Sunday, September 20, 2026

When Work Doesn’t End Safely

Threads of Life helps families pick up the pieces in the wake of tragedy

Every April 28, we pause to observe the National Day of Mourning—a day set aside to remember those who have died, been injured, or suffered illness on the job—while renewing our commitments to workplace health and safety. Part of CLAC’s commemoration includes supporting Threads of Life—an organization dedicated to supporting families in the aftermath of workplace tragedies.

In times of tragedy, there is often a flurry of support from all sides. But then what? What about the weeks and months that follow?

That is where Threads of Life comes in. This organization helps survivors build resilience, form supportive connections, and find a way forward. Through peer support, mentoring, workshops, and guidance they assist families through complex systems such as workers compensation claims, legal proceedings, and inquests.

Threads of Life was founded in 2004 by a mother who lost her son in a workplace accident. It has since grown into a nation-wide initiative aimed to inspire a cultural shift where work-related tragedies are no longer accepted as inevitable, but recognized as morally, socially, and economically unacceptable.

Because of the important work Threads of Life does, CLAC has been a corporate sponsor for many years. CLAC staff also participates in the annual spring Steps for Life fundraiser—a five-kilometre walk held in more than 35 communities across Canada. Last year our staff raised over $5,000. These events are about more than fundraising—they are about remembrance, solidarity, and hope.

Workplace injuries and fatalities are not just statistics. They are human stories—of lives changed forever, of families learning to carry grief, and of communities coming together to support one another. Behind every number is a name, and behind every tragedy is a family. Together we can support healing and work toward a future where such losses are no longer part of the job.

For more information, or to support or donate, visit threadsoflife.ca.

When Work Doesn’t End Safely

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