of federal, state, or local governments or public health departments. MVCS is currently developing contingency plans to keep COVID-19 from affecting its ability to provide behavioral health and early education and care services to the Island community.
MVCS’ emergency services, urgent care, domestic and sexual violence on-call services, and individual counseling remain open. There will be communications to clients regarding new protocols for checking in. Anyone needing services, or anyone unable to come in for services, should call 508-693-7900.
Around the clock support for mental health and domestic or sexual violence emergencies remain available by calling the agency’s 24/7 hotlines:
Mental Health Emergency 24/7 Hotline: 508-693-0032
Domestic or Sexual Violence 24/7 Hotline: 508-696-7233
MVCS’ Early Childhood Programs is making every effort to ensure that the children and families that they serve remain safe. After consulting with the local Board of Health, they will remain open for families in need of care. Families who are able to care for their children at home are encouraged to do so. Individual services provided through Head Start will also remain open; however, group events have been cancelled.
There will, however, be some changes to operations. MVCS’ Chicken Alley Thrift Shop and the MV Family Center are closed to the public and volunteers until further notice. However, staff will be available via telephone and email at both locations.
The Island Wide Youth Collaborative, including the Transportation Access Program (TAP) is open. Please contact staff at 508-693-7900 x401 for further information.
“Our leadership team is meeting daily to closely monitor the impact of COVID-19 on our community and most vulnerable populations,” said Julie Fay, MV Community Services executive director. “We remain in close contact with our community partners and local, state, and federal government agencies. Our top priority is always the health and well-being of our clients, volunteers, staff, and community. We recognize that this is a stressful time, and we continue our services to our community in the safest way possible.”
MVCS is working with local venues and partners to provide extra cleaning services, hand washing and sanitizing stations at its multiple campus sites.
The current situation is fluid, and community members are strongly encouraged to visit the agency website for the latest up-to-date information at www.mvcommunityservices.org/coronavirus-covid-19-updates/.
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About MV Community Services:
We are clinicians and social workers, psychiatrists, counselors, case workers, teachers and volunteers. Embracing community in collaboration with police and primary care physicians, the hospital and Island schools. People who share our belief in the worth and dignity of all. Every day we commit our unique experience, expertise and compassion to help our entire community be as vibrant, strong and healthy as it can be. When together we answer the call our community thrives. Learn more at www.mvcommunityservices.org.