June 2021 Newsletter

On June 5 we celebrated National Health and Fitness Day. Emma House residents have been increasing their activity during the warmer days with stroller walks through the park and a daily “squat challenge” with our team members.

Thanks to a grant from the United Way, we were able to acquire two new bicycles and a baby seat (not shown in the photo) for Emma House residents to use during their stay.

Fitness has many health benefits which includes increased muscle strength, improved respiratory health, sharpened mental acuity, and improved sleep – all while increasing your happiness. Being outside in nature can lower your stress hormones and increase your dopamine levels.

We are looking forward to seeing these bikes being used this summer to explore the area and soak up the Calgary scenery while engaging in physical activity!

We have all had to be more creative in finding ways to entertain ourselves throughout the various restrictions and lockdowns during the pandemic these last sixteen months. It may be a little hard to remember what we used to do, now that things are opening up again and the weather is warm. We have compiled a short list of activities that you can do around Calgary this summer with your baby, toddlers, or young family.

Although the city run pools are not guaranteed to be open for the duration of the summer, there is always fun to be had in the back yard in with a small kiddie pool, your sprinkler or a child’s water table. The City of Calgary plan to open all outdoor pools will by June 19. See website for updated information. Wading pools, spray parks and outdoor pools (calgary.ca)

If you’re craving some out-of-town fun this summer check out the stroller friendly trails around Alberta for a new walking challenge.
Best stroller friendly trails in Alberta, Canada | AllTrails

If you want an additional challenge, there are many family-friendly runs to participate in this summer around Calgary.

July 25-Run the Bridges is a 5K, 10K, 15K road race that also includes a kids’ run. Spring Trio 5-10-15 km “Run the Bridges” – Be There Races

Aug 7-Bubble Chase- family run where you need to complete the race surrounded by bubbles https://www.bubblechase5k.com/

Sept 7- Light It Up Calgary family friendly run offers 1K Kids, 3K, 5K, 10K in the dark! https://lightitupcalgary.ca/

Welcome new residents

We are so happy to welcome new residents these last few months. The current residents made our new residents feel welcome with a life skills art project this last month. They made ‘diaper cakes’ with donated diapers and put them in the rooms of the new clients to help them feel welcome. Emma House is continuing to grow through building healthy relationships and promoting a community of generosity and friendship among the women and babies we serve.

The Shaw Charity Classic is back in Calgary and the #ChipinforKids is back to help Emma House break the cycle of homelessness. Text KIDS094 to 30333 to donate $10 and Shaw will match your donation, then be matched again by the Shaw Charity Classic Foundation, up to an additional 50%.

Therefore, your $10 donation will be matched up to $30!

@shaw, @shawcharityclassic
#chipinforkids

Our heart felt thanks to all our community partners, committed individuals and families, churches, government and health organizations, foundations, businesses, and agency partners who have continued to support Emma House’s mission and vision to see successful mother’s and babies thriving in community. Please like and follow us on all our social media platforms for more information about Emma House.