The well-being and safety of our members and team is a top priority for our co-operative, and it continues to be a driving force behind the decisions we make, not only in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, but because we want all of our members and team to return home safely.
September is a busy time, many of our members are already harvesting, kids are back in school, parents are returning to work in various re-entry scenarios, and many organized sports are even resuming. Together, we are navigating a new normal. Our goal this month, and every month, is to keep you safe, both physically and mentally. I'm pleased to share some of the initiatives we are supporting in order to keep you healthy and safe, especially during the busy harvest season.
Operation Lifesaver (OL) and CP Rail work to save lives by educating Canadians about the hazards surrounding rail property and trains during Rail Safety Week. We are proud to share their messaging and encourage you to watch for more information about public education sessions in and around your area in the coming weeks. We are also proud to support Ag for Life, who continuously look for new ways to teach farm safety to people in the communities we serve. Did you know, more than half of all highway collisions between farm machinery and regular passenger vehicles occur during peak harvest time? It's important to stay alert and to be aware of farm equipment, like combines and tractors, who are traveling at a very slow speeds, making the closure time between vehicles greatly reduced. I would encourage you to visit the Ag for Life website to watch their Rural Road Safety video to learn more. We want our teams, and our members, to all make it home safely to their loved ones.
September is also Suicide Prevention Month and never before has it been more important for us to check in with one another, and to talk openly about mental health. The recent events in Medicine Hat are tragic reminders of how we need to keep mental health a top priority. In the past six months, many of us have had to cope with a great deal of change, which can be extremely stressful. We want you to know that we are here to help support you and your family. Our co-operative proudly supports the Do More Ag Foundation and we encourage you to visit their website for a wealth of resources, including tips for managing stress during harvest. The Government of Canada's 24/7 wellness program is also free for anyone in need or who wants to talk. People can access the service by visiting www.wellnesstogether.ca or by calling 1-866-585-0445.
Now in our third quarter, I am pleased to share that UFA's business remains strong and ready to serve our members and customers.
We will continue to communicate regularly with our team, our members, and with the community at large, offering information that you can use to support your loved ones.
I personally want to thank you for your patience as we navigate things together. Please remember to look after yourself and your family. Be safe and know that we are here if you need help, please reach out and remember to check in on one another.
Thank you.
Scott Bolton
