Humanitarian Support During COVID-19
Mission-Critical Humanitarian Support During COVID-19 In 2021 and through 2022, the Federal Government entrusted St. John Ambulance BCY with two crucial COVID-19 projects, recognizing our organization’s expertise and commitment to serving Canadian communities. These mission-critical initiatives involved collaborating with Immigrant Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and partnering with the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), focusing on supporting asylum seekers and returning Canadians, respectively.The heart of both programs lay in providing vital first aid, medical support, and day-to-day care during the mandatory 14-day quarantine period at the Kelowna and Surrey quarantine sites in British Columbia. These individuals, whether asylum seekers or returning Canadians, lacked the necessary support networks to meet the quarantine requirements upon entry or reentry to Canada. Ready to deploy at a moment’s notice throughout the year, our volunteers demonstrated their readiness and flexibility, often with little more than 24 hours’ notice. As they’ve done for over a century across BC, and in the Yukon, St. John Ambulance volunteers rose to the occasion, offering their assistance, expertise, and compassionate care. Their willingness to step up and provide critical support showcases their extraordinary commitment to serving those in need. As vaccination rates increased and COVID-19 cases subsided, the need for quarantine sites diminished. In late September 2022, after multiple extensions, the federal government made the decision to close the sites and conclude the contracts. The opportunity to lead these critical programs speaks volumes about the trust placed in St. John Ambulance BCY. Our volunteers have made an indelible impact, leaving a legacy of compassion, expertise, and unwavering commitment. We are proud to have been at the forefront, serving our communities and playing a pivotal role in the fight against COVID-19. Back Read More Youth Cadets Dedicate over 19,000 Volunteer Hours to Serve and Lead Read More Mission-Critical: Humanitarian Support During COVID-19 Read More 20% More Volunteers giving back to our communities Read More Therapy Dog Teams Bring Comfort to Community Read More Transforming Lives, Strengthening Communities Read More Empowering Change Read More St. John Ambulance: A Lifeline during COVID-19 Read More
St. John Ambulance’s Lifeline during COVID-19 Quarantine [#719]
St. John Ambulance: A Lifeline during COVID-19 Amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, St. John Ambulance stepped forward to provide a lifeline of compassion and care to 51 asylum seekers entering Canada. These individuals, compelled to quarantine for 14 days, found themselves in a foreign land with no family or network to lean on. In this critical moment, St. John Ambulance became their steadfast support system, creating a profound impact on their lives. By extending a helping hand and offering medical and day-to-day support, St. John Ambulance became a beacon of hope for these 51 asylum seekers. Our dedicated team ensured their physical well-being, addressing any health concerns that arose during the quarantine period. From monitoring vital signs to administering medications, we provided the necessary medical assistance to ease their anxieties and ensure their safety. Beyond medical care, we also recognized the importance of emotional support and human connection. Our volunteers became companions, offering a listening ear and a comforting presence during this isolating time. Whether it was a simple conversation, a shared meal, or assistance with daily tasks, we fostered a sense of belonging and provided reassurance that they were not alone in their journey. The impact of St. John Ambulance’s support was profound. For these 51 asylum seekers, our presence provided more than just medical assistance; it offered a lifeline of care and compassion. Through our actions, we not only helped them navigate the challenges of quarantine but also instilled a sense of resilience, hope, and trust in their new homeland. Back Read More Humanitarian Support During COVID-19 Read More St. John Ambulance’s Lifeline during COVID-19 Quarantine – Duplicate – [#719] Read More Youth Cadets Dedicate over 19,000 Volunteer Hours to Serve and Lead Read More Mission-Critical: Humanitarian Support During COVID-19 Read More 20% More Volunteers giving back to our communities Read More Therapy Dog Teams Bring Comfort to Community Read More Transforming Lives, Strengthening Communities Read More Empowering Change Read More
Determined Response by New Westminster Police Officers Prevents Tragedy
Please note that portions of these stories contain graphic detail that some may find unsettling. Determined Response by New Westminster Police Officers Prevents Tragedy In a remarkable display of dedication and swift action, the New Westminster Police Department demonstrated their life-saving capabilities on August 23rd, 2021. Responding to a report of a suspicious circumstance, Sergeant Jason Gelderman and Constables VJ Roh and Sander Dynes arrived at the scene on 6th Avenue in New Westminster. They were confronted with a distressing sight—a large pool of blood outside a gas station. Constable Roh, conducting area patrols, soon discovered a 65-year-old man in an electric wheelchair a few blocks away. To their surprise, the man was completely unaware of the severity of his situation despite suffering from several medical conditions. Realizing the urgent need for intervention, the officers