BILLY SHIELDS: In Charlottesville theres only one overnight shelter for unhoused people, and it's trying to keep its patrons safe after a recent COVID outbreak.

JIM BATTAGLIA: Someone was sick, they said they had COVID-like symptoms.

We tested.

And then as protocol, we had to test everybody.

And then the next day we had four more people.

So that's when we knew that we had it in our shelter.

BILLY SHIELDS: The shelter's director also tested positive and worked from home.

With help from the city, the shelter put those clients up here at this Charlottesville hotel where they were delivered meals.

JIM BATTAGLIA: That is probably the hardest part.

We had to make sure that we had meals.

We had our meal service regular and on time and to make sure that people had a, you know, shelter for the evening.

So we didn't turn anybody away.

BILLY SHIELDS: People come here for free meals and a place to stay cool.

But with COVID cases rising in Charlottesville, this gathering place can also be a space that spreads sickness.

KENNETH GORDON: Well, we have definitely had an uptick in cases, especially throughout the summer period.

And so it is just a constant reminder to people that COVID is still about.

BILLY SHIELDS: Dr. Kenneth Gordon says unhoused people are especially at risk for COVID.

KENNETH GORDON: When they gather in those kind of settings, you know their focus is going to be on probably seeing to that initial, immediate need that they have not so focused about infection control or prevention.

BILLY SHIELDS: This is the second outbreak at the Salvation Army this year.

JIM BATTAGLIA: It affected us in a way where we had to make sure that we maintain the safety for the five individuals that tested positive, as well as the rest of our shelter staff and residents.

BILLY SHIELDS: In all, the shelter has 46 beds and is currently at 90% capacity.

Its leaders say moving forward, they will test when symptoms arise and will enact protective measures in an effort to balance safety with its mission to provide shelter.

Billy Shields, VPM News.