Making Every Minute Count: Supporting the Cobourg and Port Hope Communities

Staying connected with your community is an important part of good mental health. Many people find themselves alone and isolated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Majors Michael and Carolyn Simpson who oversee The Salvation Army in Cobourg and Port Hope are finding positive ways to reach out to their church members and the community during this difficult time.

Majors Michael and Carolyn have created a weekly newsletter and a calendar with daily scripture reading from the Psalms, topics for prayer and practical ways to stay engaged during a time of physical distancing. A link to a video of the Sunday worship lead by The Salvation Army’s national leaders is also posted each week to their Facebook page.

“We are encouraging people to pray for first responders, essential workers and others,” says Major Carolyn. “There are also different actionable and fun things on each calendar day, such as writing a thank you letter to someone who means a lot to you, or making a family recipe.”

Major Carolyn, who recently received her Masters in Counselling Psychology, has always been passionate about mental health and was sensitive to how social distancing and staying at home could impact members of the community who are struggling with mental health issues.

“At this point in time, many of the essential opportunities for those with mental illness, such as volunteering or gathering with friends, are unavailable for people due to COVID-19.” Says Major Carolyn, who has created ‘Mental Health Minute’ videos that are shared with the community.  “I wanted to do the mental health minutes to connect a Christian viewpoint by utilizing scripture verses and Biblical insights as well as helpful techniques for the management of things like anxiety and depression,” says Major Carolyn.

Additional community supports include partnerships with local churches and the City of Cobourg to provide shelter and food items for the most vulnerable.  “The city has opened up one of the high school gyms for people who need a place to stay. They are provided a hot supper in the evening, and a continental breakfast in the morning. The bagged lunch is provided by The Salvation Army and other churches in the area,” explains Major Michael.

The Salvation Army in Cobourg and The Salvation Army in Port Hope are operating their Food Banks through booked appointments. “You can leave your cell phone number and we will text you when the food hamper is ready to be picked up,” says Major Michael. Hampers are also delivered to those who are most vulnerable or who are unable to pick up one in person.

Visit The Salvation Army in Cobourg’s Facebook Page to view the Mental Health Minute videos and other resources. Please call 905-373-9440 for further assistance. If you would like to support the work of The Salvation Army please visit http://www.salvationarmy.ca or call 1-800-SAL-ARMY.

By: Heather Prystanski