COVID-19 Update for June 5, 2020 – 12:40pm
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau provided new and targeted financial supports for Canadians with disabilities to help offset the financial pressures of the COVID-19 pandemic. He also announced additional funds for provinces and territories to safely re-start the economy.
Targeted Supports for Disabled Canadians
The Prime Minister noted that the federal government will pay a one-time tax-free payment of up to $600 for Canadians with disabilities to help cover the cost of unexpected bills due to the pandemic. This new financial aid will go to all who are eligible for the Disability Tax Credit, as of June 1.
He also announced a national accessibility workplace stream will be established to help people with disabilities find employment and keep good jobs.
Additionally, the government is funding five new projects across the country that will help people with disabilities get supportive devices to overcome barriers in the workplace. “As we mark national accessibility week, we are reminded that some people are hit especially hard and our government is doing everything possible to make sure the do not fall through the cracks,” Trudeau said.
Statistics Canada Job Report
Statistics Canada released its May job report this morning recording a historically high unemployment rate which rose to 13.7% even as the economy added 290,600 jobs.
“While the numbers show that more Canadians returned to work last month, many continue to face a very tough time,” said Trudeau. “That tell us that while we are moving forward, we still need to be focused on getting people back on track.”
The PM also reported that roughly 1.2 million Canadians who were accessing the Canada Emergency Response Benefit no longer need this help, calling it “encouraging news”.
$14B to Provinces for COVID-19 Efforts
The federal government will offer $14 billion to the provincial and territorial governments to help contain COVID-19, as the country begins to re-start its economy.
This money will be distributed in accordance with a “safe-restart agreement” between the federal government and each province or territory. It will help cover critical supports such as protective equipment for health workers, support for cash strapped municipalities, paid sick leave and other help for schools and seniors.
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