Focusing on Health & Equity in the Midst of COVID-19

Dear Partners and Friends of the Public Health Institute of Western MA,

We are empathetic to the public and those who are trying to do their best to understand the healthiest path forward in order to prevent spread of COVID-19. 

PHIWM prioritizes the equity and well-being of our community, region and Commonwealth in accordance with our mission to create measurably healthier communities. Our organization will be telecommuting and if you are part of any of our initiatives we will be sending teleconference and Zoom meeting invitations. The work will continue!

We encourage you to continue to follow good hygiene practices as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC).

Follow the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and your local health departments for continued updates daily with current information.

We can ALL help combat the spread of germs and overwhelming sense of anxiety by taking simple steps to protect our own health and boost our immune systems.

1. simply washing our hands regularly and vigorously, avoiding touching our faces, steering clear of anyone who is sick, avoiding large gatherings/crowds; AND
2. prioritize well-being in our own lives—specifically good routines of sleep, fresh air, movement, nutrition, and hydration that help us mitigate stress, avoid burnout, and truly recharge.
3. 
   

​In the coming weeks, we will be sharing information from the Massachusetts Public Health Association regarding advocacy for how we can ensure policies that support individuals and families that are more at risk for not only being ill, but also are at risk of losing the supports in place that provide basic human needs. These include policies to ensure school meal benefits for healthy food for students and paid leave, as businesses and schools close and work is required at home.

As we worry for ourselves and our own loved ones, we must remember those at greatest risk. Check your local town websites for opportunities to support others.

Stay tuned and stay healthy,

Jessica Collins, Executive Director