2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Information and Resources

2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Information and Resources for Immigrants, Immigrant-Serving Organizations and Others in Waterloo Region

The global pandemic has brought extraordinary challenges into almost every area of our lives– and things continue to evolve quickly. We will be updating this information regularly and will do our best to ensure it is as complete as possible.

**Early concerns we are hearing with respect to immigrants in Waterloo Region relate to lack of information for people who may not speak English well and increased isolation. Please reach out to the newcomers around you to make sure they are OK and have the information they need to stay healthy and connected. Relevant information and multilingual resources are listed below.

We Are in This Together!

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“Immigration is essential to getting us through the pandemic, but also to our short-term economic recovery and our long-term economic growth. Canadians have seen how newcomers are playing an outsized role in our hospitals and care homes, and helping us to keep food on the table. As we look to recovery, newcomers create jobs not just by giving our businesses the skills they need to thrive, but also by starting businesses themselves. Our plan will help to address some of our most acute labour shortages and to grow our population to keep Canada competitive on the world stage.” Marco E. L. Mendicino, P.C., M.P., Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship

Recent Updates

Region of Waterloo Public Health announced that there are 8,401 confirmed and presumptive positive cases of COVID-19 in Waterloo Region as of January 19, 2021. Visit the COVID-19 Information Centre to find the latest information and events on the outbreak in Waterloo Region. Protect each other: Physical distancing, hand washing, face coverings and staying home when you're sick!

Ontario declares second provincial emergency to address COVID-19 crisis and save lives. In addition, the provincial government has declared a Stay-At-Home order that that came into effect at 12:01am on Thursday January 14, 2021, and will last for 28 days. More Information.

The Ontario government, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, is extending most orders currently in force under the Reopening Ontario (A Flexible Response to COVID-19) Act, 2020 (ROA) for another 30 days.

Pre-departure COVID-19 testing and negative results to be required for all air travellers coming to Canada. Anyone who receives a negative test result and is authorized to enter Canada must still complete the full, mandatory 14-day quarantine

The Province’s three-phase vaccination program is now in Phase 1. Learn more about Waterloo Region's vaccine distribution plan

Waterloo Region's mandatory face covering bylaw has been extended to May 31, 2021. It requires face coverings or masks to be worn in enclosed public places, as well as on public transit, and will now include taxi cabs, ride-sharing, and common areas of multi-residential buildings.

More information can be found in the Immigration Waterloo Region Weekly emails such as the latest service updates from our community partners, relevant measures or changes to legislation due to COVID-19 outbreak, ways to help amid the crisis and webinars on important topics to manage the pandemic consequences, social distancing, financial issues and others. Subscribe to the Weekly for updates delivered to your email inbox each Monday.

Stay Informed About COVID-19 and How To Stay Healthy

Region of Waterloo Public Health – up-to-date facts and information about the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Waterloo Region, how many positive cases have been detected in the Region, a self-assessment tool, what local facilities and programs have been closed or cancelled, and measures people should take to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Coordinated COVID-19 Response Newsletter. The Region, area municipalities and local community partners are meeting regularly to make sure our pandemic response efforts are coordinated and aligned. This work is being done through a Regional Pandemic Control Group which coordinates the efforts and actions of five other sector control groups which are described weekly in these newsletters. Subscription, click here.

Public Health Agency of Canada – information about COVID-19, how to prevent the spread of the virus, travel restrictions, and updates about Canada’s response

Government of Canada - To stay up to date on current situation of the COVID-19 outbreak in Canada, as well as government support for individuals, businesses, families, students and industries during the crisis visit the Government of Canada website.

COVID-19 and Immigration in Canada

Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) – IRCC has summarized how the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is affecting immigration, refugees, citizenship and passport services.

IRCC announces opening date of special measures for refugee claimants working in health care during the pandemic

The federal government has released a guide for international students who are coming to Canada, and navigating travel restrictions

Government of Canada announces plan to support economic recovery through immigration

Citizenship tests set to resume online after 8-month suspension

Government of Canada announces new mandatory requirements for travellers to Canada

Processes are being introduced to support enhanced family reunification, entry for compassionate reasons, and the safe and gradual entry of some international students.

