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Food Bank of the Albemarle has closed down the operation to perform sanitation of the three facilities and COVID testing following a positive COVID-19 result within the staff network.

“One of our staff reported to us on Wednesday evening that they tested positive for the coronavirus, and in accordance with CDC protocol and the safety of our staff, volunteers, and the people we serve, we’ve decided to close temporarily,” said Liz Reasoner, Executive Director. “The facility will be sanitized in all areas affected, and we staff and volunteers are being instructed to quarantine and make an appointment to receive the COVID test. We anticipate resuming operations as soon as possible but only when it is safe to do so. Individuals who may have been in close contact with this staff member have been informed.”

The Food Bank will continue proactive health safety measures which were introduced in April, such as mandating the use of gloves for packing and sorting, sanitizing high-touch common surfaces, wearing face masks and requiring staff and volunteers to wash and sanitize hands before entering the building, and after food and restroom breaks.

The Food Bank facility at 109 Tidewater Way has been temporarily closed to be thoroughly cleaned by a professional company and to conduct contact tracing and ensure cleaning, disinfecting, and sanitization of all areas potentially affected. Food Bank of the Albemarle has been and will continue to follow guidelines established by the CDC to protect our staff, volunteers, partner agencies and neighbors from exposure to COVID-19.

The Food Bank will be closed to the public, staff, and volunteers starting Thursday, January 14, 2021 with an expected reopening on Wednesday, January 20th. The facility will not re-open until all satisfactory cleaning measures have been completed, and contact tracing for staff has been completed.

“We are also working with Albemarle Regional Health Services for guidance on working with staff and volunteers so that we can safely resume operations as soon as possible,” Reasoner added.

If you have been at the food bank within the past 10 days and have concerns, please contact Executive Director Liz Reasoner at 252-335-4035, 110 or by email at lreasoner@afoodbank.org

Additional information about the Food Bank’s schedule, as well as additional food pantries in your area can be found online at www.afoodbank.org and through our social media channels.