As the global COVID-19 pandemic continues and public health orders adapt regularly to best defend against the novel coronavirus, Whistler Community Services Society (WCSS) continues to adapt, support and respond to the changing needs of our residents, in a pandemic, while enhancing programs which have existed in the community for over 30 years. “2020 has seen record numbers of residents access the Food Security and Outreach Services programs we offer” says Jackie Dickinson, Executive Director of WCSS. “As winter fast approaches, our population grows and visitors return, we do anticipate the need for our services to grow, and we want the community to know that we are ready and here to support anyone who feels they could value from a helping hand.” Dickinson adds. As Dr. Tam says, “No one is protected….until everyone is protected.”
This past month has seen multiple Whistler area businesses close temporarily due to the impacts of COVID-19 and heightened public health orders have been put in place to help combat the transmission of COVID-19 in our community and around the province. Such measures can create far reaching consequences for our residents, including difficultly putting food on the table of families, and emotional health impacts from quarantine or isolation mandates. Learnings from the initial outbreak and lockdown in the spring brought about many learnings for community services groups worldwide, and WCSS is well positioned to support our neighbours in many ways as we navigate this second wave. Expanded core services available to Whistler area residents include:
- Whistler Food Bank, in partnership, with Whistler Connection is offering food bank deliveries. Please note it will be a 24-hour turnaround time Tuesday to Saturday. Please call our main office at 604-932-0113 to book in for this service. Individuals can make a call on behalf of their own direct household (roommates) who may also be isolating.
- Ongoing drop-in Food Bank services are available at the WCSS building located at 8000 Nesters Road on Wednesdays and Fridays between 9am and 11am.
- Virtual Support with WCSS Outreach Workers. Residents in isolation and looking for free, confidential support may book in with an Outreach Worker at the following link: https://whistlercommunityservicessociety.janeapp.com/
Or call our office at 604-932-0113 if it is more urgent.
WCSS would like to hear from any community member who is feeling the ill effects of self isolation, quarantine, loss of work, lack of a safe place to call home, or who are feeling heightened anxiety about the state of our community health at this time. As at any time, it is ok to not feel ok; WCSS is here to help play a role in navigating these extremely difficult times.