Immigration services to reopen gradually after pandemic shut down many programs.

Canada to speed up spousal sponsorship application processing.

Ottawa offers permanent residency to asylum claimants working in health care during COVID-19 pandemic.

With an investment of $58.6 million, the Government is strengthening the Temporary Foreign Worker Program and making further investments to safeguard the health and safety of Canadian and temporary foreign workers from COVID-19.
Extension for temporary residents applying to restore their status. Canada is giving visitors and study or work permit holders more time to renew their permits to maintain their legal status in Canada: until December 31, 2020.

Additional measures to support international students beginning a new program online this fall with a Canadian learning institution.

The Ontario government is implementing a three-point plan to reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19 on farms and throughout the community.

Government investing $15 million into health and safety measures for farm operations to protect agri-food workers during COVID-19.

Ottawa to revamp immigration application processing ahead of anticipated surge. A complete overhaul of how Canada processes immigration applications is in the works as the government braces for post-pandemic demand for migration to Canada.

Changes to travel restrictions for immediate family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents.

Temporary public policy exempting essential workers from giving biometrics overseas. Due to the ongoing service disruptions related to COVID-19, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada has put in place a public policy to temporarily exempt foreign workers in certain sectors, namely the agriculture, agri-food and health-care sectors, from having to give their biometrics before coming to Canada if the biometrics collection site closest to them is closed.

Virtual citizenship ceremonies coming for new Canadians.

Process launched today allows temporary workers to get back to work quickly. This will cut what can often take 10 weeks or more, down to 10 days or less.

COVID-19: A Guide for Temporary Foreign Workers in Canada (Available in French and Spanish). This guide is customized for temporary foreign workers under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. The guide's themes are related to COVID-19, including how the disease spreads and individuals at an elevated risk for developing complications related to COVID-19; what TFWs should know before coming to Canada; rights and responsibilities of TFWs during the mandatory 14-day quarantine period, including employer responsibilities and tips to maintain good mental health; and other topics.

The Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP) will not be affected for international students whose fall 2020 courses will be online due to COVID-19.

Only International Experience Canada Participants with a Port of Entry Letter of Introduction and a Valid Job Offer are Eligible to Travel to Canada.

Guidance from IRCC for Private Sponsors Regarding COVID-19. IRCC has produced a document intended to assist sponsors in understanding how cases in process are affected by COVID-19 and, for refugees already in Canada, how sponsors can continue to fulfill their sponsorship role while also addressing the unique settlement needs of sponsored refugees during this difficult time. (French Version )

Removing barriers for international students working in essential services to fight COVID-19. The government will remove the restriction that allows international students to work a maximum of 20 hours per week while classes are in session, provided they are working in an essential service or function, such as health care, critical infrastructure, or the supply of food or other critical goods.

Processing changes for visas due to COVID-19. With the current travel restrictions in place, most foreign nationals are prevented from entering Canada, with some exemptions. With these restrictions, Canada is suspending processing of non-essential visitor visa applications. This allows Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to focus resources on critical services. This suspension also applies to some electronic travel authorization (eTA) applications.

International students who have a valid study permit or were approved for a study permit on or before March 18, 2020, are exempt from the travel restrictions. Additionally, international students who have in-class courses that are being moved to an online-only format because of COVID-19, their eligibility for the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program won’t be affected. This includes students who have a study permit or who have been approved for a study permit for a program starting in May or June but who are unable to travel to Canada at this time due to travel restrictions.

How the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is affecting - International Experience Canada applicants

To learn more about other measures or changes on immigration legislation, see the latest Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) Notices.

COVID-19 Assistance and Benefits for Individuals and Families

Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) is Closed. Instead, new recovery benefits are available between September 27, 2020 and September 25, 2021. Applications are now being accepted for the Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit (CRSB) and the Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit (CRCB). Applications for the Canada Response Benefit (CRB) will be accepted starting October 12, 2020.

New Legislation to Freeze Residential Rent in 2021.

