COVID Protocols
WELCOME BACK TO MURRAY GROVE!
We’re ready to have you on campus, and trust you will help us to ensure the safety of staff and other visitors alike. Murray Grove’s beautiful grounds provide a safe space to gather and celebrate. Usage of our buildings requires additional safety protocols. In keeping with our principle of respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part, on-staff and visitors coming to Murray Grove will be asked to provide proof of vaccination (at least 2 doses) or a recent (within 72 hours) negative COVID Test.
Our COVID protocols are based on local, state, and federal guidelines and are contingent upon infection risks rising and/or declining. As of this date*, we have relaxed our masking and spacing protocols, but are watching the rates in Ocean County and vicinity. We reserve the right to update this policy at any time.
- Physical distancing is suggested.
- Masks are optional, but recommended for those with reduced immunity or those not vaccinated. Masks are required for those working in our kitchen.
- Hyper attention to disinfecting spaces and tools is required.
- Our buildings are currently at full capacity, but seating will be adjusted to provide additional space.
- At this time we are housing overnight guests in our normal double rooms .
- Full Murray Grove services will return to a “new normal” once distancing guidelines have been sufficiently relaxed or lifted, and the infection threat is considered low or non-existent.
- Group gatherings of all ages for Murray Grove programs and meetings are allowed on-site, provided the infection threat remains low or the event is held totally out-of-doors.
*Updated April 20, 2022
NEW JERSEY COVID-19 INFORMATION RESOURCES
We recognize that this on-going crisis is affecting all of us and our families in multiple ways.
Following is a list of local and state resources, should you or your family need assistance during this time:
For medical COVID-19 questions, call 1-800-962-1253. This information is also available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
IN NEW JERSEY: For state-wide resources and information, visit www.covid19nj.gov.
To receive text alerts in regard to COVID-19, text NJCOVID to 898-211
—————————————————————————————————————–
Q and A
Q: What can you tell us about the health & safety adjustments you’ve made in response to COVID-19?
A: The health and safety of our staff, guests, board, and broader community are top of mind. Some of the many things we’re keeping an eye on will be:
- Offering programs via video links
- Staggered or longer check-in times & if possible, outdoor check-in for onsite programs
- Screened check-ins of guests and non-staff visitors
- Decreasing group sizes & guest/staff ratios when indicated
- Increased frequency of hand-washing and installation of hand-sanitizing units
- Creative programming aimed at reducing the amount of physical contact and shared items
- PPE for all staff members
- Increased frequency of cleaning and disinfecting of all common area surfaces
- Limiting any outside visitors during times of high transmission rates
Q: Are you going to be able to effectively promote social distancing in your facility? How can groups effectively manage during these unprecedented times?
A: It will be our goal to keep guests and staff 6 feet apart, 100% of the time; understanding there may be some instances where individuals are closer simply due to what people do. However, we can control a number of factors, such as the spaces we use, the activities we run, and our group sizes. We do feel that with these adjustments from years prior, we can help to reduce the risk of transmission.
Q: What is your plan for visitor and staff – sanitation procedures?
A: We have been working diligently to build a plan and routine to keep our campus spaces clean. Upon arrival you should expect to see a good deal of signage, encouraging social distancing, reminding of health protocols and spelling out any special procedures.
Q: For onsite programs, will the procedures be different?
A: Yes. For example, in a case where someone will be onsite during lunch, we’ve ramped up cleaning procedures, hand washing protocols, and how and where we store lunches. We are suggesting that, at this time, groups use boxed meals rather than gathering in our kitchens.
Q: How can I support Murray Grove right now?
A: We have experienced significant financial loss over the past year. With our summer season also in flux, we expect lower enrollment and much higher costs – as a small organization we’re feeling it. We are deeply grateful for any support right now.
If you are not planning to come to Murray Grove and are willing to make a donation, let us know, or PLEASE CLICK HERE to donate.
We want to continue providing programs for years to come. A sincere thank you from everyone at Murray Grove.
