Over the past six months, Penn staff, faculty, and students have faced the formidable task of navigating life in a new and uncertain context. We thank every Penn faculty and staff member for your commitment and dedication to the work that is moving the University forward during one of the most challenging chapters in our history.
The global pandemic has changed the way we work, live, and learn, as many of us must adapt to working remotely while also balancing life at home. We are pleased to announce a new Penn COVID-19 Childcare Grant, starting Sept. 15, that will offer up to $2,000 per household to eligible faculty, staff, and postdoctoral trainees for childcare expenses. We also offer a wide range of resources to help with such areas as finding caregivers, working from home, setting up home workspaces, starting a new school year, creating work/life balance, and building professional skills and professional development.
In this environment, it is more important than ever to maintain our health and wellness. Penn’s mindfulness, resilience, wellness workshops and webinars, and annual Be in the Know Wellness campaign help you stay active, healthy, and engaged. The Employee Assistance Program also offers access for eligible staff and faculty and their families to free, confidential 24/7 counseling and referral services for personal and professional life issues.
We are enormously grateful to the essential faculty and staff who have worked on campus since day one of our public health crisis. As more faculty and staff return to on-site work, we encourage you to consult our Return to Campus Guide and learn more about PennOpen Pass, the daily symptom checker that is required of everyone on campus. Penn Transportation and Parking also provides up-to-date information about parking, permits, and a wide range of other transportation options.
All of these resources and initiatives are made possible by your tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to Penn. We thank you for your extraordinary work and will continue to keep you updated as the semester moves forward.