The Ontario government, in partnership with the federal government, is providing $234.6 million in funding to keep children and staff safe in child care and early years settings.

Join the #KeepFamiliesSafe campaign and help flatten the curve of family violence by recording a short video. Visit the Waterloo Region Crime Prevention Council website for more information on how to participate in the campaign.

The government is extending the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) by eight weeks, to ensure Canadians have the help they need as they transition back to work.

As the province begins its economic recovery, the government is launching the 2020-21 edition of the Francophone Community Grants Program to support Ontario's francophone businesses and community organizations, as well as those that serve French-speaking Ontarians.

The Government of Canada announced the launch of the Canada Student Service Grant (CSSG), which will support post-secondary students and recent graduates as they volunteer to serve in their communities’ COVID-19 response and gain valuable experience at the same time.

Ontario supports children and youth during COVID-19. Additional funding will provide food and snacks while schools are closed.

Prime Minister announces support to help communities create jobs and restart the economy. The Federal Government announced that the funding that communities receive through the federal Gas Tax Fund will be accelerated this year. Communities will receive their funding in one payment in June to help them move forward with infrastructure project that will help to restart local economies.

The Government of Canada has announced an investment of $240.5 million to develop, expand, and launch virtual care and mental health tools to support Canadians.

Addressing Family and Gender-Based Violence (GBV): Covid-19 Response. List of resources and guidance for the continued delivery of IRCC-funded family and GBV services.

The Ontario government is further expanding the list of essential workers eligible to receive free emergency child care during the COVID-19 outbreak. Those who will benefit include people who work in the food supply chain, retirement homes, grocery stores and pharmacies, and certain federal employees, including the military.

The Government of Canada has announced that families receiving the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) will get $300 extra per child in May.

Ontario government supports families in response to COVID-19 - The new Support for Families initiative offers a one-time payment of $200 per child 0 to 12 years of age, and $250 for those 0 to 21 years of age with special needs.

Canada's COVID-19 Economic Response Plan (Government of Canada) - information about federal supports for individuals and families (enhanced Canada Child Benefit, mortgage support, new Canada Emergency Response Benefit - CERB, Employment Insurance and sickness benefits, and other programs) and students or recent graduates.

Support for students and new grads affected by COVID-19 through expanded Student and Youth Programming, Student Financial Assistance for Fall 2020, Canada Emergency Student Benefit, Canada Student Service Grant.

Part-time, contract and seasonal workers now qualify for COVID-19 emergency benefits.

The Government of Canada announced an investment of $350 million to support vulnerable Canadians through charities and non-profit organizations that deliver essential services to those in need.

Ontario Protects Parents during COVID-19. During the COVID-19 outbreak, the Ontario government is temporarily preventing child care centres from collecting payments from parents, while also ensuring that their child care spaces are protected. Child care centres, with the exception of those accommodating health care and other frontline workers, were ordered closed to help prevent the spread of the virus and keep the children and child care staff safe.

A temporary emergency child care program will open 24/7 for parents who provide critical services. Apply online.

See the Government of Canada site for information about travel advisories, restrictions and exemptions.

Child Welfare During COVID-19

A Message from Family and Children’s Services of Waterloo Region (French Version)

During this pandemic, children are at risk. Those who were vulnerable before are more vulnerable now because of social isolation and the lack of their usual supports.

We know that most parents are doing the best they can for their children, but in times of stress they may become overwhelmed. Right now children are not in classrooms where teachers might notice things that worry them, so we need you, as someone who works with children, youth and families, to be watching out for concerns.

Even during this pandemic, children still need their village.

You can help by:

1. Paying special attention to the families and children you encounter or work with.

2. Referring families to the Family Compass website when they need community resources and support. (https://www.familycompasswr.ca/en/index.aspx).

3. Contacting Family and Children’s Services at 519-576-0540 if you have concerns about a child. We are the safety net for children at risk.

4. Considering becoming a Short Term Care Provider for children whose parents are unable to look after them because they are ill with the COVID-19 virus. Visit www.Fosteringkids.ca to learn more.

