Sheltered Village faces virus threat, four deaths reported

Four residents at Sheltered Village in Woodstock, a residential home for adults with developmental disabilities, have died because of COVID-19, according to a statement from the facility.

The facility has 14 residents and 12 staff, including Administrator Bob Norris, who have tested positive for COVID-19, and has lost four residents while in hospital care. The facility said it is aggressively dealing with the COVID-19 virus affecting its 89 residential clients.

Staff members at Sheltered Village are adhering to all safety precautions and recommendations from the Illinois and McHenry County Departments of Health in order to help contain and minimize spread of the virus, according to a news release.

Sheltered Village went on lockdown on March 17, only allowing essential employees into the building and only after an assessment ensuring employees were symptom and fever-free. The first positive case was identified on April 1.

Sheltered Village has been working closely with the McHenry County Department of Health to try to limit further spread of the virus. Staff continues to be assessed for symptoms twice each day and the building is in continuous process of being disinfected.

“We want to share with the public how easily this virus can impact your environment, regardless of safety precautions in place,” facility business manager Lauren Schlendorf said. “The safety of our residents and staff is the primary concern and focus of Sheltered Village.”

The staff at Sheltered Village maintains in weekly or daily contact with the families and guardians of the residents.

The facility has been facing a shortage in masks, gloves and gowns. A donation from Northwestern Medicine, arranged through outreach to Woodstock Mayor Brian Sager, will provide much-needed gowns.

The staff and residents of Sheltered Village said they are grateful for the generosity of the community in donating N-95 and homemade masks as well as the donations of food for staff members. The facility also is in need of additional staffing. Anyone able to provide RN or CNA services can call business manager Lauren Schlendorf at 815-338-6440, ext. 111.