DIDSBURY - Representatives from more than 20 Didsbury organizations, groups, churches, clubs and others took part in a virtual town hall on Feb. 24.
The two-hour event was held to gather information and input on how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the community.
Town council hosted the meeting. Groups were given five minutes to tell their respective stories.
Those taking part included representatives from the cadets, minor soccer, minor baseball, curling, service clubs, minor hockey, minor lacrosse, church groups, art groups, FCSS and others.
Olds-Didsbury-Three Hills UCP MLA Nathan Cooper also spoke during the event.
Sheree Andrews, with the Essentials For Our Community support organization, said the pandemic has caused many challenges for individuals and families.
“We are seeing a lot of those bigger families coming in, people who are out of savings and they are just not able to live on (Employment Insurance) anymore,” said Andrews. “We are seeing a huge need for low cost housing in our community. That is an area that we just don’t have enough housing for.
“There are so many people that don’t have access to computers so how do they apply for government things? A portion of our community is unable to access the help and resources. The marginalized part of our community is definitely suffering with all the lockdowns.”
Didsbury Municipal Library representative Monique Fiedler said although the facility has been closed for periods during the pandemic, services are still available for those in need.
“We can still give them access to resources, especially if you are looking for mental health resources, and more of those non-fiction resources that would really help you at this time. We continue to lend our Chrome books and laptops, and use of Wi-Fi that extends to the front parking lot,” said Fiedler.
Dwayne Thomas with the 3025 Didsbury Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corp said the pandemic has created challenges in terms of training and other activities.
“We’ve had some online training,” he said. “The physical aspect is no longer there. It’s hard to motivate and it’s getting more difficult. Fundraising is going to be a challenge. We are doing OK but we’d love to get back in person.”
Sports team representatives all spoke about the pandemic forcing the early end to seasons and the hope that things will return to normal soon.
Church representatives, service groups and others also discussed the impact limited attendance rules and facility closures have placed on their operations.
MLA Cooper said the efforts of the local groups have been vital to the well-being of residents.
“At the end of the day building strong communities is super important,” said Cooper. “Thank you for everything you do. I know the pandemic has dramatically impacted the lives of all of you. I appreciate your resilience.”
Town councillors thanked community groups for providing valuable information, comments that the town will be forwarding to government.
Coun. Curt Engel said he was “humbled and moved” by the stories told by the community representatives.
“Listening to the stories tonight and listening to a community that is truly struggling means a lot. The optimism is extremely inspirational. I want to congratulate you all on your efforts and your creativity. I’ve learned tonight that we truly are all in this together,” said Engel.
Mayor Rhonda Hunter also commended the community organizations for their efforts during the crisis.
“We do so much admire all of your resiliency and all that you are doing,” said Hunter. “It’s your groups that are the very fabric of our community.”
A second town hall, this one involving businesses, is scheduled for March 3.
