March 13 COVID-19 Update

NAYA is taking active measures to protect the community we serve from COVID-19. Please be assured that we are doing everything we can to continue serving the community while balancing the health needs of our community and our staff.

In light of new developments regarding COVID-19, NAYA’s Many Nations Academy will be closed beginning Monday, March 16 through March 31.

NAYA has suspended events that bring large groups of students, adults, and community members together. Suspension of non-essential public gatherings at NAYA begins immediately, effective Friday, March 13, and will remain in effect for four weeks. Please see our website events calendar for more information: https://nayapdx.org/events/

This Saturday’s Housing to Homeownership Fair has been cancelled.

We are taking these actions out of an abundance of caution. In other words, no staff, student, or client has notified us of being medically diagnosed as having—or possibly having the virus—as of today.

Out of concern for the safety and well-being of our staff and clients, we ask that anyone experiencing flu-like symptoms or excessive coughing and fever, to listen to medical experts and stay home. Do not come to NAYA.

As you know, this is fluid situation that changes daily. Please check our website (https://nayapdx.org/blog/) and social media channels for continued updates including possible future building closures, and how direct service programs will change to accommodate safety. Even with a building closure, many services can (with additional care) be conducted offsite.

Please take proactive steps to stay healthy. Call your elders to make sure they are okay.  And refer to the following resources for the latest updates on COVID-19:

Multnomah County Health Department
Oregon Health Authority
Centers for Disease Control 
Oregon Department of Education Communicable Disease Guidance

You may also sign up for daily email updates from OHA here: https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/ORDHS/subscriber/new?topic_id=ORDHS_816

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding during this difficult time. We know that community is central to Native culture and we are doing our absolutely best to address our community’s needs and safety.