We made the decision this week to declare a state of emergency in the Municipality of Meaford. While there is no need to panic, this situation is serious and unprecedented, and it is having a significant impact on our residents and businesses. We are committed to taking proactive measures to limit the spread of the virus and its effect on our community’s wellbeing.

We all have noted how rapidly changes are happening. We’re updated regularly by Public Health, and by the provincial and federal levels of government. Our Emergency Control Group meets several times a week and we’re staying in close contact with the Grey Bruce Health Unit, Grey County, and our neighbouring municipalities as the situation progresses.

We want to help you to stay informed as well. You can find the latest news, frequently asked questions, and information on Municipal services on our website at www.meaford.ca/covid19. You can also call 2-1-1, which is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for up-to-date information on our services, and how to access any other available community supports.

Once again I want to thank the volunteers and staff who are providing essential service to our community. Whether they are healthcare workers, operating the water plant, stocking the grocery store, manning the food bank, or they are dealing with roads and infrastructure, they are on the front line putting their own health and that of their families at risk. We all owe them a huge virtual hug. A lot has changed rapidly in our community, and that can be frustrating, but I urge everyone to show these dedicated workers kindness, patience, and of course proper social distancing as they continue to offer these essential services.

If you are looking to make a difference, our Golden Town Outreach Foodbank is accepting monetary donations at www.canadahelps.org to help support their efforts. If you would like to provide other assistance, please visit www.thedo.ca. This is a wonderful program run by the United Way of Bruce Grey, using their resources to connect willing volunteers with community members in need of assistance.

Our community is strong, resilient, and caring. We’ve seen amazing acts of kindness between friends and neighbours, and it reminds me – yet again – why I’m so proud to be a member of this wonderful community.

With the hope of Spring bringing sunshine and warm weather, I urge you all to stay concerned about this situation, but don’t be afraid. We are all in this together, supporting each other and focusing on the health and wellbeing of our community as we continue to practice social distancing, washing our hands frequently, and staying home while connecting remotely with family, friends, and neighbours. Stay well, physically and emotionally and know that by working through this together, we will emerge a stronger and more united community.

Mayor Barb Clumpus
Municipality of Meaford