Update #3: COVID-19 Rapid At-Home Test Kit/Mask Distribution

The state had planned to start distributing millions of test kits this week and N95 masks next week to Connecticut residents to fight the spread of the coronavirus. Unfortunately, as of this publication, due to supply-chain issues, there is currently no ETA for their arrival.  Once we receive word from the state that they are available for pickup and we have developed our distribution plan we will be communicating that with the public.  The mechanisms of communication will continue to be the First Selectman’s Facebook page, the town website and the “Town News” email blast feature that anyone can sign up for on the town website by clicking on the word “Subscribe” at the bottom of the main page.

Just to reiterate, the test kits, once available, will be distributed one per household as supplies last.  There were previous communications to the public outlining this in more detail. Regarding N95 masks, the First Selectman’s office placed an order with the state.  If that order is fulfilled in its entirety, it will allow at least one mask for each Colchester resident.

We still plan on doing a drive-thru distribution setup for the dissemination of these items. The procurement of them will determine if they are distributed together.  For those in the community that know of homebound/disabled individuals that would make it impossible for them to obtain a kit/mask, you may pick up these items for them, but proof of their residency will still be required.

The Colchester Senior Center will be given 100 kits to distribute to seniors who meet the following 2 criteria: They are CSC members who are Colchester residents, and they are dependent on the senior bus (i.e. have no other means of transportation and would be thus excluded from a larger distribution event.)  Those who meet those qualifications are invited to call Patty Watts, Director at 860-537-3911 to have their name placed on the distribution list.   Also, a percentage of kits have been designated for our first responders (fire and police).

We will continue to provide updates as we receive information from the state.