Download booklet (pdf)
Acknowledgements
COELS would like to acknowledge the COVID-19 Resource Steering Committee members for their guidance, oversight, and assistance with this project.
Introduction
In March 2020, the novel Coronavirus-2019 (COVID-19) was declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO). Pandemics can last anywhere from 12-36 months showing us the COVID-19 pandemic will be present for some time.
This manual includes resources and considerations for the continued response to COVID-19. Included in this manual is a description of what COVID-19 is, information to maintain safety, information about the COVID-19 vaccines, including booster shots, and up to date provincial protocols and guidelines.
COELS has and will continue to adapt approaches to best support you. All the programs and services will continue following government, public health, and CSC guidelines. As those guidelines change, COELS will adapt our responses and we thank you for your patience and understanding (2).
Please note that some of the activities found in this resource book are current, but the pandemic has had many changes. To keep up with all the latest information, the reader is strongly encouraged to continue to seek further information from trusted sources. If you have concerns, questions, or have allergies please speak to a healthcare provider for further information and clarification.
What Is COVID-19 and the Main Variants in BC
COVID-19
COVID-19 is a virus that affects your respiratory system causing illness to the lungs and/or other areas of your respiratory system. COVID-19 spreads by droplets from an infected person when they breathe, cough, sneeze, or talk near you and droplets enter your nose, throat, or eyes.
What are the Main Variants in BC?
Viruses naturally mutate over time and lead to new versions or variants. Variants include different lineages and sub lineages that share similar genetic mutations.
Five COVID-19 Variants of Concern have been detected in BC: Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta and Omicron.
Key Points (from BCCDC website)
- Omicron is the most commonly detected variant in B.C.
- Public health and researchers are studying Omicron closely.
- Omicron has been found to spread more easily between people than previous Covid-19 variants
- People can spread Omicron to others even if they have been vaccinated, especially when they are symptomatic.
- Omicron appears to cause less serious outcomes than other COVID-19 variants among people who have received at least 2 doses of a COVID-19 vaccine.
- Current vaccines provide good protection against severe illness and hospitalizations for Delta and Omicron
- A third vaccine dose may help provide more protection from Omicron
- Breakthrough infections can occur in people who are fully vaccinated
- People who have had COVID-19 can get sick again from new variants.
- Getting vaccinated is important even if you have already had COVID-19.
- Monitoring and research on the new COVID-19 variants is ongoing. This page will be updated regularly as more is known.
COVID-19 Symptoms
Some of the main COVID-19 symptoms include:
- Cough
- Fever or chills
- New loss of taste or smell
- Fatigue or weakness
- Muscle or body aches
- Shortness of breath/Difficulty breathing
- Headache
- Diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain
- Loss of appetite
After exposure, symptoms may develop within 14 days. It is also important to note that while the symptoms are similar to a common cold, the COVID-19 virus is a potentially severe illness, particularly for people with underlying medical conditions and older adults (2).
COVID-19 symptoms can range from mild to severe. Sometimes people with COVID-19 have mild illness, but their symptoms may suddenly worsen in a few days.
Go to an emergency department if you
- find it hard to breathe
- have chest pain
- can’t drink anything
- feel very sick
- feel confused
| Normal body temperature
Most people have an average body temperature of about 37°C (98.6°F), measured orally (a thermometer is placed under the tongue). Your temperature may be as low as 36.3°C (97.4°F) in the morning or as high as 37.6°C (99.6°F) in the late afternoon. Your temperature may go up when you exercise, wear too many clothes, take a hot bath, or are exposed to hot weather. Fever temperatures A fever is a high body temperature. A temperature of up to 38.9°C (102°F) can be helpful because it helps the body fight infection. Most healthy children and adults can tolerate a fever as high as 39.4°C (103°F) to 40°C (104°F) for short periods of time without problems. Children tend to have higher fevers. |
| Delta Variant Facts | Maintaining Safety from Variants |
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The top five symptoms of Omicron
- a runny nose
- headache
- fatigue
- sneezing
- sore throat
Unlike other strains of the virus, symptoms of fever, cough and loss of smell were not as common.
The Omicron variant is a new known VoC as of December 2021 has surpassed the Delta variant.
According to the BCCDC:
- Omicron has been found to spread more easily between people than previous COVID-19 variants.
- People can spread Omicron to others even if they have been vaccinated, especially when they are symptomatic.
- Omicron appears to cause less serious outcomes than other COVID-19 variants among people who have received at least 2 doses of a COVID-19 vaccine.
- Current vaccines provide good protection against severe illness and hospitalizations for Delta and Omicron
- A third vaccine dose may help provide extra protection from Omicron
- Breakthrough infections can occur in people who are fully vaccinated
- People who have had COVID-19 can get sick again from new variants.
