Kroc Center to close for an indefinite period of time

COEUR d’ALENE — The Salvation Army Kroc Center is temporarily closing its doors starting Tuesday to help fight the coronavirus.

“The very last thing The Kroc Center wants to do is impact our members and staff in a negative manner,” wrote Kip Sharbono, center director. “However, management recognizes the significant footprint we have in the community.”

Beginning Tuesday, there will be no public or member access to The Kroc Center and all programs and regular offerings will be suspended through, at least April 5.

The Kroc Center, which includes exercise equipment, gym, pool, theater, coffee bar and daycare, has about 1,4500 members is visited by about 2,500 people a day.

Sharbono said the center is “committed to the health and safety of every member, guest and employee” as it shifts from regular operations to an Emergency Management Operations effort.

The Kroc Center is in regular communication with agencies including Kootenai County, Panhandle Health, Kootenai Health and the Innovation Den.

“We must recognize the community obligation to flatten the bell curve of infection,” Sharbono said.

It is asking members to maintain their memberships to support The Kroc’s ongoing Emergency Management Operations efforts. Members are not eligible for refunds, but memberships can be suspended or canceled.

An Emergency Services Hotline number, 763-0777, has been activated and community members are welcome to call with any questions they may have regarding The Kroc Center.