Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced additional measures to support Canada's most vulnerable as they cope with the medical, social, and economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In his latest public address, Trudeau said the Government of Canada would be allocating an additional $66.5-million to help seniors, kids, as well as those facing homelessness.
"While the COVID-19 pandemic affects all Canadians, some people and communities are more at risk to its impacts. That is why it is important to keep connected and make sure that everyone feels safe and supported in this uncertain time," said Trudeau in a press release issued later that day.
"Today's announcement is about helping our most vulnerable Canadians and ensuring our community organizations have what they need to deliver critical services to those most at risk."
Beyond the $157.5-million announced on March 18 to address the needs of Canadians experiencing homelessness, the federal government has dedicated $50-million to women's shelters and sexual assault centres.
This includes facilities located in Indigenous communities, said the release, and will be used to help their capacity to manage or prevent an outbreak.
To support children and youth outside of a care facility setting, the federal government will be providing $7.5-million in funding to the Kids Help Phone. In response to a notable increase in demand for Kids Help Phone's 24/7 hour confidential online, telephone, and text counselling services.
Lastly, the Government of Canada has promised to contribute $9-million through the New Horizons Seniors Program to United Way Canada, for local organizations to support practical services for seniors.
These services could include the delivery of groceries, medications, or other needed items, or personal outreach to assess individuals' needs and connect them to community supports.