- Getting vaccinated is important even if you have already had COVID-19.
https://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/about-covid-19/variants
Prevention
Many people have different reasons they choose to get vaccinated. The table below shows some of the reasons your fellow Brothers, Sisters, and COELS staff chose to get vaccinated.
Reasons for Getting Vaccinated
| Reason for Vaccination |
| Got vaccinated to protect their community from COVID-19
- To keep everyone else safe. - To protect specific people such as family, friends, coworkers, Elders, and immune compromised people. - To contribute to ending the pandemic and stop community spread. |
| Got vaccinated to protect themselves from COVID-19
- To stay safe from and prevent COVID-19 themselves. - To protect themselves from severe reactions to COVID-19 as a result of underlying health issues. |
| Got vaccinated because of public health vaccine mandates
- To follow public health mandates. - To access social activities. |
| Got vaccinated to promote safety and health (non-specific)
- To be safe. - To promote health. |
| Got vaccinated to please others or ease concerns of others
- Was persuaded by others. - Because others were getting vaccinated. |
| Other
- Felt like the right choice. - Because it was accessible and convenient. Because others accompanied them to ease fears. |
Get Your Vaccine(s) and/or Booster Shots
In BC, everyone who is 18 or older will have the opportunity to have a booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Booster doses will be first offered to people who are at most risk. You need to have had both of your initial vaccine doses and have 6 months in between your second vaccine and your booster shot.
The benefit of a booster dose is that it helps to maintain and lengthen protection against COVID-19. By having a booster dose, you are helping to protect yourself and your community from COVID-19.
- A booster dose is an additional shot of vaccine that helps you maintain and lengthen your protection against severe outcomes of COVID-19. When you get a booster dose, you're helping protect you and the people around you from COVID-19. You will receive either the Moderna or Pfizer (mRNA) vaccine. These vaccines are interchangeable.
Compared with people who are fully vaccinated, unvaccinated people are:
- About 8 times more likely to have COVID-19.
- About 32 times more likely to be hospitalized because of COVID-19.
- About 20 times more likely to die from COVID-19. (9)
Ask staff to help you book your vaccination and booster shots. All Indigenous people are eligible for their Vaccines and booster shots.
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/covid-19/vaccine/register#register
Other Ways to Keep Myself Safe
There are many ways we can keep ourselves, our families, and our communities safe and healthy. A highly effective way to maintain safety is through receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. Additionally, even if we have been vaccinated (partially, fully, and booster shots), there are still health measures and protocols we can follow to help keep each other safe.
The basics still stand true as follows: IF you are feeling sick with a cough, fever, or sore throat, stay home, inform COELS staff on shift and you may be directed to contact 811. You can also do the self-assessment tool online at https://bc.thrive.health/covid19/en. If you have difficulty breathing, call 911.
Other steps include:
- Wear a mask in indoor public spaces
- Handwash frequently with soap for as long as it takes to sing your ABC’s. twice, or to equal 20 seconds.
- Use sanitizer often.
- Practice social distancing, at least 6 feet/2 meters from others.
- Wash your masks and have several masks to be able to alternate.
- Avoid touching MEN (M-outh, E-yes, N-ose).
- Cleaning your home with household cleaning and disinfectant products .
- Visiting others outdoors or in small groups
Wearing a N95 or KN95 Masks
Since the spread of Omicron, cloth masks are no longer recommended. All Staff, Brothers and Sisters should double up on their masks or wear a KN95 mask or N95 mask. Masks help reduce transmission of COVID-19 when they fit comfortably over the mouth and nose with no gaps around the face.
Physical Distancing
Since the beginning of COVID-19 one of the precautions that has been encouraged is to physical distance. People are asked to keep 2 metres or 6 feet away from one another. Practicing this in combination with wearing a mask and sanitizing & washing hands regularly help reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses like COVID-19.
Washing Your Hands
Another precaution is washing your hands often and practicing good hand hygiene. Washing your hands regularly will help reduce the chances of spreading germs like COVID-19. You need to wash your hands with soap and hot water for at least 20 seconds (or sing your ABC’s twice) for it to be most effective. Soap actively destroys the surface of the virus and reduces how much is left on your skin. Alcohol-based hand rubs/Sanitizers can be used to disinfect your hands when soap and water are unavailable.
Practicing Safe Cough and Hygiene
When you need to cough it is good practice to cough into your elbow rather than your hand. This helps isolate your germs to that area and you don’t risk touching things after with your hands and spreading germs. Avoid touching MEN (M-outh, E-yes, N-ose). Disinfect your room and house regularly to eliminate germs. Wash your laundry regularly to help eliminate germs that you may be carrying around. Good hygiene and cleanliness will help with preventing carrying and passing the virus.
