At StarVista, we are committed to providing you with updates as we go through this COVID-19 pandemic together. As San Mateo County continues asking the public to follow shelter-in-place, physical distancing and face covering measures, other restrictions have and continue to be lifted, click here for more.
Since the spread of COVID-19, there has been a significant increase across the country in racism, stereotyping, and discrimination toward people who are of Asian descent. We know that racial and ethnic identity and group membership does not indicate a greater risk of contracting or spreading the virus. Research has demonstrated that racism and discrimination contribute to worse physical and mental health outcomes for targeted groups. Targeted groups are at an increased risk during illness outbreaks because they are more vulnerable to attacks and may not seek care when they need it out of fear of experiencing discrimination.
Aligned with our mission and values, StarVista stands against racism and xenophobia. We condemn the use of language that stigmatizes and promotes bias and xenophobia of any kind. At a time when we are facing this pandemic, we would like to reiterate that we stand alongside the Asian community. According to U.S. Census 2018 and 2019 estimates, some 30% of San Mateo County’s 766,570 residents are of Asian heritage, compared with 15.3% for all of California. Our values guide us to support our clients and colleagues who speak many different languages, and people with a range of racial, ethnic, and gender identities. Our strong StarVista staff includes diversity in cultural backgrounds, and we are stronger because of this diversity.
We also want to reaffirm our message that we are here. While most of our 30 programs have switched to a Telehealth model during the shelter-in-place orders, StarVista’s 24/7 programs are still operating in person, including our residential programs for homeless youth and our First Chance Sobering Station.
We continue to provide 24/7 support through our Crisis Line for anyone. If you are feeling overwhelmed with feelings such as sadness, depression, or anxiety, or are having thoughts of suicide please call us. We are here to support you through these times 650-579-0350 or 800-273-8255.
Thank you for your continued support!
Sincerely,
Sara Larios Mitchell, Ph.D., MACP
CEO