5. Sharing this message with your colleagues and people in your network.

COVID-19 Business Supports and Resources

Government aid and Resources

Applications now open for Ontario's small business support grant

Visit Ontario.ca/COVIDSupport to access the support our government has made available to small businesses such as: Ontario's Main Street Relief Grant: PPE support and Property tax and energy cost rebates

Additional support to assist businesses impacted by COVID-19. Recently, the Federal Government announced their plans to introduce legislation to provide additional support to assist businesses impacted by COVID-19. Below is a summary of the additional support announced:
- Canadian Emergency Rent Subsidy (CERS) -The new CERS provides simple and easy-to-access rent and mortgage support until June 2021.
- Canadian Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS) - An extension of the CEWS until June 2021
- Canadian Emergency Business Account (CEBA) - An extension of the CEBA until March 31, 2021,

The Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) has been extended and expanded in southern Ontario. The RRRF provides liquidity support to businesses and organizations affected by the economic impacts of COVID-19, that are unable to access other federal relief measures, or require additional support

COVID-19 Energy Assistance Program – Small Business (CEAP-SB). The Government of Ontario is providing $8 million to support small business and registered charity customers who are struggling to pay their energy bills as a result of the COVID-19 emergency

Businesses who are in the Control (Red) or Lockdown (Grey) can apply online for temporary property tax and energy cost rebate grants

Proactive measures to protect jobs by helping businesses avoid costly payouts and potential closures

Lower fees to support restaurants where indoor dining is prohibited

Mandatory lower fees for restaurants where indoor dining is prohibited due to COVID-19

The Government of Canada announces extension of Innovation Assistance Program help protect Canadian jobs and support businesses during the pandemic

Ontario's Action Plan: Protect, Support, Recover Promotes Job Creation by Reducing Taxes on Employers

The Waterloo City approved additional support to local businesses to allow them temporarily expand their commercial business to their second floor

Canada Emergency Business Account now open to businesses using personal banking accounts

Minister Ng announces support for small businesses through the Canada United Small Business Relief Fund

Ontario Supports Small Main Street Businesses with $60 Million in Funding through PPE Grant

Temporarily Enhance Wages For Personal Support Workers

Supporting Renters and Small Businesses in COVID-19 Recovery.

Government announced that the Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance (CECRA) will be extended by one month to help eligible small business pay rent for August.

Tip sheets developed by the Ontario Government for different sectors to protect workers, customers and the general public: construction, manufacturing, retail, Agriculture Workers and Agriculture Supervisors.

Ontario permits more businesses and services to reopen on June 12, 2020. More information about stage 2 of reopening can be found here and a list of the regions who will be entering stage 2 on June 12, can be found in the announcement.

Ontario helps local business test and certify medical-grade PPE. A made-in-Ontario solution that will get critical products to market quickly and safely.

Ontario releases guide on how to develop a workplace safety plan. The new guide will help each employer create a safety plan that is right for their own unique workplace. It includes information on the use of face coverings, as well as applying controls in the workplace, from most important to least important. It also includes information on what personal protective equipment may be needed for workers.

Ontario extending infectious disease emergency leave for workers during COVID-19. New Regulation will protect employees from permanent layoffs and businesses from potential closures.

The COVID-19 Energy Assistance Program for Small Business (CEAP-SB) was announced. This program will provide support to businesses who are struggling with bill payments as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Ontario proposing temporary ban on commercial evictions. Government to introduce changes to the Commercial Tenancies Act to protect small businesses.

Ontario and Canada helping small businesses go digital. The Ontario government, in partnership with the federal government, is helping small businesses reach more customers through the Digital Main Street platform. It is a $57-million program which will help up to 22,900 Ontario businesses create and enhance their online presence and generate jobs for more than 1,400 students.

Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance (CECRA) for small businesses open for applications. Over the course of the program, property owners will reduce rent by at least 75 per cent for the months of April and May (retroactive), and June, for their small business tenants. CECRA will cover 50 per cent of the rent, with the tenant paying up to 25 per cent and the property owner forgiving at least 25 per cent. Applications will be accepted through the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) website.