Care and Treatment
Stay home if you have any symptoms:
- Cough
- Fever or chills
- New loss of taste or smell
- Fatigue or weakness
- Muscle or body aches
- Shortness of breath/Difficulty breathing
- Headache
- Diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain
- Loss of appetite
Rapid Tests
Rapid antigen tests are a test that you can perform yourself at home to find out if you have COVID-19. The results for this test are ready in less that 20 minutes.
Performing a rapid test involves collecting a sample from each nostril using a swab. You do not place the swab all the way in the sinus cavity you only place it a few centimeters inside your nose; this should not hurt. Currently COELS has BTNX COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Tests. If you need to have a test provided we will give instructions but here is an outline below.
Video resource link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SWPa39AuFkY
How to test using a BTNX COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test
You will need
- 1x sterile swab
- 1x test tube
- Plastic vial with buffer liquid
- Test tube rack or a small glass
- 1x test device
- Timer and garbage can
- Blow your nose and discard the tissue
- Do not use this test if you have a nose bleed
- Wash your hands with soap
- Gather all testing equipment
Step 2 - Get the tube ready
- Twist the top off the buffer liquid vial.
- Squeeze all the buffer liquid into the test tube.
- Place the filled test tube in the test tube holder or a clean glass or cup.
Step 3 - Collect the sample
- Remove the swab from the packaging. Touch only the plastic handle.
- Tilt your head back.
- Insert the cotton end of the swab straight back(not up) into one nostril for 2.5 cm or when you meet resistance
- Turn the swabagainst the inside of your nose for 5 seconds.
- Press the side of your nose with your finger to trap the swab. Rotate the swab for 5 seconds
- Repeatsame steps in your other nostril.
- Do not use the swab for testing if there is any blood on it. Blow your nose and use a clean swab. If you have had a nose bleed wait 24 hours before testing.
Step 4 - Perform the test
- Gently insert the cotton end of the swab into the test tube:
- Swirl the swab gently in the liquid and squeeze the swab with the sides of the tube 10-15 times.
- Place the tube in the glass or test tube rack and leave with the swab in the solution for 2 minutes.
- With the swab inside, pinch the outside of the tube with your fingers to get the remaining liquid out of the swab tip.
- Remove the swab and put in the garbage.
- Attach the nozzle to the tube.
Step 5 - Test device
- Open a test device and place it on a flat surface.
- Slowly squeeze 3 drops onto the circle on the test device.
Step 6 - Get your results and clean up
- Set a timer for 15 minutes. Readings after 20 minutes may not be accurate.
- Do not move the test device during this time.
- Check your result. Your result could be:
- Positive
- Negative
- Invalid
- Put all testing equipment in the garbage
- Wash your hands.
COELS Rapid Test Procedure
COELS has received a very limited supply of COVID-19 rapid tests. Currently there are managers, staff, family members, Brothers and Sisters who have tested positive for COVID-19 at the Healing Lodges, as well as in their homes. Currently we have access to a very limited number of COVID-19 rapid tests.
The following procedure will be followed:
- Managers, staff, Brothers and Sisters will be given priority to the rapid tests.
- Only those who are displaying symptoms will be given a rapid test. See list of COVID symptoms
- Staff will notify their immediate supervisor if they show any symptoms as listed below and stay at home.
- Brothers / Sisters will notify staff if they show any symptoms as listed below and isolate in their room until further instruction.
- Contact the COVID Coordination, Jason at jason@coels.ca or 604-879-1949 for a rapid test.
- The COVID-19 Coordinator will arrange that a rapid test be delivered by himself and/or a delegated staff person.
- The test results need to be shared with the COVID coordinator and Management as soon as possible so that we can reduce contact exposure.
- If a family member tests positive at home, staff and/or Brothers/Sisters need to monitor for symptoms. Staff will continue to show up for work but will immediately self-isolate at the onset of any symptoms.
Brothers/ Sisters will continue to stay at the Lodges and at the onset of any symptoms isolate in their room until further instruction.
- Tracking Sheet will record:
- Who has taken the rapid test? List name(s).
- The date the test was done; and
- The results of the test.
- These will be shared with the CEO and DOO on a weekly basis.
- Person(s) will self-isolate in a safe location away from the Lodges following COELS COVID isolation procedures for a minimum of five days and/or until their symptoms go away.
- Person(s) will notify their supervisors prior to returning to work and/or to the Lodge. COVID Coordinator or designate will be in contact with staff, Brothers / Sisters daily during the first five days. Groceries and medicines can be arranged if needed through the COVID-19 Coordinator.
- These procedures will be followed as long as COELS has access to rapid tests.
- COVID Coordinator will ensure that the procedures are being followed. If there are any issues, they will be brought to the attention of the CEO and DOO.
Coping with COVID-19: Mental Health, Wellness and Addictions
The pandemic has resulted in many changes that may have impacted our mental health. Living through a pandemic is stressful and it is normal to feel worried or anxious. It is important that we acknowledge and care for our mental health as we navigate the COVID-19 pandemic. You may have a lot of difficult feelings around the pandemic, including stress, uncertainty, fear, loss, and maybe even hopelessness. It is important for you to know that you are not alone.
