The new year brings hope and optimism with it despite the challenges ahead of us. While COVID-19 continues to disrupt our lives and our communities, we are implementing science-based measures to get through the Omicron variant and put the pandemic behind us. 
 
We’ve accelerated our booster campaign and now over 960,000 people have received their booster shot. The most important thing we can all do is make sure to get your vaccines as soon as you are eligible. Like getting your second dose, everyone 18 and older will receive an email or text to book their booster at a location that works for them through our online system. Invitations for booster shots are being sent out approximately 6 months after someone received their second dose. If you’re not vaccinated yet you can register to get your vaccine through BC’s Get Vaccinated system.
 
Applications for the COVID-19 Closure Relief Grant will open soon. Businesses that have had to temporarily close due to the latest Provincial Health Officer orders can apply to receive up to $10,000 to help cover costs like rent, utilities, and wages.
 
As more and more British Columbians are receiving their booster shots, it is still important that we continue to use other layers of protection to keep each other safe, including wearing masks, decreasing social contacts, and staying home when we feel sick.
 
In 2022, let’s continue to support and care for one another as we look ahead to brighter days.

Sincerely,