Lloydminster Regional Health Foundation is taking in letters and donations from residents looking for ways to thank local health care workers.
The foundation is making daily care packages for the city’s frontline workers after being contacted by community members about their needs during the COVID-19 pandemic. CEO Malcolm Radke says they are taking in coffee gift cards for staff and monetary donations to cover the costs of food and sleep aids such as blankets and sleep masks.
Radke says they are also collecting cards and letters for both staff, residents and patients and will be making daily mail runs to their address:
- Suite 116, 4910 50 Street Lloydminster, SK S9V 0Y5.
“If you want to mail those then we’ll make sure they get to the local facilities, front line workers and people in the building that are in isolation together and can’t be visited by family.”
The foundation is taking in tablets which will be used by patients to contact family members and loved ones while visitor restrictions are in place. Radke says they are taking in brand new iPads and tablets only.
“It’s for a few reasons. Contamination control and ensuring the software is up-to-date and making it as easy as possible for tech-beginners who will be using these devices. If it’s brand new then we can issue a charitable receipt on it.”
With new restrictions and recommendations being put in place on a near-daily basis, Radke says everyone should be looking after their mental health during this time.
“With social isolation, make sure you are connecting in a safe way using technology if it’s there to connect with loved ones. There are a lot of clinics and psychologists around and available for one-on-one sessions.”
He reminds residents to monitor their health and watch for flu-like symptoms before meeting with any mental health professional. Radke recommends residents who feel their mental health may be declining during this time to use the mental health navigation tool.
“Thank you to everyone thinking of all the frontline workers. In times like this it’s much appreciated. There’s a lot going on for them and their loved ones and we appreciate everybody’s support.”
To arrange a pick up for donations or get more information on it contact the foundation at 306-820-6161 or email [email protected].