BC Provincial Government Relief Programs
The BC Government has announced several relief measures for BC residents facing hardship due to COVID-19.
Government of Canada Relief Programs
The Government of Canada has announced several financial relief measures for Canadians facing financial hardship due to COVID-19.
The Government of Canada is switching from cheques to direct deposit, an electronic transfer of funds deposited directly to your bank account. Direct deposit is faster, convenient and more secure. Enroll for direct deposit or to update information you already have on file.
Visit EGovernment of Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan, including information regarding support for students and recent graduates, people facing unemployment, people who are unable to work and more. Some highlights that may benefit students include:
- Employment Insurance (EI) Program
- Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit (CRSB)
- Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit (CRCB)
- Canada Worker Lockdown Benefit
- Mortgage payment deferral
- Supporting low-income workers and families
- Provincial and territorial support
- Waiving interest on student and apprentice loans
Employment Insurance Sickness Benefits
Workers who are sick or quarantined can file for EI Sickness Benefits
VIU Supports
Student Affairs Resources
Student Affairs continues to support students online, information on a wide range of resources is available at VIU Student Affairs.
VIU Mental Health Supports
Check out how to maintain your well-being during COVID-19.
Other Supports
BC Rent Banks
Rent banks provide financial assistance in the form of repayable loans to households at risk of eviction for reasons such as non-payment of rent or utilities.
Homelessness Services and Programs
BC Housing provides housing assistance and homelessness services.
Street Reach is funded by CMHA Mid-island to break the cycle of homelessness by supporting people to find a good place to call home. The team works in collaboration with the community to ensure that people have the supports necessary to maintain their housing long term.
City of Nanaimo Survival Guide
The City of Nanaimo’s Survival Guide offers low-cost and free resources available to individuals living in Nanaimo. Topics include addictions services, counselling, food, housing, legal aid and more.