I would like to begin by wishing Eid Mubarak to everyone who observed here in Burlington. I know this year was a little different, but I am happy to see that physical distancing is still taken seriously while everyone was able to enjoy this joyous time.

This past week we have seen further developments and changes to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic response from all levels of Government. Following the recent announcement from the Ontario Government, we now know that our children will not be returning to the classroom this academic year or to their overnight camps in July and August.

Summer 2020 will undoubtedly be different from what many of us had imagined with high school graduations being hosted virtually, the cancellation of summer camps and countless travel plans having to be postponed. Despite these challenges, we are all in this together. I thank you for doing your part to combat COVID-19 by practicing physical distancing, taking these challenges in stride, and making sacrifices that have altered your everyday routines.

As the temperature increases and we continue to flatten the curve, steps have been taken to slowly re-open our economy and public spaces. As of now, local basketball courts, skate parks, sports fields, and community gardens have re-opened for you and your family to enjoy safely. For further information on these spaces, please refer to the City of Burlington’s website here.

In these past few months, I have seen the best of our community and continue to be inspired by the generosity, ingenuity, and kindness of our friends, neighbours, and businesses here in Burlington. An example of the exceptional community initiatives is the Burlington Together “Grow a Row” Project for the Burlington Food Bank. This program invites local home gardeners to donate vegetables from their harvest. Should you wish to participate in this program, please contact [email protected]

I know COVID-19 continues to be a significant financial burden for families and businesses and would like to assure you that the Government of Canada remains committed  to keeping Canadians safe and healthy and ensuring that people can pay their bills. To ensure families are supported, the Canada Child Benefit will be increased once again in July to help families keep up with the costs of living and raising their children during this challenging time. More on this can be found below.

Further, the Government of Canada has introduced measures to protect jobs and support businesses. This past week we have taken action to support our local small businesses by expanding the eligibility criteria for the Canada Emergency Business Account to include many owner-operated small businesses. I know in recent weeks many of you have written to me on this topic and I am happy to inform you of these changes.

I know it can be confusing and frustrating to navigate the many programs available or know which are right for you. If you need support, but you’re not sure where to start, the Government of Canada now has a new online tool to help you. Just go to Canada.ca/coronavirusbenefits. From here, you will answer a few simple questions and the tool will generate a list of programs for which you may be eligible.

As we continue to weather this storm together, I encourage you to take the time to check in with your neighbours, to show your appreciation to our frontline workers, and remain firm in our belief of diversity over division. There is no place for hate or discrimination in Canada and we will overcome this incredible challenge together as a united country.

Together, we are stronger and from the bottom of my heart, I thank you for your continued sacrifices and unbreakable community spirit.

Sincerely,

Hon. Karina Gould

Member of Parliament

Burlington

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