July 2026 Benefits News

Dietitian / Naturopath through Manulife

On the Manulife member website under Coverages and Balances, selecting Dietitian or Naturopath will display the following message:

“Your coverage includes the following services under your combined maximum: Naturopath Diagnostic Testing, Naturopath Initial, Naturopath Subsequent, Dietitian Initial, Dietitian Subsequent.”

Dietitian and Naturopath services are separate practitioner categories within the ELCIC Benefits Plan health module and are not combined benefits for us.

The information displayed above reflects a known system limitation with Manulife’s platform. Manulife has advised that an enhancement to address this issue is currently in development and is expected to be released by the end of 2026.

You should still be able to claim for each separately despite the message. If you have any concerns regarding your claims or believe your coverage has been applied incorrectly, please contact our office directly, and we will be happy to assist you.

Over-age Dependent Status for School Year 2026–2027

It’s that time of year again to confirm whether your child will be attending school during the 2026–2027 school year. 

Dependent children between the ages of 21 and 25 who are enrolled full-time at an accredited educational institution may remain eligible for coverage under your benefits plan. Over-age dependent status must be verified annually. 

If your child is currently covered as an over-age dependent, GSI will be contacting you by email shortly to confirm whether they will be continuing their studies. To maintain coverage, the required verification form — which will be attached to the email — must be completed and returned to GSI. If your child has completed their studies, please return the form as well so their records can be updated. 

If you do not receive an email by the end of July and have a child attending school full-time, please contact our office. 

International Self-Care Day

Each year on July 24th, people around the world recognize International Self-Care Day, a reminder of the importance of taking care of our physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. The date 7/24 symbolizes that self-care is something we should practice 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and not just during times of stress or crisis.

Self-care looks different for everyone. For some, it may mean taking time to exercise, enjoy a healthy meal, or get adequate rest. For others, it may involve setting healthy boundaries, connecting with loved ones, engaging in prayer or meditation, or simply taking a few moments to pause and reflect. Small, intentional actions can have significant impact on our overall health and resilience.

International Self-Care Day also serves as a reminder that caring for ourselves enables us to better care for others. Whether in our workplaces, homes, congregations, or communities, maintaining our own well-being helps us remain present, compassionate, and effective in supporting those around us.

This July 24th, consider setting aside time for an activity that renews and restores you. By making self-care a regular part of our daily lives, we invest in our long-term health, happiness, and ability to serve others with energy and purpose.

Summer Salmon Skillet

Ingredients:

4 (5-6 oz.) center-cut skinless salmon fillets
½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp sweet paprika
2 ¼ tsp kosher salt, divided
1 tbsp harissa paste
1 red shallot, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
8 oz. yellow and red grape or cherry tomatoes
3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided
2 tbsp crumbled feta or goat cheese
1 tbsp finely chopped fresh dill

Directions:

1. Arrange a rack in the centre of oven; place a large stainless steel or cast-iron skillet on rack. Preheat oven to 450°F.
2. Pat salmon dry; season all over with cumin, paprika and 1 ½ tsp salt. Rub one side of each fillet with harissa paste.
3. In a medium bowl, toss shallot, garlic, tomatoes, and 1 tbsp oil; season with remaining 3/4 tsp salt and toss again to combine.
4. Using an oven mitt or dry kitchen towel, remove skillet from the oven and drizzle in the remaining 2 tbsp of oil. Arrange salmon in skillet harissa side up, then scatter tomato mixture around fish.
5. Bake until salmon flakes easily with a fork and tomatoes are softened, 9–11 minutes.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with feta and dill.

Burnout in the Body

Ask an Expert Question / Concern:

“Work has been really busy lately, and I’m worried it’s starting to affect my physical health. I feel tired even when I’m getting enough sleep. I’ve got aches and pains that I can’t pinpoint the cause of. I’m waking up with headaches from clenching my jaw. Is this what burnout looks like?”

Description:

Burnout isn’t just in your head; it’s also in your body. Join Kii Health this month to learn about the strain that chronic stress can create, including how to recognize physical and mental signs of burnout and learn strategies for recovering your energy and preserving your long-term well-being.

Date: Wednesday, July 15, 2026
Time: 12:00 – 12:30 pm ET

You can also watch the recording later using the same link.

We welcome your questions & feedback!

please write to us: admin@elcicgsi.ca
or call toll free: 1-877-352-4247 (in Winnipeg 204-984-9181)
information and resources can also be found on the GSI website