PITT MEADOWS, BC– The City has established a Community Check-In Task Force to assist youth, seniors and vulnerable citizens during COVID-19. This task force will be reaching out with the goal of reducing isolation and facilitating referrals to appropriate resources. The Community Check-In Task Force will consist of members of Council, City staff and volunteers who will assist in accessing food delivery and pick-up services, ensuring personal safety, and enhancing social connections.
“In times of crisis it’s important to support our neighbours who may be feeling isolated or not know where to turn for help,” says Mayor Bill Dingwall. “While physical distancing remains the key to our community’s success in overcoming COVID-19, this may create isolation for youth, seniors and vulnerable citizens. It is our responsibility to create community connectivity and reduce barriers, to ensure that no one in our community feels alone.”
The new task force is comprised of members of Pitt Meadows Council, with Councillor Gwen O’Connell as the Chair and City staff. Additionally, the consultation of key stakeholders such as: Fraser Health, Ridge Meadows Seniors Society, Seniors Network, Friends in Need Food Bank, School District 42 and representatives from Community Services will enable the community to better connect residents to necessary support services during the pandemic.
“The volume of daily news and information being released can be overwhelming for some people,” says Chief Administrative Officer Mark Roberts. “The primary goal of the Community Check-In Task Force is to confidentially-connect members of community with staff or volunteers who will link them to existing resources and agencies.“
Over the coming weeks, a resource listing guide will be developed. As well, a Community Check-In phone line will also be established. The phone line is intended to connect community members with resources.
For the latest information, visit pittmeadows.ca/committees or the City’s social media channels.
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For more information please contact:
Carolyn Baldridge,
Manager of Communications & Community Engagement
City of Pitt Meadows
cbaldridge@pittmeadows.ca