Statement on CFB Wainwright

I want to express my deep condolences to everyone affected by the tragic incident at CFB Wainwright on October 16. Our thoughts are with the families, friends, Canadian Armed Forces and the Wainwright community who are grieving and dealing with the aftermath. We know significant support will be offered during this difficult situation, and hope this offers some comfort.

I also want to express my profound gratitude to the first responders, including firefighters, medical personnel and all those supporting the emergency response. With unwavering commitment, tireless effort, and no hesitation, you worked to protect lives, provide critical care and support everyone affected by this tragedy.

For members of the USask campus community, we know this may be a difficult time, but please know there are supports available to anyone who needs them. If you know of anyone who may be needing support, please feel free to share the resources below and encourage them to reach out. Please take care of yourself and each other.  

Student resources available

• If you are affected by these recent events and need support, whether related to your wellbeing, studies, finances, or navigating university processes, please contact the Student Affairs and Outreach team.
• The Student Wellness Centre offers a range of supports, including physical and mental health care. To make an appointment, call 306-966-5768.
• For issues regarding payment of tuition and fees, contact Student Finance. Learn more about other financial aid available.
• The Gordon Oakes Red Bear Student Centre is dedicated to supporting the personal, social, cultural and academic success of Indigenous USask students. Elders are also available to support students. Contact the Gordon Oakes Red Bear Student Centre at gordonoakes.redbear@usask.ca
• For students living in USask residence, reach out to the Counsellor in Residence by calling 306-966-6171 or by booking here. You can also contact the student life coordinator at residence@ usask.ca. 
• USask Faith Leaders are available to provide one-on-one spiritual counsel.
• EmpowerMe is a 24/7 mental health and wellness service provided by Studentcare. This service provides services in many languages. To learn more, please visit GSA EmpowerMe (for graduate students) and USSU EmpowerMe (for undergraduate students). 
• Drop-in peer support through Peer Health is available at the USask Community Centre. The Centre, located across from the bookstore in Marquis Hall, is open Monday to Thursday, 10 am to 3 pm. To learn more, email peerhealthdropin@gmail.com. 
• For questions about class registration, understanding your tuition, and academic life, contact Student Central.
• Crisis services are also available (24/7) through Saskatoon Mobile Crisis at 306-933-6200 and Crisis Services Canada at 1-833-456-4566.

Faculty and staff   

• Telus Health, USask’s Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) provider, offers a wide range of services including free and confidential counseling, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• For eligible employees, your benefit plan covers mental health supports including clinical counsellors, marriage and family therapists, psychologists, psychotherapists, and social workers.    
• Resources for faculty and staff to help support students.

Sincerely,

Vince Bruni-Bossio
President and Vice-Chancellor
University of Saskatchewan