Visits and services will roll out in a phased approach in order to adhere closely to COVID-19 protocols, including social distancing, face coverings, temperature checks and screening questions, the news release said.
“We appreciate state and local health officials for their continued support and guidance on navigating the pandemic,” Nielson said. “And finally, I would be remiss if I did not thank our incredible staff who have worked diligently to make this happen, and have been nimble since the outset of the pandemic to adapt to ongoing changes.”
In March 2020, all in-person visiting was suspended and supplemented with 10 free 15-minute phone calls per week.
The department plans to continue providing video visits when in-person visiting resumes.
For those planning in-person visits, visitor applications must be approved.
Volunteers can communicate with the department’s programming division by emailing [email protected].