In his Christmas message, Elliot Lake St. Joseph's General Hospital (ELSJGH) CEO Pierre Ozolins issued an appeal on behalf of the hospital's Tree of Lights program and other local charities.
"The Christmas season is a time when we often give thanks and express our gratitude to others," he wrote.
"In our efforts to keep the staff, patients and residents safe during the COVID-19 pandemic, we are asking for members of the public to please refrain from making food donations to hospital units and staff. We are grateful for the gesture of gratitude, however we cannot accept them due to COVID 19 restrictions.
"Instead, we ask that if you would like to express your gratitude, that you donate to the Tree of Lights campaign, St. Joseph’s Foundation or to other community charities to honour our staff and physicians," Ozolins continued.
"This is a great way to help charities such as the Foodbank, Maplegate, The Society for Animals in Distress or other worthy causes.
"While the vaccine is on its way, please remain vigilant and do not let your guard down. We are still a long way off from beating Covid-19, so please remember to:
- Wear a mask
- Socially distance (maintain 2m/ 6 ft distance from others)
- Wash your hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth
- Avoid contact with people who are sick
- Stay at home if you are sick. In particular, do not visit a long-term care, retirement home or other congregate living places"
Additional information regarding COVID-19 can be found at the Algoma Public Health website.
"Have a Merry Christmas, Happy Chanukah and a Healthy New Year," Ozolins concluded.