Closing Checklist

What does it look like to close a house?

Closing the SECU Family House was a scenario tucked away in an emergency manual on the top of a desk. We prepare for the worst, but never thought that a coronavirus pandemic would force us to temporarily close doors.

We will reopen to guests as soon as the hospitals need us again. In the meantime, we remain a partner for our hospitals, providing referral help to any patients and families who still need lodging in our community.

What exactly does it take to close? Director of Operations Melissa Thompson is checking off a list of essential tasks that will keep the facility in good working order.

To Do:

1. Keep lawn mowed.

The grass is green, lush, and growing! US Lawns does a great job keeping our lawn tended.

2. Wash and package bed linens.

Unused and unwashed linens that stay on the beds will get dusty. Melissa washed them and put the linens in bags. When we are ready to open, the beds can be remade quickly.

3. Wash and package bathroom linens.

Just as with the bedroom linens, the bathroom linens are in plastic bags – clean and ready to rehang.

4. Empty fridges.

No food can be left to rot! Fridges have been emptied and are anxious to be re-filled.

5. Flush it!

We need to pour water down floor drains and flush commodes regularly to keep water from standing still and causing odor. Standing water in commodes will leave rings of dust and grime.

6. Lift it!

Elevators are being run several times a day to keep the hydraulics in good shape.

7. Pick up the phone:

Call waste removal company and utilities, field future guest requests, notify hospital partners, check in with volunteers and donors. It makes us feel better to know that our neighbors will keep a close eye on the house!