Residents at Caring House can cruise to visit family with new program

Christopher Lomahquahu

Gila River Indian News

Residents of The Caring House – Gila River Health Care recently took part in the “Cruiser Program,” which provides residents with a tour through the Community to see their homes, families or places of significance to them during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Two Community members, Elena Gill and Melvin Lewis departed the Caring House for a cruise through their local neighborhoods on Aug. 13. Gill and Lewis greeted family members, who were waiting to see them from a safe distance due to the current restrictions of social interactions.

“I’ve been here for about three to four months,” said Lewis. He said that his home is being renovated and that he looked forward to seeing his grandson. Lewis wanted to go out into the Community after seeing others on their way to and from the Caring House. “I see people coming and going, people together whatever it is. I see this every day from my window,” said Lewis in a jokingly way. 

Ron Preston, Caring House Administrator, said the Caring House follows strict safety guidelines with the Cruiser Program. According to Preston, the program runs every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday and residents have options on where they go.

He said relatives are welcome to request to see their family member through the Cruiser Program while maintaining safe distancing. Preston added, that the Cruiser Program is also available to residents in the Memory Care Program.