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Supporting each other from afar

The Henry Hype
Nouvelle-Logo-Viewpoint
Practicing self-isolation or being in quarantine can do a number on our mental health, and a lot of us are feeling lonely during these times.

When the orders started coming out to social distance ourselves from each other in order to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, I figured it would have a substantial impact on the mental health of many.

Some can’t go to work, leave the house, participate in sports or other activities, or even just interact with people you don’t live with face-to-face.

It's because of these measure, that seeing social media posts of communities coming together to help each other out has been lifting my spirits greatly. I’ve seen so many people doing what they can to bring a smile to other’s faces. Each gesture has been so unique and thoughtful that everyone who's taken the time to be involved in an initiative deserves applause.

Whether it's the teachers doing a parade around their students’ neighbourhoods, a group of volunteers arranging food and grocery deliveries to seniors or those at risk in the community, local businesses sending food to our first responders, organizations offering online videos for everyone to enjoy, or the municipalities offering some assistance with bills to those who may be financially strapped because they can't work.

It’s truly inspiring and goes to show that we aren’t alone because we have the amazing support of our communities around us.

When I moved to a rural area, I assumed being lonely and feeling isolated would just be part of where I was living. I didn’t see as many options for getting together like there were in the urban centre I grew up, and I figured people would stick to themselves.

After living here for almost two years, I realize I couldn’t have been more wrong.

Even when we weren’t dealing with COVID-19, the Bonnyville and Cold Lake communities have always shown their support when it’s needed. Whenever there’s a call for help, there’s always an overwhelming response by the people that call this area home.

I’ve conducted a number of interviews with people, charities, or businesses that have all reiterated the same message, ‘when we’re in need, people in Bonnyville/Cold Lake answer that call.’

It warms my heart, especially now that we need all the positive news and stories possible.

Have you seen someone going above and beyond lately? Email us at [email protected].

Robynne Henry, Bonnyville Nouvelle




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