Q: What does SOLE mean?
A: SOLE stands for State of Local Emergency. Declaring a SOLE allows the City of Wetaskiwin to enforce additional measures in order to help prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus. These measures include ensuring businesses follow public safety protocols, and that gathering restrictions identified in public health orders are followed. A gathering is any situation that brings people together in the same space at the same time for the same purpose.

Q: Why does the City have control over these closures?
A: Declaring a SOLE allows the City of Wetaskiwin to enforce additional measures in order to significantly reduce the risk of COVID-19 in the community. Regarding the mass gathering and business closure measures, however, those decisions were made by the Government of Alberta, and apply to all communities in the province.

Q: Why was this decision made?
A: Many municipal decisions related to the COVID-19 pandemic have been difficult to make, and place additional burdens and restrictions on the community. However, we need to make the health and safety of the community our top priority. The faster we can limit contact between people, the faster we can limit the spread of COVID-19.

Q: How are you communicating with the businesses?
A: The page you're viewing is part of the City's standalone website dedicated to keeping the business community (and the public at large) informed about the COVID-19 pandemic. Local businesses are advised to bookmark this website (wetaskiwin.ca/COVID-19) and refer back to it for the latest locally relevant COVID-19 news, resources and supports.

Q: How will this be enforced?
A: Businesses, individuals and community groups in violation of the mass gathering restrictions and business closure directive may be subject to fines. Law enforcement agencies have been granted full authority to enforce the province’s new public health orders and issue fines. You can submit a complaint to AHS public health inspectors if you are concerned an establishment is not following public health orders. Click Here for more information.

Q: What are you doing to support businesses through this time?
A: We will do all we can to support our local economy through this uncharted territory. The starting point for this help can be found here on the City's COVID-19 portal. This is where local businesses can find news, resources and supports specific to area business owners. In addition, the City’s Economic Development team is reaching out to businesses directly with information on what they can do to weather the storm.

Q: When will these restrictions be lifted?
A: Information about the COVID-19 pandemic changes rapidly and will likely continue to do so for the foreseeable future. The City will post any locally relevant updates on wetaskiwin.ca/COVID-19 as they become available for distribution. For up-to-date and accurate information on the Government of Alberta’s response to COVID-19 please visit COVID-19 coronavirus info for Albertans.

Q: How can we survive without a paycheque?
A: There are financial resources available to anyone who finds themselves suddenly without a paycheque during the COVID-19 pandemic—available through both the province of Alberta and the Canadian government. Visit alberta.ca/COVID-19 for details. Locally, the City has taken action to help minimize the financial impact its community members face in light of the pandemic, including cancelling late payment charges for unpaid utility bills, etc. You can find out more at wetaskiwin.ca/COVID-19.

Dr. Deena Hinshaw, Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, provides daily updates on COVID-19 and the ongoing work to protect public health of Albertans.

Mandatory, province-wide restrictions are in effect to protect the health system and slow the spread of COVID-19.

Provincial PUBLIC HEALTH MEASURES in effect

Symptoms of COVID-19 can vary from person to person, and may take up to 14 days to appear after exposure to COVID-19. Evidence indicates that the virus can be transmitted to others from someone who is infected but not showing symptoms. This includes people who have not yet developed symptoms (pre-symptomatic) or never develop symptoms (asymptomatic).

Core symptoms

Some of the more commonly reported symptoms (core symptoms) include:

• Fever (temperature equal to or over 38°C)
• Cough (new cough or worsening chronic cough)
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing (new or worsening)
• Runny nose or sore throat (core symptoms for adults)
• Loss of sense of smell or taste (core symptoms for children under 18)

If you have any of these core symptoms, you need to isolate for at least 10 days from the start of your symptoms or until they are gone, whichever is longer, or until you test negative.

Other symptoms

If you have any of these other symptoms, stay home and minimize your contact with others until your symptoms resolve:

• Chills
• Painful swallowing
• Stuffy nose
• Headache
• Muscle or joint aches
• Feeling unwell, fatigue or severe exhaustion
• Gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or unexplained loss of appetite)
• Loss of sense of smell or taste (core symptoms for children under 18)
• Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye

Adults over 18 with any non-core symptom should stay home and limit contact with others until symptoms are gone. Testing is recommended.

A child under 18 with only one non-core symptom should stay home and be monitored for 24 hours. Testing is not needed if symptoms improve. The child can resume normal activities when they feel well. A child with two or more non-core symptoms, or if one symptom gets worse, should get tested. They should stay home until the symptoms go away, or they test negative and feel better.

Monitor your symptoms

Monitor your health and call Health Link 811, or your healthcare provider if you have questions or concerns. Call 911 immediately if you are experiencing severe symptoms of COVID-19, including difficulty breathing, severe chest pain, feelings of confusion or loss of consciousness.

Book a test

You should stay home and get tested if you have any COVID-19 symptom or known exposure to COVID-19. Book a testing appointment online with the AHS assessment tool or call Health Link 811. Call 911 immediately if experiencing severe symptoms of COVID-19, including difficulty breathing, severe chest pain, feelings of confusion or loss of consciousness.

Use the COVID-19 Testing / Online Booking tool

Be an influenza champion

Influenza immunization will protect you and your loved ones, as well as vulnerable seniors, children and those with chronic health conditions. By keeping the number of influenza cases and outbreaks low, we can also do our part to help healthcare workers focus on the COVID-19 response.

Immunization options have changed. The easiest way for most Albertans to get a flu shot is to call their local pharmacy or doctor's office.

Learn more about Influenza Immunization

Variants are viruses that have changed or mutated while reproducing inside an infected person’s cells. The variant can be spread to others and may continue to mutate as it moves from person to person.

New variant strains of COVID-19 were recently identified in the United Kingdom, South Africa and Brazil, and have since been identified in many other countries around the world. These strains are known as variants of concern, as they appear to spread more easily than other COVID-19 strains.

Alberta is monitoring for these variants of concern. Confirmed variant cases are updated on Tuesdays and Fridays. See confirmed variant cases in Alberta.

What we know

Scientists and public health officials around the world are studying these variant strains, including how the current vaccines may help protect against them. Current evidence suggests these variants of concern are more contagious and can spread more easily than the original COVID-19 strain.

While it is not yet clear whether these new variants tend to cause more severe illness, there is concern about the impacts if they become common in our communities. The increased spread of COVID-19 would result in more illness, hospitalizations and deaths.

Symptoms in variant cases are the same as usual COVID-19 symptoms, including cough, fever, shortness of breath, runny nose, and sore throat. See the full list of symptoms.

Learn more about COVID-19 variants

Isolating and quarantining help prevent the spread of COVID-19 by reducing the number of people you could infect if you're sick. Both require staying home and avoiding situations where the virus could spread.

• Mandatory 14 day quarantine for returning international travellers or close contacts of people with confirmed COVID-19
• Mandatory 10 day self-isolation if you have any core symptoms from the start of your symptoms or until they are gone, whichever is longer, or until you test negative for COVID-19

COVID-19 testing is available to all Albertans with symptoms, close contacts of confirmed cases and those linked to an outbreak.

