INFORMATION PACKAGE: COVID 19-RRFs

Rainy River First Nations has declared a State of Emergency, effective immediately.

 

It is important to emphasize that there continues to be no reported cases of COVID-19 among Rainy River First Nations members.

 

This declaration provides us with the additional flexibility and resources to effectively support the preventative measures currently in place within the community and ensures that essential staff will be available to help our members in their time of need.

 

I would like to commend all of our Nation’s staff and volunteers who continue to implement our Emergency Response Action Plan. To those staff who are home taking care of their family, I ask that you continue to follow the pandemic recommendations provided on our community website and Facebook page.

 

This declaration also gives us the ability to act decisively as the situation evolves over the coming weeks and months.

 

Our leadership understands the financial burden this crisis is putting on our members. In response Chief and Council has directed the July solar payment be distributed as soon as possible. We are also waiving restrictions for members with amounts owing to the Nation. For this payment, all members will get their cheque regardless of arrears. We are also looking into options for providing additional financial assistance to on and off reserve band members. We will keep you informed of all new developments.

 

Finally, I would like to remind members of the bear teaching, which is especially relevant during this crisis. Every year, bear goes into hibernation, which helps take the pressure off scarce food supplies for everyone. Hibernation is a time to conserve health and to reflect. It is a time of renewal and change. It is not intended to be a time of anxiety and fear.

 

Today, the world is entering a period of hibernation. This is unfamiliar territory for us all. Embrace the opportunities that present themselves during this time. Be the bear. Stay home. Reconnect with your children. Rest. Keep your immune system strong. And know you are doing this for something much bigger than yourself.

 

Be safe. Be strong.

 

Chi Miigwech

 

Chief Robin McGinnis