Five ways Canadians came together during COVID-19
There were some bright spots this year.
Photo courtesy CHD Living.
Well, friends, we made it.
We're in the final leg of 2020 and for many, it will be remembered as a year that challenged us like no other.
But during a period filled with isolation, Canadians found ways to come together to spread love and show support in a socially-distanced way.
Here are five examples, organized by date.
5. 'ADOPT A GRANDPARENT' INITIATIVE GOES VIRAL
In October 2019, the 'Adpot a Grandparent' campaign launched in the U.K., aimed at partnering volunteers with residents of U.K.-based long-term care homes.
Then the pandemic hit, forcing people indoors. That's when organizers took things virtual and global, allowing people to set up video conference calls and send in artwork, photos, and encouraging messages from every corner of the world.
4. CANADIANS SHOW THEIR SUPPORT FOR HEALTH CARE WORKERS
From the east coast to the west coast, the cheers were deafening in March as people took to their driveways and balconies to show their support for healthcare heroes.
In several cities, people gathered outside at a certain time to cheer in appreciation. Others have displayed 'thank you' signs on their properties.
And in Newfoundland, even the ships in the harbour took part, blasting on their horns as a way to show some love.
3. LENDING A HELPING HAND TO POSTAL WORKERS
At the start of the pandemic, postal workers were deemed an essential service, creating a precarious situation for employees who were happy to have a job, but nervous to be out in the community as lockdowns began.
Some postal workers interact with upwards of 900 doors, mailboxes, and handles a day.
Then, thanks to the viral social media post of Melanie Edwards, people began propping their mailboxes open to help limit the contact postal workers have to make with public spaces.
2. SNOW SCULPTURES
Some Canadians have put their artistic skills to use.
Examples can be found in Greenbryre, Saskatchewan. Local Mel Thompson recently made two large 'SNOVID' creatures for her neighbours to enjoy, and not long after, other snowy creations began popping up.
“I think it’s great. It feels like I’ve inspired some people to get out there and build some stuff. It’s really good to see," she said in an interview with Global News.
"People don’t know who creative they are, until they build something.”
1. HOLIDAY CHEER
Some Canadians are using the extra time around the house to decorate their homes with larger-than-life displays. Check out this impressive light show from Weather Network viewers Doug and Cindy McIntosh from London, Ontario.
They're collecting non-perishable items for the food bank as well.
In some communities, entire neighbourhoods are getting in on the fun as a way to cheer up families after months of social isolation.