The extremely contagious nature of COVID-19 means that we have to keep physically distant from others. But we can stay close emotionally. This is the time to lean on each other, and to reach out if we need support. There are many simple and accessible steps we can take, to take care of our mental health and well-being during this collective challenging time.
FNHA (First Nations Health Authority) has produced a series of videos and fact sheets designed to help you support your mental health and wellness during this difficult time. These resources aim to explain the nature of the pandemic and the impact it might be having on your mental health. They also provide specific suggestions for dealing with the mental health and wellness issues raised by the pandemic.
To view these videos, go to the FNHA website:
https://www.fnha.ca/what-we-do/communicable-disease-control/coronavirus/mental-health-and-wellness
For available support programs through the Canadian Mental Health Association, please see this website for more information:
https://cmha.bc.ca/covid-19/
Indigenous Specific Mental Health and Addictions Support
If you would like to speak to an experienced and culturally safe counsellor for Indigenous specific support, you can:
- Call the Hope for Wellness Help Line at 1-855-242-3310 (toll free) 24/7.
- Connect to the online Hope for Wellness chat at https://www.hopeforwellness.ca
The Hope for Wellness Help Line offers immediate mental health counselling and crisis intervention to all Indigenous peoples across Canada.
Experienced and culturally competent Help Line counsellors can help if you:
- want to talk
- are distressed
- have strong emotional reactions
- are triggered by painful memories
If asked, counsellors can also work with you to find other wellness supports that are available near you
Phone and chat counselling is available in English and French. On request, phone counselling is also available in:
- Cree
- Ojibway
- Inuktitut
It’s important to look after your medicine wheel.
Isolation Procedures
If you are Exposed to COVID-19
This section shares information on what happens if you or a family get COVID-19 or are exposed to someone with COVID-19.
COVID-19 Positive Test Results
If you receive a positive COVID-19 test result, it is important to stay calm and to know that you will have a lot of support from COELS, CSC and through Public Health.
COELS, CSC and Public Health will work together to ensure that you are safe as well as ensure the safety of everyone else at the Healing Lodges. The following steps will generally be followed:
- Brother or Sister tests positive –Staff will follow the isolation protocols and procedures
The Brother or Sister will immediately self-isolate in their room.
b. Staff will notify Admin, the CEO, Director of Operations, House Manager.
c. Ensuring that food is brought to the Brother’s or Sister’s room.
d. Posting a sign on the closest bathroom for use ONLY by the Brother or Sister that tested positive.
e. Practicing Universal Precautions while serving or interacting with the Brother or Sister. - CSC and Public Health will determine if the Brother and Sister are to self-isolate.
- CSC will identify where the Brother or Sister will self-isolate, Brothers will be moved to another facility such as a trailer in North Vancouver, Tim’s Manor and/or other locations.
- Sisters who are homeless, will be placed at a COVID-19 hotel and other community supports.
- Brother or Sister will move back into the Healing Lodges once their self-isolation is completed.
- self-isolate (for at least five days from the first day you had symptoms if you are fully vaccinated, or at least 10 days if you are not). https://www.fnha.ca/what-we-do/communicable-disease-control/coronavirus/covid-19-rapid-testing/
COELS is not able to provide a safe space currently for individuals to self-isolate in the Healing Lodges. Your cooperation and understanding as you go through this incident will ensure that you are safe and that those that live and work within the Healing Lodges and by extension their families are safe as well.
Proof of Vaccination and the BC Vaccine Card
In order to access many events, services, and businesses, we are required to show a proof of vaccination. This requirement has just been extended until June 30, 2022. Here are the steps to get your proof of vaccination and the BC Vaccine Card, which is also sometimes called a “QR code”.
A QR code is a machine-readable code consisting of an array of black and white squares, typically used for storing URLs or other information for reading by the camera on a smartphone. A QR code is a type of barcode that can hold more information than the familiar kind scanned at checkouts around the country. The “QR” stands for “quick response,” a reference to the speed at which the large amounts of information they contain can be decoded by scanners.
Step 1: Log in
To log in securely, you need to provide your:
- Date of birth
- Personal Health Number (PHN)
- Date you got dose 1 or dose 2
If you already have a Health Gateway account, log in with your BC Services Card App.
Step 2: Save or print
Once logged in, you have 3 options:
- Select "Save a copy" and save it to your phone’s photo album or computer folder
- Save a screenshot to your device
- Print a copy on paper
- It is requested that you have a digital copy on your phone. If you have circumstances/conditions, then it is important you carry a printed copy
- When you print this, you need to make sure that your QR Code is clear as it will be scanned to confirm vaccination
Step 3: Show your card
Have your card ready when entering a business. They'll look at your vaccine card and also check your government ID.
