{"id":13051,"date":"2026-01-13T01:00:44","date_gmt":"2026-01-13T07:00:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/?p=13051"},"modified":"2026-01-12T16:54:24","modified_gmt":"2026-01-12T22:54:24","slug":"january-2026-benefits-news","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/?p=13051","title":{"rendered":"January 2026 Benefits News"},"content":{"rendered":"[vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;0&#8243; bottom_padding=&#8221;0&#8243; top_margin=&#8221;0&#8243; bottom_margin=&#8221;0&#8243; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; row_border_radius_applies=&#8221;bg&#8221; row_position_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; row_position_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; row_position_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; class=&#8221;enews&#8221; advanced_gradient_angle=&#8221;0&#8243; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; flex_gap_desktop=&#8221;10px&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; 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bottom_margin=&#8221;0&#8243; flex_gap_desktop=&#8221;10px&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_position=&#8221;default&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;advanced&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221;][vc_custom_heading text=&#8221;In this Issue&#8221; font_container=&#8221;tag:h3|text_align:left&#8221; google_fonts=&#8221;font_family:Domine%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;]<div class=\"nectar-fancy-ul link_style_opacity\" data-list-icon=\"fa fa-bookmark\" data-animation=\"false\" data-animation-delay=\"0\" data-color=\"accent-color\" data-spacing=\"default\" data-alignment=\"left\"> \n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/?p=13051#tips\">Barb&#8217;s Tips: HCSA Claims, Occupational Therapy Benefit<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/?p=13051#wellness\">Wellness: Occupational Therapy<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/?p=13051#yourplan\">Your Plan: Travel Insurance<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/?p=13051#recipe\">Good Eats: Southwestern Salad<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/?p=13051#webinars\">Kii Webinar: Navigating a Challenging Work Situation<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/?p=13051#together\">GSI&#8217;s Treasurers Together Sessions<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n <\/div>[\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_color=&#8221;rgba(113,199,216,0.1)&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;0&#8243; left_padding_desktop=&#8221;0&#8243; right_padding_desktop=&#8221;0&#8243; top_margin=&#8221;0&#8243; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_border_radius=&#8221;20px&#8221; row_border_radius_applies=&#8221;bg&#8221; row_position_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; row_position_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; row_position_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; id=&#8221;tips&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; flex_gap_desktop=&#8221;10px&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_position=&#8221;default&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221;][image_with_animation image_url=&#8221;12927&#8243; image_size=&#8221;full&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221; max_width_mobile=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;entrance&#8221; animation=&#8221;Fade In&#8221; animation_easing=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_movement_type=&#8221;transform_y&#8221; hover_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; border_radius=&#8221;custom&#8221; box_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; top_left_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; top_right_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; image_loading=&#8221;default&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews-banner&#8221;][vc_row_inner column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_position=&#8221;default&#8221; row_position_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; row_position_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; pointer_events=&#8221;all&#8221; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1702227614107{padding-right: 20px !important;padding-left: 20px !important;}&#8221;][vc_column_inner bottom_padding_desktop=&#8221;0&#8243; bottom_margin=&#8221;0&#8243; flex_gap_desktop=&#8221;10px&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;advanced&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221;][vc_custom_heading text=&#8221;HCSA Claims&#8221; font_container=&#8221;tag:h1|text_align:center|color:%2387B943&#8243; google_fonts=&#8221;font_family:Domine%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1767659871721{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-right: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;padding-left: 10px !important;}&#8221; el_class=&#8221;byline&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]from Barb Fortier, Executive Director of GSI[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1767837577835{margin-top: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;}&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]\n<h2><a href=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Barb-2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright wp-image-6651 size-thumbnail\" src=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Barb-2-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Barb Fortier\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" srcset=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Barb-2-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Barb-2-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Barb-2-100x100.jpg 100w, https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Barb-2-140x140.jpg 140w, https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Barb-2-350x350.jpg 350w, https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Barb-2.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 150px) 100vw, 150px\" \/><\/a>Health Care Spending Account (HCSA)<\/h2>\n<p>HAPPPY NEW YEAR!!! With a new year upon us, most of your<strong> benefits reset January 1, 2026.