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Supporting Front-Line Workers

During this time of international crisis while many of us are able to stay home, there are still many workers whose services are essential that continue to go to work each day. Whether these are frontline fighters against the virus like doctors, nurses, other healthcare researchers and professionals, essential service workers such as grocery store employees, postal workers, police officers, firefighters, and others, they are working to serve the rest of us. So, how can we support them?

Large businesses have begun to provide support for essential workers with fast food chains such as Mcdonalds and Tim Hortons offering frontline healthcare workers free coffee. Retail companies like Bauer and Gap Inc are shifting to production of masks and gowns for front-line service workers. Though most of us don’t have the resources as big companies like these, there are still ways we are able to offer support and encouragement to those that need it, from our own homes.

If you know any essential services workers, a simple and positive thing you can do for them is to check in. Text or call, let them know you’re thinking about them, and appreciate the work they are doing. Ask if there is any way you can help, and if you can pray for them.

Stay home and stay healthy. Following these practices will ensure that less people become sick, reducing the strain on frontline workers around the world. Wash your hands often, and stay home if you can. Cheerfully and humbly follow guidelines that are being put in place at many grocery stores around the province, such as sending only one grocery shopper from each household.

Donate whatever you can. Check with your local hospitals and emergency shelters, to see if and where they’re taking donations. Many individuals have begun making face masks or gowns to send to frontline workers, with movements like the Ottawa Gowns for Homeless Initiative calling for fabric and monetary donations.

Send food to those who are working long shifts, and perhaps don’t have time to prepare themselves a meal. Many local restaurants in Ottawa are offering delivery during this time, simply call and send a meal to someone who needs it. For example, you could send food delivery gift cards to a hospital ward, to help nurses and doctors avoid crowded cafeterias.

Finally, remember that we’re all in this together. Encourage those around you, and pray for those who are serving in essential services at this difficult time. Cheerfully give your local grocery store employee an encouraging smile while you’re checking out. Be the light where you are, and stay safe.

By Lobban Erwin
Communications

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