Learn how to monitor your symptoms
Take the online assessment to arrange testing
Learn about self-isolation and quarantine
List of approved hard-surface disinfectants and hand sanitizers

To protect the health and safety of Albertans, public health orders can be legally-enforced and fines issued for violations.

Learn about COVID-19 public health orders and legislation

Mandatory quarantine for returning international travellers

Canadians are legally required under public health order to self-isolate for a minimum of 14 days if they have recently returned from international travel, or are a close contact of someone with COVID-19, whether or not they are exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19.

COVID-19 public health orders enforceable by law

Through amendments to the Procedures Regulation under the Provincial Offences Procedures Act, Community Peace Officers, in addition to Police, have been granted full authority to issue tickets to enforce COVID-19 public health orders.

Fines administered through tickets for violating an order have increased from up to $100 per day to a prescribed fine of $1,000 per occurrence. Courts will also have increased powers to administer fines of up to $100,000 for a first offence and up to $500,000 for a subsequent offence for more serious violations.

Learn more about enforcement measures to protect Albertans
Submit a complaint online; Help Save Lives

• Outbreak update from the Government of Canada
• Global situation dashboard from the World Health Organization

As the COVID-19 crisis continues to unfold, watch out for associated scams. Fraudsters want to profit from consumers' fears, uncertainties and misinformation. Fraudsters are exploiting the crisis to facilitate fraud and cybercrime. Anyone who suspects they have become a victim of fraud can call the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1.888.495.8501.

Protect yourself, beware of:

• Spoofed government, healthcare or research information.
• Unsolicited calls, emails and texts requesting urgent action or payment and/or offering medical advice, financial relief, or government assistance and compensation. If you didn't initiate contact, you don't know who you're communicating to. Never respond or click on suspicious links and attachments. Never give out your personal or financial details.
• Unauthorized or fraudulent charities requesting money for victims, products or research. Don't be pressured into making a donation. Verify that a charity is registered.
• High-priced or low-quality products purchased in bulk by consumers and resold for profit. These items may be expired and/or dangerous to your health.
• Questionable offers, such as: miracle cures, herbal remedies, vaccinations, and faster testing.
• Fake and deceptive online ads, including: cleaning products, hand sanitizers, and other items in high demand.

Fraudsters are posing as:

• Loan and financial service companies offering loans, debt consolidation and other financial assistance services.
• Cleaning or heating companies offering duct cleaning services or air filters to protect from COVID-19.
• Local and provincial hydro/electrical power companies threatening to disconnect your power for non-payment.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or the World Health Organization offering fake lists for sale of COVID-19 infected people in your neighbourhood.
• Public Health Agency of Canada giving false results saying you have been tested positive for COVID-19, tricking you into confirming your health card and credit card numbers for a prescription.
• Red Cross and other known charities offering free medical products (e.g. masks) for a donation.
• Government departments sending out coronavirus-themed phishing emails, tricking you into opening malicious attachments, or tricking you to reveal sensitive personal and financial details
• Financial advisors pressuring people to invest in hot new stocks related to the disease, or offering financial aid and/or loans to help you get through the shut downs.
• Door-to-door sales people selling household decontamination services.
• Private companies offering fast COVID-19 tests for sale. Only healthcare providers can perform the tests. No other tests are genuine or guaranteed to provide accurate results.
• Selling fraudulent products that claim to treat or prevent the disease. Unapproved drugs threaten public health and violate federal laws.

Managing financial health in challenging times
Verify that a charity is registered
File a consumer complaint against a business
Learn about cyber security

Public health measures will be eased in steps based on hospitalization benchmarks. Each step sets a more predictable path for easing restrictions, while protecting the healthcare system. Once hospitalizations are within range of the benchmark, decisions to move to the next step will be considered.

The lowest-risk activities in each sector will be considered for change first. Moving between steps will happen at least 3 weeks apart to assess the impact on cases.

Steps based on hospitalization benchmarks:

STEP 1 <600 hospitalizations

Restrictions eased February 8:

• Restaurants
• Indoor fitness
• Indoor and outdoor children's sport and performance (school-related)

STEP 2 <450 hospitalizations

Restrictions eased March 1:

• Further easing of indoor fitness activities
• Libraries

STEP 3 <300 hospitalizations

Potential easing in these areas:

• Adult team sports
• Banquet halls, community halls, conference centres and hotels
• Casinos, racing centres and bingo halls
• Further easing of performance activities
• Further easing of youth sport and recreation activities
• Indoor social gatherings, with restrictions
• Indoor seated events (movie theatres and auditoria)
• Museums, art galleries, zoos, interpretive centres
• Places of worship
• Retail

STEP 4 <150 hospitalizations

Potential easing in these areas:

• Amusement parks
• Concerts (indoor)
• Festivals (indoor and outdoor)
• Funeral receptions
• Indoor entertainment centres and play centres
• Performance activities (singing, dancing and wind instruments)
• Sporting events (indoor and outdoor)
• Trade shows, conferences and exhibiting events
• Wedding ceremonies and receptions
• Workplaces (lift working from home)
• Day and overnight camps

Health officials are monitoring the situation and will adjust measures if required.

Read more about the provincial mandatory measures in effect
Subscribe to regional COVID-19 status notifications

As part of Step 2 of the Path Forward, the following restriction changes are in effect as of March 1, 2021. All other restrictions remain in place.

Libraries can reopen with restrictions

Starting March 1, libraries may open. Capacity is limited to 15% of fire code occupancy, not including staff.

Indoor fitness expanded to include low-intensity activities

Team sports are not permitted. No sports games, competitions, team practice or league play of any kind is allowed.

Starting March 1, individual and group fitness activities are permitted, with restrictions:

• All indoor fitness must be scheduled or by appointment (no drop-ins allowed)
• Low intensity individual and group exercises are now allowed without a trainer:
  • Low intensity fitness includes activities not focused specifically on cardio, that have a low depth and rate of respiration
  • Examples include: barre, pilates, stretching, tai-chi, low intensity yoga such as hatha and yin, light weightlifting, indoor rock climbing

• High intensity activities are permitted for one-on-one or one-on-one household training only, with a trainer:
  • High intensity fitness is often focused on cardiovascular activities that have a high depth and rate of respiration
  • Examples include: bodybuilding/heavy weightlifting, aerobics, rowing, Zumba, bootcamp, circuit training, crossfit, dance fitness, high intensity interval training, kickboxing, spin, power yoga, swimming

• Gym, studio, and fitness centre operators should use their best judgement in identifying what category their group exercise classes fall into based on these examples

Safety requirements:

• One-on-one sessions cannot interact with others and there must be a minimum of 3 metres distance between pairs of trainers and clients (aka sessions) in the same facility
• Trainers must be professional, certified and/or paid trainers who are providing active instruction and correction. Passive supervision of a physical activity is not considered training.
• Trainers must remain masked during the session. Clients are not required to wear a mask while doing high intensity exercise.
• Regardless of the type or intensity of exercise, trainers and clients must be separated by 3 metres at all times.
• More than one trainer and client ‘pair’ are allowed into the facility, studio, rink, court, pool, ice surface, etc. with restrictions:
  • Each trainer and client pair must stay 3 metres away from all other trainers and clients at all times, including in entryways and exits
  • Each trainer can only interact with their assigned client, and each client can only interact with their assigned trainer
  • No interaction between clients or between trainers is allowed
  • No ‘cycling through’ multiple trainers as in circuit training

All other restrictions remain in effect.

