MAP, Inc. Response to COVID-19: Ensuring Head Start Families and Children’s Well Being
Mississippi Action for Progress, Inc. (MAP) is a private non-profit Agency operating Head Start and Early Head Start services in centers in 33 counties in the State of Mississippi. MAP is committed to serve as a catalyst for positive change for disadvantaged children, families and communities. The outbreak and spread of the COVID-19 virus has devastated many of our communities. This public health crisis is affecting children and families with unprecedented challenges. MAP administration is responding to COVID-19 through adaptive methods in program operations to allow for rapid delivery of services, communications and supportive measures for families and staff.
The Agency’s communication and planning protocols have taken on the challenges of COVID –19 through the increase in the use of the Agency’s website, teleconferencing, email, and smart phone applications. All staff are considered to be working remotely according to executive directives, due to the extended closure of all centers. We are directing focused communication to our parents through emails, texting, phone calls, and social media. Staff offers support, encouragement, and referral service to families. Our Community Partners have been exceptional as we collaborate to creatively assist vulnerable families and communities during this crisis.
Agency-wide, staff continues to work unselfishly to provide high quality educational, health/nutrition, and family services to children and families.
Please utilize the C Spire Health App for smart phones, as this gives a direct line to the University of Mississippi Medical staff for COVID-19 testing. This is a free service for all residents of the State of Mississippi.