The United Way Estevan hopes to have a Day of Caring in 2021, although it might have some differences from previous years.
Speaking at the United Way’s annual general meeting on March 31, Wendy Gustafson, who is on the board for the initiative, said the committee members are on board to have something this year.
The Day of Caring was cancelled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a normal year, volunteers from the community will head to different sites in Estevan to tackle a variety of tasks, whether it be a project for one of the United Way’s member agencies, landscaping work or other projects at senior citizens’ homes, or even visiting with seniors at a care home.
Most of the projects are fairly simple and can be completed within the day.
This year’s Day of Caring is slated for May 26.
“We’re hoping to do an all-day Day of Caring, like we’ve done before,” said Gustafson.
Indoor projects might not be able to happen because of pandemic restrictions, but outdoor projects could be a go. Groups would likely need to be 10 people or less.
And there will be plans for those who might not be comfortable within a group.
“We’re going to get our forms out, get them going,” said Gustafson. “They will be revamped a little bit. They won’t look quite like they did.”
Another aspect that they have talked about would be what Gustafson called friendly visiting.
“Obviously this past year has been so difficult for so many people,” said Gustafson. “I work in home care, and I see what it’s done to our seniors and the people who have been inside, and it’s very difficult.”
They have talked about providing a quick knock on the door, a visit and a gift, and possibly spending five minutes chatting with somebody outside.
Another highlight with the Day of Caring has been a barbecue lunch, but if it were to happen this year, then it would need to occur within the COVID restrictions. It could be a bagged lunch instead, with groups coming at different times to pick up their food .
“We’re going to take care of as many people as we possibly can within the restrictions, so we’re excited about moving forward,” Gustafson said. “We’re looking forward to getting in touch with everyone.”
