Boozhoo to all my Relatives,
What uncertain times we are living in. Life as we have known it, has seemingly changed overnight. We have all heard or seen the news reports that are being broadcast around the world. Together we are facing and combatting the same adversary, the Covid-19 pandemic.
We acknowledge that this can be a stressful time for many. A time where we must physically distance ourselves and self-isolate. We may find ourselves alone or limited to only a few family members who live with us. We are saddened as we cannot visit with one another, we miss embracing our loved ones or sharing a meal or coffee with family and friends. We may have had to give up activities that brought us much enjoyment. This can be challenging and can further feelings of isolation and downheartedness.
Many are facing the uncertainty and devastation that comes with loss of employment and downsizing due to the economic fallout associated with this pandemic. With all of our members residing off-reserve, our First Nation is not eligible to receive funding which the Federal government has made available for on-reserve populations during the pandemic. We have included in this mail-out and posted on our website, some programs and subsidies that our members may be able to access in their residences across Canada. (ie.) Canada Emergency Response Benefit, Canada Child Benefit, Increased Goods & Services Tax Credit, to name a few.
We acknowledge that this can also be a frightening time for many. Our older relatives and those who are living with existing medical conditions may be more vulnerable at this time. Please take the time to check up on each other by telephone, even if it’s just to say hello, and acknowledge that we are all going through this together. Our loved ones need reassurance and to know we haven’t forgotten about them.
As we are approaching the Easter season, we want you to know that you are in our thoughts and in our prayers. This week we will be delivering a hamper to our Elders, 55 years of age and older, who reside in the city of Thunder Bay. For our remaining Elders, 55 years of age and older, who reside throughout Canada, we will be including a Walmart Gift Certificate with this letter. We must ensure that we take care of our most vulnerable, who may be at higher risk during this time. Should this pandemic persist into May, we will be sending out another supplemental assistance payment of $300.00 for each registered adult and $150.00 for each registered child, up to a maximum of 3 children/per household in early May.
I want to encourage you to continue following the protective measures that are being recommended and enforced throughout our communities and nation, that are meant to keep us all safe. I want to encourage you to stay strong in your faith and belief, as we face this reality upon waking each morning. I want to encourage you to be kind to one another as we do not know the outcome or whose lives may be adversely affected by this pandemic. I want to encourage you with the hope that this too will pass, and we will see brighter days ahead. Until we meet again, I speak blessings and health over you and your families, and may our Creator keep us all safe.
Chief Whitecloud