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Health Care Spending Accounts (HCSAs) have been updated January 1, 2026. You may check your HCSA on Manulife&#8217;s website.<\/p>\n<p>Claims from 2025 may be submitted to your HCSA remaining amount from 2025 <strong>until March 31, 2026<\/strong>. Any unused HCSA from 2025 will be carried to the end of December 31, 2026 and may used during the year.<\/p>\n<p>Note there are a few benefits, such as Vision Care and Dental Care, that reset every 24 months (2 years) rather than annually on January 1.<\/p>\n<p>You may review the benefits coverage on <a href=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/?page_id=5173\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">GSI\u2019s website<\/a>.[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;Full Width Line&#8221; line_thickness=&#8221;1&#8243; divider_color=&#8221;extra-color-1&#8243; custom_height=&#8221;10 px&#8221;][vc_custom_heading text=&#8221;Addition to Professional Services under the Benefits Plan&#8221; font_container=&#8221;tag:h1|text_align:center|color:%2387B943&#8243; google_fonts=&#8221;font_family:Domine%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal&#8221; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1768257457505{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}&#8221;][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1768257447893{padding-right: 20px !important;padding-left: 20px !important;}&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]Great news! <strong>Occupational Therapy has been added to all health modules<\/strong> and grouped with Physiotherapy \/ Athletic Therapist \/ Kinesiologist, starting January 1, 2026.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;0&#8243; left_padding_desktop=&#8221;5&#8243; right_padding_desktop=&#8221;5&#8243; top_margin=&#8221;0&#8243; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_border_radius=&#8221;20px&#8221; row_border_radius_applies=&#8221;bg&#8221; row_position_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; row_position_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; row_position_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; id=&#8221;wellness&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; flex_gap_desktop=&#8221;10px&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_position=&#8221;default&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221;][image_with_animation image_url=&#8221;13083&#8243; image_size=&#8221;full&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221; max_width_mobile=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;entrance&#8221; animation=&#8221;Fade In&#8221; animation_easing=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_movement_type=&#8221;transform_y&#8221; hover_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; border_radius=&#8221;custom&#8221; box_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; top_left_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; top_right_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; image_loading=&#8221;default&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews-banner&#8221;][vc_row_inner column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_position=&#8221;default&#8221; row_position_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; row_position_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; pointer_events=&#8221;all&#8221; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1767735372656{margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-right: 20px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;padding-left: 20px !important;}&#8221;][vc_column_inner bottom_padding_desktop=&#8221;0&#8243; bottom_margin=&#8221;0&#8243; flex_gap_desktop=&#8221;10px&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;advanced&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221;][vc_custom_heading text=&#8221;What is Occupational Therapy?&#8221; font_container=&#8221;tag:h1|text_align:center|color:%2387B943&#8243; google_fonts=&#8221;font_family:Domine%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1768257490127{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;}&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]Occupational Therapy has been added to the list of Professional Services eligible for some coverage under the ELCIC Group Benefits Plan.\u00a0But what <em>is<\/em> it, exactly, and <strong>how would you know if it might benefit you?<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3>Overview<\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/swimmingman.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-13116 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/swimmingman-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/swimmingman-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/swimmingman-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/swimmingman.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a>The following definition is abridged from the one the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT) provides <a href=\"https:\/\/caot.ca\/site\/about\/ot?nav=sidebar&amp;banner=1\">on their website<\/a>:<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\">Occupational therapy promotes health, well-being, and quality of life by <strong>supporting access to, initiation of, and sustained participation in the things that clients want and need to do in their daily life<\/strong>. Occupational therapy professionals work with clients of all ages and health statuses, who are, or may be at risk of, experiencing difficulties participating in their daily activities.<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\">Within the collaborative relationship-focused approach, occupational therapy professionals seek to understand and take into consideration the <strong>impact of the multidimensional contexts<\/strong> (micro, meso, macro), histories, identities, and experiences of the therapist, the client(s), and the practice context where occupational therapy services are delivered. This <strong>collaborative process<\/strong> involves connecting, seeking understanding and defining purpose, exploring occupational participation, co-designing priorities\/outcomes\/plan, trialing \/ exploring \/ redefining plans, and planning for transition.