At Distress Centre Calgary, we’re closely monitoring the COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) situation. The risk to Albertans remains low at this time but we will continue to follow the guidance from the Government of Alberta as the situation evolves.

The safety and wellbeing of our volunteers, staff and clients is our top priority and we are putting measures in place on an ongoing basis to ensure that safety. These measures include:

• Implementing increased cleaning measures and ensuring the availability of disinfecting supplies at our office and contact centre
• Allowing and encouraging staff who can work remotely to do so
• Building on and expanding the contact centre’s ability to respond to contacts from home
• Asking those who are sick to stay home and those who are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms to contact Health Link 811
• Discouraging staff and volunteers from international travel and cancelling any work-related travel, in accordance with the guidance of the Government of Alberta

We are currently evaluating our programs, services and procedures to determine the best way forward. Clients and those affected will be notified if we have to limit visits to our office or if our office needs to close completely.

We know this uncertainty can lead to feelings of anxiety, stress and a whole range of emotions. If you are struggling with the situation and need someone to talk to, please contact us by phone 24/7 at 403-266-4357 or by online chat available at distresscentre.com. To connect with other resources in Calgary, contact 211 by phone text or chat: www.ab.211.ca

We ask for your patience as the situation has made it difficult for us to have full coverage on our lines. We are working hard to mitigate the issues we’re experiencing so we can best serve Calgarians during this challenging time.

We will keep you updated on our continued response as the situation evolves.