How Prince Edward County is meeting the worst public health crisis in a century will be the topic of a public webinar organized and hosted by The County Foundation later this month.
Not since the 1918 influenza pandemic infected an estimated 500 million people and caused at least 50 million deaths, has the entire world’s population found itself at severe mortal risk at the same time.
Here in Prince Edward County, The County Foundation was engaged by The County of Prince Edward to report on the social and economic impact of COVID-19 as well as community response. From March 20, 2020 to March 31, 2021, 55 individuals who represent 44 community and regional organizations provided vital information about how the pandemic continues to challenge and change everything. Statistical data was also gathered from national, provincial and municipal sources.
Beyond the medical impact, “Meeting the COVID-19 Challenge: Social impact and response in Prince Edward County” is a report that documents the very human, economic and social crisis that we all continue to deal with. The “Meeting the COVID-19 Challenge” report and executive summary are available at thecountyfoundation.ca/covidreport.
Although the pandemic affects everyone, the health, social and economic impacts of the virus are being disproportionately felt by vulnerable populations. As COVID-19 transforms the economy, health care, workplaces, education, travel and recreation, societal norms and more, it is also a catalyst for change.
The pandemic has inspired collaboration and common goals as well as broken down organizational barriers within the charitable sector. Non-profits and businesses alike are creatively adapting and using technology to increase the efficiency of their service delivery and operations. Individuals, groups and organizations are responding with resilience, creativity and reinvention.
Everyone is invited to learn first-hand about the multiple ways in which people are responding and adapting to the pandemic. The County Foundation is hosting a public webinar on Tuesday, May 18, 2021 at 9:00 am on Zoom.
Mayor Steve Ferguson will make opening remarks about the COVID-19 Report and be joined by Brian Beiles, President, The County Foundation. To RSVP for May 18, please visit thecountyfoundation.ca/covidreport and click on the SIGN UP button. You will receive a link to the Zoom webinar a few days prior to May 18.
As we all continue to learn from this unprecedented experience, thoughtful planning can help everyone in Prince Edward County prepare for the challenges that lie ahead.
-Staff