We know these are very difficult times for many families and we recognize the additional stress of the current COVID-19 situation can be very challenging. We know that our services are needed now more than ever. We want you to know – we are still here to help.
We are working hard to ensure families have access to critical supports during this tough time, including:
Basic Needs: We are providing one-on-one support to help families access the resources and funding they need to keep a roof over their heads and food on their tables.
Mental and Physical Health: Many of the families we work with do not have access to the incredible online resources many individuals and businesses have put together over the last few months. We are working hard to ensure families have the information and resources they need to take care of both their physical and mental health during this time. This includes connecting them with counsellors who can support them over the phone and resources to stay active while continuing to distance themselves physically from others.
Parenting Strategies to Prevent & Handle Conflict at Home: This is a scary time for all of us, and especially for children and youth who may be confused about why they are no longer allowed to go to school or spend time with their friends. We are hearing from families in our communities that this is causing conflict at home, and we’re working to provide parents with the strategies they need to ease tension at home and support their children through this difficult time.
Access to the Latest Information Related to COVID-19: Many of the families we serve do not have access to the internet at home. This means they may not have access to the latest information about COVID-19, how to keep themselves and their children safe, and what resources are available to help them. We are working one-on-one with families to ensure they are empowered with the information they need to stay safe, healthy and financially stable throughout this time.
Translators: We serve a large population of immigrants and new Canadians, many of whom do not yet speak or understand English. We are working hard to connect with volunteer translators who can help us distribute the information and resources these families need to stay safe, healthy and stable.
Throughout this uncertainty and as things continue to change over the coming weeks, we are committed to working collaboratively with our partners to support vulnerable children, youth and families in our communities.
For more information and resources, we encourage you to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or LinkedIn, and to check our website regularly for more updates at www.closertohome.com.
And, for more information about the unfolding COVID-19 situation, the following websites have helpful information: