Covid 19 continues to disrupt our routines. BC casinos and gaming centres remain closed as per public health order closures. Consequently, online gambling platforms have experienced an increase in play. This shift may worsen risk factors including social isolation and increased substance use as well as an increase in use of credit to gamble. The Responsible & Problem Gambling Program remains committed to serving the people of BC 24/7. Our support services include outreach, education, and counselling services by phone, text, web chat, or in person, all of which are FREE of charge. We’re here for you, should gambling take a harmful turn.

Get the care you need, when and where you need it, with homemaking help from CBI Home Health. The patient’s environment can make a big difference in helping to ensure improved health outcomes — with optimal independence leading to optimal results. We work with individuals of all ages and abilities in their most appropriate residential setting. Whether it’s in your home, an assisted-living facility or a long-term care environment, we provide the homemaking help you and your loved ones may need. That includes help with light housekeeping and meal preparation; the everyday tasks that make all the difference to your comfort, wellbeing and the smooth running of your household.

Since 1982, The Great Nanaimo Toy Drive has been making sure that every child in Nanaimo has a new toy to unwrap on Christmas morning. With Covid-19, this year is a little more challenging but individuals, families, groups and businesses in Nanaimo, with the help of over 100 volunteers, will make it happen. You can help by purchasing a toy or gift (no stuffies or electronics due to Covid regulations) for a child aged newborn to 16 and dropping it at one of the many drop off locations listed on their website. Financial donations can be made through Canada Helps.

Have you been missing your aquafit, length swimming, skating, working out in the gym or playing a game of badminton at Oliver Woods? Parks, Recreation and Culture is again offering a variety of drop-in sessions after shutting down due to the pandemic. Pre-register (up to 72 hours in advance) for your swimming, skating, weight room, gymnasium sports and pottery sessions by going online to recreation.nanaimo.ca or by calling us at 250-756-5200. Schedules for these activities are available in PDF format on our website. We are happy to welcome you back and hope to see you soon!

With all that is happening in the world today, we may find ourselves thinking about our final plans. When you die, where would you like your final resting place to be? With your partner? With your parents or children? If you are like most, you have not yet made up your mind. This is a conversation that should take place sooner rather than later. If your plans have been made, you want to ensure that they are up-to-date. These days, many Canadians are moving farther away, living longer and changing family traditions. This reinforces the need to review and update your end-of-life plans every five-to-ten years or so, or when major life events happen.