Due to ongoing concerns and an overabundance of caution related to the COVID-19 pandemic, Central Missouri Community Action will shut down operations from March 23 - April 3. The CDC and National Institutes of Health are saying that the next two weeks are critical for "flattening the curve" on the coronavirus outbreak. All school districts in the state of Missouri are closed and people are being encouraged to stay home for all but essential reasons.

Shutting down CMCA operations at this time is the responsible thing to do. We care deeply about the emotional and physical well-being of everyone impacted. For CMCA employees we are implementing an Emergency Leave Policy. This policy will provide two-full weeks of paid leave to all employees of CMCA so that they can stay home with their families and help to reduce their exposure to the coronavirus.

For our clients, shutting down operations means that we have made sure that they will have their basic necessities provided. All of the utility vendors working with CMCA have agreed not to shut off utilities for anyone during this pandemic. Our shut down also comes at a time when many of our Head Start centers were already scheduled to have a week off for spring break. This means that parents of small children were already prepared not to have their children in Head Start for at least one of the two weeks we will be shut down. For those needing assistance, we are recommending they dial 2-1-1 (1-800-427-4626) for immediate support.

The decision to shut down CMCA operations was not made lightly. We are prioritizing the health and well-being of our employees so that they are available to participate in the long term recovery that will follow this pandemic.

As we look at the long-term recovery that will inevitably result from this crisis, please know that support from our community is necessary and appreciated.

Rather than creating a new fundraising campaign or soliciting funds, we are joining our partners throughout central Missouri to streamline the generosity of our community. During times of crisis like this, it is important for nonprofits, businesses, and government to work together quickly and efficiently to provide vital services and needed support. CoMoHelps.org is a joint effort of Heart of Missouri United Way, City of Columbia, Boone County and Community Foundation of Central Missouri, offering assistance to those who are struggling in the COVID-19 pandemic and those who wish to help.

Thank you for your ongoing support of CMCA! We appreciate you more than ever and acknowledge that we are all experiencing this unprecedented and uncharted crisis together.

Sincerely,