The social welfare department in the city of Hengyang has requested that ICC’s care centre go on lockdown effective today. While there is no indication that Covid-19 presents a health risk at the centre, the officials want to be extra safe, since a welfare centre in neighbouring Hubei province (epicentre of the virus) saw an outbreak last week.

ICC cares for more than 160 young people at our Hengyang Care Centre. Together with 81 staff and volunteers, they will remain in their family homes and access to the centre will be eliminated.
Our China Operations Director, Kyla Alexander reports: “At 8:30 this morning the staff arrived happy and enthusiastic with bundles of essential items.” They will serve on alternating 24-hour shifts. They have set up makeshift beds and are ready for the long haul. This situation will continue until further notice. Everyone is in good spirits but space is a bit tight.