March 29, 2021| March 29
re: COVID-19 visits

Dear Ongwanada family members,

With the third wave of the pandemic upon us, the number of positive COVID-19 cases continues to rise in the province and variants of concern are becoming more prominent. We need to be ever more mindful about keeping the people we support safe.  It is for these reasons that we strongly advise family and essential visitors against visiting their loved ones, unless it is absolutely essential, until further notice.

If there is the need for an essential visit for the well-being of the individuals we support, we will accommodate a maximum of two family members or essential visitors.  These two individuals must be consistent for each and all visits. Visitors will need to be identified in advance of the visit, and arrangements for the visit must be made with the respective home supervisor. To accommodate everyone, visits will be limited to a maximum of one hour.

Visits should occur outdoors where possible and be physically distanced. Visitors are required to wear full PPE, will not be able to use the washrooms in the homes, and may not take their loved one off the property.

If a supported individual is taken off the property, they will be subject to a fourteen-day quarantine period upon return, if isolation capacity exists.  If isolation capacity does not exist, families will be required to accommodate their loved ones until isolation space is available.

We are all anxious for life to return to normal. With the vaccine now being administered, we can see the light at the end of the tunnel. However, we also know that COVID-19, especially with the new variants of concern, spreads quickly in congregate living settings; it is for this reason that we must maintain our vigilance and continue to protect our supported individuals from potential exposure to the virus by limiting visitors to the homes.

We thank you for your understanding.

Sincerely,

Alastair Lamb
Chief Executive Officer