OGDENSBURG – The chief operating officer of United Helpers is thanking local residents, businesses and community organizations for their recent support during the COVID-19 outbreak at its facilities.

The organization recently issued a call for support in the wake of a massive outbreak of the COVID-19 that has resulted in 14 deaths.

The call sought help for personal protective equipment, staff assistance and donations of meals for employees who have been working extra hours.

“We have always appreciated the support of our friends and neighbors from across the North Country, but what we’ve witnessed over the past few weeks is really quite difficult to put into words,” United Helpers CEO Stephen E. Knight. Knight said. “Words can never accurately portray the amount of gratitude we have for each and every one who has offered assistance to us during this time.”

Exactly one week after a major fire at a garage at Rehabilitation and Senior Care in Ogdensburg, it was discovered there was an outbreak of COVID-19 at the facility affecting both residents and employees.

“Almost immediately, hundreds of calls, emails and Facebook messages began pouring in from people, businesses and organizations who wanted to help,” Mr. Knight said.

To help streamline the assistance efforts, United Helpers partnered with Health Workforce New York, and the Northern Area Health Education Center to create a website for people to learn how they can help.

“While there are far too many people to thank everyone personally, I would like to thank Richard Merchant, Ashleigh McGowan, and Ben Aldrich for their help with this website,” Mr. Knight said. “The assistance of Health Workforce New York and the Northern Area Health Education Center has directly led to more than 100 donations, and many other offers of assistance.”

If you would like to offer assistance either through a donation or volunteering in some capacity, visit https://unitedhelpersneeds.hwapps.org.

“To anyone who has reached out in any way, we say thank you. The community’s generosity has helped more than you could ever know,” he said.