COVID-19 update for offenders and their families: June 22, 2022

After a decline in COVID-19 cases over the last couple of months, we are now starting to see an increase in the number of active cases in some of our institutions. This is a reminder that we need to continue with our health and safety measures like:

• washing your hands often
• getting vaccinated/booster shots, and
• wearing a mask when you cannot physically distance from others

On July 24, Pope Francis is expected to begin a six-day visit to Canada. The Pope plans to:

• meet with
• listen to, and
• dialogue with

Indigenous Peoples to express his heartfelt closeness and to address the impact of colonization and the participation of the Catholic Church in the operation of Indian Residential and Day Schools in Canada. Pope Francis’ visit to Canada, is a significant step on the road to:

• truth
• understanding, and
• healing

It is seen by many as an important opportunity to shape reconciliation between the Roman Catholic Church and Indigenous Peoples in Canada. 

I understand that these discussions about residential schools are important but can also be difficult for many. I would like to remind you that if you need assistance and support, the following numbers are available on the National Common Access List: 

• The Hope for Wellness Help Line provides immediate, culturally competent, crisis intervention and support for Indigenous offenders at 1-855-242-3310.
• The National Residential School Crisis Line provides support to former residential school students and those affected at 1-866-925-4419. 

Health supports are also available to you. I encourage you to take a moment to think about the Survivors of residential schools, about their families and the communities that continue to be affected, and about those who never returned home.

World Hepatitis Day, on July 28, raises awareness of hepatitis-related illness, which causes inflammation of the liver. Along with the public health community in Canada, CSC is continuing efforts to:

• detect
• manage
• prevent, and
• treat

patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV). Our treatment and prevention efforts have resulted in a dramatic decrease in the prevalence of hepatitis C in our institutions from more than 18.2% to 3.2% over eight years.

July 28 is also World Nature Conservation Day, which stresses that healthy environment is necessary for a healthy society. Preserving our natural resources:

• water
• air
• soil
• minerals
• trees
• animals, and
• food

is essential for our well-being today and for future generations. 

Thank you for your ongoing cooperation.