New COVID-19 Residential Relief Fund

Monday, 6 April 2020 07:17

The Province has launched a relief fund to protect those most vulnerable during the COVID-19 pandemic. The fund will cover costs such as additional staffing and personal protective equipment.

ONTARIO - The Government of Ontario is investing up to $40 million to support organizations that provide residential services for children and youth, people with developmental disabilities and emergency shelters for women and families fleeing domestic violence.

This action from the Province is a part of their efforts to contain the spread of COVID-19.

The COVID-19 Residential Relief Fund will cover costs such as additional staffing, residential respite for caregivers; personal protective equipment and supplies; initiatives to support physical distancing and transportation to minimize client exposure.

The fund was announced in a press release on Saturday.

Minister of Children, Community and Social Services Todd Smith gave thanks to those who are working on the frontlines.

“Our government is doing everything it can to help Ontario’s most vulnerable get through this difficult and challenging time. I want to personally thank all the staff and managers who are working on the frontlines of the developmental services sector for keeping our most vulnerable citizens safe during this unprecedented time. You exemplify the true Ontario spirit each and every day.”

The Province is taking action to help make sure staffing and resources are available to help care for and protect people with developmental disabilities and the frontline workers supporting them. These temporary measures provide more flexibility for developmental service agencies to put staff and financial resources to tasks that are essential that keep individuals with developmental disabilities safe and out of the hospital.

The Relief Fund will also help address increased residential costs that are affecting emergency shelters for women fleeing domestic violence and survivors of human trafficking.

Associate Minister of Children and Women’s Issues Jill Dunlop says while people are staying in their households, not all homes are safe for everyone.

“This is a trying time for everyone, as we continue to stay at home to stop the spread of COVID-19, but we know that home isn't safe for everyone. That’s why it’s critical during this time that residential organizations for people fleeing violence have the security they need to continue supporting vulnerable women."