A moment of gratitude was taken during this week's virtual 9th annual general meeting for Southern Health-Sante Sud.

"It is my privilege to recognize our employees, physicians and volunteers whose profound sense of commitment and service to our clients, families and communities is second-to-none," says Terrie Porter, Vice Chair of the Board of Directors. "On behalf of the Board, I express sincere appreciation for your unwavering devotion and vitally important contributions to this organization and the people we serve."

Chief Executive Officer, Jane Curtis, adds that the spirit of service in Southern Health-Sante Sud never waned over the past year, but instead grew stronger.

"Indeed it seemed something new or different came at us every day. Through it all, surrounded by suffering and loss, as well as concern for personal safety, you have risen to the challenge. You have worked tirelessly and unconditionally with grace, resolve, teamwork and care. The stamina, the giving, the agility, the incredible responses simply goes beyond."

Despite the challenges and disruptions created by COVID-19, the year did produce some bright spots. In particular, a series of construction projects and the opening of some new facilities.

Included, is the completion of the Boyne Lodge personal care home in Carman which opened to residents in August, the expansion to Rest Haven Nursing Home in Steinbach which is expected to open in the spring, and the launch of a Rapid Access to Addictions Clinic in Portage la Prairie.

In collaboration with Shared Health, three new EMS stations were also constructed - in Morris, Crystal City and Portage la Prairie.

Additionally, Southern Health-Sante Sud piloted the province's Enhanced Access to School Based Mental Health, Addictions and Supports initiative in Portage la Prairie and Hanover School Division.

"Teams provide mental health services directly in schools and support students with complex mental health and addiction needs," explains Curtis. "This initiative allows families to access a range of services to help their children with the goal of reducing the need for more complex care in the future."

Based on the outcomes of these investments, Curtis says the expectation is that the program will be scaled-up for more people to access down the road.

Looking ahead, Porter notes the Board's vision and mission statements, and core values will set the organization's tone moving forward.

"We continue to monitor the growth and changes to the population we represent, and the effectiveness of the health system as a whole. We review provincial, regional and district level data to better understand the health needs of our communities," says Porter.

As well, Curtis notes leadership development will continue to be a priority focus.

As Southern Health-Sante Sud enters its tenth year of operation, sustainability also remains a priority. According to Porter, the organization ended the year in a balanced fiscal position.

"The past year was extremely challenging due to the pandemic, and in spite of these challenges it was another successful year from a financial perspective," says Chief Financial Officer Ken Klassen.