Links to COVID-19 Support and Information
During this time of uncertainty, we want to help you access information and resources regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, including the federal and BC government benefits and supports being made available.
Federal Government Resources
Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan
The federal government’s full COVID-19 Economic Response Plan.
Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB)
The federal government will provide a taxable benefit of $2,000 a month for up to four months to eligible workers who have lost their income due to COVID-19. The Canada Emergency Response Benefit will be accessible through a secure web portal starting in early April. Applicants will also be able to apply via an automated telephone line or via a toll-free number.
Employment Insurance (EI) Application Information
Applying for EI during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Employment Insurance Sickness Benefits
If you are sick, quarantined or have been directed to self-isolate, the federal government will waive the requirement to provide a medical certificate to access EI sickness benefits.
Income Tax filing information
Find information on filing your 2019 income tax return and the new, extended filing deadline.
British Columbia Resources
BC Housing Temporary Rental Supplement
To support people and prevent the spread of COVID-19, the Province of BC is introducing a new temporary rental supplement, halting evictions for non-payment of rent, and freezing rent increases. This new program will provide a temporary rental supplement to assist eligible low- and moderate-income renters who are struggling to pay their rent as a result of income loss or income reduction due to COVID-19. Eligible tenants will have the benefit paid directly to their landlord, benefiting both the landlord and the tenant. At this time, this is a three-month program. The application process will not be available online until mid-April.
BC Emergency Benefit
One-time additional tax-free payment of $1000 to those on EI or CERB.
Service BC
Non-medical information about COVID-19 available 7:30am – 8 pm at 1-888-COVID19. (1-888-268-4319). Services available in more than 110 languages.
COVID-19 Provincial Tax Changes
BC Hydro COVID-19 Bill Relief
Health and Mental Health Resources
Health Canada’s COVID-19 Health Information
Learn what the symptoms are for COVID-19, what to do if you think you have the symptoms and take a self-assessment.
8-1-1 (HealthLink BC) or 604-215-8110
Available 24/7 to talk to a nurse and get advice about how you are feeling and what to do next. Services available in more than 130 languages.
Kids Help Phone
Kids Help Phone provides mental health support for children and youth via text, live chat or phone 1-800-668-6868.
DIVERSEcity Counselling Services via Telephone
Looking for counselling in your first language? DIVERSEcity is continuing to offer its counselling services via telephone sessions. Email counsellingservices@dcrs.ca.
Banking and Mortgage Resources
Canadian banks have committed to work with their customers on a case-by-case basis to find solutions to help them manage hardships caused by COVID-19. Canadians who are impacted by COVID-19 and experiencing financial hardship as a result should contact their financial institution regarding flexibility for a mortgage deferral. This allows flexibility to be available − when needed − to those who need it the most.
Canadian Bankers Association Update on COVID-19
Bank of Montreal COVID-19 Update
CIBC COVID-19 Update
National Bank (NBC) COVID-19 Update
Scotiabank COVID-19 Update
RBC COVID-19 Update
TD COVID-19 Update
Small Business Resources
Small Business BC COVID-19 Resources
WorkSafeBC: Preventing Exposure to COVID-19 in the Workplace: A Guide for Employers
Summary of COVID-19 New Updates
Here you will find a summary of current public health orders and official government announcements such as closures, rules and more, boiled down into one list to help you navigate the sea of new information out there by MLA Bowinn Ma.
Have a Resource to include? Email marketing@dcrs.ca.