Life at Horizons for Youth has changed dramatically since the beginning of March. Before the pandemic, our home was an energetic and bustling environment. Our front door was constantly opening and closing as residents went to school, appointments or work. Other residents were busy each day participating in our agency’s daily programs or meeting one-on-one with our workers. A few times a day, we’d come together to share a meal.
Now, residents are eating meals in shifts to promote physical distancing. Horizons for Youth has also limited the number of youth that can be in our backyard, program room or gym at one time. In accordance with advice from health officials, we have restricted resident travel out of the building, increased cleaning and sanitation practices and closed our doors to everyone except essential staff and residents.
“The most challenging thing about this pandemic is being inside the whole day,” Ahmed*, 21-year-old Horizons for Youth resident explains. “We can’t go out whenever we want. It’s boring, depressing sometimes, but we have to stick with this. It’s safer to stay inside.”
Ahmed says he enjoys going to the gym in our basement every day and getting some exercise. “I don’t want to become lazy and if I stay in my room all day, I will. Going to the gym helps me focus and feel good about myself.”
Ahmed has a serious health condition, putting him at a higher risk of complications from COVID-19. “I know I’m more vulnerable during the COVID-19 pandemic because I have a weak immune system, but I feel safe at Horizons. I feel safe because the staff treat me well. They ask me how I’m doing and really care about me. That’s why I feel good here. I really appreciate that.”
Ahmed is most excited to start working again when the pandemic ends. “I want to work in a restaurant as a server or a dishwasher and save money. Working for me is not just about money though – I want to learn a new skill, like cooking”.
Learn more about Horizons for Youth’s response to COVID-19.
Help keep our residents and frontline workers healthy and well.
*Name changed to protect the confidentiality of this resident
Written by Stacey Murie