Alberta declared a State of Public Health Emergency to reduce cases and protect the healthcare system. Social gatherings are the top source of transmission of COVID-19.

All indoor social gatherings are prohibited. Outdoor social gatherings can have up to 10 people (as of January 18, 2021). This will be enforced with $1,000 fines.

Indoor social gatherings
Province-wide mandatory restrictions, effective December 8, 2020.

Close contacts are limited to household members only. People who live alone can have up to 2 close contacts:

• Must be the same two contacts throughout the duration of the restrictions
• If the close contacts do not live alone, visits cannot be held at their home
• Single parents who only live with their children under 18 are permitted to have up to 2 close contacts

This does not apply to:

• Co-parenting arrangements
• Service visits from caregivers, health or childcare providers
• Home maintenance and repairs
• Mutual support group meetings

Outdoor social gatherings
Province-wide mandatory restrictions, effective January 18, 2021.

Outdoor social gatherings are limited to 10 people maximum and must not have an indoor component. Backyard gatherings that require movement in/out of homes are not permitted. Attendees should remain distanced at all times and follow all public health measures.

See sport and physical activities for information on outdoor recreation.

Out-of-town travel and visitors

• Avoid non-essential travel

Returning home:

• If the individual belongs to the household (for example, a child returning home from post-secondary), then they would be permitted to return to the home
• If participating in the Border Testing Pilot Program, all program directives must be followed before rejoining the household
• If you do not have a household in Alberta, you must not stay in other people’s homes while these restrictions are in place

Visitors:

• Out-of-town visitors cannot stay in other people's homes while these restrictions are in place, regardless of where they are coming from.

Weddings and funerals
Province-wide mandatory restrictions, effective January 18, 2021.

Wedding and funeral receptions are not permitted.

Wedding ceremony and funeral service attendance is limited to:

• 10 People maximum for wedding ceremonies
• 20 People maximum for funeral services with mandatory masking and 2 metre physical distancing between households

The maximum limit:

• Includes the officiant, bride/groom and witnesses
• Does not include funeral service or facility staff, funeral clergy or event organizers who are not considered an invited guest
• Applies to any facility, including places of worship and funeral homes
• Applies to services held indoors or outdoors, seated or non-seated

This measure will help limit exposure, reduce outbreaks and protect vulnerable attendees.

Places of worship
Province-wide mandatory restrictions, effective December 13, 2020.

Faith services are limited to 15% of fire code occupancy for in-person attendance:

• Physical distancing between households must be maintained
• Mask use is mandatory

Alternatively:

• Virtual or online services are recommended
• Drive-in services where people do not leave their vehicles and adhere to guidance are allowed

Additional safety measures:

• In-person faith group meetings and other religious gatherings are not permitted in private homes while these measures are in effect.
• In-person faith group meetings and other religious gatherings are permitted when conducted at a place of worship as long as physical distancing and public health measures are followed.
• Faith leaders and other speakers can remove their masks while speaking if there is a distance of 2 metres. The mask must be put on again once finished speaking.
• Group performance activities, such as choir singing and playing music, are permitted if they are normal worship practices and not for the purpose of entertainment. Performers must wear masks at all times.

Some businesses are required to temporarily close, reduce capacity or limit in-person access. Masks are mandatory in all indoor public places, indoor workplaces, and places of worship. All other restrictions remain in effect.

Working from home
Province-wide mandatory restrictions, effective December 13, 2020.

Working from home is mandatory unless the employer requires the employee's physical presence to operate effectively.

Retail
Province-wide mandatory restrictions, effective December 13, 2020.

Retail services and shopping malls must limit customer capacity to 15% of fire code occupancy (not including staff) or a minimum of 5 customers. This includes individual stores and common areas (see calculating occupancy limits).

• Curbside pick up, delivery and online services are encouraged
• Shop alone or only with the people you live with (see tips for shoppers)

Retail services include but are not limited to:

• Retail businesses
• Shopping centres and malls
• Grocery stores, markets and pharmacies
• Clothing and sporting goods stores
• Computer and technology stores
• Hardware and automotive
• Liquor and cannabis
• Pet supply stores
• Gift shops

Restaurants, bars, pubs, lounges and cafes
Province-wide mandatory restrictions, effective February 8, 2021.

Restaurants, pubs, bars, lounges and cafes can open for in-person service, with restrictions.

• 6 people per table maximum; individuals must be from the same household or the 2 close contacts for a person living alone
• Tables and dining parties must be 2 metres apart or separated by an impermeable barrier that will prevent droplet transmission
• Contact information must be collected from one person of the dining party
• Liquor service ends at 10:00pm
• In-person dining must close by 11:00pm
• No entertainment allowed (VLTs, pool tables, live music, etc.)

Entertainment and recreation facilities
Province-wide mandatory restrictions, effective March 1, 2021.

• Libraries may open; capacity is limited to 15% of fire code occupancy, not including staff

All entertainment businesses and entities must close, including:

• Casinos, bingo halls, gaming centres
• Racing centres, horse tracks, raceways
• Bowling alleys, pool halls
• Legions and private clubs (nightclubs must remain closed)
• Art galleries, libraries and museums
• Science and interpretive centres
• Amusement and water parks
• Children’s play centres and indoor playgrounds
• Movie theatres, auditoria and concert halls
• Banquet halls, conference centres and trade shows

Facilities used for indoor recreation may open only for the purposes of 1-to-1 fitness training and youth group physical activities. Facilities may include:

• Gyms and studios
• Fitness and recreation centres
• Spas, pools, indoor rinks and arenas
• Community halls and centres

Personal and wellness services
Province-wide mandatory restrictions, effective January 18, 2021.

All personal and wellness services can open by appointment only.

• Walk-in services are not permitted
• Appointments should be limited to one-on-one services
• Businesses must follow all current public health guidance
• Home-based businesses must follow the restrictions for the type of service they provide

Personal services include:

• Aesthetics, manicure, pedicure, body waxing, make-up
• Body, nose and ear piercing, and tattoos
• Artificial tanning and spray tanning
• Facial, eyebrow and eyelash treatments
• Cosmetic skin and body treatments
• Laser hair and tattoo removal
• Hairstyling and barbering

Wellness services include:

• Floatation tanks
• Reflexology
• Colonic irrigation

Health, social and professional services
Province-wide mandatory restrictions, effective January 18, 2021.

The following services can open by appointment only as long as public health orders and sector guidance is followed. Appointments should be limited to one-on-one services.

