COVID-19 Resources

The resources below have been compiled to assist DSAWM families during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Keeping DSAWM Staff and Visitors Safe

Staff are currently working remotely from home and may be contacted via email, at dsawm.org/contact, or by leaving a message at 616-956-3488. We are also available via Zoom for those who wish to schedule an appointment and meet with us. We appreciate everyone’s flexibility as we work hard to keep staff, members, and the public safe.

For more information about COVID-19, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Michigan Department of Health and Human Services websites.
National Resources
State and Local Resources

General Information

Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS)
Health Departments by Michigan County

Information For Individuals with Down Syndrome and Their Families

Global Down Syndrome Foundation’s “Everything You Need to Know About COVID-19 & Down Syndrome” Q&A
Michigan Alliance for Families
LuMind IDSC
Dr. Brian Skotko

Educational Support

Free Virtual Education Resources
Special Education Resources Facebook Group
Virtual Field Trips

Meal Support

Michigan Department of Education Food Service Program (Statewide)
Grab & Go Meal Sites by School District (West MI)
Local Pantries/Food Assistance Programs

Financial/Other Support

Michigan 211
Vaccine Information

3/12/21 Update
All Michigan residents ages 16-49 with disabilities and certain medical conditions will be eligible for the vaccine beginning March 22nd!! All other adults will be eligible beginning April 5th.
MDHHS Statement

3/3/21 Update
Beginning Monday 3/8, Michigan residents aged 50+ with disabilities and parents/caregivers aged 16+ of kids with special healthcare needs are eligible to receive the covid-19 vaccine! We are continuing to advocate for all residents with disabilities to be included in the current vaccination distribution phase.
MDHHS Statement
FAQs and DSAWM’s continued vaccine advocacy

2/2/21 Update
On February 2nd, DSAWM signed a vaccine advocacy letter organized by Disability Advocates of Kent County and Disability Network Michigan. The letter was sent to West Michigan healthcare leaders, MDHHS Director Hertel, and Governor Whitmer urging for the inclusion of those with disabilities in the current Phase 1B of vaccine distribution as well as advocating for equitable access for those with disabilities at vaccination sites.

1/15/21 Update
Read our statement about what we’re doing to advocate for our community regarding vaccine distribution.

12/23/20 Update
According to the CDC as of December 23, 2020, Down syndrome is added to the list of at-risk persons. Michigan residents with Down syndrome may therefore fall into Phase 1C of vaccine distribution.

Resources

Michigan Vaccine Distribution Plan & Registration Portal
COVID-19 & Down Syndrome Resource, published by the Global Down Syndrome Foundation and national consortium members
LuMind IDSC
Down Syndrome Medical Interest Group-USA Vaccine Position Statement
NDSC Vaccine FAQs & Infographic