<\/p>\n<p>They stress that &#8220;occupation&#8221; refers to all the activities you do or want to do in your life \u2014<strong> not just at your job<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h2>What Kinds of Challenges Can They Help With?<\/h2>\n<p>Registered Occupational Therapists offer a wide range of services. They have extensive education (often a Master&#8217;s Degree) and work collaboratively with other professionals to help their patients <strong>overcome physical, social, mental, and environmental challenges<\/strong> that make life difficult.<\/p>\n<p>Here are a few examples of people who can benefit from this type of professional service:[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_position=&#8221;default&#8221; row_position_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; row_position_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; pointer_events=&#8221;all&#8221; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1767735389714{margin-top: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-left: 40px !important;}&#8221;][vc_column_inner column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; flex_gap_desktop=&#8221;10px&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221;]<div class=\"nectar-fancy-ul font_text_indent_tablet_20px font_text_indent_phone_20px\" data-list-icon=\"fa fa-star\" data-animation=\"false\" data-animation-delay=\"0\" data-color=\"accent-color\" data-spacing=\"5px\" data-alignment=\"left\"> \n<ul>\n<li><strong>Children<\/strong>: to help with fine motor skills, learning, getting dressed and feeding themselves, emotional regulation, getting along with others<\/li>\n<li><strong>New mothers<\/strong>: to help with pelvic floor function and other bodily changes that happen with birth, postpartum depression, ergonometrics, stress management, and adapting to new family routines and changing identity<\/li>\n<li><strong>People with chronic pain<\/strong>: to help with reprocessing\/rewiring pain signals, listening to the body&#8217;s signals, conserving energy, mindfulness techniques, and adaptive equipment (e.g., wrist splints to reduce repetitive strain)<\/li>\n<li><strong>People recovering from an injury, illness, or trauma<\/strong>: to help with pain management, adapting to physical or mental changes that come with injury, general rehabilitation, and sleep optimization<\/li>\n<li><strong>Adults recently diagnosed with ADHD<\/strong>: to help with time management, breaking up tasks into manageable chunks, adapting work environments to make focusing easier, developing planning frameworks, and coping with the emotional ramifications of this diagnosis<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n <\/div>[\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1767747349561{margin-top: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-left: 20px !important;}&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]\n<h3>What&#8217;s the Difference Between Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy?<\/h3>\n<p>There is<strong> some overlap<\/strong> between these two professions. Both require extensive education and registration, an understanding of other medical services available where the patient lives, and seek to help patients improve daily functioning.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/rehab.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-13118 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/rehab-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/rehab-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/rehab-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/rehab.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a>In general, <strong>Physiotherapists tend to be <em>movement<\/em> experts. <\/strong>They recommend physical exercises that can help a person restore range of motion after an injury or surgery or identify and address other causes of restricted movement.<\/p>\n<p>Occupational Therapists tend to look at the situation <strong>more holistically.<\/strong> They can help improve movement through exercises, but they also look at the bigger picture: what are the physical, mental, social,\u00a0and environmental challenges that are making it difficult for this person to function as they wish to?<\/p>\n<p>WebMD offers <a href=\"https:\/\/www.webmd.com\/pain-management\/occupational-therapy-versus-physical-therapy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">this helpful illustration:<\/a> &#8220;A physical therapist would focus on what the person physically needs to do to get through a large store. This could include getting in and out of the car and traveling up and down the aisles. An occupational therapist might help with tasks like making a list, finding items, and handling checkout.&#8221;[\/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=&#8221;Note that this information is not intended to be expert medical advice. Please consult your primary care physician or other healthcare provider for advice pertaining specifically to you.&#8221; font_container=&#8221;tag:p|font_size:.8%20rem|text_align:left|line_height:1.5&#8243; google_fonts=&#8221;font_family:Open%20Sans%3A300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C600%2C600italic%2C700%2C700italic%2C800%2C800italic|font_style:400%20italic%3A400%3Aitalic&#8221; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1767736187470{padding-right: 30px !important;padding-left: 30px !important;}&#8221;][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;20&#8243; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_border_radius=&#8221;20px&#8221; row_border_radius_applies=&#8221;bg&#8221; row_position_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; row_position_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; row_position_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; id=&#8221;yourplan&#8221; advanced_gradient_angle=&#8221;0&#8243; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; bottom_margin=&#8221;0&#8243; left_margin=&#8221;0&#8243; right_margin=&#8221;0&#8243; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;custom&#8221; top_left_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; top_right_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; bottom_right_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; bottom_left_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_position=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221; content_layout=&#8221;default&#8221;][image_with_animation