COVID-19 UPDATE

These are uncertain and unprecedented times. First and foremost, we hope that you and your loved ones are safe and healthy.

The COVID-19 global pandemic has rapidly transformed our lives. One day we were skating, playing, cheering and the next day, we were told to stay to home and social distance. OSEG Foundation programs that were underway like the Blind Hockey Program and YouthNet Winter Wellness ended abruptly, and other events like the Ottawa REDBLACKS Football Coaching Clinic and Sports Day the Girls’ Way were cancelled and postponed to 2021.

Right now, like many organizations, OSEG Foundation is facing new challenges as a result of COVID-19. As we adapt to these unprecedented circumstances, we have also cancelled one of our signature fundraising events this year, the REDBLACKS Women’s Training Camp.

Despite these unfortunate circumstances, we are grateful for our healthcare workers and essential services frontline staff for their hard work and commitment to the health and safety of our community.

Children and youth have also been strong, patient and resilient during this pandemic, but they are missing out on important social connections, physical activity, and development opportunities from the power of sports. We know that when kids can return to sports, the need for support from OSEG Foundation will be greater than ever to overcome new and additional barriers as a result of COVID-19.

We recognize that sports are not considered essential programs and services during the emergency response to COVID-19, but we know that they are an important part of Canadian culture and identity and will be important as the economy and our lives begin to recover. Sports unite us, they bring us together and give us strength in difficult times.

While so much of what is happening is out of our hands, we are dedicated to finding new ways to support youth sports’ return to play and resume our programs and fundraising events as soon as we possibly can.

When the time comes and when it feels right to you, we hope you will find a way to continue your support of OSEG Foundation so more kids will be able to get off the sidelines and into the game.

Our work is only possible because of you.

Stay safe and stay well,