Disaster Response (Page 14)

Seniors, who are among those at greatest risk of severe illness due to COVID-19, have found many of their facilities closed and programs cancelled during the pandemic. After 108 days in self-isolation, 75-year-old James Burgess decided to take action and assist his community on the south shore of Montréal by applying for a grant from the Canadian Red Cross.

Imagine moving to a new country during a global pandemic. Already feeling the isolating effects of unfamiliar surroundings, you’re now faced with the challenge of making a new life for yourself and your family during a widespread lockdown. 

From labour to breastfeeding and more, being a new mother can be overwhelming so having available community supports when needed is invaluable - even more critical during the COVID-19 pandemic when resources and supports can be in high demand. In Quebec, one community-based healthcare organization - Groupe d'entraide Allaitement Sein-Pathique – is helping more than just new mothers – any parent who would like guidance or advice from an experienced mentor can reach out to the program.

The Alexandra Community Health Centre, also known as The Alex, is a Calgary-based non-profit that aims to deliver innovative and accessible health and social solutions to vulnerable residents.
When COVID-19 was declared, The Alex, like many other organizations, searched for ways to continue providing services in a safe manner.

Hear from Louisette Trahan, a support aide part of the Red Cross humanitarian force deployed to long-term care homes, and what it's like to help out during the pandemic.

In an average month, personal disaster assistance teams respond to about 6 requests for assistance. But this July, our Winnipeg volunteers supported a massive 21 personal disasters.
 

We Are Young (WAY) Association is a not-for-profit whose aim it is to grant unfulfilled wishes to seniors living in Nova Scotia. Through the granting of wishes, WAY hopes to raise social awareness about the inequalities of seniors, honour the role they play in society, and help bridge the gap between generations.
During COVID-19, where social distancing and personal protective equipment play a vital role, WAY has had to rethink its strategy of helping seniors feel valued and connected to their community.

For Aisha Addo, the Power To Girls Foundation is a labour of love.
Addo created the Power To Girls Foundation, to empower marginalized Afro-diaspora girls in the Greater Toronto Area and abroad. Founded in 2011, this non-profit organization offers mentorship, personal development, relationship building, mental health, leadership, and entrepreneurship to young girls.