sprang into action. Constable Roh uncovered a life-threatening wound on the man’s left shin, gushing blood at an alarming rate. Together, Sergeant Gelderman and Constable Dynes joined forces with Constable Roh, administering immediate first aid. They applied pressure to the wound, expertly bandaged it, and even utilized a tourniquet on the man’s leg. Their timely and professional efforts ensured the man’s survival. New Westminster Fire Rescue and BC EHS paramedics arrived on the scene, taking over the medical care and swiftly transporting the man to a local hospital for further treatment. The remarkable efforts displayed by Sergeant Jason Gelderman, Constable VJ Roh, and Constable Sander Dynes exemplify the profound value and influence that first responders bring to our communities. Back Read More Heroes in the Night Read More Unwavering Heroism in the Face of Danger Read More
Heroes in the Night
Please note that portions of these stories contain graphic detail that some may find unsettling. Heroes in the Night In the early hours of June 25, 2021, two officers were on their regular patrol when a cry for help pierced the silence on Hillside Ave. Racing towards the sound, they discovered a distressing scene: a man lay motionless on the ground, his face blue and foaming. The urgency of the situation became clear when they learned that the unconscious individual had consumed fentanyl just an hour earlier. With swift thinking and determination, one of the officers administered naloxone nasal spray, but the initial attempt yielded no response. Undeterred, the other officer immediately initiated CPR, pouring every ounce of effort into reviving the life before them. Moments later, another officer arrived, armed with an AED and a second dose of naloxone nasal spray. Though the odds seemed stacked against them, the officers persisted in their life-saving efforts, continuing CPR. As the ambulance neared the scene, hope emerged as a pulse was detected, and the unconscious man began to breathe. BCEHS took over, stabilizing him and rushing him to the hospital. Through their extraordinary actions, these officers exemplified bravery and dedication to saving lives, proving that in the face of adversity, the light of hope remains. Through their courageous dedication and quick response, the officers transformed a dire situation into a story of hope and resilience. Their heroic efforts not only saved a life but also shed light on the critical need for more individuals to receive training in opioid poisoning response. In the midst of an ongoing opioid crisis, where lives are at stake every day, their actions serve as a powerful reminder that preparedness can mean the difference between life and death. The importance of naloxone administration and CPR cannot be overstated, as they offer a lifeline of hope in the face of an overdose emergency. Their courageous response underscores the urgency for increased awareness, education, and access to life-saving techniques. Together, we can empower more individuals with the knowledge and skills to respond effectively to opioid-related emergencies, ensuring that no one faces such a crisis alone. Let their story inspire us to make a difference and protect lives in our communities. Back Determined Response by New Westminster Police Officers Prevents Tragedy Read More Unwavering Heroism in the Face of Danger Read More
Unwavering Heroism in the Face of Danger
Courage in the Face of Danger OCdt Craig Vollweiter’s hiking adventure in Lynn Canyon Park took an unexpected turn on March 26, 2021. As he immersed himself in the natural beauty of the park, fate intervened when a young girl approached him in distress, pleading for help for her unconscious father. What happened next became an act of bravery and quick thinking. Without hesitation, Vollweiter sprang into action, overcoming the language barrier and racing towards Lynn Creek. There, he encountered another family member struggling to keep the unconscious man afloat amidst the rushing waters. Determined, Vollweiter swiftly pulled the man, who was in his 60s, to safety at the river’s edge. Assessing the critical situation, Vollweiter immediately recognized the absence of vital signs in the man. Drawing upon his extensive training, he initiated chest compressions, while skillfully guiding the man’s wife through the crucial rescue breathing techniques of CPR. Through three cycles of resolute efforts, a flicker of hope emerged as the man began to breathe faintly on his own. Maintaining composure and control of the scene, Vollweiter directed a bystander to seek assistance from rescuers, ensuring that help would soon arrive. His decisive actions and guidance were instrumental in coordinating the rescue mission to reach the scene promptly. This awe-inspiring account is a testament to Vollweiter’s exceptional courage and his commitment to preserving life. By applying his lifesaving training in a real-life emergency, he exemplifies the profound impact that a single individual can have in a time of crisis. OCdt Craig Vollweiter’s remarkable story serves as a shining example of the difference that first aid training can make in the lives of everyday heroes. Back Determined Response by New Westminster Police Officers Prevents Tragedy Read More Heroes in the Night Read More
Youth Cadets Dedicate over 19,000 Volunteer Hours to Serve and Lead
