Community Response

Student Energy in Action for Regina Community Health (SEARCH)

SEARCH is a student-run health clinic out of Four Directions Community Health Center in Regina’s core neighbourhood. Under normal circumstances, every Saturday approximately 8-15 student volunteers and 4-5 mentors come together to provide child minding, programming, a warm meal, and a walk-in clinic and counselling appointments. When COVID came to Saskatchewan, SEARCH was forced to adapt and prioritize their programming. 

Emily Barber, SEARCH’s executive director explains that, “We had the curveball of having all of our student volunteers pulled…. Everything was totally understandable, but it just meant that we couldn’t open our doors.” 

All programs have ceased, except for the SEARCH lunch program. SEARCH has partnered with Four Directions to provide about 150 meals every Saturday, which is double the amount they would usually serve at a regular SEARCH shift. While they distribute lunches, they are also able share condoms, naloxone kits and provide information on staying healthy during COVID-19. 

Despite having no students able to volunteer at this time, SEARCH has still managed to respond to the needs of the community. “It is just exemplifying our connection to the community.” Emily said. “We just turned 11 years old. So turning 11 and existing in this community, we are a part of this community and we know just how much our food security and all of our programs are relied upon by so many folks who live nearby… The meal program is the one thing that we could figure out that we could still do.” 

SEARCH is sharing updates on their Facebook and Instagram stories and encouraging people to come early or call ahead if they are in great need of receiving a lunch.

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Engaging for Health Equity is a project of the Division of Social Accountability.

The DSA is proud to be a part of the Saskatoon Inter-Agency Response to COVID-19 and for the critical equity-informed work that is happening in Saskatoon.

Important: For public health recommendations on COVID–19 (symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, prevention and risk, and travel advice), please visit the Government of Canada’s website.

For Saskatchewan COVID-19 news and information, visit the Government of Saskatchewan’s website.

The DSA office is situated in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, on Treaty 6 Territory and the Homeland of the Métis and we acknowledge Saskatchewan as the traditional territory of First Nations and Métis people, which includes Treaties 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, and 10. We pay our respect to the First Nations and Métis ancestors of this place and reaffirm our relationship with one another. We recognize the legacies of colonialism and systemic racism in Saskatchewan, which requires focused and sustained societal efforts as we confront historical and contemporary injustices and achieve health equity for all.