This update is provided for archival purposes only.

Public Health guidance and University of Waterloo operations may have changed. For the most up-to-date information, please visit our COVID-19 frequently asked questions.

Thank you for your help in supporting our community and country

Tuesday, March 31, 2020

This message was originally sent to employees by Feridun Hamdullahpur, president and vice-chancellor.

Over the last weeks, our University has moved into action to help contain the spread of COVID-19 with changes to our ways of working. Many of you have also contributed efforts to help health-care workers in Waterloo region and in Canada. 

Waterloo is supporting our community with resources, skill and time

At Waterloo we’re offering our skills, time and resources to help health-care practitioners, governments, public health officials and industry to slow the spread of coronavirus and support front line health-care workers.

Colleagues from across campus are working together to identify opportunities to respond to the needs of our local community. Currently, we’re co-ordinating the collection and delivery of supplies to local hospitals and opening access to our 3D-printing labs so medical supplies can be developed. 

Making an impact isn’t something new for Waterloo. Our entrepreneurship, talent and research contribute to a wide array of solutions to many challenges facing our world. Read about how Waterloo is supporting the front line of COVID-19 pandemic. We’ll continue to share stories like these with you on our home page and across our social media channels. 

I am very thankful for the extraordinary efforts being made by so many of you to support the urgent needs facing the Waterloo region. Your ability and desire to work with people from across public agencies and sectors to find solutions is uniquely Waterloo — something we can all be proud of. In the coming days and weeks, we will continue to work together and support the ongoing and emerging needs across our communities.

Feridun Hamdullahpur
President and vice-chancellor

Help is available if you need it

As we navigate uncharted territory and the evolving realities of COVID-19, we may experience fear, stress and anxiety due to the overwhelming volume of information and the demands being put in place to combat the spread and risk of infection.

The University’s Employee and Family Assistance Partner, Homewood Health, is offering support and tips to those who need it. You can call Homewood confidentially at 1-800-663-1142 for support.