Still Connected: An Eden II Programs Update
A Letter From the Executive Director
Dear Eden II Friends & Families,

I remember 9/11 as if it were yesterday. One of the things that sticks with me the most is how our staff responded. They were amazing. Many took kids home for a few days as they were unable to get home. At the time, I remember being so proud of the staff and how unbelievable they were. Then we got hit by Superstorm Sandy and once again, the Eden II staff showed us how committed they were to the participants and their families. Well, here we are amidst one of the most unprecedented disasters of our lives. It did not surprise me one bit to see the staff, once again really step up to the plate. Some of these staff were here during 9/11, here during Sandy, and still here, putting our families first. 

It is with incredible gratitude that I thank all of you. The Education staff put together distance learning programs in two days for our learners. Our Adult Program staff never wavered when asked to continue to help support those families whose sons and daughters are living at home. Our admin has shown true leadership during this time of chaos, and I can’t say enough about our direct care workers, supporting our residents who live with us. They are true heroes. 

I know that the notion that we might have our day programs closed for possibly months is a very frightening thought for many of our families. Please know that we are working to try to come up with better options to help support you. We are somewhat constrained by our funders in terms of options currently but will do our best to keep giving them options to consider.

To all..please stay safe, follow the rules of social distancing and stay in touch. We are here for you.

Sincerely,

Joanne Gerenser, Ph.D.
Executive Director
Matthew worked on his ADL skills at home and cooked dinner for his family. Great job, Matt. Looks delicious! 
Andrew may not be able to practice the keyboard at school right now, but that hasn't stopped him from practicing at home! Here is Andrew working on "Stairway to Heaven."
Genesis teacher Mindy Commike virtually addressing her morning class!

Thank you to Staten Island's elected officials for working together to get Eden II and other local organizations these supplies!
Donate Supplies or Funds Today!
Our residential staff are working around the clock to take care of our participants, and are doing an amazing job! We currently have supplies for all of our locations that need them, but with a surge in demand, we are being proactive and looking to increase our current supply. If you or someone you know have any of the following items available to donate, please contact info@eden2.org.

N95 face masks
Loop masks
Powder free exam gloves
Medical isolation gowns
Chemical splash goggles
Hand sanitizer
Hand sanitizer wipes
Surface sanitizer wipes
Clorox bleach
Disinfectant spray

Thank you to those that have generously donated supplies or funds!

Denise Bianchi
Brooklyn Home Foundation
J&M Hardware and Locksmith
Stephanie Cassas
Magnacare
Assemblywoman Nicole Malliotakis
Randy McArthur
Joe McCormack
Medtrak Rx