The Prime Minister announced that the eligibility criteria for the Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) will be expanded to include more owner-operated small businesses.

More people will be returning to work across the province as the Ontario government allows retail stores with a street entrance to offer curbside pickup and delivery. Health and safety guidelines in place to protect workers and customers. Easing restrictions on retail stores is aligned with the first phase of the government's Framework for Reopening our Province.

Certain businesses allowed to reopen under strict safety Guidelines. A list of businesses and workplaces that are permitted to be open can be found here. Business owners with questions concerning their business status are encouraged to call the Stop the Spread hotline at 1-888-444-3659.

The application portal for the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS) is open. Employers can apply for the CEWS through My Business Account or through the CRA’s online application portal, and their representatives can apply through Represent a Client. The Canadian Business Resilience Network has developed the Step by Step Guide: Apply for the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS) to help businesses who are applying for the CEWS.

Federal COVID-19 wage subsidy to last through summer, until the end of August.

More information about the essential workplaces can be found here. Business owners with questions about the essential business list can call the Stop the Spread Business Information Line at 1-888-444-3659.

The Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) is an interest-free loan, guaranteed and funded by the Government of Canada, of up to $40,000 for eligible small businesses. CEBA is being administered through the financial institutions and applications are now open. Please contact your bank for details and information on how to apply.

Ontario has announced the launch a new web portal, COVID-19: Tackling the Barriers, for businesses looking to retool operations to make health-related products during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ontario Provides Urgent Relief for Small Businesses and Landlords. Rent Assistance in Addition to Billions in Measures to Support Business During the COVID-19 Outbreak.

The federal government has reached an agreement in principle with all provinces and territories to implement the Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance (CECRA) for small businesses. This program will lower rent by 75 per cent for small businesses that have been affected by COVID-19.

The Government of Canada is introducing a wage subsidy of 75 per cent for qualifying businesses, for up to 3 months, retroactive to March 15, 2020.

Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS). Beginning April 27, applications will be open for the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy. Most businesses may apply using My Business Account.

Prime Minister announces additional support for small businesses. The loan program will now be open to businesses that had payrolls last year between $20,000 and $1.5 million.

New online tool that will help match skilled frontline workers with employers. In response to the COVID-19 crisis, the Ontario government has launched the new Health Workforce Matching Portal that will efficiently match the availability and skillsets of frontline health care workers to the employers in need of assistance to perform a variety of public health functions. Those providers include retired or non-active health care professionals, internationally educated health care professionals, students, and volunteers with health care experience.

Greater KW Chamber of Commerce

The Greater KW Chamber of Commerce has information about implications for employers, supports, policy announcements, Covid-19 resources for businesses and useful tools to help employers prepare and manage their business during the COVID-19 pandemic, including detailed daily blog updates, COVID-19 webinars, and the Stop the Spread Business Information Line at 1-888-444-3659. The Cambridge Chamber of Commerce also has information for businesses about COVID-19 related supports.

Communitech

Communitech has information about COVID-19-related program supports for businesses, stories of how local businesses are making a difference during this pandemic, tips for working effectively from home, and how local firms can access help.

Waterloo Region Small Business Centre

Waterloo Region Small Business Centre offers training webinars and digital tools to help businesses.

Toronto Region Board of Trade

The Toronto Region Board of Trade, along with their partners, have launched a Business Support Portal that provides businesses with resources and advice featuring the ability to chat live with a business agent for direction, searchable information on resources and programs available to SMEs, Toronto Region Board of Trade virtual events, and current public health information. This resource is available to our local business community to access.

Canadian Chamber of Commerce

In partnership with the Government of Canada, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce has launched the Canadian Business Resilience Network to help Canadian businesses navigate the COVID-19 reality and prepare for recovery.

Local Organization Updates and Resources for Supporting Immigrants

The KW Multicultural Centre and YMCA Immigrant Services are remotely serving newcomers across Waterloo Region.

The YMCA language assessment centre is doing online language assessments. New clients can call to book an appointment. YMCA school settlement workers are available and continue to serve clients remotely.

