June 2026:New Development Projects, Referral Bonus, Vacation Time and Extreme Heat Safety

New Development Projects


Heartland Housing Foundation is working on our next development in Fort Saskatchewan on the old Dr. Turner Lodge site. To learn more about where we are at in the development process, visit our website:ย www.heartlandhousing.ca/in-development. ย 

Please direct any community members who inquire about the 101 Street development to our website. There, anyone can view information about the project and sign up to receive periodic updates on the development.

Referral Bonus Reminder!ย 


Donโ€™t forgetโ€ฆย HHF offers aย $200 referral bonusย if you refer someone to workย here. After ย 6 monthsย of employment,ย the bonus is yours.ย ย 
Knowย someoneย whoโ€™dย be a great fit? Send them our way and get rewarded!ย 

Vacation Time


Heartland Housing Foundation recognizes the importance of personal time off for the health and well-being of its employees.ย  That means HHF encourages employees to take time off for the purpose of rest and relaxation.

All permanent full time employees (working 30+ hours each week) will accrue paid vacation days at a rate reflective of their years of service.ย  All other employees who do not fall under full-time will be paid out vacation pay on each cheque in accordance with HHF policy. Regardless of what group you may fall in, vacation is required and encouraged for all employees.ย 

Vacations must be approved by your Manager prior to the employee making any vacation commitments such as flights.ย  Employees will submit a vacation request form to their manager.ย  You can ask your manager for this form.ย  If approved, your manager will confirm the acceptance and note your time away in Dayforce.ย 
In the summer, vacation requests longer than 1-2 weeks, may cause a strain on our staffing complement as all employees like to enjoy the beautiful weather.ย  Some vacation requests may not be approved depending on each siteโ€™s requests and needs.ย  Please work with your manager when trying to schedule your vacation time.
Enjoy your summer and happy travels!

ย 

Extreme Heat Safety โ€“ At Home and Work


Did you know that Albertaโ€™s all-time provincial heat record is 44c, set in Altawan, AB in 1984? No thank you! Hot weather can cause heat illness quickly. Taking simple steps can help you stay safe and comfortable

Why Heat Matters

Extreme heat can cause: Dehydration which can lead to Heat exhaustion and Heat Illnesses when Indoor temperatures above 26ยฐC increase risk.ย  And when temperatures increase above 31ยฐC the risk becomes much higher, especially for older adults or those with health conditions.

Staying Cool
  • Keep your space cool: Close blinds or curtains during the day
  • Open windows: When itโ€™s cooler outside, like at night
  • Rest: Spend idle time in the cooler rooms
  • Cool your body: Use fans or air conditioning if available. Take cool showers or baths, run cool water over your wrists/hands or use a damp cloth on your neck or forehead
Daily Habits to Stay Safe
  • Drink clear fluids: Drink water often, even if you donโ€™t feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine
  • Plan your day: Do heavier tasks (cleaning, cooking, laundry) early in the morning or later in the evening. Avoid using ovens or appliances that create heat during the hottest part of the day
  • Take breaks from the heat: Visit cooler places such as air-conditioned common areas or shopping centres, or libraries on days off
  • Rest often: Especially during hot afternoons
    ย 
Staying Safe During Outdoor Activities
  • Plan ahead: Go outside in the early morning or evening when itโ€™s cooler. Avoid outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day (usually mid-afternoon).
  • Protect yourself: Wear a hat and light, loose-fitting clothing. Use sunscreen to protect your skin. ย And stay in shaded areas as much as possible.
  • Stay hydrated: Bring water and drink regularly.
  • Take frequent breaks in the shade:ย Use a damp cloth or cool water to help lower your body temperature.
  • Know your limits: Slow down and avoid overexertion and stop activity if you feel dizzy, weak, or unwell
  • Watch for Warning Signs: Pay attention to how you feel. Signs of heat illness include dizziness or weakness, headache, nausea, heavy sweating or confusion.
  • Call for help:ย If you are experiencing symptoms of a heat illness such as confusion, fainting, or trouble breathing.
  • Look Out for Each Other: Check in on neighbours, friends, or family.
  • Ask for help if youโ€™re feeling unwell:ย Let someone know if your home or work area is getting too hot.
  • Hot weather can be dangerous but small actions make a big difference. Stay cool, drink fluids, and take care of yourself and others.ย