image_url=&#8221;13121&#8243; image_size=&#8221;full&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221; max_width_mobile=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;entrance&#8221; animation=&#8221;None&#8221; animation_movement_type=&#8221;transform_y&#8221; hover_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; box_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; image_loading=&#8221;default&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221;][vc_custom_heading text=&#8221;About the Travel Insurance Benefit&#8221; font_container=&#8221;tag:h1|font_size:22px|text_align:center|color:%2387b943&#8243; google_fonts=&#8221;font_family:Domine%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal&#8221; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1767746890880{margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;}&#8221;][vc_row_inner column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_position=&#8221;default&#8221; row_position_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; row_position_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; pointer_events=&#8221;all&#8221; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1767753951016{padding-top: 0px !important;padding-right: 20px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;padding-left: 20px !important;}&#8221;][vc_column_inner column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; flex_gap_desktop=&#8221;10px&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1767837648980{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]<a href=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/vacation.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-13078 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/vacation-225x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"225\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/vacation-225x300.jpg 225w, https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/vacation-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/vacation.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 225px) 100vw, 225px\" \/><\/a>January has arrived, the holiday rush has passed, and we are left with shorter days and colder weather. The idea of escaping to somewhere sunny and warm feels pretty tempting right now. Whether you are planning a getaway or travelling for a conference, time away can be refreshing for your mental well-being and offer new perspectives. <strong>Before making any travel plans,<\/strong> it is helpful to review what travel benefits are available to you.<\/p>\n<h3>What Exactly Is Covered?<\/h3>\n<p>The coverage in the ELCIC Group Benefits Plan is\u202f <em><strong>health<\/strong><\/em> \u202fcoverage. This means the plan covers costs related to your medical care.<\/p>\n<p>This coverage <strong>does not include<\/strong> things like<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>trip cancellation<\/li>\n<li>hotels and meals for unexpected overnight stays following a cancelled flight<\/li>\n<li>a new flight home if you miss your flight<\/li>\n<li>replacement clothing when a suitcase doesn&#8217;t show up on the carousel<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If you would like that coverage, you will need to arrange for additional travel insurance with another provider.<\/p>\n<h3>Medical Care While Travelling<\/h3>\n<p>Manulife uses <strong>Global Excel Management (GEM)<\/strong>, a Canadian company based in Sherbooke, QC, as its emergency travel insurance provider.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/hospital-treatment.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-13079 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/hospital-treatment-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/hospital-treatment-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/hospital-treatment-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/hospital-treatment.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a>If you require medical care while travelling, it is critical that you\u202f<strong>contact GEM before seeking treatment<\/strong>. The Canada\/U.S. toll-free (1-800-265-9977) and collect numbers are printed on the back of your benefits card. There are also special dedicated numbers for certain countries like Mexico, Dominican Republic, Cuba and a few others.<\/p>\n<p>GEM&#8217;s caring and experienced in-house medical team is <strong>ready to help you 24\/7<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>If you experience a serious medical emergency, seek hospital care right away. <strong>As soon as possible<\/strong> \u2014 within 24 hours of being admitted and before undergoing any surgical procedure \u2014 either contact GEM or ask a family member or friend to contact them for you.<\/p>\n<p>GEM will gather details including information about the emergency and any relevant medical background. Your sharing clear and accurate details will help them support you properly and explain what coverage applies.<\/p>\n<h3>Billing and Payment<\/h3>\n<p>GEM will <strong>try to set up direct billing<\/strong> with the medical provider so you don\u2019t have to pay up front. However, the provider decides whether they accept this, and in some cases, you may need to pay first. If you do, be sure to get an itemized receipt and copies of your medical records to submit your claim.<\/p>\n<h3>To get reimbursed, you would:<\/h3>\n<ol>\n<li>Submit the receipt to your government health insurance for partial reimbursement.<\/li>\n<li>Submit the remaining balance to Manulife.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h3>Out-of-Province Travel<\/h3>\n<p>It\u2019s important to know how to access GEM Emergency Travel Insurance \u2014 even when travelling within Canada. Since provincial health plans differ in their coverage, your benefits may help cover extra costs. For example, in some cases it can help pay for <strong>medically necessary transport<\/strong> back home.