I know how difficult it has become to stay aware of all the different announcements and resources from all levels of government. My goal is for this page to be a frequently updated resource for our community. These are anxious and unsure times for us all, and I want you to know that your government has your back. Municipal, Provincial, or Federal – we are all here for you. This situation changes hourly, so I would encourage you all to check back here frequently for the latest updates or sign-up for my regular, community-focused updates right to your inbox here.
General Information
- Toronto.ca/covid19 – The City of Toronto website with all updates from your municipal government. Contains a list of all impacted City services, financial supports, statements from our Medical Officer of Health, and more.
- Ontario.ca/covid19 – Get more information on how the Ministry of Health is working to protect you. More information on how to self-isolate, what to do if you think you’re sick, and the Provincial financial supports.
- Canada.ca/covid19 – Your Federal government has taken significant steps to protect Canadians and provide financial support during this time. Please visit their website for more information on the measures that they’ve taken.
- COVID-19 Self Assessment – For anyone who thinks that they may have been infected, please use this self assessment tool. Our health services are already overwhelmed – this tool will help to filter out those who need urgent medical attention.
Supports for Individuals and Families
Municipal
- Social Supports – The City is partnering with many different community organizations to provide aid to those who need it during this crisis. Please visit the website for more information on these programs.
- Economic Supports – The Mayor’s Economic Support and Recovery taskforce is working to ensure that financial aid is available. For a full list of the supports in place, check out the website.
Provincial
- Ontario’s Action Plan – Minister of Finance Rod Phillips announced a substantial $17 billion investment to combat COVID-19.
- Hydro Rate Relief – Premier Ford announced a 45-day period where prices will be held to off-peak rates.
- Job Protection During COVID-19 – The Provincial government is working to protect the jobs of those who can’t work during this crisis.
Federal
- Canada Emergency Response Benefit – The Federal government has passed legislation to support workers and help businesses keep their employees. See the link for more information.
- Income Support for Workers and Parents – If you do not have access to paid sick leave, please see this link for how the Federal government can support you.
- Longer Term Income Support – For those who do not qualify for EI and are facing unemployment, please click this link and scroll down slightly.
- Information on Accessing Federal Programs – For information on accessing employment insurance, the Canadian Child Benefit, or other Federal programs – please visit their website.
- Income Support for Who Need It Most – For those who have had their job or income impacted by COVID-19, the Federal government is offering financial support.
- Flexibility for Taxpayers – The Canada Revenue Agency will allow the deferral of tax payments to assist Canadians.
Supports for Businesses
Municipal
- Economic Support and Recovery for Businesses – I’ll be working with the Mayor’s taskforce and businesses around the City to identify how we can best provide financial support through this situation.
Provincial
- List of Essential Workplaces – Premier Ford announced all non-essential businesses must be closed by 11:59pm on Tuesday, March 24th. For a full list of what is and isn’t essential, check out their link.
- Ontario Together – The Provincial government is calling on any businesses who can help to provide emergency supplies to contact them.
- Working with Businesses – Our Minister of Finance is working with businesses across the province to identify their needs and how best the government can assist with them. The March Economic Statement (“Ontario’s Action Plan”) outlines planned supports.
Federal
- Business Credit Availability Program – A $10 billion fund established by Business Development Canada and Export Development Canada.
- The New Canada Emergency Business Account – A $25 billion fund offering interest free loans of up to $40,000 for small businesses and non-profits.
- The Canada Account – Our Federal Minister of Finance is exploring how we can use the Canada Account to support businesses during this unprecedented emergency.
- Helping Businesses Keep Their Employees – A wage subsidy up to 75% of payroll has been announced to help provide some stability.
- Flexibility for Businesses Filing Taxes – The date for filing commercial taxes has been deferred until the end of August.
- Supporting Market Liquidity – An Insured Mortgage Purchase Program (IMPP) is being launched to further bolster the Canadian economy.
About Brad Bradford - - -
