From face masks to social distancing, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused many changes to daily life. But during these challenging times, New Yorkers in need have been able to count on EAC Network’s consistent service. As we approach the one-year mark since the pandemic began, the Community Re-Entry Assistance Network (CRAN), Meals on Wheels, and the rest of our innovative programs and services could benefit from your support. Join our mission to build a stronger community by contributing to our COVID-19 Response Fund.
A Vital Link Stays Open Throughout Pandemic
Over the last year, the EAC Network team has witnessed first-hand how the COVID-19 pandemic has challenged the most vulnerable New Yorkers. For individuals with mental health and substance abuse issues, reentering the community from Rikers Island became doubly hard once the pandemic started.
Throughout the ensuing months, EAC Network’s Community Re-Entry Assistance Network (CRAN) — a city-wide program specializing in transitional case management services — acted as a vital lifeline for these at-risk individuals.
Despite the challenges of COVID-19, we continued to:
- Perform comprehensive assessments to identify individuals’ specific needs
- Created treatment plans
- Linked individuals to social services
- Treated behavioral health issues
- Helped participants achieve plan goals
The uninterrupted service we provide made a difference in the lives of many formerly incarcerated New Yorkers.
Re-Entry Assistance in a Suddenly Different Environment
Our CRAN program, which is located in Manhattan, the Bronx and the rest of the five boroughs, focuses on helping at-risk individuals who face a host of challenges, like adjusting to new societal rules, upon re-entry to the community from Rikers Island.
To the best possible outcomes, EAC Network performed advance planning and put new procedures in place that reflected the realities of the COVID-19 pandemic.
For example, individuals released from Rikers Island are advised how to follow new social distancing guidelines and are immediately sent into quarantine in an isolation hotel for 14 days.
Going the Extra Mile for At-Risk New Yorkers
Because every individual we help has unique needs, we worked closely with the criminal justice system and local, state, and federal agencies to provide necessary services.
Last year, a client was released from Rikers Island and sent immediately to quarantine at an isolation hotel. This at-risk individual, who was uninsured, had been prescribed a 14-day supply of the drug Suboxone. To ensure this person’s safety and others in the community, CRAN paid for the prescription and had it delivered right to the hotel.
This case is just one example of the exceptional and dedicated service of CRAN staff that has been our organization’s trademark.
Support Our COVID-19 Response Fund
CRAN and many other EAC Network programs and services have provided uninterrupted support to your neighbors in need during these unprecedented times. Together, we have helped to improve the quality of life of countless New Yorkers. Join us in our mission to create positive change in our neighborhoods by donating to EAC Network’s COVID-19 Response Fund today.
