Well, February has arrived and it feels like winter is finally settling in. In this cold month, it can be tempting to hunker down and stick to the basics. But this is a fantastic month to make some time for learning.
We have several courses starting up this month and several of our community partners are also offering some great programs to brighten up the dark winter days. Many are available via Zoom, so you can snuggle up in a warm blanket, listen in and maximize your learning and coziness at the same time!
We’re taking our free computer classes out to Noel and everyone is welcome! If you would like to become more comfortable with computers, this class is for you. It’s happening at the Noel Legion (8706 Highway 354). The first and last sessions (February 7th and March 9th) include lunch starting at 12 noon. All other sessions begin at 1 p.m.
Registration is required. Call Tom at 902-883-1608 to book your spot.
Can’t make these classes? Reach out and let us know if you would like to help us bring a class to your community! Classes are free and a great chance to keep active and connected in the winter months.
To register for classes or to discuss bringing a class to your community, contact our office:
Interested in picking up a quick learning session over lunch? 5D Corporate Teaching & Learning Centre is offering Power Sessions via Zoom on a variety of topics on Tuesdays at 12:15 p.m. These sessions highlight courses and materials that 5D can offer to support your workplace or organization. These include programs that build skills and develop talents.
Power Sessions are free and available for anyone interested.
For more information about upcoming programs:
phone: 902-406-7440
email: info@5dlearning.com
Our staff are big fans of this event and love coming out to do some trivia and support the food banks in our community. Tickets can be purchased online via the Chamber website. Sign up your team and help boost access to good healthy food to those that need it.
For more information about the Chamber, their programs and services:
phone: 902-883-1010
email: info@ehcc.ca
Learn Languages Online
Through the Library
Many people are thinking about travelling again and the winter months are a great time to prepare. One step that can be overlooked when travelling is learning a bit of the language. Knowing how to say a few sentences or key words can make a world of difference when travelling abroad.
If you’re looking for help, your Colchester-East Hants Public Library card can give you access to a range of courses from Rocket Languages. Go to REGISTER NOW if you don’t have an account with Rocket Languages yet. These courses are free, easy to use and a great way to either brush up on what you know or learn a new language.
You can also access online books through the Overdrive/Libby app, online animated kids books through TumbleBooks, and even movies, TV shows and audiobooks through Hoopla.
For more information about our Elmsdale branch, their programs and services:
phone: 902-883-9838
email: elmsdale@cehpubliclibrary.ca
Freezer Meal Sponsorship
is a Great Way to Support
Your Community
Our Community Freezer has been holding steady over the past month, but we know there is still a great deal of need in the community. If you or someone you know is struggling, let them know they can access free, healthy frozen meals here. All they need to do is call us at 902-883-1608 and we’ll get them ready for pick up or delivery.
New to this year: help us fill the freezer more often by becoming a Corporate Sponsor! For $500, we can cook up a variety of meals that will support anyone in our community that needs a meal. You or your workplace will be recognized on the poster, online and in our annual report. It’s a great way to showcase your support for the community and help us reach more people with this program.
For updates on the Community Freezer or for more information on Corporate Sponsorship:
phone: 902-883-1608
e-mail: communications@communityrider.com
Struggling with the Cost of
Transportation?
The price of transportation isn’t getting any cheaper and we’re getting more calls all the time from folks looking to save on getting from point A to B.
To assist low-income passengers, we have received funding to bring back the Fare Assistance Program. Passengers will be offered to apply for the subsidy if they identify as low income:
An individual making less than $24,000 per year
A family of 2 making a combined income of less than $30,877 per year
A family of 3 making a combined income of less than $37,816 per year
A family of 4 or more making a combined income of less than $43,666 per year
Passengers will be eligible for one (1) day of subsidized transportation weekly to a monthly maximum of $300
EXCEPTION: Medical transportation for dialysis or frequent medical appointments, ie. cancer treatments
Here is a breakdown of regions and costs:
Regions
Cost per person
Trips under 12 km
$5
Trips between 12 – 25 km
$10
Trips over 25 km
50% of
regular fare
For a full list of details, check out the information page on the Community Rider website.
If you know someone that struggles to afford the cost of transportation, get in touch with the Community Rider at:
Each year, Nova Scotia selects a different historical person, place or topic to celebrate for Heritage Day. For 2023, Rita Joe has been selected. Elder Rita (Bernard) Joe, a member of the We’koqma’q Mi’kmaq Community, played a pivotal role in opening the doors for Mi’kmaq authors and creating a strong literary tradition for others to follow.
To celebrate Elder Rita, consider attending a public event or reading some of her poetry or songs inspired by her. There is a list of public resources, including a biography and videos.