People who need to travel away from home for cancer treatment can once again rely on Canadian Cancer Society (CCS) lodges for comfort and support. Most of the lodges had been closed at the outset of the pandemic but reopened earlier this month with precautions in place to protect the well-being and safety of people affected by cancer including our clients and their caregivers, as well as our communities of supporters, volunteers and staff.
We were very pleased to welcome back guests and bring together the caring community that creates the special home away from home environment that people appreciate,” says Khairun Jivani, Vice President, Cancer Support, Camps & Lodges. “Our staff and volunteers are enthusiastic about moving forward and opening our doors again allowed us to continue supporting people affected by cancer while protecting the health, well-being and safety of our lodge community.
CCS provides lodges in BC, Quebec, Newfoundland and Nova Scotia. Since April 13, the lodge in Quebec has been operated by the provincial government but that has now transitioned back to CCS.
Based on guidelines from public health, we made a few updates at the lodges and CCS staff continue to be on hand to make sure things run smoothly and safely:
- We introduced enhanced cleaning and hygiene protocols in all lodges.
- We created resources and instructions for our workforce and our clients to ensure a high level of hygiene is maintained and risk of exposure is reduced. We provided training to volunteers on these procedures.
- Personal Protective Equipment and thermometers were provided to clients and our workforce.
- Plexiglass barriers have been installed in reception areas.
- We moved to a non-shared room structure unless a client is with a caregiver. This ensures every client/family has their own private room and bathroom.
- A screening process has been implemented for anyone entering and staying at the lodge.
- We enhanced food safety measures by eliminating buffet-style meals. All snacks and meals are served individually and wrapped.
- Activities and support programs at the lodge, including Wig and Breast Prosthesis services, as well as the Travel Treatment Fund and Volunteer Drivers Program remain suspended until further notice.
Did you know you can help support our lodges by giving the gift of a Cozy Bed and Blanket to one of our lodge guests? Your gift provides a comfortable bed and a cozy blanket to a person living with cancer during their stay at a CCS lodge while they receive treatment.