COVID-19 Update for May 13, 2020 – 12:05pm
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau opened his daily briefing with some good news, noting that Health Canada has now approved the first COVID-19 serological tests. “These tests will help us better understand immunity against the virus and how it spreads, so we can keep Canadians safe,” he explained.
Trudeau also provided details of the $1 billion Regional Relief and Recovery Fund launched earlier to support small businesses, as well as the expansion of the $9 billion student aid package passed by Parliament during the last round of emergency sittings.
COVID-19 serological tests
Health Canada has now approved the first serological test for use in Canada to detect antibodies specific to the COVID-19 virus. The tests will be used in Canadian laboratories to detect COVID-19 antibodies and to better understand whether people who have been infected are immune to the virus.
Regional Relief and Recovery Fund
Trudeau announced that the nearly $1 billion in emergency regional aid will flow through six regional development agencies. The funding is intended to cushion the financial blow experienced by businesses – especially in rural areas – that do not qualify for other aid programs.
Canada Emergency Student Benefit (CESB)
The Prime Minister confirmed that students and recent graduates will now able to apply for the $9 billion CESB program starting this Friday. He encouraged all students in need to sign up on the Canada Revenue Agency website in advance, noting, “it’s worth doing this now to make the next steps quicker.”
We hope you are finding these COVID-19 updates useful. In addition to trying to keep on top of the fast-changing situation, Enterprise is also working to support local charities during these challenging times. If you are able, your contributions to this effort would be deeply appreciated.
To donate, please click on the organization below:
- Toronto – Food Banks Canada
- Thunder Bay – Food Banks North West
- Hamilton/Niagara – Hamilton Food Share
- Alberta – Hope Mission
Many thanks.
Stay safe. Stay healthy.
The Enterprise Team