Transition to a Single Employer Model

Much has changed this week regarding the COVID-19 situation in our province, with the announcement of gradual openings in the business community scheduled as early as Monday, May 4, and with the precautions being taken province-wide for the safety of residents in personal care homes. Starting today, in an ongoing effort to protect our most vulnerable, we will be implementing a single-site staffing model for our nursing and support staff as mandated under the authority of a Public Health Order issued on April 29, 2020. This directive does not include allied health care professionals and staff who work in other parts of the health system. Please be assured that your loved ones remain our top priority, and the move to a single employer model provides an additional measure to protect our residents. This new model will also serve to promote consistency and continuity of care for our residents.

I must express my deep appreciation to our staff for their support and cooperation during this transition to a single employer model. Many are accepting additional shifts to ensure that we are not working short. I also want to express my profound gratitude to members of our Management Team, our allied health staff, human resources, and all administrative staff for their leadership and support with the transition to the single-employer model.

I would like to assure you that we continue to closely monitor all residents, and screen all staff upon entry to the building. Our housekeeping and dietary staff continue with enhanced cleaning protocols, and all staff continue to use proper personal protective equipment. We are closely following all measures mandated by the Public Health authorities at this time.

Other News and Information

I am pleased to report the following:

1. The balconies in Building C and the patios around the atrium are being cleaned and prepared so that residents will be able to enjoy some sunshine and fresh air soon.
2. We have received many favourable comments from families which have been posted on our website and also on the digital signage within the Home.
3. We appreciate the goodies and treats that have been brought in by families for the staff; however, in an effort to minimize the potential spread of the virus, we are requesting that you thank our staff instead by sending your kind words to [email protected] and we will post on our website and in the Home.
4. Although we will not be able to celebrate Mother’s Day as we have in the past, our Recreation team is facilitating the following activities:

• Mother’s Day Flower Art Residents are colouring and painting flowers in celebration of Mother’s Day to adorn our front window, similar to the Easter Eggs art project.
• Mother’s Day Teas on the Unit Although we cannot have our usual Mother’s Day Tea this year, we will be having small Mother’s Day Teas on the units next Friday/Saturday. Residents will be treated to fancy sandwiches, dainties/special desserts and tea in celebration of our Mothers and Grandmothers. Extra treats for these teas are graciously provided by the HFH Auxiliary.
• Mother’s Day Messages If you would like to send a virtual card, message or pictures to your loved one for Mother’s Day, please email them to [email protected].

I would like to take this opportunity to remind you that with Mother’s Day approaching, please refrain from sending or delivering flowers and plants as we are not able to sanitize them. We are continuing to offer video visits between residents and family members/friends via Facetime and Skype. Please email [email protected] for more information.

For May, the Recreation calendars will be month-long, instead of week-by-week. Please see the “Recreation Calendars” section (under Resident Care) of our website to see the calendars, sorted by unit.

Thank you for your continued support, prayers, and understanding during these challenging times.