<\/p>\n<h3>Coordination of Benefits<\/h3>\n<p>If you have access to additional travel medical insurance (e.g., through a spousal plan, credit card, or additional plan you purchased), <strong>you may be able to coordinate them<\/strong> and further reduce your out-of-pocket medical expenses.<\/p>\n<p>The process is similar to <a href=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/?page_id=3992\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">coordinating benefits<\/a> for your regular prescriptions, dental appointments, and other expenses covered under your Plan. In general, employees should contact their own Primary Carrier (plan) first. Where both Spouses have a plan, the Primary Carrier for their Dependent Children is the Spouse with the first birthday in a calendar year.<\/p>\n<p>If you want to be sure you understand how to coordinate benefits across your Plans before you travel, or if you have other questions about your travel medical insurance,<strong> GSI would be happy to help<\/strong>.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_position=&#8221;default&#8221; row_position_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; row_position_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; pointer_events=&#8221;all&#8221;][vc_column_inner column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; 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column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;custom&#8221; top_left_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; top_right_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; bottom_right_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; bottom_left_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_position=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221;][image_with_animation image_url=&#8221;12924&#8243; image_size=&#8221;full&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221; max_width_mobile=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;entrance&#8221; animation=&#8221;None&#8221; animation_movement_type=&#8221;transform_y&#8221; hover_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; box_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; image_loading=&#8221;default&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221;][vc_custom_heading text=&#8221;Southwestern Salad&#8221; font_container=&#8221;tag:h1|font_size:22px|text_align:center|color:%2387b943&#8243; google_fonts=&#8221;font_family:Domine%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal&#8221; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1767660416596{margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;}&#8221;][vc_row_inner column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_position=&#8221;default&#8221; row_position_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; row_position_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; pointer_events=&#8221;all&#8221; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1767749019090{padding-top: 0px !important;padding-right: 20px !important;padding-bottom: 20px !important;padding-left: 40px !important;}&#8221;][vc_column_inner column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; flex_gap_desktop=&#8221;10px&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]<strong>Yields<\/strong>: 6-8 servings<br \/>\n<strong>Prep Time<\/strong>: 20 mins<br \/>\n<strong>Total Time<\/strong>: 30 mins<\/p>\n<h2>Ingredients (Dressing)<\/h2>\n<p>1 ripe avocado, pitted and peeled<br \/>\n\u00bc cup red wine vinegar<br \/>\n2 Tbsp. fresh lime juice<br \/>\n2 Tbsp. chopped fresh cilantro<br \/>\n1 clove of garlic, coarsely chopped<br \/>\n\u00bd tsp salt<br \/>\n\u00bd\u00a0tsp black ground pepper<br \/>\n\u00bd cup olive oil<\/p>\n<p>Add all ingredients except for the oil to a blender and blend\/pulse until smooth; there should still be bits of cilantro. Add the oil and blend until incorporated.<\/p>\n<h2><a href=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Southwestern-Salad.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-13067 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Southwestern-Salad-300x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Southwestern-Salad-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Southwestern-Salad-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Southwestern-Salad-140x140.png 140w, https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Southwestern-Salad-100x100.png 100w, https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Southwestern-Salad-500x500.png 500w, https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Southwestern-Salad-350x350.png 350w, https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Southwestern-Salad.png 758w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a>Ingredients (Salad)<\/h2>\n<p>2 heads romaine lettuce, chopped<br \/>\n1 15-oz can black beans, drained and rinsed<br \/>\n1 \u00bd cups grape tomatoes, cut in half<br \/>\n1 orange bell pepper, chopped<br \/>\n1 cup frozen corn, thawed<br \/>\n1 cup shredded cheese (perhaps cheddar or Monterey Jack)<br \/>\n4 green onions, sliced<br \/>\n\u00bd cup chopped fresh cilantro<br \/>\n1 ripe avocado, peeled, pitted and cubed<br \/>\n\u00bd cup crushed tortilla chips<\/p>\n<h2>Preparation<\/h2>\n<p>To a large bowl, add all ingredients for the salad. Drizzle with the dressing, and toss to combine.