Dear Saanich South,
The last
few days have seen an uptick in new cases of COVID-19. This is not a reason to
panic, but it is a good reminder that our work to flatten the curve is not
done. While we enjoy summer and return to some of our favourite activities, we
need to heed the advice of Dr. Bonnie Henry.
- Keep groups and gatherings small, and avoid crowded indoor spaces
- Maintain 2m (6ft) distance between yourself and those outside your bubble
- Wash your hands frequently
- Wear a mask when you can’t maintain physical distance – such as in stores or on transit
- Stay home and self-isolate whenever you feel sick – even if your symptoms are mild
As we near
the end of the summer legislative session, your BC New Democrat government has
made a lot of progress on planning our economic recovery. We are working to
build our economy, and our province, back even better than it was before, so
that everyone will have a good job and a more secure future. But that recovery
can only keep moving forward if we all continue to be safe and follow Dr.
Henry’s advice.
Yesterday
we announced more support for local governments and transit
systems, with up to
one billion dollars available from the Province to match a contribution by the
federal government. This funding will ensure people can access the important
services they need throughout our restart and recovery.
This past
week, we announced even more new child care spaces across the province, bringing the
total number of spaces our government has created to 16,800. These spaces will
be vital as parents return to work or school.
We also
announced new funding for search and rescue groups, recognizing the important role
they play in keeping British Columbians safe.
In the last
week we’ve announced that construction or planning is underway for new or
expanded schools in Smithers, West Sechelt, Vernon and Langford. We also implemented our vaping action plan, to protect kids and teen from the risks of
vaping and nicotine addiction.
We have
accomplished a lot together, and there is still so much more to do.
As always,
if you have any questions or need any assistance with provincial supports,
please reach out. My office is currently open via phone and email to support
you. You can reach us at
250-479-4154 or LanaPopham.MLA@leg.bc.ca
Stay well,
COVID Resources:
- For medical info, visit bccdc.ca or call 811
- For provincial supports and BC’s Restart Plan, visit gov.bc.ca/covid19, call 1-888-COVID-19 (1-888-268-4319) or text 604-630-0300
- For employer guidelines on returning to work safely, visit WorkSafeBC
- Take the self-assessment at covid19.thrive.health
- For seniors looking for additional support, or for those looking to
support seniors, call 2-1-1 or visit bc211.ca