Regulated health services can open by appointment only:

• Physicians, dentists
• Physical therapists
• Optometrists
• Chiropractors
• Hearing aid practitioners
• Acupuncturists
• Naturopaths

Non-regulated health services can open by appointment only:

• Massage therapists (a prescription or referral is no longer required)
• Manual osteopaths
• Kinesiologists
• Athletic therapists

Professional services can remain open by appointment only:

• Lawyers
• Mediators
• Accountants
• Photographers

Social services can remain open for in-person services including:

• Social, protective or emergency services
• Shelters for vulnerable persons
• Not-for-profit community kitchens, religious kitchens and soup kitchens

Home-based businesses should follow the restrictions for the type of service they provide.

Hotels, motels, hunting and fishing lodges
Province-wide mandatory restrictions, effective February 8, 2021.

Hotels, motels, hunting and fishing lodges may remain open but must follow conditions for dine-in establishments, indoor fitness and personal/wellness services (for example, spa services).

Indoor fitness expanded to include low-intensity activities
Province-wide mandatory restrictions, effective March 1, 2021.

Team sports are not permitted. No sports games, competitions, team practice or league play of any kind is allowed.

Starting March 1, individual and group fitness activities are permitted, with restrictions:

• All indoor fitness must be scheduled or by appointment (no drop-ins allowed)
• Low intensity individual and group exercises are now allowed without a trainer:
  • Low intensity fitness includes activities not focused specifically on cardio, that have a low depth and rate of respiration
  • Examples include: barre, pilates, stretching, tai-chi, low intensity yoga such as hatha and yin, light weightlifting, indoor rock climbing

• High intensity activities are permitted for one-on-one or one-on-one household training only, with a trainer:
  • High intensity fitness is often focused on cardiovascular activities that have a high depth and rate of respiration
  • Examples include: bodybuilding/heavy weightlifting, aerobics, rowing, Zumba, bootcamp, circuit training, crossfit, dance fitness, high intensity interval training, kickboxing, spin, power yoga, swimming

• Gym, studio, and fitness centre operators should use their best judgement in identifying what category their group exercise classes fall into based on these examples

Safety requirements:

• One-on-one sessions cannot interact with others and there must be a minimum of 3 metres distance between pairs of trainers and clients (aka sessions) in the same facility
• Trainers must be professional, certified and/or paid trainers who are providing active instruction and correction. Passive supervision of a physical activity is not considered training.
• Trainers must remain masked during the session. Clients are not required to wear a mask while doing high intensity exercise.
• Regardless of the type or intensity of exercise, trainers and clients must be separated by 3 metres at all times.
• More than one trainer and client ‘pair’ are allowed into the facility, studio, rink, court, pool, ice surface, etc. with restrictions:
  • Each trainer and client pair must stay 3 metres away from all other trainers and clients at all times, including in entryways and exits
  • Each trainer can only interact with their assigned client, and each client can only interact with their assigned trainer
  • No interaction between clients or between trainers is allowed
  • No ‘cycling through’ multiple trainers as in circuit training

Outdoor sport and recreation activities
Province-wide mandatory restrictions, effective February 8, 2021.

Group activities:

Adult group physical activities, including team sports, fitness classes and training sessions, are prohibited or restricted across Alberta. See guidance for outdoor winter recreation.

• Outdoor team sports and group activities where 2 metre distancing cannot be maintained at all times are prohibited (shinny, tag and pick-up hockey are prohibited)
• Outdoor group physical activity must be limited to 10 people or fewer.
• Keeping the activity to members of the same household is strongly recommended
• Members of different households must maintain 2 metre distancing at all times
• Outdoor recreation amenities can be open to public access unless specifically closed by public health order.
• This includes outdoor skating rinks, sledding hills and Nordic ski areas
• More than 10 people may use an outdoor recreation amenity at the same time (for example, public access to a local rink) as long as physical distancing is maintained between households.

One-on-one training:

One-on-one training with a fitness trainer or coach is allowed, with restrictions See the Indoor fitness section for more information on one-on-one training

Children's sports and performance activities
Province-wide mandatory restrictions, effective February 8, 2021.

All participants must be 18 years old or younger, except coaches or trainers.

Youth group physical activities:

• Children and youth will be allowed to participate in limited group activities.
• Lessons, practices and physical conditioning activities are allowed for indoor and outdoor minor sports/activities and school athletics (for example, school sport activities that are outside of a physical education class or related part of the school curriculum)
• Games are not allowed
• Maximum of 10 total individuals, including all coaches, trainers, and participants.
  • A playing surface (for example, arena, field, court or swimming pool) may be occupied by more than one youth group, as long as 3-metres of physical distancing can be maintained between groups of 10 and the groups do not intermingle.
• Physical distancing must be maintained between participants at all times:
  • 3-metres physical distance for indoor activities
  • 2-metres physical distance for outdoor activities
  • coaches or trainers may enter physical distancing space for brief interactions with participants (for example, to correct form or technique)
• Participants must be masked at all times, except during the training activity. Coaches and trainers must remain masked at all times.
• Access to change rooms must be limited, including accelerated arrival and departure, emergencies (for example, first aid) and washroom use

Performance activities:

Children’s performance activities are permitted if related to school activities, such as music class.

Off-site facilities:

K-12 schools and post-secondary institutions are allowed to use off-site facilities to support curriculum-related educational activities.

Performance activities
Province-wide mandatory restrictions, effective February 8, 2021.

Performance activities include dancing, singing, theatre and playing wind instruments.

Outdoor settings:

• Rehearsals and practices are permitted up to a maximum of 10 participants. Physical distancing and other relevant guidelines must be followed.
• Performances with audiences are not permitted

Indoor settings:

• No group performances in indoor settings are permitted
• Rehearsals, practices and lessons involving 2 or more are not permitted unless it is 1-to-1 with a coach or instructor

Lessons:

• 1-to-1 in-person lessons are permitted
• Virtual lessons are strongly encouraged where possible
• Lessons can’t occur in facilities that are closed under the current measures

Places of worship:

Indoor group performance activities conducted in a place of worship, such as choir singing and playing music, are permitted provided these are normal activities conducted as part of worship practices and not for the purpose of entertainment

General Guidance

Guidance supports for all workplaces

• Guidance on reduced capacity and occupant loads (December 2020)
• General relaunch guidance (September 2020)
• Alberta Health daily checklist (October 2020)
• Infection prevention and control (AHS)
• OHS resources
• Cohort groups (June 2020)
• Flushing water systems (May 2020)
• Hand sanitizer (June 2020)
• Industry-initiated COVID-19 testing (February 2021)
• Masks (non-medical) (October 2020)
• Public health orders
• Posters

Sector Guidance

Businesses, community and cultural events, and organizations

• Disability service providers (June 2020)
• Drive-in events (September 2020)
• Farmers’ markets (September 2020)
• Funeral homes (November 2020)
• Homeless shelters (AHS)
• Indoor events (November 2020)
• Instrumental music (September 2020)
• Libraries (June 2020)
• Movie theatres (June 2020)
• Outdoor events (November 2020)
• Outdoor vocal concerts (July 2020)
• Places of worship (November 2020)
• Public rallies, marches, parades and demonstrations (September 2020)
• Screen-based production industry (June 2020)
• Seniors centres and seniors serving organizations (September 2020)
• Singing and vocal performance (September 2020)
• Canvassing and campaigning (September 2020)

