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Kevin Otis, administrator for the Masonic Home for Children at Oxford (MHCO), appeared on WIZS Town Talk Monday at 11 a.m.

While MHCO has weathered many events in its 147-year history, COVID-19 has brought a unique set of challenges. “This pandemic has exacerbated a lot of issues that the community faces, including domestic issues, poverty and homelessness,” said Otis. “Many are struggling with what they are going to do with their child during the school year. We want to let folks know that we might be an option for their families.”

Otis said MHCO elementary and middle school students will be educated via virtual instruction through Granville County Public Schools (GCPS) when the 2020-2021 academic year begins August 17. MHCO high school students will attend school in-person for two days, remotely for three.

GCPS announced last week that its Board-approved version of Plan B will consist of two separate groups of students alternating between two consecutive days of face-to-face school each week, with Wednesday being a remote learning day for all students.

With the distinction of being the first children’s home in North Carolina, MHCO continues its tradition of helping young people ages birth to 22 with its Group Cottage Foster Care and Independent Living programs.

As part of its Group Cottage Foster Care program, children reside in cottages with live-in house parent child care workers. Supports are provided to help children with academics, obtain transportation, participate in extracurricular activities, manage trauma and obtain employment.

The Independent Living Program (ILP) provides apartments for young adults, as well as coaching and assistance to obtain employment. Independent living skills are taught relating to a variety of topics including cooking and cleaning, driver’s education, budget management and tax preparation. ILP residents continue education at Vance-Granville Community College, trade schools and four-year universities.

According to Otis, families maintain guardianship, stay involved and have a say in their child’s MHCO experience. “We don’t replace anyone’s family. We co-parent with them to try to address any issues the family or child may be facing.”

Otis said long term goals for MHCO residents include returning home and independence. Scholarships are available to help cover the cost of care.

To learn more about referring a child in need, please call (919) 693-5111 or visit MHCO’s website at www.mhc-oxford.org.

To hear the interview with Otis in its entirety, go to WIZS.com and click on Town Talk.