CEO COVID Update: Virtual Offices

COVID-19

Dear Foundation Friends,

Mister Rogers said that when he was a boy and would see scary things in the news, his mother would say to him: “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” During this time of unprecedented crisis, we don’t need to look far to see them. Health care providers, from right here on campus, to across our province, country and around the world, are selflessly stepping up to help the people who need it most. All of them—our “helpers”.

As a Foundation, we must do our small part to help as well. As global concerns surrounding COVID-19 continue to grow, we are taking proactive steps to practice “social distancing” and prioritize the health and safety of our community, including our staff, donors, supporters, and the kids, families and front-line staff on our hospital campus.

We’re here for you through our virtual offices

Starting March 17, 2020, Foundation staff will work remotely from home. While our physical office will be closed until further notice, our Foundation team is still here to support you.

• You can email us at info@bcchf.ca, and your inquiry will be directed to the appropriate team;
• You can call and speak to a live operator at 778-655-9858, Mondays through Fridays, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

During this transition, we thank you for your patience as we adapt to a new working environment. There may be some delays in responding to voicemail messages and donation receipts may take a bit longer than usual.

We understand that you may also have questions regarding Foundation plans for the near future. This is an unprecedented situation for all of us, but rest assured, it is a priority for us to determine next steps and get back to you.

Our events will resume when the time is right

All in-person Foundation events from now through mid-May have been postponed. We are in the process of assessing events scheduled from the end of May onwards. In the meantime, we are working on devising new ways to engage our passionate communities online who want to continue to support the work we do.

You’ve been one of our most important “helpers”

At this crucial time, it is evident that the state of our healthcare system is more vital than ever and that in the coming weeks, it will be challenged. But we take great comfort in knowing that because of the support you have provided, you have helped BC Children’s Hospital be in the best possible position to continue providing critical care for BC’s kids. Your help has enabled them to help, and for that, we are profoundly grateful.

Lastly, while advice on ways to stay healthy and safe in this environment seem to be everywhere these days, please do take care and remind yourself of these healthy practices. You can also find more information or updates on COVID-19 at this link.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Teri Nicholas, MSW, RSW
President and CEO
BC Children’s Hospital Foundation