COVID-19 update for offenders and their families: March 10, 2023

Three years ago, the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic. The virus is still circulating in our communities, but we are now in a better position with infection prevention practices in place. One thing that is clear is how resilient we are. Thank you for your patience and cooperation, as we managed through a challenging piece of our history.

We held many events throughout February to mark Black History Month. We want to continue having important conversations about anti-racism, diversity, and inclusion throughout the year. As mentioned last week, Dr. Akwasi Owusu-Bempah gave a workshop at Bath and Millhaven institutions in February on issues that racialized offenders face. This week, he gave a virtual presentation to inmates at Collins Bay Institution. We can all benefit from presentations like this. They are important to get discussions started and to create an understanding of challenges other people face. 

CSC is organizing a Volunteer Appreciation Slide Show to showcase during National Volunteer Week in April. If you have been supported by a volunteer and would like to show your appreciation, speak with your Social Program Officer to get details on how to submit a piece of original art or poetry. The deadline is Friday March 17.

This year, Agriculture Safety Week is March 13 to 17, and the focus is on a “promise to be safe.” I want to thank those of you who work on the CORCAN farms, and who make safety a priority. Over the last year, 340 individuals in our care and custody participated in agriculture safety awareness courses. Congratulations to those who earned safety certificates!