Gemilut Chesed גמילות חסד

March 25, 2020

Dear Or Shalom Community,

Since we’ve been warned to distance ourselves from others in order to stay healthy and ensure our province’s medical capacity, many of us may be feeling isolated, stressed, and in need of some support. These challenging times, as well as other life events, may be affecting our lives and how we live in community.

Or Shalom is a caring community. Members spontaneously connect with each other in difficult as well as joyous times, asking for and offering support to each other. As a part of our culture of caring, Gemilut Chesed is also here to help.

Our Gemilut Chesed volunteers are ready and willing to help support you through difficult days. Please contact one of us to arrange a volunteer helper. They can assist you in these areas:

  • Provide technical support for online communications (Skype, Zoom, etc.)
  • Make phone or video calls to check-in, chat, or just listen
  • Run errands (e.g., pick up prescriptions)
  • Shop for groceries
  • Pick up pet supplies, walk your dog, even fill your outdoor bird feeder!

To safeguard everyone’s health, volunteers will follow the most current official health advisories. We will let members know if there are changes to what and how supports are offered.

Please reach out to one of us and we will get back to you.

Fran Ritch – franritch@shaw.ca

Harriett Lemer – hlemer@lemer.ca

Ann Daskal – rocknrose@telus.net

Pat Gill – patgill@telus.net

And if you would like to join our volunteer teams, and aren’t already on our lists, please click here for the volunteer form.

With shalom to one and all,

Your Gemilut Chesed Working Group

These websites will have the most up-to-date information on COVID-19:

World Health Organization

Health Link BC

Public Health Agency of Canada

BC Centre for Disease Control: Information one Novel Coronavirus


If you are ill, had an accident, a crisis, or know an Or Shalom member in one of these situations, please notify the shul (604-872-1614) so that a committee member can be in touch.