Wheaton College To House First Responders In Coronavirus Shutdown

WHEATON, IL — First responders in Wheaton who need to self-isolate from their families during the new coronavirus crisis can now do so for free at Wheaton College. The college is offering 58 units in its Terrace Apartments to accommodate police, paramedics, firefighters and other first responders.

Wheaton College President Philip Ryken said in a statement, "Since our founding, Wheaton College has enjoyed a mutually beneficial relationship with the City of Wheaton. We are eager to support our first responders as they work selflessly to save lives in this community."

Wheaton College shifted to remote campus operations as of March 19, though some students are still on campus.

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The Terrace Apartments are three blocks from the Wheaton College campus and are not "contiguous to" other residences, according to city officials. This will help ensure the safety of anyone still on campus, officials said.

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Wheaton Mayor Phil Suess said in a statement, "Wheaton’s firefighters, paramedics and police officers are on the front lines of this pandemic when they respond to calls for assistance in the community. Even though our first responders are taking many precautions to ensure their safety, to have a place where they can safely self-isolate from their loved ones is a relief for many."

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