Thursday, March 18^th marked one year since a state of emergency was declared in B.C. in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. This is an important reminder of all that we have gone through as a province, and the work that is still ahead to build a recovery for everyone.

That’s why our government announced the expansion of the Launch Online Grant Program this week. These grants will allow small businesses to build or expand their e-commerce capacity. This means more online stores, online bookings and local products delivered to more people throughout the province. This program will help small businesses, particularly those run by Black, Indigenous, and people of colour, to reach more customers, grow their business, and continue their post-pandemic recovery.

We know that this pandemic has impacted people in many different ways. This week, we also announced the largest-ever increase to income assistance, disability assistance, and the senior’s supplement. Among the many concrete benefits, those on income and disability assistance will receive an extra $175 each month – a permanent change that continues our poverty reduction strategy. Supporting British Columbians is key to a strong, sustainable economic recovery, and this is a major step in that direction.

I’d also like to share a progress update on our vaccine rollout. So far, we have administered over 444,000 doses. Starting Friday, March 19^th at 12pm, we encourage seniors who are 80+ years old, as well as Indigenous seniors who are 65+ years old to call Island Health at  1-833-348-4787 to book a vaccine appointment. Please go to www.gov.bc.ca/bcseniorsfirst for more information, or reach out to my office if you have additional questions at lana.popham.mla@leg.bc.ca or 250-479-4154.