In Kitchener-Waterloo and area, KW Multicultural Centre is providing interpretation services remotely (phone or videoconferencing) in over 50 languages. Visit https://kwmulticultural.ca/interpreters or email interpreters@kwmc-on.com if you require an interpreter.

In Cambridge, the YMCA is providing interpretation services remotely (phone or videoconferencing) in Cambridge and area. Languages include: Arabic, Armenian, Farsi, Persian, Dari, Pashto, Portuguese, Spanish, Turkish. If you require an interpreter email interpretations@ckw.ymca.ca.

Reception House Waterloo Region is remotely serving government-assisted refugees. New refugee arrivals have resumed in Waterloo Region.

The Mennonite Coalition for Refugee Supports is remotely serving refugee claimants. Hearings and other processes have begun again.

Sanctuary Refugee Health Centre continues to meet the health needs of refugees. Call ahead.

Carizon’s Newcomer Mental Health and Well-Being Program: A Promise of Partnership is currently offering both online and in-person supports to refugees living in Waterloo Region. For more information on current groups, trauma counselling, supports for connecting to mental health resources and workshops, call 519 743-6333 or email promise@carizon.ca.

Conestoga LINC language classes are running remotely via Zoom/WhatsApp for any students able to join at this time.

St. Louis ESL and LINC language classes started on Sept 14. They run remotely and in-person. You can reach the office at: 519-745-1201: EXT 224 Main Campus, EXT 400 Highland Campus.

View all Regional service changes and closures.

View Community Supports available for the most vulnerable.

Multilingual and Other Resources for Immigrants and Service Providers

NEW: Check out the new infographics in English, French, Spanish, Somali, and Arabic, developed by Refugees 613, that summarize the key measures in Ontario's new shutdown.

NEW: Download the COVID 19 Vaccine Fact Sheet "What you need to know about the COVID-19 vaccine for Canada" by the Public Health of Canada in English, Français (French), العربية (Arabic), 한국어 (Korean), ਪੰਜਾਬੀ ਭਾਸ਼ਾ (Punjabi), Español (Spanish), தமிழ் மொழி (Tamil), Українська (Ukrainian), Tagalog, 中文 (简体) (Simplified Chinese), Português (Portuguese), اردو (Urdu) and other languages.

Multilingual Mandatory Mask Videos. Resources to help newcomers understand where and when to wear masks in public. These videos produced by Refugee 613 and Ottawa Public Health are available in ا لعربية (Arabic), 中文 (简体) (Simplified Chinese),Español (Spanish), فارسی (Farsi),Français (French), and other 6 languages.

Face coverings By-Law Signs. Business owners/operators in Waterloo Region are calling to post clearly visible by-law signage at all entrances. The Face Coverings By-law poster is available to download in English,العربية (Arabic), فارسی (Farsi),Español (Spanish) and ትግርኛ (Tigrinya).

COVID-19: How to Safely Use a Non-Medical Mask or Face Covering Tip Sheet. The Public Health Agency of Canada has created tip sheets in 22 languages explaining the do's and don'ts when wearing a non-medical mask. Available in العربية (Arabic),한국어 (Korean),ਪੰਜਾਬੀ ਭਾਸ਼ਾ (Punjabi),Español (Spanish),தமிழ் மொழி (Tamil),Українська (Ukrainian),Tagalog,中文 (简体) (Simplified Chinese),Italiano (Italian) and other languages.

Tip sheets developed by the Ontario Government for different sectors to protect workers, customers and the general public:

COVID-19 Resources Available in Multiple Languages. It is a complete list of COVID-19 multilingual resources that has been developed for service providers to use and pass onto their clients.

COVID-19: Financial assistance for newcomers, temporary residents and refugees (French Version). Some of the information on this page is available in multiple languages.

COVID-19: A Guide for Temporary Foreign Workers in Canada (Available in French and Spanish). This guide is customized for temporary foreign workers under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. The guide's themes are related to COVID-19, including how the disease spreads and individuals at an elevated risk for developing complications related to COVID-19; what TFWs should know before coming to Canada; rights and responsibilities of TFWs during the mandatory 14-day quarantine period, including employer responsibilities and tips to maintain good mental health; and other topics.

