(File photo/ paNOW Staff)

By Nigel Maxwell

COVID-19 response

Local agencies discuss COVID-19 strategy for less fortunate

Mar 16, 2020 | 5:08 PM

As the general public rushes out to stock up on soap and hygiene products, the city’s less fortunate are being left behind according to the head of the Prince Albert YWCA.

The YWCA helps provide services and products for the city’s homeless community. CEO Donna Brooks told paNOW.com they are doing the best with what they have, which is not much.

“We have the food for [our clients] and we have the products but where it hurts us is when people hoard and we can’t get hand sanitizer,” she said.

In response to rising concerns around COVID-19, the YWCA has implemented a number of precautionary measures to help reduce potential exposure. Essential services will continue at all YWCA facilities, however, anyone exhibiting flu-like symptoms will not be allowed to access those services in person. They will be encouraged to call the provincial health line instead, at 8-1-1.

The Community Connection Centre, which offers a variety of free services to people arriving in Prince Albert, will not be taking walk-ins and will be accessible by appointment only. As well, visitors of clients will no longer be able to access facilities. Brooks explained many of their clients may be considered higher risk.

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“A lot of people that live in poverty can’t eat as healthy, and they do have more at risk lifestyles,” she said.

Regular updates on YWCA services will be provided through their website, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter accounts.

Meanwhile the Coordinator for Prince Albert Outreach confirmed for paNOW.com they are also discussing a COVID-19 strategy. The group plans to have a meeting on the issue later this week.

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nigel.maxwell@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell