Poverello Center staffer tests positive for coronavirus; shelter cuts hours

(KPAX) The Poverello Center on Thursday said it had changed its hours of operation after a staff member tested positive for COVID-19.

Shelter director Amy Allison Thomson said the shelter had been preparing for such an occassion.

"On August 11th we were informed that a Poverello Center staff person tested positive for COVID-19," Allison Thompson stated in a letter released on Thursday.

She added that the Poverello "quickly arranged for all close contacts to receive a COVID-19 test administered by Community Medical Center" and that another person also tested positive for the coronavirus.

Everyone who is considered a close contact with either person with positive test results has been contacted by the Missoula City-County Health Department, according to Thompson's letter. She said that "being associated with the Poverello Center does not mean you are a close contact."

The Poverello Center is now closed during the day. The sack lunches provided by the Missoula Food Bank will be handed out at the shelter from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. and people will be allowed in for emergency overnight shelter beginning at 8:45 p.m.

Thompson said the Poverello will be closed starting at 8 a.m. every morning with the new schedule remaining in effect indefinitely.

"We will continue to follow the recommended protocols to keep our team and guests safe. We know we serve a critical role in our community and are committed to fulfilling our mission," Thompson stated.

She noted that staff members have been following recommended COVID-19 protocols and provides regular screenings of all guests, staff, and volunteers. "Robust cleaning procedures" are now being performed in high traffic areas.

This story will be updated...