Hello everyone,

Let’s start off by extending our very best wishes to you, as we approach the coming of summer, and Father’s Day. We hope that you can take some time to relax with the dads and father figures in your lives virtually, or at a safe distance this weekend.

On that note, we have worked together since early March to keep those in our circles safe and supported. Our pandemic updates have been sent out about once a week. You may have noticed that our reports are becoming shorter. We are going to move to monthly pandemic updates, beginning July 3, 2020. We will send out additional issues if something particularly timely pops up and needs your attention.

What won’t change, is your ability to reach us if you have a question or concern about our services. Contact your Team Manager, or leave a message for us, and we will get back to you within 1 business day, call (604) 299-4001 or email [email protected]

I would like to end this update, with the acknowledgment that there are other social issues that call for our attention and our action. Let’s take a moment to think about the equity issues that are or have been front and centre in June, including LGBTQ+ pride, and justice for racialized minorities. In BC, we have the greatest diversity of Indigenous Peoples in all of Canada.

June is National Indigenous History Month, and on the 21st, we celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day. It’s a time for all Canadians to recognize the history, diversity, and achievements of Indigenous peoples in Canada. Share in the celebration by organizing your own activities at home. You can create dialogue around reconciliation with tools like Whose Land. It’s a free app that you can use to learn more about the territory your home is situated on and why land acknowledgments are important. The CBC has also put together an article about personal acts of reconciliation, with 10 actions you can take. Whether it’s reading a book off the #IndigenousReads list or exploring a virtual exhibit, there are many ways we can learn about and celebrate the heritage of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples—the first peoples of Canada.

Quick Links to posAbilities COVID-19 and other Online Resources:

  • Community Living BC COVID-19 Weekly Updates for Individuals and Families are here
  • BC website lists COVID-19 Supports for People with Disabilities of all ages
  • Government of Canada list of COVID-19 Temporary Programs and Supports

Until next time,

Fernando Coelho, CEO