Staff walk out of Markham home for disabled adults after 12 coronavirus cases confirmed

A Markham home for adults with physical and mental disabilities is in a state of emergency after 10 patients and two staff members tested positive for the coronavirus and several staff walked off the job.

An outbreak was declared at the Participation House’s Butternut Lane site on Thursday, which currently houses 42 residents. A few coronavirus tests are still pending.

A release from the home says their staffing levels are dangerous low and they are in critical need of personal protective equipment. “we are seeking any and all assistance possible to ensure our vulnerable residents are fed and cared for,” read the update.

According to Executive Director Shelley Brillinger, most of the staff is made up of Personal Support Workers and they, along with some other permanent staff, walked off the job Thursday over the risk of becoming infected with COVID-19.

They currently have six staff members and 35 are needed to run the home.

The remaining management is attempting to run the home now. Markham-Stouffville Hospital is currently supplying them with food and the Central Local Health Integration Network is currently providing emergency staffing.

Health Minister Christine Elliott was asked about the outbreak Friday and says they clearly need to get staff there.

“The Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services and others, I’m sure, are making sure that people will be there to care for this incredibly vulnerable population,” said Elliott.

Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti has also issued an emergency call for anyone willing to donate any personal protective equipment, adding the home is in critical need of PSWs and nurses.

The six other sites run by Participation House have not been impacted at this time.