Image 1: What the BC Vaccine Card looks like
Retrieved from the Gov BC website.
Trusted Sources for Information
There is a lot of information that we need to know about COVID-19 and not all of it is reliable.
Some tips to best navigate the information include:
- Assess the source
Who shared the information with you and where did they get it from? Even if it is friends or family, you still need to vet their source. To check for fake social media accounts, look at how long profiles have been active, their number of followers and their most recent posts. For websites, check the “About Us” and “Contact Us” pages to look for background information and legitimate contact details.
- Go beyond headlines
Headlines may be intentionally sensational or provocative to get high numbers of clicks. Read more than just the headline of an article – go further and look at the entire story. Search more widely than social media for information – look at print sources such as newspapers and magazines, and digital sources such as podcasts and online news sites. Diversifying your sources allows you to get a better picture of what is or is not trustworthy.
- Identify the author
Search the author’s name online to see if they are real or credible.
- Check the date
When you come across information, ask yourself these questions: Is this a recent story? Is it up to date and relevant to current events? Has a headline, image or statistic been used out of context?
- Examine the supporting evidence
Credible stories back up their claims with facts – for example, quotes from experts or links to statistics or studies. Verify that experts are reliable and that links actually support the story
- Check your biases
We all have biases, and these factor into how we view what’s happening around us. Evaluate your own biases and why you may have been drawn to a particular headline or story. What is your interpretation of it? Why did you react to it that way? Does it challenge your assumptions or tell you what you want to hear? What did you learn about yourself from your interpretation or reaction?
Think about whether your own biases could affect your judgement on what is or is not trustworthy.
- Turn to fact-checkers
When in doubt, consult trusted fact-checking organizations, such as the International Fact-Checking Network and global news outlets focused on debunking misinformation, including the Associated Press and Reuters.
For more information about navigating COVID-19 information, misinformation, and disinformation, please see this website: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/covid-19-vaccine/how-to-find-trusted-information-about-vaccines
In a recent survey completed by COELS Brothers, Sisters, and staff, the top identified trusted source of COVID-19 information is from health authorities. Accessing information from your local health authority is a reliable and trusted source of relevant, and up-to-date information for your local COVID-19 information.
- Circle of Eagles Lodge Society https://coels.ca/covid-19-2022/
- For more information about COVID-19 from the Vancouver Coastal Health Authority, please see this website: http://www.vch.ca/covid-19
- For more information about COVID-19 from the First Nations Health Authority, please see this website: https://www.fnha.ca/what-we-do/communicable-disease-control/coronavirus
COVID supports in VCH region
Please note: services may be listed under multiple headings to help with navigation
Other supports may be available to Patients through VCH and the COVID Outreach Team
General self-isolation supports
| Support & contact information | Brief Description & Eligibility |
| First Nations Health Authority (FNHA)
Health Benefits Self-Isolation Support team 1-888-305-1505 |
self-isolation support (travel, meals, accommodation)
8:30am-4:30pm 7d/wk *Status First Nations |
| Individual Nations
Community level support |
community-level supports may be available.
*Status First Nations |
Food Supports
| Support & contact information | Brief Description & Eligibility |
| Pacific Association of First Nations Women
Good Food Box & emergency housing subsidies - Online application: https://tinyurl.com/reachinghomegfb OR |
Food delivery (e.g. grocery store food items, prepared meals, fresh fruit and vegetables)
Will be placed on a wait list, with follow up if support becomes available *Lower mainland residents only. Open to Indigenous women and children |
| First Nations Health Authority (FNHA)
Health Benefits Isolation Support team 1-888-305-1505 |
self-isolation support (travel, meals, accommodation)
8:30am-4:30pm 7d/wk *only Status First Nations who have qualified for self-isolation support (see above) |
| Support Network for Indigenous Women & Women of Colour
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Food delivery Support for Women in isolation |
| Vancouver: https://vancouver.ca/people-programs/covid-19-coronavirus-help-get-and-give-food.aspx
Vancouver, Richmond, North Shore: http://www.vch.ca/public-health/nutrition/food-asset-map |
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Housing Supports
