THE SUSI Q IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS — AND OUR BUSINESS IS YOU.
Spring is almost here and the end is in sight!  Some of us have been vaccinated and our numbers are growing. So this is no time to let down our guard. That's why the Susi Q remains closed and the Susi Q Without Walls is busier than ever helping our community weather the pandemic. (Check out our growing number of Zoom programs.) Here's what we want you to know: 

If you have symptoms or think you may have been exposed to the coronavirus, your essential first step is to call your health care provider to be evaluated. Do not go to the emergency room unless you are having an emergency or are directed to do so.

To reduce your risk of getting the coronavirus, stay mindful of public health "best practices." Shelter at home, maintain social distancing, wear a mask when you are around other people, and wash your hands before you leave home and when you return. (If you have visitors, ask them to do the same.)

Social isolation has side effects! So use your phone and internet to stay connected with people you know and trust. Facebook, Next Door, Twitter, Instagram, and other social media are great platforms. Just be wary of scams and bogus medical advice.

Stay in touch with us. A great place to start is with Care Manager Martha Hernandez (marthah@thesusiq.org, 949.715.8104 ). Our Licensed Clinical Social Worker can connect you to all the resources of a caring community. If you are anxious or depressed, she can refer you to one of our skilled, compassionate mental health staff supervised by Kay Wenger, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor.

Another great resource is Lifelong Laguna, which is managed by John Fay (johnfay@thesusiq.org, 949.715.8107). Its mission—to help you age safely at home in the hometown you love— has never been more timely. Lifelong Laguna  volunteers are taking the same precautions we all are. But they are ready to run errands and lend a friendly ear.

Our local partners are also working closely with Martha and John.

  • Until the center reopens, Age Well Senior Services is providing new nutrition programs: Get further details here.
  • Sally's Fund continues to transport seniors to medical appointments and help with errands like picking up prescriptions and grocery shopping. Call 949.499.4100 to make a request.
  • Laguna Food Pantry has a drive-through distribution program set up in its parking lot in the Canyon. The Pantry is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 to 10:30 a.m. Click here for the website of call 949.497.7121.
  • The City of Laguna Beach is working hard to keep us safe while reopening the town. Click here for the latest update.

Again: stay in touch! Everything we do is driven by your needs and concerns, and we welcome your thoughts during these challenging times! Email or call with any questions or concerns. (For a complete staff directory click here.) If you are not already receiving our "Living It Up" e-newsletter, sign up below in the footer.

Remember: We will meet again. We can't wait!