Location: Cold Lake, Alberta
The Lakeland Multicultural Association in Cold Lake has introduced a variety of projects to address some of the needs within the community brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
They have launched the COVID-19 Difference Makers program, an initiative that both acknowledges essential workers and helps promote local businesses. They encourage people to put forward the names of essential workers to thank them for their service. These names are then entered in a draw with the winners receiving a gift certificate to a local business.
They have also started a Shop for Seniors program, where volunteers deliver groceries and help run errands for seniors so they can avoid public spaces. Lastly, they are assisting those with language barriers in the community. They have been helping disseminate vital health information in a variety of languages, including Filipino, Hindi, Mandarin, and Punjabi.
Through these initiatives, the Lakeland Multicultural Association is ensuring frontline workers feel supported and acknowledged while making sure everyone in their community has access to the resources that they need.