Due to the continued concern regarding COVID-19 (novel coronavirus), a number of facilities that host A.A. meetings have chosen to close for a period of time. Some have moved and others are cancelled until further notice. Please see the list of meetings that have temporarily been canceled due to facility closures.

We will list changes as soon as possible after being notified. If you become aware of any closure or change, please notify Central Office immediately at (415) 674-1821 or email to [email protected].

Central Office has received a number of inquiries asking for suggestions for changes to meeting practices as a result of COVID-19. Other members have opined that this is an outside issue, one we ought not weigh in on. Either way, we can likely all agree that gathering professional information can help make an informed group conscience, that each group is autonomous, and that it is up to each individual to take precautions for personal safety.
Information about the outbreak is widely available. The Center for Disease Control has up-to-date information and suggests the following for prevention:

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Wash your hands. Wash your hands. Wash your hands.

Perhaps your meeting will choose to lock elbows rather than hold hands at the close of the meeting.  A memo just released by the  General Service Office in New York shared that, “some groups have considered contingency plans in case the group is temporarily unable to meet in person.” 

However each group decides to proceed, please do keep us informed so we can keep the meeting schedule accurate and up-to-date. 

Most importantly, if you have a desire to drink, reach out for help to friends in the fellowship or call the hotline: 415-674-1821. Teleservice is available 24/7 and our online HelpChat is responded to from 8AM to 10PM should you need to make contact with another sober member of Alcoholics Anonymous outside of a meeting. 

Here are some other ideas and resources that you or your group might use to stay connected. (This is not an endorsement of any of these services, but a list of suggestions.)

Thank you for sharing this information with your groups. Here’s wishing everyone good health and continued sobriety.

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