As Ontario has called a state of emergency due to the COVID-19, we will be closing our services until at least April 6th.   This closure will include all workshops and counselling.  We are doing this to keep our clients, volunteers and staff as safe and healthy as possible and play our part in trying to flatten the curve. To reduce the chance of spreading germs that can cause the novel coronavirus, we ask that you refer to the Ottawa Public Health guidelines at www.ottawapublichealth.ca/coronavirus

The staff and Board at Serenity Renewal for Families takes the safety of our volunteers and clients very seriously: “The reality is that the outbreak is on its way. We cannot stop it, but we can slow it. And we need to slow it so that our healthcare systems do not become overwhelmed–as happened (and is still happening) in places like China and Italy. History and current research show that social distancing, especially in the early stages of a pandemic, is critical to slowing the spread. Although the risk may be small, we are taking it very seriously.” 

Therefore: If you are experiencing a mental health emergency please attend the emergency department at your local hospital.

To our Clients:  If you feel you are in need of support, please call any of the following numbers:

Distress Center Ottawa https://www.dcottawa.on.ca/24-7-distress-line/ or at  613-238-3311

Telehealth Ontario 1-866-797-0007

Mental Health Resources – www.Ementalhealth.ca

Kids Help Line at 1-800-668-6868   or text 686868

Youth Services Bureau 24 hour crisis line at  613-260-2360 

Parents’ Lifelines of Eastern Ontario at 613-321-3211

Parent Resource Centre – 613-565-2467

Ottawa Distress Center – 613-238-3311

Ottawa Public Health at 613-580-6744

 

As of this date some AA/NA meetings are occurring. Please contact the appropriate fellowship to confirm meetings are in fact occurring without interruption while respecting social distancing.

Ottawa AA intergroup 613 237-6000 Friends of Bill W

Narcotics Anonymous http://ottawana.org/meet.html

 

Staying informed on the Novel Coronavirus

The City has created this webpage in order to help residents get access to the most up to date official announcements on behalf of the City of Ottawa.

 In addition, Ottawa Public Health’s Novel Coronavirus web page provides information and updates to residents and contains answers to many frequently asked questions. OPH has also created a webpage for health professionals to provide updates for physicians and the health care sector, as well as a page for workplaces. Here are more tips on how to stop the spread of germs including the flu and the novel coronavirus.

 The websites above are updated regularly with the most current information, including steps residents can take to protect themselves and their families. 

 

If you are feeling nervous about all of this information, rest assured our public health teams are doing everything they can to keep the community healthy and to keep lines of communication open. Follow public health guidelines for keeping yourself healthy, follow @OttawaHealth on social media and online for the most up-to-date information, and stay home if you are not feeling well. 

 

Please stay safe!