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_color=&#8221;#EEEE2221&#8243; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;0&#8243; bottom_padding=&#8221;20&#8243; left_padding_desktop=&#8221;0&#8243; right_padding_desktop=&#8221;0&#8243; top_padding_tablet=&#8221;5&#8243; bottom_padding_tablet=&#8221;5&#8243; left_padding_tablet=&#8221;5&#8243; right_padding_tablet=&#8221;5&#8243; top_padding_phone=&#8221;5&#8243; bottom_padding_phone=&#8221;5&#8243; left_padding_phone=&#8221;5&#8243; right_padding_phone=&#8221;5&#8243; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_border_radius=&#8221;20px&#8221; row_border_radius_applies=&#8221;bg&#8221; row_position_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; row_position_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; row_position_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; id=&#8221;webinars&#8221; advanced_gradient_angle=&#8221;0&#8243; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; left_margin=&#8221;0&#8243; left_margin_tablet=&#8221;5&#8243; left_margin_phone=&#8221;5&#8243; flex_gap_desktop=&#8221;10px&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_position=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221;][image_with_animation image_url=&#8221;13072&#8243; image_size=&#8221;full&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221; max_width_mobile=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;entrance&#8221; animation=&#8221;Fade In&#8221; animation_easing=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_movement_type=&#8221;transform_y&#8221; hover_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; border_radius=&#8221;custom&#8221; box_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; top_left_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; top_right_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; image_loading=&#8221;default&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews-banner&#8221;][\/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;padding-3-percent&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;left-right&#8221; flex_gap_desktop=&#8221;10px&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_position=&#8221;default&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221;][vc_custom_heading text=&#8221;Navigating a Challenging Work Situation&#8221; font_container=&#8221;tag:h1|font_size:22px|text_align:center|color:%2387b943&#8243; google_fonts=&#8221;font_family:Domine%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal&#8221; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1767661711780{margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 20px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;}&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong>Expert<\/strong>: Dr. Khush Amaria, PhD, C.Psych.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong>Ask an Expert Question \/ Concern:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>\u201cI wake up every Monday feeling tense, nauseous, and full of dread. I\u2019m constantly expected to do more with less and criticized when I can\u2019t meet expectations that feel vague and impossible. My whole team is on edge. What do I do?\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong>Description:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/toxicenvironment.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-13074 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/toxicenvironment-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/toxicenvironment-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/toxicenvironment-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/toxicenvironment.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a>Our workplaces, day-to-day responsibilities, and colleagues can play a huge role in our well- being, for better and <strong>sometimes for worse<\/strong>. When you\u2019re navigating a challenging environment at work, the impact can very quickly trickle into other aspects of your life.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">Join Kii Health this month as we explore what a toxic work environment might look like, including how to <strong>advocate for yourself, manage difficult situations (and people) at work, and protect your well-being<\/strong>.<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><strong>Date<\/strong>: Wednesday, January 14, 2026<br \/>\n<strong>Time<\/strong>: 12:00 \u2013 12:30 pm ET[\/vc_column_text][nectar_btn size=&#8221;small&#8221; open_new_tab=&#8221;true&#8221; button_style=&#8221;regular-tilt&#8221; button_color=&#8221;Accent-Color&#8221; icon_family=&#8221;fontawesome&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews-button&#8221; text=&#8221;Register for Webinar&#8221; url=&#8221;https:\/\/attendee.gotowebinar.com\/register\/2161904193076399452&#8243; icon_fontawesome=&#8221;fa fa-wpforms&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]You can also watch the recording later using the same link.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_color=&#8221;#71C7D81F&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;0&#8243; bottom_padding=&#8221;20&#8243; left_padding_desktop=&#8221;0&#8243; right_padding_desktop=&#8221;0&#8243; top_padding_tablet=&#8221;5&#8243; bottom_padding_tablet=&#8221;5&#8243; left_padding_tablet=&#8221;5&#8243; right_padding_tablet=&#8221;5&#8243; top_padding_phone=&#8221;5&#8243; bottom_padding_phone=&#8221;5&#8243; left_padding_phone=&#8221;5&#8243; right_padding_phone=&#8221;5&#8243; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_border_radius=&#8221;20px&#8221; row_border_radius_applies=&#8221;bg&#8221; row_position_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; row_position_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; row_position_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; id=&#8221;together&#8221; advanced_gradient_angle=&#8221;0&#8243; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; left_margin=&#8221;0&#8243; left_margin_tablet=&#8221;5&#8243; left_margin_phone=&#8221;5&#8243; flex_gap_desktop=&#8221;10px&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_position=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221;][image_with_animation image_url=&#8221;12840&#8243; image_size=&#8221;full&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221; max_width_mobile=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;entrance&#8221; animation=&#8221;Fade In&#8221; animation_easing=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_movement_type=&#8221;transform_y&#8221; hover_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; border_radius=&#8221;custom&#8221; box_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; top_left_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; top_right_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; image_loading=&#8221;default&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews-banner&#8221;][\/vc_column][vc_column top_padding_desktop=&#8221;20&#8243; left_padding_desktop=&#8221;20&#8243; right_padding_desktop=&#8221;20&#8243; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_position=&#8221;default&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;advanced&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221; content_layout=&#8221;default&#8221;][vc_row_inner