The Portage la Prairie Bear Clan has cancelled its patrols for the time being.

Coordinator Manon Timshel says the clan is fortunate to have a medical officer on its Indigenous Women's Council. She notes it ensures they're up to date on the latest guidelines to serve the public in a safe way.

"It was recommended by her this week that we halt our traditional patrols and explore alternative ways of serving our communities at this time," says Timshel. "We're waiting to see how the situation progresses. And we'll follow the direction of our medical officer on that."

Timshel says the Bear Clan was born out of a need to provide added safety and support for the community. She notes they already made the decision to not limit themselves to patrols alone.

She adds they're now preparing care packages which will be disinfected and will include essential hygiene supplies and basic food items. You can request some for those whom you know who might need them.

"Email info@portagebearclan.org with a name and address. We can drop them off this care package," continues Timshel. "So, if anyone knows of someone who's in isolation, if they're elderly, young family, a single-parent family, it might just be appreciated with just a little bit extra delivered help. Like I said, we're following the advice of our medical officer on maintaining social distancing while we do this."