Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced an expansion of the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) program during his daily address at Rideau Cottage this morning.
People who make less than $1,000 a month due to reduced work hours will now qualify, as well as seasonal workers and those who have recently run out of employment insurance.
“Maybe you’re a volunteer firefighter, or a contractor who can pick up some shifts, or you have a part-time job in a grocery store. Even if you’re still working, or you want to start working again, you probably need help making ends meet,” Trudeau said.
The initial eligibility rules for the CERB required a person to have lost all income for 14 consecutive days in the first month, then have zero income for subsequent months.
The $2,000 monthly CERB payment is for people who have lost their sources of income due to the global pandemic — either because they’ve lost their jobs or they have to stay home to care for dependents, or to self-isolate.
The Prime Minister also announced a wage boost for front line workers who make less than $2,500 a month, with special mention to those working in long-term care facilities.
He said it’s important that those working in long-term care facilities aren’t financially disadvantaged – by working instead of collecting the CERB.
He also stated that the essential front line staff in hospitals, seniors’ homes and long-term care facilities are doing “some of the toughest jobs in the country.”
The government has also announced a new mental health portal called Wellness Together Canada, where Canadians who are feeling more stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed due to the current crisis can connect with mental health professionals.
The portal is available on the government’s website and through their new COVID-19 app.
See all the latest updates about the global COVID-19 pandemic on Vancouver Island
The BCCDC has set up a 2019 novel coronavirus telephone information line at 1-833-784-4397 for those who have further questions about this disease.
Anyone concerned that they may have been exposed to, or are experiencing symptoms of the novel coronavirus, should contact their primary care provider, local public health office, or call 8-1-1.
The Province has also created the 1-888-COVID-19 line to connect British Columbians needing non-medical information about the coronavirus pandemic.
As of the time of publication, the total number of COVID-19 patients worldwide has risen to 2,033,452.
Over 129,000 people have died from the illness and 495,586 have made a full recovery.
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