Empowering the Future Within the realm of St. John Ambulance, a remarkable force of youth cadets has emerged, composed of both familiar faces and fresh recruits. Driven by a commitment to our purpose, these young individuals stand tall, embracing the transformative power of service with open hearts and eager minds. With almost 900 cadets in our ranks, they stand united, embodying the values of their communities and championing the causes that resonate deeply within them. In a year when the challenges of COVID-19 lingered, these cadets marched forward, their passion and dedication propelling them to unprecedented heights. Their collective volunteer hours witnessed remarkable growth, soaring from 9,200 in 2021 to 19,073 in 2022. This is a testament to their spirit and their resolute commitment to making a meaningful impact in the lives of others. Guided by the principles of leadership, compassion, and selflessness, these cadets epitomize the essence of St. John Ambulance. They ignite a flame of hope, inspiring others to join their ranks and embrace the profound fulfillment found in service to others. As the future leaders of tomorrow, they embody the very spirit that propels our organization forward, ensuring that our noble purpose continues to thrive for generations to come. Back Read More Humanitarian Support During COVID-19 Read More St. John Ambulance’s Lifeline during COVID-19 Quarantine – Duplicate – [#719] Read More Youth Cadets Dedicate over 19,000 Volunteer Hours to Serve and Lead Read More Mission-Critical: Humanitarian Support During COVID-19 Read More 20% More Volunteers giving back to our communities Read More Therapy Dog Teams Bring Comfort to Community Read More Transforming Lives, Strengthening Communities Read More St. John Ambulance: A Lifeline during COVID-19 Read More
Mission-Critical: Humanitarian Support During COVID-19
St. John Ambulance BCY: Driving Forward 2 Critical Federal Engagements, Transforming Community Care with Impact In 2021, the Federal Government entrusted St. John Ambulance BCY with two crucial COVID- 19 projects, recognizing our organization’s expertise and unwavering commitment to serving Canadian communities. These mission-critical initiatives involved collaborating with Immigrant Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and partnering with the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), focusing on supporting asylum seekers and returning Canadians, respectively. As history has shown, St. John Ambulance volunteers rose to the occasion, offering their assistance, expertise, and compassionate care. For over a century, our tradition of coming to the aid of Canadian communities has been ingrained in our organization’s DNA. The heart of both programs lay in providing vital first aid, medical support, and day-to-day care during the mandatory 14-day quarantine period at the Kelowna and Surrey quarantine sites in British Columbia. These individuals, whether asylum seekers or returning Canadians, lacked the necessary support networks to meet the quarantine requirements upon entry or reentry to Canada. Between January and September 2022, our dedicated team of 12 highly trained Medical First Responders (MFRs) devoted an astounding 3,231 hours to caring for 51 asylum seekers. This remarkable commitment exemplifies the talent, expertise, and unwavering dedication of St. John Ambulance’s volunteers. Ready to deploy at a moment’s notice throughout the year, our volunteers demonstrated their readiness and flexibility, often with little more than 24 hours’ notice. Their ability to step up and provide critical support showcases their extraordinary commitment to serving those in need. As vaccination rates increased and COVID-19 cases subsided, the need for quarantine sites diminished. In late September 2022, after multiple extensions, the federal government made the decision to close the sites and conclude the contracts. The opportunity to lead these critical programs speaks volumes about the trust placed in St. John Ambulance BCY. Our volunteers have made an indelible impact, leaving a legacy of compassion, expertise, and unwavering commitment. We are proud to have been at the forefront, serving our communities and playing a pivotal role in the fight against COVID-19. Back Read More Humanitarian Support During COVID-19 Read More St. John Ambulance’s Lifeline during COVID-19 Quarantine – Duplicate – [#719] Read More Youth Cadets Dedicate over 19,000 Volunteer Hours to Serve and Lead Read More 20% More Volunteers giving back to our communities Read More Therapy Dog Teams Bring Comfort to Community Read More Transforming Lives, Strengthening Communities Read More Empowering Change Read More St. John Ambulance: A Lifeline during COVID-19 Read More
20% More Volunteers giving back to our communities
Rising Strong After the devastating impact of COVID-19, which greatly diminished our volunteer numbers as it did for many organizations, St. John Ambulance recognized the urgent need to rebuild and strengthen our volunteer base. In the face of adversity, we persevered, and in 2022, we emerged even stronger, thanks to the increased dedication and involvement of our growing volunteer team. By expanding our volunteer base by more than 500 passionate individuals, not only have we had our ranks replenished, but we have also seen our organization revitalized. The collective efforts of our volunteers, old and new, have reignited our mission to empower community safety and ensure that we are better equipped than ever to serve and protect those in need. This growth of the volunteer base has proven to be a transformative force. As we welcomed more individuals to our organization, we tapped into a wellspring of resilience, passion, and commitment that has invigorated our services and programs. With increased numbers and