Rescue Mission temporarily closes to deep clean and test everyone

A rumor is being spread that folks at the River City Rescue Mission have COVID-19.

“That is absolutely not true” said Executive Director Earnie Hall.

“We have no signs, no symptoms. We are down to 18 people and are not bringing any new residents in as a precautionary measure” he added.

The mission normally houses up to 50 people who are transitioning back into society. Over the years, the River City Rescue Mission has helped thousands start their lives over.

The mission is funded by a resale shop and donations from the public. A rumor like this, especially one that is not true, could be extremely harmful to their business.

“We have closed the mission to do a deep clean and test everyone here. I think the rumor may have started because someone used our address and tested positive,” Hall said.  “Whomever it was is not a resident here. We are clean.”

The rumor on social media is one of many bits of misinformation being spread around during the pandemic. Authorities are taking extraordinary measure to stop the spread of rumors that could end up costing lives.

Hall said there is no date set for the mission to reopen.

“We are cleaning and testing,” he said. “We are erring on the side of extreme caution so the community we love and serve can be assured they are safe when they come here.”