Child care

• Day camps (November 2020)
• Daycare and out-of-school care (November 2020)
• Family day homes (November 2020)
• Preschools (November 2020)

Education

K-12 school re-entry guidance:

• 2020-21 School Re-entry Plan (July 2020)
• Scenario 1 guidance (January 2020)
• Implementing school re-entry guidance (January 2020)

Post-secondary institutions (June 2020)
Graduation ceremonies (September 2020)

Health and personal services

• Health non-essential services
• Personal services (September 2020)
• Wellness services (September 2020)

Restaurant and food sector

• Food catering (June 2020)
• Food processing facilities (June 2020)
• Food sampling and beverage tasting (August 2020)
• Grocery stores (October 2020)
• Restaurants, cafes, pubs, and bars (February 2021)

Retail, manufacturing, industrial and commerce

• Home-based, mobile and door-to-door operations (September 2020)
• Industrial work camps (June 2020)
• Large production facility rapid response plans (June 2020)
• Malls and shopping centres (June 2020)
• Office buildings (September 2020)
• Retail (June 2020)
• Warehouses (June 2020)

Sport and recreation

• Bingo halls (September 2020)
• Casinos and racing centres (September 2020)
• Dog parks (June 2020)
• Golf course and driving range operators (June 2020)
• Horse racing parks and motor raceways (June 2020)
• Indoor recreation, entertainment and play centres (September 2020)
• Outdoor fitness (June 2020)
• Junior collegiate and university leagues (October 2020)
• Playgrounds (June 2020)
• Professional sporting events (August 2020)
• Rodeos (September 2020)
• Shooting (firearm) ranges (August 2020)
• Sport, physical activity and recreation (February 2021)
• Swimming pools and whirlpools (September 2020)
• Video lottery terminal retailers (June 2020)
• Outdoor winter recreation (December 2020)

Tourism and travel

• Campgrounds (private/municipal) (June 2020)
• Chartered tour buses, multi-city buses and passenger trains (June 2020)
• Gondolas, trams and chairlifts (July 2020)
• Hotels, motels, bed and breakfast, and vacation rentals (June 2020)
• Hunting and fishing lodges, camps and outfitters (June 2020)
• Interpretive attractions (June 2020)
• Public transit (July 2020)
• Taxis, limos, rideshares and commuting (June 2020)
• Trade shows and exhibiting events (August 2020)

Other

• Animals and pets (June 2020)
• Garage, yard and estate sales (July 2020)
• Multi-family dwellings, condos and apartment buildings (June 2020)

Personal protective equipment

As businesses prepare to reopen, it's important to take measures to protect employees and customers:

• Practice good hygiene and thorough cleaning and disinfecting
• Use Health Canada approved hard-surface disinfectants and hand sanitizers for use against COVID-19
• Conduct a hazard assessment to identify existing and potential hazards related to COVID-19
• Aid physical separation through barriers (Plexiglas), signage, floor markings and traffic flow controls to limit people in a space

Business owners can purchase PPE

Connect to PPE suppliers using the websites below. The government is not responsible for products or prices offered on these sites.

• Rapid Response Platform Canada
• ATB Nexus
• Federal Supply Hub

Those who violate a public health order are subject to a $1,000 fine. Those same individuals can be prosecuted for up to $100,000, even on a first offence. If you are concerned someone is not following a public health order, you can remind them that not following orders is against the law and puts people at risk, or you can report your concern directly to AHS Public Health Inspectors online or by calling 1-833-415-9179.

Albertans and Alberta businesses must follow the orders issued by Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, under the Public Health Act.

Report public health order violations
COVID-19 Orders and legislation

When will the COVID-19 vaccine be available to the general public?

Fall 2021 (Phase 3) is the current estimate. Alberta Health Services (AHS) is the only authorized means of vaccine delivery in Alberta. Any offers to provide vaccination to the public for a fee are not legitimate and should be reported to your local law enforcement agency’s anti-fraud/scam unit via the police non-emergency telephone line.

Can I join a waitlist to be prioritized?

No. Alberta does not have a waitlist. The Alberta government recognizes that many people are anxious to be immunized for COVID-19, including those who are considered higher-risk or have other underlying health conditions. More information will be shared as it becomes available. Please do not call Health Link about eligibility.

Continue to follow all public health guidelines to protect yourself and others from COVID-19.

What is the rollout plan for the COVID-19 vaccine?

Alberta Health, with input from AHS, has identified the key populations to be included in the province's phased immunization program. Exact amounts and timelines are subject to change. The approach will be amended as needed depending on vaccine supply.

Phases of the rollout

Everyone who wants a vaccine, will get a vaccine. But you may have to wait until people most at risk get vaccinated first. Review the phases to find out when it's your turn. Exact timelines for Alberta's phased vaccination program depends on supply.

Sign up to be notified of changes to the COVID-19 vaccination rollout

Early Phase 1: December 2020

Focus on acute care sites with the highest COVID-19 capacity concerns:

• Healthcare workers in intensive care units
• Respiratory therapists
• Staff in long-term care (LTC) and designated supportive living (DSL) facilities

Phase 1A: January 2021

• Respiratory therapists
• Healthcare workers in intensive care units
• Staff in LTC and DSL facilities
• Home care workers
• Healthcare workers in emergency departments
• All residents of LTC and DSL facilities, regardless of age
• Healthcare workers in COVID-19 units, medical and surgical units and operating rooms
• Paramedics and emergency medical responders

Phase 1B: February 2021

Timeline subject to change depending on vaccine supply.

• Seniors 75 years of age and over, no matter where they live
• First Nations, Métis and persons 65 years of age and over living in a First Nations community or Métis Settlement

Phase 2: April to September 2021

Eligibility will move from Group A towards Group D. Timelines are subject to change depending on vaccine supply. Detailed information on how eligible Albertans will receive the vaccine will be released prior to each group.

Group A (Phase 2):

• Albertans aged 65 to 74, no matter where they live
• First Nations and Métis people aged 50 to 64, on and off reserve or Métis Settlements
• Staff of licensed supportive living not included in Phase 1

Group B (Phase 2):

• Albertans aged 18 to 64 with high-risk underlying health conditions
• Specific conditions will be provided prior to Phase 2 rollout

Group C (Phase 2):

• Residents and staff of eligible congregate living settings: correctional facilities, homeless shelters, group homes including disability, mental health and other types of licensed supportive living
• Healthcare workers providing direct and acute patient care who have a high potential for spread to high-risk individuals
• Caregivers of Albertans who are most at risk of severe outcomes

Group D (Phase 2):

• Albertans aged 50 to 64, no matter where they live
• First Nations and Métis people aged 35 to 49 on and off reserve or Métis Settlements

Work to identify sequencing for all other groups is underway. If additional vaccines are approved and become available, people between the ages of 18 and 64 who work in specific workplaces or industries may be included in Phase 2.

