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Could a simple phone call be the cure for loneliness? Loneliness is of course a complex state of being, but many isolated Canadians are finding reprieve from the often overwhelming feeling through friendly phone calls. Although one phone call may not offer a cure, participants in the Canadian Red Cross Friendly Call Program are finding it does open the door to conversation, friendship, and mutual respect. 

Recognizing the increased need for mental health support during the pandemic, Art Not Shame successfully applied to the Government of Canada’s Emergency Community Support Fund administered by the Canadian Red Cross and launched “The Mural Project: Art in Hard Times” in the summer of 2020.

Colder temperatures. Less light. Rain, snow. It can sometimes be difficult to stay cheery during the winter in a country like ours! Some Canadians enjoy the season because it gives them a good excuse - if not forces them - to do something that we tend to neglect: to take time out for ourselves, and ourselves alone.

WARNING: This story includes mention of a death by suicide.

Ayden Walter is a registered nurse. She’s a newcomer to Regina and was looking to make connections in her community when she discovered the Friendly Phone program on the Canadian Red Cross website.

Planning for the holidays during a pandemic, while also trying to be safe and managing COVID-19 fatigue can be challenging for all of us. Coping with a Health Emergency: A Guide for the Holidays includes suggestions and helpful tips that may make the holidays less stressful for you

Bored and isolated, who hasn’t struggled with those feelings in the last nine months? And then a package arrives in your community. It’s filled with stress relief strategies, positive messages, and a fun-filled afternoon of creation and expression. The Canadian Red Cross really knows how to pack a box!

Since the COVID-19 pandemic was declared, mental health has been at the forefront as the disruption to regular life and routines has many people feeling trapped and isolated in their own home. In southwestern Nova Scotia, the Shelburne County Mental Health & Wellness Association is helping by offering a Warm Line for people in distress.

MAC is a non-profit organization based out of Burnaby, British Columbia, that aims to empower people to explore their artistic potential while on their journey to mental health wellness. Like many organizations across the country, My Artist’s Corner has not been immune to the impact of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.