Four years ago, we were just a few weeks away from the first appearances of COVID-19 in Southwest Georgia. Shortly thereafter, Georgians, along with other Americans, went through weeks of quarantine, followed by months of new precautions, from mask-wearing to increased handwashing, and finally, vaccines and improved treatment options.

Individuals had and continue to have their own personal opinions about how to best keep themselves and their loved ones happy, and we respect that. As a non-profit organization, Perry Wellness Center adhered to state and federal regulations to protect the health of peers, staff, and the general public.

What a difficult time it was for all of our community. Perry Wellness Centre and Rudy’s Happy Patch Market closed their doors for several months and operated almost 100% on outreach and working from home. When peers returned to the re-opened program, we educated them about best hygiene practices and other methods for keeping COVID at bay.

Now, four years later, we are happy to say that we are busier and healthier than ever at Perry Wellness Center. Thanks to all of the peer clients and staff who returned to the center, as well as all the community supporters and market customers who stood behind us. 

Signs like those in the photo above were posted throughout our campus during the pandemic and serve as a reminder that taking care of your physical health is as important as taking care of your mental health when your goal is total wellness.

Here’s to a healthy and calm 2024.