A beacon of empathy is lighting the way toward inclusivity in a world that frequently speeds past individuals who are vulnerable. A monument to the strength of empathy and understanding is the Voluntary Vulnerable Persons Registry (VVPR).
The VVPR is a voluntary self-referral list designed for citizens of Halifax Regional Municipality who might need extra assistance in an emergency. The Division of Emergency Management within the municipality is in charge of overseeing the VVPR.
When faced with circumstances such as prolonged power outages, strong storms, and more, first responders, Emergency Management personnel, and volunteers can use the vital information provided by the VVPR to help prioritize resident needs.
Regional Council gave their approval to the VVPR in June 2023. Emergency Management solicited input from locals in a number of communities during the initiative’s development. Additionally, personnel from Emergency Management collaborated with Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, as they have long already implemented a VPR.
Residents without round-the-clock help who have serious problems with any of the following are encouraged to self-refer to the VVPR: (Mobility; Vision impairment; Hearing impairment; Developmental disabilities; Cognitive impairment; Mental health conditions; Any resident who requires electricity for life-sustaining equipment such as oxygen, dialysis, etc.)
Not every resident should use the VVPR. For instance, people who need round-the-clock assistance from a homecare helper or caregiver might not be qualified.
Since emergency responders are usually already aware of long-term care and supportive living institutions, those getting care or assistance there might not be eligible. The VVPR is normally not available to residents under the age of 18 who are receiving help from parents or guardians; however, children with severe needs who need power for life-sustaining equipment might be taken into consideration.
If you’re not sure if the VVPR is for you, fill out an online self-referral intake form or give us a call at 311, and someone from our Emergency Management team will get in touch with you to find out more about your eligibility and personal details.
The VVPR Coordinator will use the information you willingly supplied on the self-referral form to follow up with you in order to verify your personal information and validate your eligibility.
After being added, people who are part of the VVPR can expect to be contacted directly by Emergency Management personnel during emergencies when the VVPR is activated, as well as helpful information ahead of time regarding impending severe storms or other known events.
For more details on the VVPR Program, visit https://www.halifax.ca/fire-police/fire-emergency-management/emergency-management/emergency-preparedness/voluntary
Reference: https://www.halifax.ca/
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