CEO Update: Community Response to COVID-19
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During these uncertain and challenging times, I hope that you, your families, and your teams are safe and doing well.
We know that the families in our community are experiencing additional stress at this time, and we are deeply committed to responding and supporting families as needed through telephone support, pre-booked appointments, resources and referrals. If you or anyone you know needs support, please call us at (403) 543-0555, or visit our website at www.closertohome.com, for more information.
Considering the health and safety of families, our staff and our community, we have made the difficult decision to suspend our publicly accessed community programs and walk-in programming, however, our staff are standing by to provide guidance and support to those in need.
In addition, as an essential service and a duty to care for children in our delegated care, Closer to Home is continuing to ensure the safety and health of the children and youth in our Community Teaching Homes and Foster Care services, and to limit exposure to COVID-19 as best we can through the protocols recommended by the provincial health authority. We know that our staff are our most precious resource and are doing everything we can to keep them emotionally and mentally healthy while they provide critical supports to our children, youth and families.
As an organization, we will do our best to balance our contribution to ‘flatten the curve’ while keeping our kids and families healthy, safe and supported. We are here for you! Please let me know if we can be of any assistance.
I encourage all of you to practice physical distancing and all the hygiene protocols so we get ahead of this virus and keep our communities safe. Together, I know we will get through this difficult time. Calgarians care deeply about others and that will make all the difference!
Karen Olivier
Chief Executive Officer
Closer to Home Community Services
For more information about how we’re helping children and families, and to access resources to help you through this challenging time, please click here. You can also make a donation to support vulnerable families here.
And, for more information about the unfolding COVID-19 situation, the following websites have helpful information:
