04/04/2025
The City of Peterborough Social Services division and Ontario Search and Rescue Volunteer Association (OSARVA) members are checking in on the City’s most vulnerable residents after last weekend’s ice storm that hit the area.
The City is actively tracking the power outage status of community housing providers. Prioritizing seniors, residents with disabilities and vulnerable residents, OSARVA members conduct door-to-door wellness checks and deliver food hampers.
“In times like these, the strength of our community shines through. Volunteers from the Ontario Search and Rescue Volunteer Association, City staff, and organizations like Kawartha Food Share have stepped up to ensure that our most vulnerable residents are safe, fed, and supported,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “Thank you to everyone who has given their time and energy to help those in need. Let’s all take a moment to check in on our neighbors, lend a hand where we can, and continue to care for one another as we recover from this storm.”
Food hampers are coordinated through Kawartha Food Share and Feed Ontario. Around 500 hamper boxes will be distributed within the next few days according to the City.
OSARVA members have also been providing support on warming buses and at the City’s warming centres, volunteering throughout the day and night alongside City social services staff.
Social Services staff have been operating out of the Healthy Planet Arena, providing referrals to residents looking for warmth, food and a space to charge their devices. The team has also been helping young children stay occupied and entertained while they are at warming centres.
With power outages continuing, the City encourages residents to check in on neighbours and loved ones.
