As the troubling details about the war in Ukraine continue to emerge, we at Yorkville University and Toronto Film School pledge our ongoing support to those in our community who have loved ones whose lives are being torn apart by this conflict.
It has been incredibly distressing watching and waiting as the war has taken hold, the death count rising, and a refugee crisis unfolding. I offer my deepest sympathy to our students, faculty, and staff who have family and friends in Ukraine and encourage you to please use the available support. I also want to recognize academic colleagues and students in Kharkiv, and other cities across Ukraine, who are suffering unimaginable horror and loss. My thoughts and prayers are with those impacted and fighting to protect their country.
We know this is a difficult time for many of you with both direct and indirect ties to Ukraine and Russia. We urge you to take the time you need to process the situation and lend your support to family members and friends impacted by the violence.
For those among you who may be struggling to cope with feelings of helplessness during these distressing times, please know that we are here to help.
The following resources are available to students and staff:
- Yorkville University students who may be experiencing mental health and wellness challenges during this time can visit https://yorkvilleu-bc.janeapp.com to make an appointment with a counsellor.
- Toronto Film School students can likewise visit https://tfs.janeapp.com/ to make an appointment with a counsellor.
- Yorkville employees can access our LifeWorks EAP online at login.lifeworks.com or call the support line at 1-844-671-3327
- Employees can also make use of our Inkblot digital mental health service at https://inkblottherapy.com/yorkville
Our thoughts remain with all those impacted by the hostilities taking place, as we hope for a quick end and peaceful resolution to the crisis in Ukraine.
Sincerely,
Dr. Julia Christensen Hughes
