Special Donors Bring Smiles to Dove Pointe Residents & Staff

Dove Pointe delivers critical services to many disabled people in our region. And while its Day and Work Programs have been temporarily closed due to COVID-19, its Residential Program, which serves more than 130 people across 40 homes, has remained in operation.

COVID-19 has curtailed activities for residents, which, according to Executive Director Don Hackett, can be confusing to many. “They don’t always understand why they can’t do their normal routine, visit a favorite place or go to work,” which can make the days feel long for people with vulnerable conditions such as respiratory issues, behavioral issues, physical disabilities, or the need of a feeding tube.

Each home has been self-quarantined which has been an adjustment for his team, but Hackett said there have been “many bright spots,” especially in the form of community support.

For instance, Perdue Farms donated 300 Cornish game hens to the support staff in recognition of these frontline heroes; Kentucky Fried Chicken donated meals for all the residents and staff in every home, which was “a very special treat,” noted Hackett.  The Girls Scouts of the Chesapeake Bay donated of boxes of Girl Scout Cookies to every resident, bringing many smiles, and Landmark Insurance donated puzzles, games and much needed supplies.

“All of these gifts have truly touched our hearts and the hearts of our residents,” said Hackett.

When asked what else the organization needs now, Hackett mentioned the constant need for personal protective equipment (PPE). “That is an everyday need, especially N95 masks and gowns,” he said. “But all donations are welcome and brighten the days of our residents and staff.”

While unsure when Dove Pointe may again be fully operational, Hackett knows there is a wide community that truly needs the services provided by his 500 employees, and he is very proud of them.

To learn how you can help with in-kind or financial donations, visit www.dovepointe.org and click the green donate button which can be found on the Home page.