Phase 3: Fall 2021

• Anticipated start of rollout to the general public

Learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine program and Phases

Follow up: second dose

Second doses of the vaccine are necessary to ensure you're protected for as long as possible. In Alberta, second doses will be administered within 42 days after the first dose to allow as many people to receive the vaccine as quickly as possible. This aligns with the approach recommended by the National Advisory Committee on Immunization and the World Health Organization statements on vaccines for COVID-19.

Once you've had both doses of the vaccine, you are less likely to become sick with COVID-19. But we don't yet know if the vaccine prevents people from spreading the virus. Continue following public health measures to keep unvaccinated people around you safe.

Get vaccinated. It's easy and safe.

COVID-19 vaccines are safe, effective and save lives. The vaccine helps prevent you from getting infected and protects you from getting severely sick if you do get the virus. Albertans are being vaccinated as fast as supply allows.

This is happening in phases so people most at risk get it first. More groups will be eligible as we get more doses.

Until most Albertans are protected by the vaccine, we must continue following all public health guidelines: keep 2 metres apart, wash your hands, wear a mask in public, and stay home when sick. Sign up when it's your turn. Show up to your appointment. Follow up with your second dose.

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccine safety
Learn about vaccines for COVID-19: authorized vaccines

Vaccinating those born in 1946 or earlier

• Starting February 24, in conjunction with Alberta Health, AHS began rolling out the COVID-19 vaccine to all individuals born in 1946 or earlier in two doses. These doses will be approximately 5 to 6 weeks apart.
• The online booking tool went live on February 24
• Phase 1B also includes First Nations, Métis and persons 65 years of age and over living in a First Nations community or Metis Settlement. Those living on-reserve and on-settlement will receive their vaccine through their community health staff. Please reach out to your community leaders, and do not use the online booking tool to make your appointment.
• View next phases of the provincial rollout.

Need a ride to your vaccination appointment?

Isolated seniors and those with mobility challenges can call 2-1-1 Alberta to get help finding a ride to and from their vaccination appointment.

Not your turn to get a COVID-19 vaccine shot?

Sign up to be notified for when it's your turn. The Alberta government will send you an email to book your appointment, and will let you know about timeline changes.

Can I bring a support person with me to my appointment?

• Yes, for eligible Albertans that require assistance, the province will make every effort for one support person to accompany you during your appointment, physical distancing and space permitting
• A support person can be a spouse, family member, friend or caregiver. Support people must adhere to public health measures while at the clinic, including hand hygiene, continuous masking and physical distance from others

Can I get my vaccine if I'm accompanying someone to their appointment?

• At this time, due to the limited amount of vaccine, the province is limiting appointments to those within the eligibility groups to ensure they have enough vaccine to protect the groups at highest risk of severe outcomes
• It's anticipated that more individuals will be able to be vaccinated in the coming months, as more vaccine supply becomes available

Spouses under 75 and other household members

Spouses and other household members who were born after 1946 (younger than 75) are not eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine at this time. They will be eligible in subsequent phases of the provincial rollout.

What to expect at the clinic

• When arriving at the clinic, everyone must wait in their cars until just before their appointment time
• Appointments are booked approximately 10 minutes apart
• Individuals will be at the vaccine clinic for approximately 20-25 minutes which includes the monitoring time after the vaccine is given
• A waiting room is available for individuals to sit after their vaccination
• Clinics are wheelchair accessible and staff will be on-hand to assist individuals that require help
• Vaccine clinics have wheelchair accessible washroom onsite
• Bring government-issued identification with you, which could include your Alberta Health Care card, a drivers license, Social Insurance Number, birth certificate or passport
• Wear clothing that will easily allow access to your upper arm for receiving the immunization

How to book an appointment for the COVID-19 vaccine

Online booking tool:

• Albertans can book an appointment to receive the vaccine through the AHS online booking tool at ahs.ca/covidvaccine
• The online tool will provide eligible Albertans options for an appointment date and time, as well as a window in which to book their second dose within the recommended guideline of 38 to 42 days
• Friends or family members are able to help book these appointments through either a desktop computer, or through their hand held device
• Family members need to have the individual’s Alberta Health Care number on hand to book this appointment

Call Health Link by dialing 811:

• Individuals can also call Health Link at 811 to book their appointment
• Health Link staff can help you book both the first and second immunization appointment within the recommended timeframe

Pharmacies

A limited number of participating pharmacies will be helping deliver the vaccine to individuals in the weeks to come. Bookings will be handled directly by the pharmacies through their own booking system.

Government-issued ID required with proof of age

• You do not have to be 75 years of age at the time of your appointment. If you were born In 1946 or earlier, you are eligible.
• Bring one piece of government-issued identification that proves your age, which could include your Alberta Health Care card, a driver’s license, Social Insurance Number, birth certificate, or passport
• Anyone born in 1946 or earlier is eligible

Still have questions about the COVID-19 vaccine?

To learn more about the COVID-19 vaccination, please visit the trusted government links below, or call Health Link at 811 to speak with a registered nurse. Please be advised that Health Link is experiencing a higher than normal call volume; thanks in advance for your patience.

Learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine
Learn about care after your immunization

Alberta Health, with input from Alberta Health Services, has identified the key populations to be included in the province's phased immunization program. Exact amounts and timelines are subject to change. The approach will be amended as needed depending on vaccine supply.

Early Phase 1: December 2020

Focus on acute care sites with the highest COVID-19 capacity concerns, including healthcare workers in intensive care units, respiratory therapists, and staff in long term care (LTC) and designated supportive living (DSL) facilities.

Phase 1A: January 2021

• Respiratory therapists
• Healthcare workers in intensive care units
• Staff in LTC and DSL facilities
• Home care workers
• Healthcare workers in emergency departments
• All residents of LTC and DSL facilities, regardless of age
• Healthcare workers in COVID-19 units, medical and surgical units and operating rooms
• Paramedics and emergency medical technicians

Phase 1B: February 2021

• Seniors 75 years of age and over, no matter where they live
• First Nations, Métis and persons 65 years of age and over living in a First Nations community or Metis Settlement

Phase 2: April to September 2021

• Work to identify sequencing for Phase 2 groups is underway. Decisions will be made in the coming weeks.

Phase 3: Fall 2021

• Anticipated start of roll-out to the general public

Please continue to follow all public health guidelines to protect yourself and others from COVID-19. There is currently no way to sign up to be waitlisted.

What does physical distancing mean?

Together, we can slow the spread of COVID-19 by making a conscious effort to keep a physical (social) distance between each other. Physical distancing is proven to be one of the most effective ways to reduce the spread of illness during an outbreak. This means making changes in your everyday routines in order to minimize close contact with others, including:

• Avoiding crowded places and gatherings
• Avoiding common greetings, such as handshakes
• Limiting contact with people at higher risk (older adults and those in poor health)
• Keeping a distance of at least 2 arms lengths (approximately 2 metres) from others, as much as possible
• Follow Alberta’s restrictions on mass gatherings

Other steps you can take:

• Wear a mask in public when distancing is not possible
• Download and use the ABTraceTogether mobile contact tracing app while out in public
• Wash hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer (with at least 60% alcohol)
• Use gloves properly if you choose to wear them (they are not necessary)
• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow
• Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands
• Watch for COVID-19 symptoms
• Take the COVID-19 self-assessment to arrange testing if you have any symptoms

Learn more about physical distancing

Through amendments to the Procedures Regulation under the Provincial Offences Procedures Act, Community Peace Officers, in addition to Police, have been granted full authority to issue tickets to enforce COVID-19 public health orders.

