In the context of COVID-19, the Canadian Red Cross is adapting its practices to continue responding to emergencies and to support the various levels of government as part of their response to the pandemic.
Here’s how the Red Cross has supported people during this challenging time:
Providing support to Indigenous communities
The Red Cross is providing support to First Nations communities in Saskatchewan to prepare for and respond to COVID-19.
Thousands of supplies have been delivered to First Nations communities across the province. The supplies, including cleaning kits, cots, blankets, pillows and hygiene kits, will help maintain a level of cleanliness in elder care homes, health offices and homes of vulnerable community members, and support self-isolation needs within First Nations communities.
Nationally, the Canadian Red Cross, in partnership with First Nations Health Managers Association and other partners, has launched a Help Desk resource for Indigenous community leadership. The Help Desk, leveraging the expertise of the Canadian Red Cross and a long history working alongside Indigenous communities, is providing Indigenous leadership with information and referrals related to pandemic planning, health guidance and community wellness and protection.
Providing support to those in self-isolation
At the request of the Government of Saskatchewan, the Canadian Red Cross augmented support to those most vulnerable who need to self-isolate but do not have the means to do so.
The Red Cross identified accommodations which were used to house people who needed to self-isolate for 14 days as referred by the Ministry of Social Services. Red Cross volunteers provided registration services and conducting daily wellness checks, as well as supported the provision of basic needs such as personal hygiene products and food. To ensure the health and safety of Red Cross personnel, services were provided remotely, over the phone.
Travellers returning to Canada
The Canadian Red Cross supported the Public Health Agency of Canada, providing care and comfort services to returning travellers in Saskatchewan. Services include:
- Reception, registration, information and resources for those staying in isolation;
- Meal delivery services, including special meal options for dietary restrictions;
- Safety and wellbeing support, including wellness checks, referrals for mental health needs and feedback mechanisms;
- Family reunification, which includes facilitating family connections and re-establishing contact with family members; and
- Provision of personal items, such as hygiene kits and access to services like mobility aids and prescription medications.
How you can help
The Canadian Red Cross is prepared and ready to support Canadians affected by disasters such as flooding, wildfires and home fires during the COVID-19 pandemic. The best way you can support our work is with a donation now to the Canadian Emergencies & COVID-19 Response Fund.
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