July 28 2020 | Memo to Families PDF
re: New Visitor Guidelines

Dear Ongwanada families:

As referenced in my correspondence of July 16, 2020 the Ministry of Children and Community Social Services has modified congregate living visitor guidelines to allow visits indoors and essential overnight visits for supported individuals. All visits will continue to be arranged by contacting the appropriate Ongwanada Supervisor who will review the latest Visitor Agreement, and discuss with you any items you would like to bring.

Indoor / outdoor visits:
Indoor visits will be accommodated in designated rooms and locations either in the community residence if possible, or at the Ongwanada Resource Centre. Indoor and outdoor visits can be up to one hour but must be prescheduled. Food and gifts in original packaging or wipe-able containers are permitted.

Overnight visits:
Overnight visits will only be considered where such a visit is a vital part in maintaining the health, wellness and safety of the individual. Examples of such may include situations where a family member is seriously ill or palliative, or where the individual themselves is seriously ill. It should also be understood that individuals who leave their community residence for an overnight visit will be required to self-isolate for a period of fourteen days upon return. The organization has limited capacity to accommodate such self-isolation and in situations where it cannot be accommodated the individual will be required to remain with the family member they were visiting until such time as a suitable self-isolation site can be found.

Please understand that these measures are being taken to ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals supported by Ongwanada.

I appreciate your patience and understanding as we navigate our way through this unprecedented time.

Yours truly,

Alastair Lamb
CEO, Ongwanada