04/15/2026
Public Notice: Flooding Response Update
Date: April 15, 2026
From: The Office of the Administrator
Communities: St. Joseph Residence & The Washington Center
To Our Families and Community,
As severe flooding continues to impact the New London area, I want to provide a formal update regarding the status and safety of St. Joseph Residence and The Washington Center.
In our profession, the need for high-quality care never pauses for the weather. Our residents rely on us for safety and comfort 24 hours a day, and I want to assure you that our commitment to those we serve remains our absolute priority.
Our Operational Response
Our leadership team has officially activated our Incident Command protocol. This ensures seamless, around-the-clock coordination for:
• Essential Operations: Maintaining dining services and clinical care without interruption.
• Staffing & Support: Our associates are demonstrating incredible teamwork, assisting one another with transportation and flexible scheduling to ensure full coverage throughout the storm.
• Facilities Management: Our teams are working diligently to manage water levels, with a specific focus on keeping emergency exits and critical access points clear.
Current Status
I am pleased to share that all of our communities are doing well. Thanks to the heroic efforts of our staff—our continuity of care remains uninterrupted.
Important Information for Visitors
Due to the rivers and surrounding wetlands in New London, travel is currently extremely congested with limited access points into the city. For your safety and to keep roads clear for emergency services, we encourage you to delay non-essential visits until conditions stabilize and traffic patterns return to normal.
Public Emergency Shelter
We have offered the use of our gymnasium at the Washington Center to the Red Cross and it has currently been set up as an emergency shelter for those who are displaced.
Prayer Appreciated
Please know we are doing everything possible to care for our Residents and staff members during these uncertain times. Please pray for protection for all and comfort to those in need.
A Note of Gratitude
I want to express my deepest thanks to our staff members. I am incredibly proud of this team; their dedication and the loving care they provide, even in the face of natural challenges, is what makes our community so special.
Thank you for your continued trust and support as we navigate this flooding together. Please stay safe.
Sincerely,
Gidget Blank Administrator St. Joseph Residence & The Washington Center