Residents of Hastings Manor Long Term Care Home in Belleville had tears of joy in their eyes earlier this week.
The residents received “wellness bags” from the Belleville and Quinte West Community Health Centre (BQWCHC), laden with items hand crafted by members of the local community to let them know that they are loved and that we are all in this together.
“In April, the CHC started delivering Wellness Boxes to young families and seniors living alone in the community as part of our Wellness Matters campaign” said Krista Vandermeer, Manager of Community Health Programs and Engagement at BQWCHC.
“We quickly discovered the positive impact such a small gesture had on people – especially those feeling isolated right now. So, we came up with a plan to offer a similar gift, a “Bear Hug” Wellness Bag, to residents of Long Term Care homes in the area – starting with Hastings Manor. The goal was to ease some of their anxieties about the pandemic; brighten their day and to let them know they are not forgotten.”
Joan receives her bear hug. (Submitted photo)
Long term care homes across the province have been hit particularly hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, accounting for the majority of deaths related to the virus. Restrictions on all non-essential visitors have been in place since March, leaving residents isolated and often without their usual contact from loved ones and friends.
Erin Chapman, Director of Nursing at Hastings Manor, said the “Bear Hug” bags were very well received by the residents.
“The little hand-made bears and children’s art brought smiles to their faces at such a difficult time. We’ve been truly touched by the efforts of our community to recognize our team members and residents,” Champman said.
Each bag distributed to a long term care resident contains children’s artwork, a “bear hug”, a few puzzles and a pen, some moisturizer and lip balm, a treat and a special note.
If you have children to help create artwork or are interested in knitting or crocheting ‘bear hugs’, please contact BQWCHC at 613-962-0000 or info@bqwchc.com.
Muriel receives a bear hug. (Submitted photo)
Enid receives a bear hug. (Submitted photo)
The contents of a Bear Hug wellness box. (Submitted photo)
