Students, faculty and staff work to support local Detroit COVID-19 patient well-being through rolling library, art installation and technology support.

The COVID-19 pandemic may exacerbate existing social, racial, and health disparities. This may be true for justice-involved individuals, especially those who are part of marginalized populations such as those from immigrant and low-income communities, people with disabilities and special health needs and older adults.

The coronavirus is exacerbating some of the biggest risk factors for child abuse and neglect: domestic violence, financial stress, and social isolation. According to Assistant Professor Kristina Nikolova, the closure of schools and other child-friendly public places removes children from contact with teachers, coaches, and others who can catch initial concerns about families under stress and refer them for help. 

Social Work Assistant Professor Kristina Nikolova discusses how periods of social isolation, including that caused by the current COVID-19 pandemic, increase the risk and severity of IPV.

Amid the pandemic, please know that we are making efforts to live up to our urban mission and social work values and ethics by supporting agencies and community partners with clients who may be challenged by the consequences of self-quarantine or with limited access to necessities. Learn how you can help.

The CBHJ has harnessed its specialized expertise to publish resources and tips for behavioral health and criminal/legal institutions during the COVID-19 epidemic. Specifically, information on continuity of care for those with opioid use disorder, recommendations to reduce bias and stigma, and the emergent use of technology in jails, prisons and juvenile justice facilities are featured.

Volunteers from the School of Social Work have joined other WSU schools and colleges, WSU Physician Group and ACCESS to test more than 2,900 symptomatic health care workers, police officers, firefighters and EMS/EMTs at drive-through testing locations in Detroit and Dearborn.

• April 30 - Classroom to Career Conference via Zoom (open to alumni)

• April 30 - FREE Lunchtime Yoga & Meditation via Zoom