COVID-19 Local Response and Recovery Impact
The pandemic has posed additional challenges to the already-existing gaps within our community. After consulting with our community partners, United Way stepped up to take action immediately. So many communities, charities and vulnerable populations were disproportionately affected and as we gathered feedback, an emergency response plan was implemented.
The impacts of our local response are being felt throughout the Southern Interior. Together, we are rebuilding and recovering from the dire effects on vital programs serving our most vulnerable in our communities.
COVID19 Relief Impact
In collaboration with the local foundations, we’ve been able to support front-line community service workers as they provide essential non-medical support to the most vulnerable in our communities.
35
local charities supported as they navigate through the new normal
75
crisis hotline volunteers trained, addressing increased volume and intensity of phone calls
200+
groceries and meals delivered for families in need
1,604
seniors were connected with volunteers via the province-wide Better at Home Safe Seniors program
9300+
people in need helped across our region
“I am so thankful for the extra support that we have been given. I am a grandmother raising my grandson. His mother passed away when he was three. The help and support that we have been given with good food box, gift cards and activities for my grandson has been very appreciated. During the time of COVID19 has been very difficult for me because of my own health problems. This support eased the worry and struggle. Thank you.”
– Tess from Falkland BC, a participant of the North Okanagan Friendship Centre’s emergency relief food program for Indigenous families
COVID19 Local Relief Investments and Programs
Collectively, more than $200,000* was invested in over 35 charity programs across our region to support emerging needs due to the pandemic. The addition of provincial and federal funding enabled vital program expansion and investments to support seniors and all BC residents through the 211 service.
Basic Needs and Supplies
Rent payment immediate relief for 7 families suffering job loss
50 personal sanitation kits handed out within two weeks for people with limited access to services
200+ weekly grocery hampers and mid-day meals delivered for food-insecure families, within 3 months of quarantine
Help for Seniors
Expansion of 211 phone service across our region (through provincial government funding)
Physical and virtual capacity support for community senior and health support hub
1,604 isolated seniors and 730 volunteers connected for grocery runs
Capacity for Community Services
Transitioning 10+ rural community programs into virtual delivery of community services
Setting up physical safety measures allowing 12 programs to continue doing vital work
Mental Health Support
Supporting regional mental health crisis lines, which saw a 60% increase in volume
1,200+ distress phone calls de-escalated and supported by highly-trained volunteer crisis line responders
50+ virtual counselling sessions conducted for 700+ individuals experiencing mental distress
Support for Volunteers
Streamlined volunteer training for 75 newly recruited crisis line responders across our region
Training 300+ newly engaged volunteers for continuous provision of vital services
*In partnership with the local community foundations, over $300,000 in relief funds were invested across our region.
Funded in part by the Government of Canada’s New Horizons for Seniors program.
“As a Crisis Line Responder, I can tell you that there has been a large increase, not only in the number of calls, but in the distress I hear in the voices of those who need support during this COVID19 pandemic. Your gift has allowed me to adapt and overcome many of the challenges I face during this time. I am able to employ new systems and benefit from increased training so that I can safely and efficiently serve an ever-growing number of individuals who need help.”
– Jeff, a volunteer with CMHA Vernon
COVID-19 Response and Recovery Community Partners
Thanks to the local donors, corporate partners and community foundations for collaborating with us to rapidly roll out the COVID-19 Relief Fund. Together, we can make a greater impact on local lives and help those who need is most.