Fines administered through tickets for violating an order have increased from up to $100 per day to a prescribed fine of $1,000 per occurrence. Courts will also have increased powers to administer fines of up to $100,000 for a first offence and up to $500,000 for a subsequent offence for more serious violations.

COVID-19 orders and legislation

COVID-19: Mandatory mask requirements

Effective December 8, 2020, masks are mandatory across Alberta in all:

• Indoor public places
• Places of worship
• Indoor workplaces, except when working alone in an office or a safely distanced cubicle or a barrier is in place
• Farm operations (exempt)

This workplace requirement:

• Applies to all employees, customers, visitors, delivery personnel and contractors
• Includes all workplace locations where masks won’t pose a safety risk
• Does not change current student mask requirements in schools

Read about the Mandatory, province-wide restrictions in effect

Why use a mask

Wearing a homemade or non-medical mask in public is another tool to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. It hasn’t been proven that masks protect the person wearing it, but it can help protect people from being exposed to your germs. Masks should complement, not replace, other prevention measures. Continue physical distancing and good hand hygiene, and stay home when sick.

Face shields

Face shields do not replace masks or face coverings. A face shield is used to protect the eyes of the person wearing it.

Using a face shield without a mask won’t protect you from potentially inhaling infectious respiratory droplets exhaled by others, nor will it protect others from your infectious respiratory droplets, as they can escape around the face shield.

If you’re unable to wear a mask or face covering, you may want to wear a face shield. Choose one that extends around the sides of the face and below the chin. You’ll still need to maintain physical distancing of 2 metres, and practice good hand hygiene, especially if you touch the face shield.

Neck gaiters (neck warmers)

Neck gaiters (also known as neck warmers) are not recommended because they aren’t well secured to the head or ears, are likely to move or slip out of place, and are difficult to remove without contaminating yourself.

If a neck gaiter must be used as a face covering, it should be folded to provide at least 3 layers of fabric and should include a filter or filter fabric added between layers. Lift it away from your face, especially when taking it off, and wash your hands or use alcohol based hand sanitizer anytime you need to adjust it, especially when putting it on and taking it off.

Masks with exhalation valves

Masks with exhalation valves or vents are not recommended. These masks do not protect others from COVID-19 or limit the spread of the virus. This is because they allow infectious respiratory droplets to spread outside the mask.

Medical masks

Medical masks include N95 masks and surgical or procedure masks. N95 masks protect from exposure to biological aerosols that may contain viruses or bacteria. They are generally only required during specific, high-risk medical procedures. Surgical or procedure masks provide a barrier to splashes, droplets, saliva or spit. They are not designed to fit tightly against the face.

These masks should be kept for healthcare workers and others providing direct care to COVID-19 patients. They may also be recommended for use in some workplaces, like salons, where there is prolonged close contact with people.

Gloves

It is not necessary to wear gloves in public. If you choose to wear gloves, remember to wash your hands before you put them on and immediately after taking them off. Change the gloves if you touch your face, cover a cough or sneeze with your hands, or if they become dirty or torn. Always discard the gloves in a lined garbage bin after taking them off.

To avoid spreading germs or COVID-19, do not touch your face or mask with your gloves, do not touch any personal items (cell phone, bag, credit card) that you might touch again with bare hands, and do not try to wash gloves or use hand sanitizer with gloves on.

When worn properly, a person wearing a non-medical mask or face covering can reduce the spread of his or her own infectious respiratory droplets. Non-medical face masks or face coverings should:

• Allow for easy breathing
• Fit securely to the head with ties or ear loops
• Maintain their shape after washing and drying
• Be changed as soon as possible if damp or dirty
• Be comfortable and not require frequent adjustment
• Be made of at least 2 layers of tightly woven material fabric (such as cotton or linen)
• Be large enough to completely and comfortably cover the nose and mouth without gaping

Some masks also include a pocket to accommodate a paper towel or disposable coffee filter, for increased benefit. Non-medical masks or face coverings should not:

• Be shared with others
• Impair vision or interfere with tasks
• Be placed on children under the age of 2 years
• Be made of plastic or other non-breathable materials
• Be secured with tape or other inappropriate materials
• Be made exclusively of materials that easily fall apart, such as tissues
• Be placed on anyone unable to remove them without assistance or anyone who has trouble breathing

Homemade masks are not medical devices and are not regulated like medical masks and respirators. Their use poses a number of limitations:

• They have not been tested to recognized standards
• The fabrics are not the same as used in surgical masks or respirators
• The edges are not designed to form a seal around the nose and mouth
• They may not provide complete protection against virus-sized particles
• They can be difficult to breathe through and can prevent you from getting the required amount of oxygen needed by your body

How to wear a mask with ear loops or ties

• Before putting on the mask, wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds or alcohol-based hand sanitizer with a minimum of 60% alcohol
• Ensure your hair is away from your face (a non-medical facemask can be safely worn by someone with facial hair)
• Check the mask for damage; if damaged, discard
• Open the mask fully to cover from your nose to below your chin
• Place mask over nose and mouth and secure to your head with ties or ears with ear loops (depending on style of mask)
• If the mask has a nose bar, pinch around your nose to reduce gaps between your face and mask
• Adjust if needed to make sure your nose and mouth are fully covered
• Avoid touching the mask while wearing it; if you need to adjust your mask, clean your hands with alcohol-based hand sanitizer or soap and water before and after you touch it
• Keep your nose, mouth and chin covered at all times, until you are ready to remove the mask

How to remove a mask with ear loops or ties

• Remove your mask if it becomes wet, torn, dirty or the ear loops/ties become damaged
• Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or alcohol-based hand sanitizer with a minimum of 60% alcohol before you remove the mask
• Do not touch the front of the mask. Remove using the ties or ear loops
• Dispose of your mask in a lined garbage bin and wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or alcohol-based hand sanitizer with a minimum of 60% alcohol

What not to do with your mask

• Do not touch your face under the mask
• Do not use a ripped, visibly soiled or wet mask or if the ear loops/ties are damaged
• Don’t wear the same mask for a long period of time; it must be changed when it gets damp
• Don’t share your mask with another person
• Don’t wear the mask below your nose or chin
• Don’t let the mask give you a false sense of security; masks are meant to be used to as an addition to other measures such as physical distancing wherever possible, and hand washing

Cleaning and disposing of non-medical masks and face coverings

If you plan to reuse the mask, wash it before wearing it again. Change your cloth mask as soon as it gets damp or soiled by putting it directly into the washing machine, and washing it with other items using a hot cycle, and then dry thoroughly.

