Vulnerable people, including people experiencing homelessness, will have better access to services through smartphones distributed by the social service organizations that support them. “The need for internet connectivity has never been as important as it is right now. For people …
News
Province launches renewal plan for surgeries
Surgeries that were postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic are starting back up as part of a massive surgical renewal plan. “British Columbians have stepped up to the challenge of COVID-19 by making sacrifices, including thousands of people who have …
Premier outlines plan to restart B.C. safely
British Columbians will move forward with safely restarting their province beginning in mid-May, according to a plan announced by Premier John Horgan. Under B.C.’s Restart Plan, government will work closely with public health officials, businesses and labour organizations to lift …
Province selects group to lead anti-racism program
More supports for communities will be available following a rise in racist incidents targeting Asian people during the COVID-19 pandemic. “It is very concerning that we are seeing an increase in racially motivated attacks toward people of Asian heritage since …
Online applications open for B.C. Emergency Benefit for Workers
British Columbians whose ability to work has been affected because of the COVID-19 pandemic and are receiving the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) can now apply for the B.C. Emergency Benefit for Workers (BCEBW) online. The BCEBW is a one-time, …
B.C. extending state of emergency to continue COVID-19 response
The provincial state of emergency is being extended for the third time, to support the extraordinary measures taken by the Province under the Emergency Program Act to keep people safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. “British Columbians have shown great leadership …
Applications for B.C. Emergency Benefit for Workers to open May 1
Temporary relief is on the way for British Columbians whose ability to work has been affected by COVID-19, with applications for the $1,000 B.C. Emergency Benefit for Workers (BCEBW) opening on May 1, 2020. “This benefit is further help for …
Premier and minister’s statement on Earth Day 2020
Premier John Horgan and George Heyman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy, have issued the following statement to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Earth Day: “Today, people in British Columbia and around the world are celebrating the 50th anniversary …
Free counselling service launches for post-secondary students
The Government of British Columbia has launched Here2Talk, a new mental-health counselling and referral service for post-secondary students. The service offers confidential, free single-session services by app, phone or online chat, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. “Until …
New COVID-19 supports for businesses, local governments
The Province is providing enhanced relief for businesses by reducing most commercial property tax bills by an average of 25%, along with new measures to support local governments facing temporary revenue shortfalls as a result of COVID-19. “We know that …