The move was taken as a public safety measure when we learned that one of our volunteer workers tested positive for COVID-19... All staff and volunteers have been urged to get a COVID test immediately.”

Executive Director Myra Garcia

The Superstition Community Food Bank in Apache Junction was temporarily closed Dec. 31 as a precaution as a volunteer tested positive for COVID-19.

For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. But for some — especially older adults and people with existing health problems — it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia, and death.

This is the first positive test of a worker at the food bank. The food bank, 575 N. Idaho Road Suite No. 701 in Apache Junction, is to reopen Jan. 7, Executive Director Myra Garcia said in a release.

“The move was taken as a public safety measure when we learned that one of our volunteer workers tested positive for COVID-19,” she said in the release. “Our facility has been given a deep clean, disinfectant and sanitation by COIT, including a steam-cleaning of the concrete floor. All staff and volunteers have been urged to get a COVID test immediately.”

Throughout the pandemic, the food bank has adhered to a strict worker protocol of masking, temperature checks, hand washing and glove-wearing, the release states.

All work surfaces, furniture, doorknobs and shopping cards are routinely sanitized after each shift.

READ: Superstition Community Food Bank receives $100,000 grant

“This closure is temporary. We will be up and running again on Thursday, Jan. 7,” Ms. Garcia said. “We will resume normal business hours on that day, with food distribution from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. as usual. We appreciate our clients’ understanding during this difficult time. The safety and health of our staff, volunteers and clients is always our first priority.”

Donations of food and/or funds to the Superstition Community Food Bank may be made online or in-person. Go to superstitionfoodbank.org; drop by 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Monday-Friday; or mail a check to Superstition Community Food Bank, 575 N. Idaho Road Suite No. 701, Apache Junction, AZ 85119.