In response to the novel coronavirus pandemic, Everyone Home DC offices are closed. Our teams will continue to work remotely as we closely monitor the city’s multi-phased reopen plan. We will share any new updates on this page.

Contact Kate Akalonu at akalonu@everyonehomedc.org with any questions or media inquiries.
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These are strange, uncertain, and fast-changing times. As we work through this crisis as a community, the immediate health and safety of our clients, staff, and supporters is our top priority. Each day brings new situations that we have never experienced in our 50 years of existence. During this time, Everyone Home DC is dedicated to reimagining how we provide services and resources to individuals and families at risk of or experiencing homelessness in DC. We keep this page updated with the latest updates, news, and solutions.

With guidance from DC Health, DC Department of Human Services, DC Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency, CDC, and  World Health Organization, Everyone Home DC has developed a Continuity of Operations Plan for COVID-19 to guide the operations of Everyone Home DC through this time.

Critical Information for Our Community

• Everyone Home DC offices are closed and our team is working remotely until further notice.
• Everyone Home DC’s drop-in day center, Shirley’s Place, will be open Monday, Tuesday, & Wednesday from 8am to 3pm for mail pickup, grab and go snacks and toiletry bags, and emergency clothing. Showers and laundry are available by appointment only by emailing wilcox@everyonehomedc.org or calling 202-544-0631
• Family Housing Programs continue to provide case management support, largely through remote check-ins, to safely support families remaining stably housed.
• Family Homelessness Prevention continues to offer services by phone and email for families at risk of becoming homeless through mediation, flexible financial assistance, and connecting them to supportive resources.
• Street Outreach is continuing in a way that limits risk to our clients, while allowing  us to do health and welfare checks.
• Everyone Home DC’s volunteer program is paused until further notice.
• The HART volunteer program is paused indefinitely. We do not know when we will be able to relaunch operations in a way that ensures the safety of unhoused community members and volunteers.

Many are asking what you can do to help. Here are ways to support our most immediate needs:

• First and foremost—prioritize yourself and your family. Ensure your needs are met and your family isn’t exhibiting any signs of illness. We will share some resources below in case they are helpful.
• The most efficient way you can support Everyone Home DC in remaining flexible and agile during this unprecedented time is to make a monetary donation to Everyone Home DC today.

For Your Health and Safety

DC Health reminds residents to take the same measures to prevent the spread of the flu and other viruses. Here are some tips:

• Get your flu shot, and make sure the people around you do the same.  
• Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds multiple times a day. If soap and water are not available, use alcohol-based hand gel.
• Cough or sneeze into a tissue and then throw the tissue away. If tissue is not available, use your elbow or upper sleeve. Cover your coughs and sneezes to prevent others from getting sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Keep surfaces clean by wiping them down with a household disinfectant.
• Stay home if you are sick to protect others from the cold, flu, or Coronavirus. 

The US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) says that some people are at higher risk of getting very sick from this illness.

People in this group are encouraged to avoid cruises and nonessential air travel. They are also encouraged to avoid large crowds. When you go out in public, keep away from others who are sick, limit close contact and wash your hands often. Try saying hello with a bow, an elbow bump, or a foot tap rather than a handshake or hug. To the extent possible, avoid touching high-touch surfaces in public places – elevator buttons, door handles, handrails, handshaking with people, etc. Use a tissue or your sleeve to cover your hand or finger if you must touch something.

This includes older adults and people who have serious chronic medical conditions like:

• Heart disease
• Diabetes
• Lung disease