Your social distancing reminder…

…is an online Family Support Institute (FSI) event that takes place every Monday at 6:30 pm on Zoom! Check out RECIPE FOR RESPITE and connect with others safely online!

What’s your Recipe for Respite? COVID is still here. And families need a break to stay safe and strong. We’re interested in learning about and sharing what families are already doing to get a break, as well as understanding the unique ingredients still needed to make respite a reality. Please join our discussion circle about how we can work together for families and their loved ones to have a safe and helpful break from the significant and daily stresses going on right now.

Free Planning Tool – myBooklet BC

The Family Support Institute (FSI) is holding an information session on February 16th at 6:30 pm about how to use a free online planning tool called myBooklet BC. This tool – myBooklet BC – can be used to store and share a personalized information booklet full of strengths, goals, gifts, and more…consider participating if you want to:

  • learn the basic functions of myBooklet BC
  • learn tips to make using myBooklet BC easier (like formatting information)
  • learn many different ways myBooklet can be used for the individual’s benefit

VIDEO: Transit Training

Hey everyone, the City of Kelowna has released an on-demand video that helps viewers learn how to take transit within the Kelowna Regional Transit System (Lake Country to Peachland). It covers how to access and use fares, board and ride the bus, read schedules and use trip planning tools. You can access the free video by filling out an online registration form at smartTRIPS.ca.  Registration ensures their staff can provide essential additional resources and a complimentary transit fare product.

Here is some more information from the City:

The video is part of a suite of public education materials created for the City’s pilot Transit Travel Training Program. Offered by the City of Kelowna in partnership with BC Transit and Central Okanagan Public Schools, the program is made possible with grant funding provided by the BC Ministry of Health. The pilot aims to test a program delivery model to reduce barriers that youth and older adults may face in taking transit. 

For more information about the program, visit smartTRIPS.ca, email events@smartTRIPS.ca or call 1-800-469-7830. 


Mental Health Self-Help Booklet series…

If you need resources for those you support, check out this series of self-help booklets designed to provide people with an opportunity to talk through feelings, and to make plans for staying well. They are available through H-CARRD (Health Care Access Research and Developmental Disabilities) on their website.

The booklets cover a number of topics, including:

  • Coronavirus
  • Feeling anxious about Coronavirus
  • Feeling down
  • Exercise and staying active
  • Sleep
  • Problem solving

The booklets can all be used with support from family members, friends, staff and health care professionals.

Fear, stress, and worry…

…are all normal things to experience in a crisis, like COVID-19. The Government of Canada is reminding people that it’s normal to feel sad, stressed, confused, scared or worried. Everyone reacts differently; this can look like:

  • Boredom and helplessness.
  • Concern or fear for your children, family and friends.
  • Constant worry about your work or finances.
  • Feelings of exclusion and loneliness.

Here is a Government of Canada website with a list of ways to help take care of yourself.

Accessibility