column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_position=&#8221;default&#8221; row_position_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; row_position_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; pointer_events=&#8221;all&#8221;][vc_column_inner column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; flex_gap_desktop=&#8221;10px&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221;][image_with_animation image_url=&#8221;13109&#8243; image_size=&#8221;full&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221; max_width_mobile=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;entrance&#8221; animation=&#8221;None&#8221; animation_movement_type=&#8221;transform_y&#8221; hover_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; alignment=&#8221;&#8221; border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; box_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; image_loading=&#8221;default&#8221;][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; flex_gap_desktop=&#8221;10px&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">Barb and Shelley from GSI will be hosting two &#8220;Treasurers Together&#8221; Info sessions <strong>February 4 and 5, 2026<\/strong>. These two-hour sessions will be held over Zoom. Topics will be the same for both sessions.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">The sessions will be of particular interest to Treasurers, but <strong>members of church councils, clergy, and others who are connected to the ELCIC will also be welcome to join<\/strong>. Topics will cover a range of Treasurer responsibilities, such as:<\/p>\n<ul style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<li>enrollments of new employees<\/li>\n<li>terminations<\/li>\n<li>life events such as disability and marriage<\/li>\n<li>T4 completion<\/li>\n<li>the role of GSI and how it can be helpful for Treasurers and congregations<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">More information and the registration form is <a href=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/?page_id=12966\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">now available on the GSI website.<\/a> The registration deadline is January 30.<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][nectar_btn size=&#8221;small&#8221; open_new_tab=&#8221;true&#8221; button_style=&#8221;regular-tilt&#8221; button_color=&#8221;Accent-Color&#8221; icon_family=&#8221;fontawesome&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews-button&#8221; text=&#8221;Learn More &amp; Register&#8221; url=&#8221;https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/?page_id=12966&#8243; icon_fontawesome=&#8221;fa fa-wpforms&#8221;][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_color=&#8221;rgba(113,199,216,0.1)&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;center&#8221; row_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; row_border_radius_applies=&#8221;bg&#8221; row_position_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; row_position_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; row_position_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; id=&#8221;Contact&#8221; advanced_gradient_angle=&#8221;0&#8243; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; flex_gap_desktop=&#8221;10px&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_position=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221;][image_with_animation image_url=&#8221;12556&#8243; image_size=&#8221;full&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221; max_width_mobile=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;entrance&#8221; animation=&#8221;None&#8221; animation_movement_type=&#8221;transform_y&#8221; hover_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; alignment=&#8221;&#8221; border_radius=&#8221;custom&#8221; box_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; top_left_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; top_right_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; image_loading=&#8221;default&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews-banner&#8221;][vc_custom_heading text=&#8221;We welcome your questions &amp; feedback!&#8221; font_container=&#8221;tag:h2|text_align:center&#8221; google_fonts=&#8221;font_family:Domine%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal&#8221;][vc_column_text el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221;]please write to us:<a href=\"mailto:admin@elcicgsi.ca\"> admin@elcicgsi.ca<\/a><br \/>\nor call toll free: 1-877-352-4247 (in Winnipeg 204-984-9181)<br \/>\ninformation and resources can also be found on the <a href=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\">GSI website<\/a>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Topics: Tips on HSCA claims and new occupational therapy benefit; What is Occupational Therapy?; Travel Insurance; Southwestern Salad Recipe; Webinar on Navigating a Challenging Work Situation; and Info about Treasurers Together sessions<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":13,"featured_media":10965,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[4],"tags":[34],"post_folder":[22,18],"class_list":["post-13051","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-planmembers","tag-pension"],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Benefits-News.jpeg?ver=1727747897","author_info":{"display_name":"Faithful Servant","author_link":"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/?author=13"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13051","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/13"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=13051"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13051\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/10965"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=13051"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=13051"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=13051"},{"taxonomy":"post_folder","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fpost_folder&post=13051"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}