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By Josh Ryan

lending a hand

Local residents offer essentials delivery in wake of COVID-19

Mar 16, 2020 | 5:00 PM

A local Battlefords resident is reaching out to those who may need help while the government encourages more social distancing during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Jacqueline Reynolds and a group of friends are offering to help deliver essential items to seniors and those with comprised immune systems. Reynolds said many of these residents don’t have anyone that can drive to pick up food, prescriptions and more from local stores and pharmacies.

“We wanna make sure that they have the ability to have their groceries delivered to them,” she said. “That they have their medications available to them.”

Reynolds said having the service available may relieve some stress for those stranded at home or hesitant to venture out in public.

In a tweet, Canada’s chief public health officer, Dr. Theresa Tam said social distancing to flatten the curve of the virus is about increasing physical distance to avoid close contact that could spread COVID-19, but it shouldn’t mean isolation and loneliness.

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“Look for ways to keep their spirits up and help ensure they have needed supplies, like food and medicine, on hand #protectthevulnerable #COVID19,” she tweeted.

Reynolds’ decision to help was strongly influenced by her daughter, who has a comprised immune system.

“She is trying to keep herself as healthy as possible and the way for her to do that was to just stay home. So, that helped to inspire me to help others who may be in a similar situation,” she said.

Reynolds has received several requests already since making a Facebook post over the weekend and expects more to come this week. The items will be delivered so long as they are already purchased, as there will be no exchanging of money.

“Some people who have offered [to help] aren’t necessarily working themselves… and we’ll provide services for as long as it’s needed until after this passes.”

The Government of Saskatchewan announced further measures on Monday to combat the spread of the virus, including limiting visitation at hospitals, long term care, personal care and group homes to essential visitors only. This means immediate family who are there for compassionate reasons.

Seniors, or those with comprised immune systems, who would like assistance can contact Reynolds at 306-481-6690.

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josh.ryan@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @JoshRyanSports