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It’s that time of year when many school sports are in full swing, along with minor hockey, basketball and many other activities. As parents and coaches, we cheer on our athletes, encourage them to give their best effort, congratulate them on the wins and console them after tough losses. But there’s another important role we can play on the sidelines to keep the play fun and safe for all young athletes.

“I help when I can, where I can” Andreschefski explained. “Outside of working hours it takes little time to go meet up with someone affected by a personal disaster like a house fire and make sure they have a roof over their head for the next couple of days and that they’ve got enough groceries. That takes maybe an hour or two out of my day.”
 

About an hour’s drive south along the coast from Beirut lies the five-story 75-bed Hamshary hospital. Run by the Palestine Red Crescent Society, it was initially set up to provide health services to the surrounding Palestinian refugee camps, but the hospital is open to anyone in need.

When Lynn Alcock received a call from the Red Cross to assist temporarily in the Health Equipment Loan Program, she immediately said yes. Nine years later, the former mental health counsellor still enjoys giving her time to help Yukoners. When asked what keeps her coming back, volunteer Cornelia Tegart says it is all about helping people.

In case you didn’t know, Halloween is a big deal, especially when you are four years old.
My son is at that age where you have more costume ideas than time. Or resources. Or your parent’s money.
 
While I navigate negotiating costume expectations vs reality; my wife and I also have to ensure we have a Halloween outing that is fun; (hopefully) memorable; and safe.
 
When it comes to safety and Halloween, some things are obvious but we often miss other aspects as we stockpile our candy in September.

Three years ago, I encountered my first winter in Canada and to this day I still remember the very first snowflake that fell on my hand. It was magical. 

However, my fascination quickly turned into horror as I found myself walking through 20 cm deep snow embraced by the minus 30°C temperature. This is how my home city, Winnipeg, jolted me into the realities of winter. Or as Winnipeggers called it, ‘Winterpeg’.

While the holidays can be an exciting time, it can also be a difficult time for some of us. Even for those surrounded by festivities, food and family, it can be a time when we feel alone, disconnected or isolated, for many reasons, which affects our sense of wellbeing and mental health. Here, we’ve gathered some information on stress, and tips for taking care of yourself and others. 

Over the past six month, the Red Cross has been working to improve healthcare in Cyclone Idai impacted Mozambique. Canadian Red Crosser Jenn Houtby recently returned from Mozambique, where she was able to take stock of just how much work has been accomplished over the last months.