Frequently Asked Questions
Healthcare Workers
Does this program cost money?
No, payment is not required, as we wanted to make this a free service for those who are already working hard to care for others. Our students are made aware that this is a voluntary service on their behalf. However, if you rely on your students to complete additional household management tasks such as grocery shopping, pharmacy runs, etc. please reimburse them in full.
How long can I receive childcare?
Currently, we ask that you evaluate your needs weekly. Additionally, while UNMC is currently holding online classes, students are still expected to attend and complete class sessions, including online small group sessions. Therefore, your student(s) may have educational requirements to meet during their voluntary “babysitting” hours. Also, please remember that we are not professional childcare support. If you find yourself needing them for more hours than our students can manage, please reach out to the coordination team at unmccore@gmail.com so we can reevaluate.
Can we combine children from different households?
Unfortunately, due to health concerns, we can only accommodate children from the same household (i.e. siblings, live-in relatives).
What kind of self protective strategies are you going to apply during the child care period?
We will be sharing UNMC’s infection/transmission guidance with every student and family that is participates in this program. We have provided students with access to cloth masks to be used during their volunteer experiences. Additionally, no student or family that is symptomatic (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.), has tested positive for COVID-19, or has recently traveled to a high risk area (as defined by local and national guidelines) will be able to participate in the program.
What kind of services can the students provide?
Apart from childcare services, students can provide pet care, grocery shopping, meal prepping, and pharmacy runs, provided you give them authorization and monetary reimbursement as needed. We cannot utilize our students for alcohol-related purchases.
What is this initiative?
UNMC CoRe: Covid Relief is an interdisciplinary student-run initiative designed to connect students and community members with opportunities to assist throughout the COVID-19 outbreak. We have launched several programs including providing childcare and pet care to healthcare workers on the frontline, streamlining PPE donations to facilities in need, and coordinating volunteers for community mask sewing.
Who is organizing?
This program is organized by a group of UNMC students in conjunction with the UNMC Incident Command System. We are looking for ways to link various parts of our community to healthcare families and community members who are seeking help.
Who are the volunteers?
Currently they are students at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Please note that they may need to work remotely on class material while supervising your children.
Where will the childcare & pet care occur?
Our volunteers will mostly be coming to your home to watch your children/pets and run errands.
What ages do you babysit?
Currently, we are offering services for children of all ages. However, because our students are not trained in childcare or managing disabilities, we are unable to provide services for children or adults with complex developmental needs. If you would like to clarify if your child fits into this category, please don't hesitate to reach out to our coordinators at unmccore@gmail.com.