COVID-19 Response Working Groups
The City has established working groups to focus on the various important components of our local and operational response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The actions of the working groups are essential to address the issues with the pandemic.
Child Care Working Group
The City of New Westminster has established a Child care Working Group which will advise on possible pandemic response efforts related to local child care closures, with a particular focus on external and internal essential service workers who require child care services to report to work.The working group comprises of interdepartmental City staff and representatives from various provincial ministries. The key responsibilities of the working group are outlined in the Terms of Reference.
This working group meets on a weekly basis and there may be occasions where special meetings are scheduled as required.
For questions and more information, please contact the working group lead, Renee Chadwick at or 604.525.7032.
Information and Resources
Here you will find regularly updated information and resources regarding child care services.Key Child Care Funding Supports Resources
Child Care Key Agency Resources
YMCA Child Care Resource and Referral Satellite Location
COVID-19 Parenting Resources
Parenting in Crowded Homes and Communities
Family Budgeting in Times of Financial Stress
Proclamations
Child Care Provider Appreciation Day - May 20
Child Care Appreciation Month - May
At-Risk and Vulnerable Populations Working Group
The City of New Westminster has established the COVID-19 At-Risk and Vulnerable Populations Working Group which will focus advising response efforts related to at-risk and vulnerable populations.At-risk and vulnerable populations include but are not limited to families, individuals, and households who are dealing with one or more of the following situations:
- abusive relationships, including partner
- food insecurity
- homelessness, and precarious, or unstable living arrangements (e.g., couch surfing)
- mental health and substance misuse issues
- precarious or uncertain immigration status
- social isolation, with limited or no support systems
The working group comprises government, faith, and non-profit representatives. The key responsibilities of the working group are outlined in the Terms of Reference (create link to TOR).
The working group will meet on a weekly basis and there may be occasions when special meetings are required.
Information and Resources – Community Members
Here you will find regularly updated information on resources such as food and meal programs, drop-in and shelters, and essential health and medical services.Information and Resources – Service Providers
Here you will find regularly updated information and resources for faith and non-profit organizations serving at-risk and vulnerable populations.Lookout Housing and Health Pandemic Plan Policy
COVID-19 Resources for VCH Staff and Community Partners Working with Vulnerable Populations
Staff Contacts and Responsibilities [PDF] - 46KB
Seniors and Persons with Disabilities Working Group
The City of New Westminster has established the COVID-19 Seniors and Persons with Disabilities Working Group which will focus advising response efforts related to seniors and persons with disabilities.The City of New Westminster has established the COVID-19 Seniors and Persons with Disabilities Working Group which will focus advising response efforts related to seniors and persons with disabilities.
These populations may be dealing with one or more of the following conditions or situations:
- anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues
- compromised immune systems or underlying health conditions, possibly requiring prescription drugs or medications
- cultural or language barriers
- fixed or low incomes
- food insecurity or specialized diets (e.g., diabetes)
- limited mobility and reliance on a mobility device or public transit
- limited or no support networks
- loneliness or social isolation
The working group comprises government, faith, and non-profit representatives. The key responsibilities of the working group are outlined in the Terms of Reference (create link to TOR).
The working group will meet on a weekly basis and there may be occasions when special meetings are required.
Information and Resources – Community Members
Here you will find regularly updated information on resources such as food and meal programs, drop-in and shelters, and essential health and medical services.Information and Resources – Service Providers
Here you will find regularly updated information and resources for faith and non-profit organizations serving seniors and persons with disabilities.Lookout Housing and Health Pandemic Plan Policy
COVID-19 Resources for VCH Staff and Community Partners Working with Vulnerable Populations