Update: March 13, 2020
Please see this updated document Coronavirus - Turning Point from Christopher Mackie, Medical Officer of Health & CEO of Middlesex London Health Unit. Please distribute this to your staff, members, clients, networks, friends, and family as you see fit.
Christopher Mackie states "this is a one-time email at a crucial juncture."
If you would like to be added to the regular MLHU Coronavirus update list, please email them at covid@mlhu.on.ca.
Additional Reccomendation:
- Immediate suspension of all large gatherings of over 250 people;
- Strongly advising against travel outside of Canada; and
- Asking childcare centres to actively screen all children, parents, staff and visitors, and exclude those who are sick and have travelled outside of Canada.
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One of Pillar’s key roles in a situation like Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is supporting, communicating with and connecting our network to trusted information and resources. We also believe that addressing racism and xenophobia is essential in this time of community challenge.
We are partnering with Ontario Nonprofit Network and Imagine Canada to support the sector and we call on funders, grantmakers and sponsors to be flexible and supportive and to communicate clearly with the organizations they support.
At this time Pillar’s workshops and events will continue as planned until further notice; we are monitoring the direction of Middlesex London Health Unit (MLHU) and are coordinating technology options as a backup measure. If it becomes appropriate to deliver our programming online, we will be sure to notify those registered in advance and provide login and other relevant details.
Staying Healthy and Preventing the Spread of Viruses
As with most respiratory illnesses, the Middlesex London Health Unit (MLHU) recommends the following to stay healthy and to prevent the spread of viruses:
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Wash your hands with soap and warm water often, for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with your sleeve; or cough or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue, then throw the tissue in the garbage.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Clean and disinfect high-touch objects and surfaces frequently.
- Seek medical care early if you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, and sharing your recent travel history with your healthcare provider
NOTE: The Ontario Ministry of Health has directed residents to “contact Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000 or your local public health unit if you’re experiencing symptoms of the 2019 novel coronavirus” to receive further instruction.
Trusted Resources
Other Information from our Partners
Ontario Nonprofit Network - Nonprofits on the Front Lines of COVID-19
Read information about:
- Business Continuity Planning;
- Nonprofits as Employers; and
- Nonprofit Meetings, Events & Conferences
- Addressing racism and xenophobia:
- A few things for nonprofits and foundations to consider in light of the Coronavirus, Vu Le, Nonprofit AF
- Example: Statement against discrimination and xenophobia, Ontario Council of Agencies Serving Immigrants
Imagine Canada - COVID-19 and the Charitable Sector
Read a letter requesting the federal government’s response to also include and communicate measures that will assist charities and nonprofits in getting through the challenges we all currently face.
As individuals, organizations and enterprises it is our time to model supporting one another, learning from each other and mobilizing together. We are in uncharted territory together.
Pillar is here with you and we wish you and your loved ones health and support during this time.