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Like many people this year, Shawn De Lierre saw his daily life change pretty drastically. The professional squash player traded his racquet and sportswear for a mask and gown to assist the staff and residents at various living facilities in Quebec, including long-term care (LTC) homes.

For some families in Montreal, the African Canadian Development and Prevention Network (ACDPN) is the difference between having a substantial meal or going without. Beyond food, ACDPN provides connection – however, with the COVID-19 pandemic, the group had to adapt how it connects with its communities.

Difficult times like these allow us to take stock in what’s most important to us like family, friends, safety and health. It’s during these times of reflection and appreciation that many Canadians decide to share their good fortune with others by supporting causes close to their heart through a charitable donation. Here's how to have the most financial impact for you come tax time.

Planning for the holidays during a pandemic, while also trying to be safe and managing COVID-19 fatigue can be challenging for all of us. Coping with a Health Emergency: A Guide for the Holidays includes suggestions and helpful tips that may make the holidays less stressful for you

There are two extremes in our own perceptions of our winter driving capabilities: there are those who it barely phases, moving deftly from summer to winter driving with nary a care other than switching to winter tires OR those who are gripped with panic, frozen in fear if you will, at the idea of driving on slippery, icy roads that no longer have discernable markings making you dependent on the car ahead of you for as long as you can see it.
Where do you fall on the spectrum?

Bored and isolated, who hasn’t struggled with those feelings in the last nine months? And then a package arrives in your community. It’s filled with stress relief strategies, positive messages, and a fun-filled afternoon of creation and expression. The Canadian Red Cross really knows how to pack a box!

When Claudine St-Jean saw the posting for people who could assist in Quebec long-term care facilities, she knew immediately she had to put her name forward.
“I had recently lost two family members to COVID-19 in Quebec,” Claudine explained.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic was declared, mental health has been at the forefront as the disruption to regular life and routines has many people feeling trapped and isolated in their own home. In southwestern Nova Scotia, the Shelburne County Mental Health & Wellness Association is helping by offering a Warm Line for people in distress.