By Cecilia Nasmith

Though their methods have had to change in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Community Care Northumberland is continuing to meet the needs of its clients.

As an essential service, Community Care Northumberland did remain open when the government of Ontario shut down all non-essential services March 23. Although its offices throughout the county are closed to the public, and limits have had to be imposed on some of its programs and services – substituting the delivery of nutritious frozen meals, for example, in lieu of dispatching volunteers to provide in-person delivery of hot Meals On Wheels – the agency remains committed to serving its clients and providing support in any capacity possible.

A press release puts numbers to this statement, with statistics of services provided between March 17 and 27.

-       1,875 frozen Meals On Wheels delivered

-       865 telephone security and reassurance calls made

-       103 essential drives completed

-       85 registered clients referred to other Community Care Northumberland programs and services

-       9 Home At Last services provided

-       8 referrals to the Home First program

-       5 new clients registered

Community Care staff and volunteers maintain frequent contact with clients to support and inform them during these unsettled times, the press release said – and clients who have questions are encouraged to make contact by phone or e-mail.

Executive director Trish Baird said in the press release that they are taking precautions and following recommendations from health and government officials in order to offer these supports safely.

“Our staff and volunteers are working extremely hard to connect virtually with our clients and deliver the programs and services that are safe to carry out at this time.

“During these difficult times, I want to remind our clients that we are there for them. Whether it be a question, a concern or a request for assistance, our staff members are happy to assist.

“As the situation evolves and decisions are made, we will continue to keep our clients and community informed every step of the way.”

For more information on Community Care Northumberland's COVID-19 response and information on program and service changes, visit www.commcare.ca.