September has brought with it a lot of challenges and change this year because of the pandemic. It’s a very different back-to-school season for families. And we’re all keeping a close eye on measures like restrictions on the size of gatherings, that are mandated by the Province of Ontario in consultation with health authorities. We hope you’re staying safe.
Have Your Say
The City of London is testing a new website, and wants input from residents. Visit London.ca to have a look. The redesigned website will be launched on October, 7 2020. But before that, the city is asking residents for their opinion. The idea behind the redesign is to make the new website easier to navigate with better features for updating information. By visiting the City of London website, you can either go to a prototype of the new version or access the current website.
COVID & City of London Services
Effective September 21, the City of London began providing in-person services to people who may have found it difficult to have their needs met via alternative methods such as by phone or online as a result of COVID. This pertains to child care, recreation and social service supports. Front counter service is available at specific locations throughout the city, Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Please note that safety measures are in place to prevent the spread of COVID. For a list of services and locations, please visit the City of London website.
Rail Safety Week
Did you know that accidents at railway crossings claim the lives of more than 2,100 people in Canada and the U.S. each year? This September, London Police participated in “Operation Clear Track”. It’s a yearly event that brings together law enforcement agencies to remind people of the dangers of ignoring safety rules around railway tracks and crossings. "Railway tracks have the potential to be dangerous places", says Sergeant Sean Harding of the London Police Service, Traffic Management Unit. "Whether you are a motorist, cyclist or pedestrian - do not trespass on railway tracks or property. Cross only at designated locations and when crossing the tracks - pay attention, and do so safely." Due to COVID, the focus this year has been on spreading the message digitally. Visit stoptracktragedies.ca and operationlifesaver.ca for more information.
COVID Fraud
The news media has been full of stories of frau related to COVID since the pandemic began. According to the Canadian Anti Fraud Centre, $5.6 million was lost to COVID-19 fraud between March 6, 2020 and August 31, 2020. This month, Waterloo Regional police arrested a woman in connection with a scam involving the online sale of puppies.To help you understand more about COVID and fraud, as well as fraud in general, the Anti Fraud Centre has a website with updated information and safety tips. Visit the Canadian Anti Fraud Centre here.
Also In the News…..
You may have seen in the news this month a disturbing incident in Nanaimo B.C. in which a family returned from vacation to find that someone had been living in their home. The CBC reports on the case in: He Was In Our Kids Beds. One item of note in the CBC report is a quote from Nanaimo RCMP Constable Gary O’Brien. "The best security is having neighbours looking after your home. That is the best."
Our New Website is Here!
If you've visited nwlondon.ca recently, then you've seen our new design! With COVID-19, we need to transition to digital communications, and our new website has great new information for all of our members. We welcome your feedback, so be sure to e-mail info@nwlondon.ca and let us know what you think!
NWL Needs Your Support
COVID-19 has presented challenges for many non-profits, and we are no exception. In order to help sustain NWL, we have created a new tier of membership: NWL Plus. This membership will offer exclusive resources, as well as special discounts and perks from local businesses who are part of our new My Business Neighbourhood Program. Membership is only $25 a year and is tax deductible. You can learn more here.
Until next month, we hope that you stay safe & healthy.
Sincerely,
The NWL Team.