COVID-19

Critical Updates for our STJDA Family

Diabetes does not pause during times of emergencies. Our families need us today more than ever. And we will not waiver in our commitment to them. This web page will serve as our central point of communication to the public. If you are a family in need, we ask that you call our main office line (956) 627-5594.

FAQs:

Will this crisis impact insulin and diabetes supplies deliveries?

As of now, there are no delays in getting or receiving medical supplies. All pharmacies are open and do not anticipate closing. There are no shortages in insulin or supplies. We are closely following the American Diabetes Association and other trusted authorities. STJDA does have limited insulin and supplies if families find themselves in a pinch.

What can working parents do if they have children with diabetes who need care?

There are no easy answers to this question. If you find yourself in a situation where you have to go to work, we recommend reaching out to family members for support at this time. We know not everyone has this luxury or your family members may not feel comfortable in close contact with children for safety and health precautionary reasons. As we hear of any resources or further ideas, we will absolutely share them.

How will STJDA’s 14 programs run during this time?

The office is not open to the public at this time, however; services like medical assistance are still functioning by appointment only.

Programs that require congregate settings are temporarily being postponed. These programs include: support group meetings, health fairs, family events and community presentations

Food Pantry is continuing to run using every precaution to keep clients safe. We have moved distribution to a drive through and pick up format to minimize contact. We are following CDC precautions, including face masks for those distributing food, heightened hand washing and sanitization procedures.

Camps programs are still on and plans are underway for a robust summer experience for your children. If anything changes, we will make that announcement as soon as we can.

Shot Spots Bears have been disseminated to all of our local hospitals in abundance to ensure there is no family that goes without one of our furry D’pals.

Our Mid Valley programs are running in-line with McAllen office details.

Tuesday, March 17, 2020
As you know, Hidalgo County has been issued a Disaster Declaration due to a Public Health Emergency for the potential spread of COVID-19.  While there are not currently any cases of COVID-19, we are abundantly cautious and concerned for our children and families.

This declaration is effective Tuesday morning, March 17, and will remain in effect for seven days. Judge Cortez will be asking the Hidalgo County Commissioners Court to extend this order an additional seven days until March 31.

As public spaces, schools, and events are beginning to close, this is uncharted territory for our families and our organization. With this news, the STJDA office is closed to the public until further notice, but our staff remains committed to serving and meeting the needs of our children and families.

  • For emergency or immediate needs, we are asking families to call our office line: (956) 627-5594.

  • We will follow the guidelines of our local leaders and government. As we know more about how our communities will be affected, we will assess the postponement of any scheduled events and public programs like our summer camps for the future. 

  • Our food pantry distribution service is needed now more than ever, and we have moved to a drive-thru/pickup format to minimize public contact.

I firmly believe that if we remain focused on doing everything we can to help our families that we will weather this and be stronger.

Please know that I will respond to you as soon as I possibly can if you need me, but I do appreciate your patience as my focus is keeping our children, families, staff, and volunteers safe. At this point, news and updates can change our plans at any minute so we are remaining flexible.

Sincerely yours,

Debra Franco, Executive Director