I hope, despite all the challenges, that the summer of 2020 has been somewhat enjoyable, and that you and your families are staying safe and well.

Expanded Resumption of On-Site Services 
As COVID-19 infection rates have fallen, we at ErinoakKids have begun to increase provision of on site services for our client families. Of course, virtual services will continue to be available as appropriate to those who prefer this option, and all on site visits will be by appointment only. We ask, as the school year begins and the possibility of a second wave of the pandemic looms, that you adhere to all screening and health protocols when attending our sites. This is for the safety of your child and family, as well as that of ErinoakKids staff. It is through our collective diligence that the first wave of the virus was brought under control, and it will be our continued commitment to masking, physical distancing and hand washing that keep us and our families, neighbours and friends healthy as we move into the fall period and beyond.

Comprehensive information on our COVID-19 protocols and what you can expect when coming to one of our sites for treatment or therapy is available here. Please review it prior to your child’s appointment, and call 905-855-2690 (toll free 1-877-374-6625) and press 1, should you have any related questions.

Thoughts on Recent Events – Black Lives Matter
I would also like to address a matter that has been weighing upon me and I am sure so many others over these past months. While we have all been dealing with the realities of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have simultaneously been witnessing the horror of racism that has resulted in the shooting of Jacob Blake, and the violent, tragic deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and others. Racism and its ugly effects are not confined to any one country. As an organization that cares for children with disabilities and both employs and serves diverse communities, we acknowledge that people differentially face violence, bigotry and discrimination on the basis of their race, gender, ability, sexual orientation, age, faith and other factors.

The events of these past months have been difficult to countenance, and the pain and heartbreak of everyone impacted, no matter on what basis, has been deep and real. We as a society, as organizations and as individuals must have no tolerance for racism or any other “ism” when we encounter it, in whatever shape or form. We all bear this responsibility, and now is the time to listen, to bear witness and to act. We stand in solidarity with all those fighting racism, and must work together, harder than ever, to fight inequality and injustice wherever we find it. ErinoakKids remains committed to its values, and to continuing to help create a safer and more inclusive tomorrow.

Thank you very much. Please take care of yourselves and of one another.

Sincerely,
Bridget Fewtrell
President & CEO
ErinoakKids Centre for Treatment and Development