By Francie Kelley, Executive Director, Celiac Kids Connection
The emergency declarations, school closings and spread of COVID -19 has all of us asking questions. Celiac Kids Connection wants to make sure that you have the information you need.
There is great information out there. Boston Children’s Hospital has a number of resources available on its website. This includes information specific to children and includes a segment on how to talk to your children about the virus. The commonwealth of Massachusetts and the CDC also have great information.
Check out these resources
Boston Children’s Hospital
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
CDC
The most important advice we get from all sources is to wash our hands, avoid contact with those who are sick and to stay home when we are sick. We are also told to be prepared with 14 days of supplies in case we are quarantined.
For those with celiac disease, your food supplies should include an assortment of gluten-free (GF) food. You should also consider that if you find yourself in a situation where you are reliant on the Red Cross, National Guard or other emergency relief services, they may not be familiar with or prepared for your GF diet. Make sure you are taking care of your GF food needs.
Great options for GF supplies include
Canned meats
Beans
Tuna Beef jerky
Peanut Butter
Canned fruit Fruit
Powdered milk
GF Crackers
GF Cereal
GF Bars
When you cannot get to the store, on-line resources can help. Many local stores have services to order on-line for home delivery. Amazon has a lot of GF foods. Many of your favorite GF food manufactures also have programs for delivery directly from them. Be sure to explore these options.
Keep yourself and your family safe. If you have any questions, please contact us at CeliacKidsConnection@childrens.harvard.edu