Non-medical masks that cannot be washed should be discarded and replaced as soon as they get damp, soiled or crumpled. Dispose of masks properly in a lined garbage bin after use, and do not leave discarded masks in shopping carts or on the ground.

Service Canada provides Canadians with a single point of access to a wide range of government services and benefits. They are committed to improving services for Canadians by working with partners to provide access to the full range of government services and benefits that Canadians want and need through the Internet, by telephone, in person or by mail.

• Attention! Service Canada Ready to Help
• Learn more about Service Canada
• Learn about Employment and Social Development Canada

Employment Insurance (EI) program

The government has made temporary changes to the Employment Insurance (EI) program to better support Canadians who need financial assistance. As of September 27, 2020, the minimum benefit rate is $500 per week before taxes in most cases.

Learn more about the Employment Insurance (EI) program
Apply for EI

If you are not eligible for EI benefits, you may be eligible for the new benefits:

• Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB)
• Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit (CRSB)
• Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit (CRCB)

Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB)

The CRB provides $500 per week for up to 26 weeks for workers who have stopped working or had their income reduced by at least 50% due to COVID-19, and who are not eligible for Employment Insurance (EI).

Learn more about CRB

Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit (CRSB)

The CRSB provides $500 per week for up to a maximum of two weeks, for workers who:

• Are unable to work for at least 50% of the week because they contracted COVID-19
• Are self-isolated for reasons related to COVID-19
• Have underlying conditions, are undergoing treatments or have contracted other sicknesses that, in the opinion of a medical practitioner, nurse practitioner, person in authority, government or public health authority, would make them more susceptible to COVID-19.

Learn more about CRSB

Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit (CRCB)

The CRCB provides $500 per week for up to 26 weeks per household for workers unable to work for at least 50% of the week because they must care for a child (under the age of 12) or family member, because schools, daycares or care facilities are closed due to COVID-19, or because the child or family member is sick and/or required to quarantine, or is at high risk of serious health implications because of COVID-19.

Mortgage payment deferral

Homeowners facing financial hardship may be eligible for a mortgage payment deferral of up to six months. The deferral is an agreement between you and your lender. Typically, the agreement indicates that you and your lender have agreed to pause or suspend your mortgage payments for a certain amount of time. After the agreement ends, your mortgage payments return to normal and the deferred payments — including principal and accumulated interest – are added to the outstanding principal balance and subsequently repaid throughout the life of the mortgage.

To know if you are eligible for a mortgage payment deferral or to learn what options are available, contact your lender directly — your bank or your mortgage professional.

Practical services for Seniors: delivery of items and personal outreach

The Government of Canada will provide immediate essential services to Canadian seniors impacted by COVID-19. The government will contribute $9 million through United Way Canada for local organizations to support practical services to Canadian 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.

Contact your local organization

Reduced minimum withdrawals for Registered Retirement Income Funds

In recognition of the impact of volatile market conditions on many seniors’ retirement savings, the Government of Canada is reducing the required minimum withdrawals from RRIFs; the required minimum withdrawal will be reduced by 25% in 2020. A RRIF is an arrangement between you and a carrier (an insurance company, trust company or bank) that the Government of Canada registers; you transfer property to the carrier from an RRSP, PRPP, RPP, SPP, or from another RRIF, and the carrier makes payments to you.

Learn more about the RRIFs

Collaborative Online Resources and Education for Seniors

Collaborative Online Resources and Education (CORE) provides a platform for seniors-serving organizations to improve delivery of services for older Albertan and seniors. The hub will make it easier for organizations to share resources and coordinate services, with a focus on key COVID-19 issues, including transportation, food security, social isolation and home supports.

CORE Alberta will support seniors-serving organizations to access training, COVID-19 information and resources, map where the greatest needs are across the province, and help seniors in more remote locations get the support they need.

The online hub cost $40,000 to develop. The Alberta government and partners will invest about $720,000 in inter-agency programs and initiatives that will be coordinated through CORE. Funding partners include Alberta Health Services, Alberta Blue Cross and the Government of Canada. The United Way of Calgary and Area will administer the hub and act as the project’s fiscal agent.

Learn more about CORE

One-time, tax-free payment of up to $500

The payment for seniors provides support through a one-time payment: $300 for seniors eligible for the Old Age Security pension, and an additional $200 for seniors eligible for the Guaranteed Income Supplement. This measure will give a total of $500 to seniors who receive both the Old Age Security pension and the Guaranteed Income Supplement and will help them cover increased costs caused by COVID-19.

Learn more about the one-time payment for seniors

New Horizons for Seniors Program

The Government of Canada is expanding the New Horizons for Seniors Program with an additional investment of $20 million to support organizations that offer community-based projects that reduce isolation, improve the quality of life of seniors, and help them maintain a social support network. For all organizations who received funding under the 2019-2020 New Horizons for Seniors Program community-based stream, funding can be used to provide immediate and essential services to seniors impacted by COVID-19.

Learn more about New Horizons for Seniors

This non-taxable, non-reportable, one-time payment provides up to $600 in recognition of the extraordinary expenses incurred by persons with disabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic. This payment complements other emergency supports, such as the one-time special payment through the Goods and Services Tax Credit and the one-time payment to seniors.

Indigenous Community Support Fund

Canada recognizes that First Nations, Inuit and Métis are among the most at risk and that during this crisis, in particular, those in remote and fly-in only parts of the country are uniquely vulnerable. Communities are incredibly resilient and full of solutions and innovative ideas. This is why we must support distinctions-based measures to improve public health response for Indigenous communities and provide them with the flexibility they need to address the specific needs identified by communities and their members.

This fund provides Indigenous leadership with the flexibility needed to design and implement community-based solutions to prevent, prepare and respond to the spread of COVID-19 within their communities. These funds can be used for measures including, but not limited to:

• Support for Elders and vulnerable community members
• Measures to address food insecurity
• Educational and other support for children
• Mental health assistance and emergency response services
• Preparedness measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19

Although the fund was created to prevent, prepare and respond to COVID-19, we recommend communities speak with their regional First Nations and Inuit Health Branch contacts, or First Nations Health Authority contacts (in British Columbia), for the most up-to-date information about COVID-19 vaccine distribution and support for the rollout.

Providing support to Indigenous post-secondary students

Learn about Indigenous Services Canada distinctions-based strategies that support First Nations, Inuit and Métis Nation students pursuing post-secondary education. The Government of Canada will provide an additional $75.2 million to support First Nations, Inuit and Métis Nation post-secondary students impacted by COVID-19.

New shelters to protect Indigenous women and children fleeing violence

Indigenous Services Canada Family Violence Prevention Program supports the day-to-day operations of 46 shelters, as well as funding for community-driven proposals for family violence prevention projects on and off reserve.

Find financial help during COVID-19

Answer a few simple questions to get a list of benefits and supports tailored to you. Here, you’ll be asked 7 to 10 questions, one at a time, and then shown a list of benefits that may help in your situation. It will also have links for more information. Please answer the questions as an individual, not a household.

Find the support you need