complaint·May 5, 2023

The investigation revealed the following: in regards to the allegation " Facility staff mishandled residents' food items", it is alleged that resident had to remove all of the food stuffs, cold and frozen in the kitchen in less than 24 hours. S1 indicated that residents are allowed to bring their own refrigerator in their rooms to store their food at no extra charge However, S1 indicated that they only store food provided by the facility's contracted vendors in the kitchen's refrigerators/freezers. This is to avoid any food cross-contamination that may cause illnesses to the residents. S1 spoke to R1 on 4/27/2023 personally and explained to him that he has to take his food out of the kitchen storage due to food safety and handling requirements. According to S1 he offered R1 (3) options and agreed to hold R1's food temporarily. S1-S2 transferred R1's food to the big refrigerator in the facility's back storage area. And R1 was given 2-3 days to hold the food at no extra charge and R1 agreed. Other staff members interviewed stated that they do not keep outside food in the kitchen's refrigerator/freezer for safety and to prevent cross-contamination of food. Residents interviewed indicated they were not aware of the allegation. Residents stated that they never asked any kitchen staff to keep the food that they purchased outside. Residents stated that the facility provide enough meals to them daily and they only purchase snacks and fruits if they have extra money. Therefore there was insufficient evidence to corroborate with this allegation. Based on statements and interviews conducted with staff, residents, review of resident files and facility file records, there was not enough supportive evidence to concur with the reported allegation. Although the allegation may have happened or is valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove the alleged violation did or did not occur, therefore the allegation is UNSUBSTANTIATED. Exit interview held, and a copy of this report was provided to the Administrator, Alexander Solorio.