| Support & contact information | Brief Description & Eligibility |
| Pacific Association of First Nations Women
emergency housing subsidies - Online application: https://tinyurl.com/reachinghomegfb OR |
Will be placed on a wait list, with follow up if support becomes available
*Lower mainland residents only. Open to Indigenous women and children |
Cultural & Mental Wellness Supports
| Support & contact information | Brief Description & Eligibility |
| Tsow-tun-le lum:
1-888-403-3123 (toll-free) Or contact via Facebook messaging |
Cultural support & counselling by phone or video |
| Indian Residential School Survivors Society
Resolution Health Support Workers Executive Director: Angela White |
Emotional support services during isolation
*Urban, Indigenous, and directly affected by COVID |
| Indian Residential School Survivors Society
Virtual cultural support |
Traditional healing and medicines by phone or video
*Urban, Indigenous, and directly affected by COVID |
| Pacific Association of First Nations Women | by phone or video (zoom)
*Indigenous folks of all genders and ages |
| Pacific Association of First Nations Women
COVID-19 Counselling |
Counselling by phone or video (zoom)
*Indigenous folks of all genders and ages |
| VCH Aboriginal Health
Virtual cultural support 1-877-875-1131 (toll-free) |
Cultural and emotional support by phone or video provided by VCH Elders/Knowledge Keepers
*Indigenous folks of all genders and ages in need of additional support |
| FNHA | Referral-based (no-cost) service
Substance Use and Addictions Medicine: Monday to Friday 9:30am-5:30pm Psychiatry: Monday to Friday 10am-3pm. *Available to all BC First Nations people and their families, even if family members are not Indigenous |
| Spirit of the Children Society
Cultural teaching (virtual) 604-524-9113 |
Virtual cultural teachings (zoom)
Mondays 4-5pm *Youth aged 7-18 |
| Broadway Youth Resource Centre
Queer, Trans, & Two-Spirit zoom social Lindsay McKinnon 778-877-0993 |
Weekly zoom socials
*Youth aged 14-24 who identify as queer, trans, or two-spirit |
| QMUNITY
Youth drop-in |
Virtual drop-in (zoom) Mondays 4-5pm
*queer youth aged 14-25 |
| Spirit of the Children Society
604-524-9113 |
Virtual youth group (zoom) Wednesdays 4-5pm
*Youth aged 13-18 |
| Foundry
Virtual counselling 1-833-308-6379 online@foundrybc.ca OR |
Free virtual counselling (phone or video)
1:15-9pm Monday-Friday
*Youth aged 12-24 |
| WAVAW
604-255-6344
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Phone counselling and support groups using a holistic approach utilizing traditional teachings and ceremonies
Also do Community referrals * Indigenous people of marginalized genders, including trans and cis women, as well as trans, non-binary, and Two Spirit people seeking health, wellness, and safety |
| WAVAW
604-255-6344
|
One-to-one counselling and support groups
*survivors of marginalized genders: cis and trans women, Two-Spirit, trans and/or non-binary people who have experienced sexual assault |
| 2 Spirits of BC | Online Talking Circle (Zoom)
Tuesdays @ 7pm *Indigenous 2-Spirits living in BC |
| Support Network for Indigenous Women & Women of Colour | Free counselling for low income, racialized women |
Links to additional mental wellness and cultural resource listings
| Link/Source | Brief Summary |
| Virtual Mental Health Supports During COVID-19 (Government of Canada) | - List of virtual mental health supports available |
| COVID-19 Mental Health and Cultural Supports (FNHA)
|
- Full list of Mental Health Support available for community members, community leaders
- List of cultural support |
| Staying Connected During the COVID-19 Pandemic (FNHA) | - Poster |
| Mental Health & Wellness Resources (FNHA) | - Links to videos, fact sheet, poster, news article |
| Database of youth support programs and services in communities across Canada
(Kids Help Phone) |
- Service locator for youth support programs and services |
Harm Reduction & Substance Use Supports
| Support & contact information | Brief Description & Eligibility |
| Western Aboriginal Harm Reduction Society
Outreach WAHRS Coordinator: Tracey Draper (604) 374-3594 |
Delivery of harm reduction supplies, food, and hydration
*Indigenous folks in the DTES area |
Virtual Care during COVID-19
| Link/Source | Brief Summary |
| FNHA
1-855-344-3800 to book an appointment |
Virtual primary healthcare 8:30am-4:30pm 7d/wk
*Available to all BC First Nations people and their families, even if family members are not Indigenous |
| FNHA | Referral-based (no-cost) service
Substance Use and Addictions Medicine: Monday to Friday 9:30am-5:30pm Psychiatry: Monday to Friday 10am-3pm. *Available to all BC First Nations people and their families, even if family members are not Indigenous |
Miscellaneous Funding Supports, Income Assistance, and Payment Deferrals
| Support & contact information | Brief Description & Eligibility |
| Indian Residential School Survivors Society
Funding supports Executive Director: Angela White
|
Funding supports for every day necessities (medicine, food, etc.)
