Dear Editor:
The pandemic has turned the charitable industry completely upside down.
At a time when we most need mental health and community services, our organizations are least able to provide them. Canadian donations have decreased by 12% each year since the start of the pandemic – and at Compass Community Services, we’re feeling the pinch.
Our team works hard to reduce the impacts of isolation, job stress, family challenges, and more.
Thinking of ending your life? Worried about a loved elder and need someone to check up on them? We have a telephone support line for you. Pick up the phone any day of the week and you’ll hear the kind voice of one of our trained volunteers, ready to lend an ear and a helping hand.
We are doing everything we can to support our community. In fact, in 2022, our telephone support staff made over 30,000 contacts (up from 2,634 contacts in 2019) with people in need from Guelph, north Wellington, and the surrounding areas. I’m so proud of our team.
Despite this, I’m worried that we won’t be able to provide the same hours of service next year. Suicidal ideation doesn’t stop at 5pm.
Every week, I hear a story of how one of our phone line volunteers diverted a suicide attempt, connected a queer youth to critical resources, or reminded a senior to take their life-saving medication. With your help, we can continue our vital work.
You can make a difference in our community.
Please visit our Canada Helps page.
Because everyone needs a little help now and then.
Joanne Young Evans,
Executive director, Compass Community Services