The Well in Pella and Knoxville has followed the State of Public Health Disaster Emergency guidelines as they pertain to Well programs and retail operations. No in-person programs are being held or volunteer groups are serving, according to Director Jayson Henry. The Well Thrift Stores are closed and not accepting donations as well.

“With our thrift stores closed, this means our biggest donor is gone. Half of our team is gone, too. Our thrift stores financially support our programs through The Well Resource Center.”

Henry says both the Pella and Knoxville Resource Centers are still holding appointments. People have been using computers to file for unemployment and using Wi-Fi to connect to helpful resources all by appointment. He says they are also connecting with partners to help deliver meals to families in need.

“We’ve seen an uptick in homelessness and financial assistance due to COVID-19. People have been able to utilize our shower and laundry. We are connecting with clients through phone-call appointments to maintain telehealth, as well as volunteer check-ins.”

Well Works continues to produce for local manufacturers. The Well has implemented enhanced sanitation practices at their sites, and they will continue to keep those practices in place moving forward. The Well will continue to follow all Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) recommendations as they pertain to the Well’s operations.