The Navigation Center, which usually provides people without homes some basic services during the day, remains closed during the COVID-19 crisis. However, some services are operating out of the parking lot, although at a limited capacity during scaled-back hours.
Clients can visit the facility at 2018 Grand Blvd. in Vancouver from 10 a.m. to noon every Monday, Wednesday and Friday to use the restroom, wash their hands, stock up on water bottles and pick up their mail. Clients who kept personal items in the center’s storage lockers can also access their belongings during those windows.
The parking lot is closed during all other times.
Social distancing measures will be strictly enforced, said Dave Perlick, recreation manager for Vancouver Parks & Recreation. The city department has handled day-to-day operations at the day center since the previous operator cut ties in February.
“Everyone remains outside and we don’t accept more than 10 clients in line at a time,” Perlick said, adding that staff would require a mandatory 6 feet of space between each person.
Staff served about 30 people from the parking lot on Monday and Wednesday. On an average day before the COVID-19 outbreak began, the Navigation Center would serve 160 people, offering restrooms, showers, laundry facilities and a safe place to rest.
