Despite the recent pandemic, we Canadians are reminded daily of how fortunate we truly are. A roof over our heads. A warm bed. Food on the table. Still, the coronavirus has ushered in a period of uncertainty few of us have seen in our lifetimes.

Fortunately, the Canadian government has put together an $82 billion package. The money will provide financial support to keep businesses viable for the future. It will go to indigenous populations, victims of domestic violence, and homeless shelters. And an astounding $27 billion will go into the bank accounts of individuals and families such as yours.

Below, we have listed the measures that the Canadian government is taking on your behalf. This resource page conveniently puts all the links in one place. They are updated frequently, so be sure to bookmark the page.

Financial Support

Following is a list of COVID-19 resources that may be available to you:

• Canada Child Benefit: Provides $300 per child starting in May as part of the CCB payment.
• Canada Emergency Response Benefit: Provides $500 a week to Canadian residents, including self-employed, who are without work due to COVID-19. Conditions do apply, so review the CERB criteria carefully.
• Employment Insurance Sickness Benefits: Provides income replacement to those who are unable to work due to illness or quarantine. Also waives the one-week waiting period.
• Student Loan Pause: Students and apprentices receive a 6-month, interest-free moratorium on student loan payments.
• Deferred Tax Deadline: The federal tax deadline is extended until June 1, 2020 for individuals and until June 15, 2020 for the self-employed with payments not due until September 1, 2020.
• Mortgage Deferral: The six largest Canadian banks have agreed to defer mortgage payments for six months for those who cannot make their payments due to COVID-19 impacts. Ask your banker.
• Rent Freeze: If you are due for an increase in April or May, rent increases are frozen until May 31, 2020.
• Non-Urgent Evictions Suspended: Evictions are not allowed prior to May 31, 2020 unless they are due to, for example, illegal tenant activities.

Non-Financial Support During the Pandemic

Please remember, too, that there is non-financial assistance available in Manitoba. Many people live by themselves and are even more alone during this period of social distancing. If you are sick or quarantined and have an essential grocery list, pharmaceutical needs, or just want to hear a caring voice on the phone each day, contact Help Next Door MB. There is someone in your community who can help. We are in this together.

Should I Get Tested for Coronavirus?

As always, call 911 for a medical emergency. But, what if you have flu-like symptoms and don’t know if you should be tested for the virus? You can use a self-screening tool to decide whether or not you should speak to a nurse. However, anyone with symptoms including a cough, runny nose, fever, sore throat, headaches or weakness is strongly advised to self-isolate for 14 days. Above all, since you could be asymptomatic, remember to maintain the social distancing guidelines at all times.

For More Help

For additional financial assistance during these trying times, please call us at 204-925-6400. We understand that if you were worried about your finances before the pandemic, you are likely to have even greater concerns now.

Of course, safety is first. None of the community’s social distancing measures, however, prevent you from scheduling a free remote consultation. With LC Taylor, you’ll receive the same care and concern from a distance that we provide in person.