Coronavirus (COVID-19) Response Update

 March 12, 2020 

Coronavirus Response Update

As the coronavirus situation continues to evolve, we know it is top of mind for our members and providers. We hear it and are having conversations daily in our sites. So we believe it’s important to share the steps we are taking to keep our members safe and our facilities clean.

We are monitoring this situation daily, and, as we do with any unusual event, we will watch what’s happening locally and adjust business operations and policies as needed. We are in close communication with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Virginia Department of Behavioral Health, as well as other health organizations, and are following their guidelines.

First and foremost, we are taking preventive measures to keep our sites clean and maintain a healthy environment. Sites are cleaned daily, which includes using sanitizing solutions throughout the facility. We have increased staff focus on cleaning and have dedicated staff to maintain key areas throughout the day, especially high traffic areas. Looking forward, we are pursuing resources and have plans in place for third-party sanitization should it be needed for increased efforts.  In addition, we are suspending our community outings so that you know the only people your client will be around are the same everyday while in our program.

We know that the Psychosocial Day Support program is a critical piece to our participants total health care and without it many could experience mental health consequences. However, we also know there is a delicate balance right now between mental health and physical health. We encourage providers and our members to discuss their questions and concerns with us as well as their healthcare team to make a healthy decision for themselves. If someone is feeling ill, they should not attend our program. Otherwise, we have decided we will be here for you if you choose to continue to attend, however, be aware that you will be asked to follow the guidelines and procedures that have been set forth by the CDC, Virginia Department of Health, Medicaid and others to increase the safety of each member. 

Thank you for the opportunity to continue to be a part of your healthcare team.. Rest assured, we are doing everything we can to provide a safe and healthy program experience for our members and a healthy environment for our providers to send their clients to.

Sincerely,

Randy Wilson, MS, QMHP, QMD

Hope, Unity, Freedom Center, LLC

New Director of Clinical Services

The H.U.F. Center welcomes Candace Hopper as our new Director of Clinical Services. Candace most recently served as Program Manager at H.U.F.'s Newport News center before taking on her new role.

BIO

Candace has a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a minor in Chemistry from Shippensburg University in Pennsylvania and a Master’s of Science Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Walden University. Candace is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia.

Candace has 13 years of experience working with adults with severe and persistent mental illness in various capacities, including psychosocial rehabilitation, vocational rehabilitation, residential rehabilitation and supervision, co-occurring disorders group therapy, intakes, assessments, and referrals. She has previously been in the Clinical Coordinator role, followed by the Program Manager position of the Newport News HUF Center’s Psychosocial Rehabilitation program for adults with primary mental health diagnosis, dual diagnosis, and/or co-existing disorders. She is now serving as the Director of Clinical Services for the HUF Center and couldn’t be more excited to support every HUF site.

Candace is passionate about meeting others where they are and supporting them to increase independence and improve overall quality of life. She believes that with support, each and every one of our members can reach their full potential and live the kind of lives they desire. Candace believes that through training and support of the management and staff working with our members, she can continue to help spread understanding and compassion for those living with mental illness.