Local organizations Trellis and Centre for Newcomers describe how the pandemic has impacted their work
The impacts of COVID-19 are continuing to unfold in our local communities. In the context of a city that lost 93,700 jobs between February and May of this year, Calgarians continue to struggle. According to recent polls, 21 per cent of local people report that it’s challenging to afford groceries, while 50 per cent report feeling depressed as a result of the pandemic. People that have never had to turn to social services for help are reaching out for the first time.
The needs in our city are great, and the social agencies that serve people in need have had to adapt, often creatively, to meet high demand. The challenges and silver linings of this work are highlighted by Jeff Dyer, CEO of Trellis, and Anila Lee Yuen, CEO of Centre for Newcomers.
Watch the videos below to learn how the agencies on the frontlines of service delivery are responding to the needs in our community, and why united, we make the biggest difference.
Learn how you can #BeUnited to help others.
If you or someone you know needs help, resources are available.
If you’ve been impacted by COVID-19 and don’t know where to turn, please contact 211 to be connected to supports and services in your community. Simply dial 211, text “INFO” to 211, or visit ab.211.ca.
211 is a free community and social services help line made possible by United Way of Calgary and Area.