Limited funding available – have family name, contact information, number of adults/children, and summary of needs ready *Urban, Indigenous, and directly affected by COVID |
| Métis Nation BC (MNBC)
Emergency COVID supports Apply through online portal: www.mnbc.ca/covid OR contact Regional Health Coordinator: Arathy Menon 604-202-2873 (cell) |
Emergency COVID supports may be available if other resources have been exhausted via online portal application system
*MNBC (Métis) citizens |
| Métis Chartered Communities (MCC) (North Fraser & Powell River)
President, Métis Nation Powell River: Tabatha Berggren 604-223-5856 OR contact Regional Health Coordinator: Arathy Menon 604-202-2873 (cell) |
Some supports available through MCC presidents
*Self-identified Métis living in qathet Regional district (formerly Powell River Regional District); Richmond; and Vancouver |
| Province
BC Recovery Benefit Online application https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/economic-recovery/recovery-benefit |
one-time payment of up to $1,000 (families) and up to $500 (individuals)
*eligible individuals with net income up to $87,500 and eligible families with net income up to $175,000 full eligibility criteria on website |
| Government of Canada | Information on:
· Employment insurance (EI) · Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB) · Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit (CRSB) · Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit (CRCB) · Mortgage payment deferral |
| Government of Canada | |
| BC Hydro
Customer Crisis Fund (CCF) 1-800-BC-HYDRO |
Bill deferral, payment plans, as well as crisis funding is available.
*Residential customer experiencing a temporary financial crisis |
| ICBC
Monthly payment deferral 1-800-665-6442 |
Monthly payment deferral by up to 90 days |
Self-Monitor & Self-Isolation Information
| Link/Source | Brief Summary |
| Self-isolation post COVID-19 testing (BCCDC) | - Resource on self-isolation |
| How to self-isolate - Handout (VCH) | - Hand on posters |
| Guide for Caregivers and Household Members of those with COVID-19 (VCH) | - Information for caregiver and household member living with someone self-isolating |
| How to self-isolate at home when you may have been exposed to COVID-19 and have no symptoms
(3 pager PDF)(Public Health Agency of Canada) |
- General resources
- 3-pager on self-isolation considerations |
| Be Prepared (COVID-19) (Health Canada) | - Poster on how to plan for self-isolation/self-monitor |
| Health Benefit Self-Isolation Support (FNHA) | - Available seven days a week from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Call 1-888-305-1505
- For eligible individual to secure self-isolation in or near community |
| Visiting the Hospital (VCH) | - Latest information on visiting a VCH hospital |
| COVID infection control - client transportation (FNHA) | - Guide on steps to support client transportation |
Crisis & Support Lines
| Support & contact information | Brief Description & Eligibility |
| Indian Residential School Survivors
24 hour Crisis Line 1-866-925-4419 |
*Available for anyone experiencing pain or distress as a result of their residential school experience |
| Kuu-Us Crisis Line
24 hour Crisis Line 1-800-588-8717 (toll-free) 250-723-2040 (youth line) 250-723-4050 (adult line) |
Indigenous and First Nations specific crisis line BC only |
| Battered Woman's Support Services Crisis Line
1-855-687-1868 (toll-free) |
Monday-Friday 10am-5pm (Wednesday until 8pm)
· Emotional support & Safety planning · Referrals to transition houses, lawyers, medical services, community support *Services open to all women (specific supports available for immigrant and Indigenous women) |
| Kids Help Phone
1-800-668-6868 (toll-free) https://kidshelpphone.ca/ OR text 686868 (texting service) https://www.facebook.com/CrisisTextLinepoweredbyKidsHelpPhone (crisis text line via facebook messenger) |
24 hour phone service connecting kids to counsellors and crisis responders
currently available in English, French, and Arabic
*Open to all children and youth |
| Suicide Crisis Line
1-800-784-2432 www.YouthInBC.com (online youth chat) |
24 hour crisis line available in over 140 languages
Online chat service: noon-1am
*Open to anyone experiencing thoughts of suicide |
| Métis Crisis Line
1-833-Metis-BC (1-833-638-4722) |
24 hour phone support for immediate crisis intervention and mental wellness supports
*Self-identified Métis folks living in BC |
| Women Against Violence Against Women 24 hour Crisis and Information Line
604-255-6344
|
24 hour non-judgemental support, can provide information on available WAVAW services or referrals to other community programs/organizations
*survivors of sexualized violence |
| Trans Lifeline Hotline
1-877-330-6366 |
Peer support phone service run by trans people for trans and questioning peers
guaranteed call operators 7am-2am *those in need of someone trans to talk to |
First Nation Community Contact List
| Region | Community | Nurses |
| Central Coast
|
Heiltsuk (Bella Bella) | Mitch Savage ( CHN/Nurse Supervisor)
Phone: (250) 957-7944 |
| Central Coast
|
Kitasoo/ Xai'xais (Klemtu) | Kathryn Chapman (Nurse in Charge)
