A Coronavirus Update From Our CEO

Kids First of Florida (KFF) depends on our dedicated team members to keep our agency operating and to ensure the continued delivery of essential services, especially during these challenging times. Our top priorities are the health and well-being of our staff, our partners and of the families we serve. We are monitoring the evolving situation in our community and are doing all we can to minimize risk. Many of our team are working remotely, working staggered schedules and using telecommunication to stay in touch with the individuals and families that we serve. It is not business as usual and while we apologize for any inconvenience it may cause, we are acting in the best interest of overall safety.

Any employee, partner or client testing positive for the COVID-19 virus is advised to follow CDC and DOH guidelines to receive appropriate care. As is our policy, upon notification of a positive test result for an employee, we initiate contact tracing to identify and notify all individuals who may have had contact with an infected individual. Upon notification, the exposed individuals are advised to seek testing and further guidance from their healthcare professional. Workspaces are cleaned and sanitized before other employees can return to work. The cleaning of facilities may require the temporary closure of the office until it has been thoroughly disinfected.

All KFF staff are provided with PPE’s, including masks, gloves and hand sanitizer and are encouraged to follow established social distancing guidelines when in contact with other persons.

Masks are required for entrance into the KFF offices and other risk mitigation strategies may also be used, including the use of temperature testing, protective barriers, and audio video equipment to conduct communications. These new policies are necessary to protect our staff, clients and visitors to our agency. Specific instructions are posted and KFF reserves the right to modify instructions as needed.

Modifications have also been made to visits and services conducted in homes and other community locations. Again, these changes have been made to minimize risk and to increase safety.

If we are out of the office our phone lines are transferred to our answering service and messages are relayed regularly. If you need assistance or have general questions, our phone line is available 24/7 at 904.278.5644. If you are a current client of KFF and have questions, you should contact your assigned staff member or call the main number to leave a message.

We know these are challenging times and we recognize the fear and uncertainty that many of us are feeling. We encourage you to reach out for help as needed. We will continue to adapt to the changing circumstances and to build a healthier community, one family at a time.

Thank you,

Irene Toto, CEO