The Stz’uminus First Nation Health Centre has remained open, with staff able to work while practicing physical distancing. The Health Centre delivered care packages with an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables, bleach-based cleaner to sanitize homes, hand sanitizer, and toilet paper to all 212 households on-reserve.

Stz’uminus Health Centre, school, and daycare staff have been collaborating to cook and deliver hot lunches to nearly 100 Elders and vulnerable community members. Community members have donated locally harvested prawns and clams for the lunches. The care packages and lunch deliveries let community members know that the health staff are here for them. The act of caring builds trust and accountability.

The care packages and lunch deliveries are covered by the regular Stz’uminus Health Centre budget. Health staff have been able to use existing supplies Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) from Health Canada. Community members feel safe, supported, and cared for. They know they can trust Stz’uminus health staff to provide answers and resources. Order additional PPE as early as possible, stay calm, and reach out to other Health Directors if you need support. At the end of the day, we all need to work together and support one another.