Frontline workers in Prince George have undoubtedly been working tirelessly since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Like many others in the city, they've taken coffee breaks every now and then to renew their energy in getting back to keeping the community safe in these unprecedented times.
As a 'thank you,' a locally-based organization is expressing its appreciation for those at the University Hospital of Northern BC (UHNBC) by donating 250 customized travel and coffee mugs, while also honouring an internationally-recognized holiday.
The Nigerian Community Association of Northern B.C. (NCANBC) marked Nigeria's 60th year of independence on Oct. 1 and personally delivered the mugs to UHNBC on Oct. 6, and are also in the process of delivering another 100 to seven different hospitals across the region.
Due to the virus, the NCANBC was forced to cancel all formal celebrations of the country's milestone anniversary, which often includes parades, parties, speeches, cultural exhibitions and food stations.
"This year, with the new realities our world is facing, and the bravery shown by the various frontline workers in the ongoing battle against COVID-19, the members of NCANBC thought it fit to celebrate our Independence Day by appreciating the gallantry efforts of our Healthcare Professionals," said the group explains in a statement to PrinceGeorgeMatters.
"The President of the association, Mr. Kingsley Ilekendi, during the event reiterated the importance of community inclusion and support during unglorified times like this in which the pandemic has reshaped our normal."
The 100 other coffee mugs are set to go to hospitals and facilities in Vanderhoof, Quesnel, Fort St. James, Smithers, Mackenzie, Dawson Creek and Fort St. John.
NCANBC executives were on hand for the UHNBC delivery as well as hospital representatives in children's health, urgent primary care and several directors.
The non-profit is a member-funded association who, according to a description, is committed to 'advancing the full social and economic integration and participation of newcomers, immigrants and people of Nigerian descent' across Prince George and northern B.C.
As of this publication, Northern Health has 355 positive COVID-19 cases detected since March after five new ones were recorded since Friday (Oct. 16), including 14 active cases, one person in hospital for a total of 31 to date, three deaths and 338 recoveries.