collective determination, we have been able to expand our reach, deliver vital first aid and emergency response support, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve. With the continued support and involvement of our growing volunteer team, we are well-positioned to navigate future challenges, enhance our impact, and create a safer, more prepared society for all. Back Read More Humanitarian Support During COVID-19 Read More St. John Ambulance’s Lifeline during COVID-19 Quarantine – Duplicate – [#719] Read More Youth Cadets Dedicate over 19,000 Volunteer Hours to Serve and Lead Read More Mission-Critical: Humanitarian Support During COVID-19 Read More Therapy Dog Teams Bring Comfort to Community Read More Transforming Lives, Strengthening Communities Read More Empowering Change Read More St. John Ambulance: A Lifeline during COVID-19 Read More
Therapy Dog Teams Bring Comfort to Community
Therapy Dog Teams Bring Comfort to Community With selfless dedication, St. John Ambulance therapy dog teams devoted 12,815 hours to bringing immeasurable comfort, joy, and companionship to members of our community who are sick, lonely, or stressed. From schools and libraries to hospitals, long-term care facilities, mental health centers, airports, and beyond, our teams have made a profound impact on countless lives. The significance of more than 12,815 hours of service cannot be overstated. Each interaction with our therapy dog teams has provided solace and a respite from the challenges faced by those in need. Whether it’s a gentle paw, a wagging tail, or a loving gaze, these remarkable dogs have the power to uplift spirits, alleviate stress, and bring smiles to the faces of those they encounter. In schools and libraries, our therapy dog teams have become pillars of support for children facing academic pressure, anxiety, or learning challenges. The presence of these furry companions creates a nurturing environment, promoting emotional well-being and fostering a love for reading and learning. Within hospitals, long-term care facilities, and mental health centres, our therapy dog teams have brought immeasurable comfort to patients, residents, and staff alike. Their visits provide a welcome distraction from the difficulties of illness, loneliness, or recovery, offering a much-needed dose of happiness and companionship. Even in bustling airports and other public locations, our therapy dog teams have made a difference by offering moments of respite to weary travelers or individuals navigating stressful situations. Their presence serves as a reminder that amidst the chaos, there is always room for kindness, connection, and the unconditional love of a therapy dog. Through their inspiring work, our therapy dog teams have become ambassadors of compassion, spreading warmth and healing throughout our community. Their visits leave lasting impressions, reminding us of the power of connection, empathy, and the healing bond between humans and animals. Back Read More Humanitarian Support During COVID-19 Read More St. John Ambulance’s Lifeline during COVID-19 Quarantine – Duplicate – [#719] Read More Youth Cadets Dedicate over 19,000 Volunteer Hours to Serve and Lead Read More Mission-Critical: Humanitarian Support During COVID-19 Read More 20% More Volunteers giving back to our communities Read More Transforming Lives, Strengthening Communities Read More Empowering Change Read More St. John Ambulance: A Lifeline during COVID-19 Read More
Transforming Lives, Strengthening Communities
Transforming Lives, Strengthening Communities In 2022, we empowered 51,551 individuals across British Columbia and Yukon with life-saving skills, forever changing the landscape of preparedness in our communities. By training this remarkable number of people in first aid, we not only enriched their lives, but also established a network of heroes ready to step forward when emergencies strike. Each of those 51,019 individuals now possesses the knowledge and confidence to intervene in critical moments. They have become the difference between life and death for their loved ones, colleagues, and even strangers. From a child’s playground to a bustling warehouse, our trained heroes are equipped to respond swiftly, providing critical care until professional help arrives. Moreover, the impact resonates throughout workplaces, where safety and well-being are paramount. We partnered with over 2,200 companies who looked to St. John Ambulance to support their employees with life-saving skills. From offices and factories to schools and community centers, these trained individuals create safer environments. They are ready to respond to medical emergencies and potentially save lives. Our communities, too, feel the profound impact of this extensive training effort. With 51,019 more individuals capable of administering immediate aid, the safety net for our neighborhoods has widened considerably. Whether it’s a car accident, a cardiac event, or a sudden injury, the presence of these trained responders ensures that our communities are well-guarded, bolstering their ability to face emergencies head-on. Back Read More Humanitarian Support During COVID-19 Read More St. John Ambulance’s Lifeline during COVID-19 Quarantine – Duplicate – [#719] Read More Youth Cadets Dedicate over 19,000 Volunteer Hours to Serve and Lead Read More Mission-Critical: Humanitarian Support During COVID-19 Read More 20% More Volunteers giving back to our communities Read More Therapy Dog Teams Bring Comfort to Community Read More Empowering Change Read More St. John Ambulance: A Lifeline during COVID-19 Read More
