March 18, 2020

As we try to understand how the spread of COVID-19 affects our daily lives, our friends, our families, and our communities, I want to reach out to offer some hope. These are trying times, but also a time when we get to see the very best in people. I have been amazed by the stories of people pulling together, and our citizens stepping up in the most remarkable ways.

I wanted to let you know personally that United Way British Columbia is taking serious measures to support our local community—our primary purpose. It’s true; programs are being temporarily cancelled, offices shut, and social services have been interrupted. We need to do our best to develop new and caring ways to deal with this so that we can help the most vulnerable people in our communities, today, tomorrow and beyond. Our neighbours need our help.

We are in regular contact with our not-for-profit partners to assess current and future needs. We are working with United Way Canada to explore emergency funding solutions and with our corporate partners to further support critical social services during this difficult time. We are also lending our voice to advocate to the federal and provincial governments for support.

What can you do?

• We encourage social distancing. This is the best way to prevent the further spread of this pandemic.
• We are promoting social connectedness—be a good neighbour. Please visit uwlm.ca and our social media channels for tips on how to combat social isolation, as well as success stories on how our communities are coming together in support of each other
• Please continue to be kind and grateful to all those who are on the front lines. They are providing essential services in a time of great need, putting themselves at risk.

Office closure
To help limit the spread of COVID-19 and promote social distancing, United Way’s offices are now closed to the public until further notice. Most United Way staff will be working remotely and will continue to be available by email, phone, or virtually as we continue to support our community during this critical time.

Event cancellations
All public events scheduled for March and April have been cancelled, postponed, or will be held online. Plans for events scheduled for May and beyond will be determined over the next few weeks, and we will continue communicating about those changes.

Our team at United Way will reach out to share more stories from our communities, as well as tips on how we can stay connected as this pandemic continues to unfold. I also encourage you to call 211 for up-to-date information on community, government and social services in BC.

Please look out for your neighbours and take care of each other.

Michael McKnight
President & CEO