Note: Nurse in Charge changes, best to call ahead of time and confirm. Phone: (250) 839-1221 |
| Central Coast
|
Wuikinuxv (Rivers Inlet) | April Shea, (Home Care Nurse)
Phone: (250) 949-8625 ext 226/225 |
| Central Coast
|
Nuxalk (Bella Coola) | Kirsten Milton (Health Director)
Phone: (250) 799-5809 Sophie Mack (Community Health Nurse) sophie.mack@fnha.ca Phone: (250) 267-5486 |
| Central Coast/Cariboo | Ulkatcho (Anahim Lake) | |
| Sea to Sky
Southern Stl’atl’imx
|
Lil’wat | Michelle Headley (Nurse Supervisor)
Nikki Hunter( Home Care Manager) Phone: (604) 894-6656 ext.3231 |
| Sea to Sky
Southern Stl’atl’imx
|
Southern Stl’atl’imx Health Society
Four communities: N’Quatqua, Skatin, Samahquam, Xa’xtsa (Douglas/Tipella) |
Pamela Jules (Nurse Supervisor)
Phone: (604) 902 5015
|
| Sunshine Coast
(South)
|
shíshálh (Sechelt) | Nick Gaskin (Health Director)
Phone: 604-399-8717 Tamara Guretzki (Home Care Nurse) Shiloh Joe, (Division Manager) Phone: (604) 885-9404 |
| Sunshine Coast
(North)
|
Tla'amin (Sliammon/Powell River) | Melinda Hasselback (Chronic Disease Nurse)
Phone: 604-483-3009 |
| Lower Mainland
|
Musqueam | Crystal Point (Community Health Nurse)
Phone: (604) 269-3313 |
| Lower Mainland
|
Squamish | Samantha Clarke (Home Care Manager)
Phone: (604) 318-4418 |
| Lower Mainland
|
Tsleil-Waututh Nation | Sibylle Tinsel (Community Health Nurse)
Phone: (604) 353-5314 |
The above information is courtesy of Aboriginal Health and Vancouver Coastal Health
Appendix A: References
- Brothers-and-Sisters-COVID19-Manual-Workbook-Revised-2020:
https://www.circleofeagles.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Brothers-and-Sisters-COVID19-Manual-Workbook-Revised-2020-72dpi.pdf - COELS-Coronavirus-Pandemic-Response-Planning-Guide-2020:
https://www.circleofeagles.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/COELS-Coronavirus-Pandemic-Response-Planning-Guide-2020-72dpi.pdf - Brothers-and-Sisters-Manual-for-COVID-19-Vaccines-Basic-Information:
https://www.circleofeagles.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Brothers-and-Sisters-Manual-for-COVID-19-Vaccines-Basic-Information-72dpi.pdf - BCCDC > How it Spreads:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/aboutcovid-19/how-it-spreads - Government of Canada > Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): Symptoms and Treatment:
https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/symptoms.html - BCCDC > BC COVID-19 Data:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/data#COVID-19Dashboard - BCCDC > BCCDC COVID Data Summary: 18 November 2021:
http://www.bccdc.ca/Health-Info-Site/Documents/COVID_sitrep/2021-11-18-Data_Summary.pdf - BCCDC > COVID-19 Variants:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/about-covid-19/variants - BCCDC > Cleaning and Disinfecting:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/prevention-risks/cleaning-and-disinfecting - Government of Canada > AstraZeneca Vaxzevria COVID-19 Vaccine:
https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/drugs-health-products/covid19-industry/drugs-vaccines-treatments/vaccines/astrazeneca.html - Government of Canada > Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) COVID-19 Vaccine:
https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/drugs-health-products/covid19-industry/drugs-vaccines-treatments/vaccines/janssen.html - Government of Canada > Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine: Health Canada recommendations for people with serious allergies:
https://recalls-rappels.canada.ca/en/alert-recall/pfizer-biontech-covid-19-vaccine-health-canada-recommendations-people-serious - Government of BC > Get Your Booster Dose:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/covid-19/vaccine/booster - BCCDC > Children and COVID-19 Vaccination:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/covid-19-vaccine/vaccines-children - Government of BC > Proof of Vaccination and the BC Vaccine Card:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/covid-19/vaccine/proof - Government of Canada > COVID-19: How to care at home for someone who has or may have been exposed:
https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/prevention-risks/how-care-someone-covid-19-home.html - Government of Canada > Post COVID-19 Condition:
https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/symptoms/post-covid-19-condition.html - Government of Canada > Latest information on COVID-19 in federal correctional institutions:
https://www.canada.ca/en/correctional-service/campaigns/covid-19/latest-information.html - Government of BC > Provincial and regional restrictions:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/covid-19/info/restrictions - Government of Canada > Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan:
https://www.canada.ca/en/department-finance/economic-response-plan.html - Government of BC > Paid Sick Leave:
https://www.gov.bc.ca/PaidSickLeave - Government of BC > BC’s Restart Plan:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/covid-19/info/restart - BCCDC > How to Find Trusted Information About Vaccines:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/covid-19-vaccine/how-to-find-trusted-information-about-vaccines