<<Disclaimer: Verify this information before applying it to your situation.>>

Greetings everyone,

We want to let you know more about how recent events surrounding COVID-19
have/will affect GIG of Delaware Valley.

In keeping with recent government guidelines for social distancing and to
resist spreading of the Corona virus disease, several changes have been
made that affect this group.

The Gluten Intolerance Group has directed support groups NOT to convene for
at least 30 days.
The state of New Jersey (where we typically meet) has enacted rules that
restrict meeting of large groups. Therefore, the Virtua facility where we
meet has directed us not to use the facility in keeping with these
guidelines until further notice.
Many of us are now also unable to go to work due to
shutdowns/suspensions/closures.

*Based on this information, the support group will NOT be meeting at any
location until further notice.*



*So now what??*
The board of this group met by conference call on Thursday 3/19/2020 and
discussed our options as of that time. We felt it best to pass on
information from local, state, and federal sources as well as some personal
suggestions and ideas of how to cope with this pandemic with the added need
of staying gluten free.

Since the majority of our members/attendees are from NJ, we will focus in
this email update about information for those in New Jersey. Similar
information for those in other states can be found online.

Here is a link to the NJ Department of Health concerning COVID-19
<https://www.nj.gov/health/cd/topics/ncov.shtml>.

Here is a link to the CDC concerning COVID-19
<https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html>.

As we’ve heard and seen from various news reports and health agencies
mentioned, one of the key prevention tips for everyone to use is to wash
your hands often. OFTEN.

If you believe that you are showing symptoms of COVID-19, CALL your doctor
or local hospital BEFORE going for evaluation as they may direct you in
some way for safer treatment for everyone involved.

There has been concern that having Celiac Sprue disease makes you more
prone/susceptible to the virus.
Here is a link to an article about this from Celiac.org
<https://celiac.org/about-the-foundation/featured-news/2020/03/celiac-disease-and-coronavirus-covid-19/>

Here is a link to an article about this from Beyond Celiac
<https://www.beyondceliac.org/coronavirus/?utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&utm_content=84850561&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-__klc1QKgaI8cuyjEZ2fIPCRPsNJV73t6m2MSKupvPiLM3WY3azc8gCNPojQA0xU6WrFsI5eAcyGrlTM1WcJ4l8CE1sA&_hsmi=84850561>



*What about food/medications?*

Many food establishments are still open but do not allow seating. You can
order take-out only or have it delivered by those that remain open. Many
such establishments use third-party delivery businesses such as Uber Eats
<https://www.ubereats.com/location/new-jersey>, Grubr Eats
<https://www.grubreats.com/#/restaurants/grubreats/5433> or GrubHub
<https://www.grubhub.com/>. As always, be aware that many food
establishments are NOT dedicated gluten free so that risk of
cross-contamination exists so choose your food selections and
establishments wisely.
Similar options apply to grocery stores still in operation. Many chains
offer grocery delivery services. *Check with your favorite store for
options and details as some may waive any delivery fees during this time*.
Note: Some chains now have early shopping hours for seniors over 60 years
of age. If you fit this category and are concerned about going to a grocery
store during this time, look into these options.

There is a designated gluten free food pantry <http://www.therachelway.org/>
in our region located in Plymouth Meeting, PA, The Rachel Way Pantry, but
you MUST provide proof that you have a medically-required gluten free food
need. Contact them for details and hours.

If you have ANY appointments with doctors, dentists, etc., CALL them before
going to any appointment as they may be closed or have restricted
hours/procedures.

Check with your pharmacy/medication suppliers for how to keep your
medications coming without delay.



*What can I do to help others in the group?*

We talked about coming up with some type of “buddy system” to help us help
one another. *If you would like to be included to help touch base with
others in your area during this time, let us know*. This way if you or
someone close to you needs gluten free food or help in some way, you may be
able to help out.

We will keep informed about the latest developments in our area and with
The Gluten Intolerance Group.
We will likely look into ideas such as web-based meetings that users with
computers/smartphones can watch as a way to still hold group support
meetings. *If you think you would be willing to do so, let us know*.



*The Gluten Intolerance Group of Delaware Valley*

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