Job Training/ Procurement

Recreation

Day Program

Early Intervention

FEDERAL CONTRACTS OPPORTUNITIES  

HOUSEKEEPING SERVICE PROGRAM

The Maher Center has provided Housekeeping Services to the US Navy since November 1997.  Initially, services were provided at the Naval Hospital, an older, inpatient facility which has since been replaced by a newer, more modern Naval Ambulatory Care Clinic providing outpatient and urgent care services to the Navy community in Newport, RI.  Services are also provided at the Naval Dental Clinic, also located at Naval Station, Newport.  To meet the requirements of our Housekeeping Contract, the Maher Center employs approximately 25 individuals with severe disabilities.  Work is performed in a fully integrated work setting consisting of both Navy and Civil Service employees in addition to the patients who receive services.

The primary mission of the Housekeeping Service Program is to ensure a healthy and safe healthcare environment to the patients and professional staff of the respective facilities.  Under the direction of a Certified Executive Housekeeper, employees are expected to maintain the highest standards of cleanliness as befits the requirements of a healthcare environment.  Special consideration is given to the standards developed by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) to ensure the highest level of customer satisfaction.

Work shifts are primarily part time, though a limited number of full time positions exist.  A typical workday consists of tasks which are essentially janitorial in nature but with a particular emphasis on healthcare considerations.  Equipment is designed to promote a reduction in airborne allergens.  The supplies and methods utilized in the performance of duties reflect the need to prevent contamination of sterile work areas. The frequency of cleaning is much higher than would be found in an office setting.

Opportunities are available in this program for individuals who require the support of a job coach to attain the skills necessary to succeed in this work setting as well as individuals who are capable of working without direct, daily oversight .