Canadian Red Cross COVID-19 Response in Iqaluit

Canadian Red Cross COVID-19 Response in Iqaluit

The Canadian Red Cross arrived in Iqaluit on May 14 to support essential workplaces as requested by the City’s Virtual Emergency Operations Centre to support the City during the local state of emergency.

The Virtual Emergency Operations Centre identified action items for the Red Cross, which were to provide relief workers to the Uquutaq Men’s Shelter and to conduct site assessments for essential workplaces within the city.

Prior to arriving in the city, the Red Cross team conducted virtual assessments at essential workplaces, providing recommendations on ways to make the facility safer, including suggestions for improved physical distancing, proper PPE use and the appropriate cleaning products.

The Red Cross team will continue the on-site epidemic prevention and control (EPC) work until end of next week with different community facilities identified in partnership with the City.

In addition, the Red Cross team is organizing First Aid sessions and providing health and wellness support services to local organizations.

The Red Cross team will continue with virtual site assessments and additional supports following their departure.

Quote from Mayor Kenny Bell:

“On behalf of the City of Iqaluit and our partners, including members of the Coordinated Community Response Committee and our Chief Public Health Officer, I would like to extend our gratitude to the Canadian Red Cross for their assistance during this difficult time.

Our vital community organizations have faced staff shortages during the state of emergency, pushing them to the brink of shutting their doors on those who do not have a safe place to go. Now, more than ever, these services could mean life or death.

Witnessing the fast and coordinated response with the Red Cross goes to show the importance of working together to fight COVID-19 in our community.”

For media related questions, please contact:

Lisa Milosavljevic
Communications and Customer Service Manager
City of Iqaluit
L.Milosavljevic@iqaluit.ca
867-979-5607