I hope this letter finds you well and healthy.

It is my honour and privilege to serve with you during this time of pandemic, in a world struggling with the effects of COVID-19. What a blessing to see how Vincentians are finding innovative ways to continue helping, while protecting their health and the health of the persons and families we serve.

After many weeks of confinement, with phases of reopening underway across the county, and with the summer weather, it is easy to relax the precautionary measures used to assist people in need. We must continue applying public health and government authorities’ recommendations to protect those in need and Vincentians.

For any person-to-person contact, it is always preferable to err on the side of caution and ensure safety for everyone, and to not encourage any volunteers into action if they feel unsafe or have prior health conditions that could put them at risk.

Prevention and precaution are in order in this constantly changing situation, even if it may appear to be stabilizing. It is important to listen to the advice of public health experts:

• Wear a mask;
• Wash your hands often and thoroughly;
• Avoid touching your face, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands;
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick;
• Clean and disinfect surfaces that are frequently touched;
• Stay at home and away from others if you are feeling ill;
• When sick, cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze and then wash your hands;
• Practice social distancing.

With home visits restarting, to protect Vincentians and persons in need, please remember to always visit in pairs. Also, if you are approached by your insurance provider or any organization to sign a waiver that releases the organization from any liability, please do not do so.

May God answer all your prayers and bring to fruition all your works, hopes and aspirations.

Thank you for your support.

Claude Bédard
President, National Council of Canada

General information of interest
In relation to COVID-19 pandemic questions, you can refer to the Government of Canada questions and answer site: