First, I would like to take a moment to say THANK YOU. Thank you to our families for supporting us during this challenging time and by practicing social distancing even though this must be a very difficult thing to do right now. Thank you to our funders and community supporters for adapting and evolving to meet our needs. And most of all – THANK YOU TO OUR BIGGEST HEROS – OUR URSA STAFF.
During this emergency, we have seen so many of our people rise to this challenge, embrace leadership roles, adapt quickly to consider the needs of our most vulnerable individuals FIRST, and truly – step up to greatness. I know URSA will be stronger after this experience, and we will all be forever changed.
The response to COVID-19 is a rapidly evolving situation and as service providers we are doing everything possible to prepare ourselves for the coming weeks. We know it will not be easy, and like many people in our community, in our sector – I am concerned. This concern is not a bad thing, because it means we have already taken action by implementing as many measures as possible to ensure our most vulnerable individuals are protected. The best we can hope for is that these measures and continued action are enough; That everything we are collectively doing as a community will be enough to save lives.
With that said, we truly do not know what to expect. We anticipate our needs, particularly for extra supplies, additional staffing and personal protective equipment will increase in the days and weeks ahead. We recognize that our government is taking steps to help us be prepared and respond quickly to changing circumstances. I have also been actively connecting with other agencies in our sector to address the needs. URSA is committed to working together with our staff and community partners to ensure our individuals, and other vulnerable individuals in Calgary are safe and well cared for.
We know it is a lot to take in, but we will continue to do all we can. We also recognize the significant adjustment for everyone by reducing social contact. We know this can have a mental health impact, possibly even in ways that we don’t truly know yet. We encourage everyone to take care of yourselves and those in your home. Please trust that we are doing all we can to care for our individuals. We encourage everyone to find new ways to connect creatively – and know that you are helping us and the community by staying well, taking care of yourself, and actively practicing social distancing.
If you are able to support URSA is any way during this emergency, please visit www.ursa-rehab.com to make a donation, knowing that it will be directed to the area of greatest need.
Sincerely,
Pam McGladdery
CEO