Know the Facts About Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) (by Public Health Agency of Canada) – available in Français (French), العربية (Arabic), Español (Spanish), ትግርኛ (Tigrinya), فارسی (Farsi), Soomaali (Somali), አማርኛ (Amharic), српски (Serbian), 中文 (简体) (Simplified Chinese) and other languages.

Washing Your Hands Fact Sheet (by Public Health Agency of Canada) – available in Français (French), العربية (Arabic), Español (Spanish), ትግርኛ (Tigrinya), فارسی (Farsi), Soomaali (Somali), አማርኛ (Amharic), српски (Serbian), 中文 (简体) (Simplified Chinese) and other languages.

Physical Distancing Fact Sheet (by Public Health Agency of Canada) – available in Français (French), العربية (Arabic), Español (Spanish),ትግርኛ (Tigrinya), فارسی (Farsi),Soomaali (Somali), አማርኛ (Amharic), српски (Serbian), 中文 (简体) (Simplified Chinese) and other languages.

How to Isolate at Home When You Have COVID-19 Fact Sheet (by Public Health Agency of Canada) – available in Français (French), العربية (Arabic), Español (Spanish), ትግርኛ (Tigrinya), فارسی (Farsi), Soomaali (Somali), አማርኛ (Amharic), српски (Serbian), 中文 (简体) (Simplified Chinese) and other languages.

Vulnerable Populations and COVID-19 Fact Sheet (by Public Health Agency of Canada) – available in العربية (Arabic), 中文 (简体) (SimplifiedChinese), Soomaali (Somali), Español (Spanish), Français (French) and other languages.

Preventing COVID-19 in the workplace: Employers, employees and essential service workers (by Public Health Agency of Canada) available in العربية (Arabic), 中文 (简体) (Simplified Chinese), فارسی (Farsi), Soomaali (Somali), Español (Spanish), Français (French), and other languages.

Self-isolation: Guide for caregivers, household members and close contacts (by Ontario Government) available in (Simplified Chinese), فارسی (Farsi), and Español (Spanish).

Canadian Council for Refugees – resources relevant to refugee claims, travel bans, and policies that are particularly relevant to refugees or those supporting them.

Refugee Sponsorship Training Program – policy and programming updates related to changes to refugee sponsorship.

The Refugee Sponsorship Training Program (RSTP) has developed a Summary of Financial Benefits Available Under Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan which is available in English, Français (French), አማርኛ(Amharic), العربية(Arabic), հայերեն(Armenian), Dari, Soomaali (Somali), Español (Spanish) and ትግርኛ (Tigrinya).

ARAISA– The Atlantic Region Association of Immigrant Serving Agencies has compiled program changes and resources for organizations in the settlement and integration sector, as well as a list of multilingual COVID-19 posters, videos and resources, mental health resources, working from home tips.

COVID-19 Myth Busters- Multilingual Websites. The World Health Organization (WHO) has created a series of infographics with information debunking these myths. To help newcomers easily access this information, there are some multilingual websites in French (French), العربية (Arabic), 中文 (Chinese), русский (Russian) and Español (Spanish).

**The languages that are not linked above have not yet been translated. Check back here soon for additional translations and multilingual resources.

COVID-19 and Mental Health Resources

Multi-Language Psychosocial Supports During COVID-19 in Waterloo Region.Programs may change without notice. Some programs may require referrals and may include fees for services. Please contact program directly for the most up-to-date information on availability.

"Living With Worry And Anxiety Amidst Global Uncertainty," a multilingual mental health resource by Psychology Tools in the UK that includes a mixture of psychoeducation about normal and excessive worry, lots of normalization, and a selection of practical exercises anyone can use to manage worry and maintain well-being in these uncertain times. Available in about 40 languages: العربية (Arabic),简体 (Chinese simplified), Français (French),日本人 (Japanese),русский (Russian),Español (Spanish) and other languages.

BounceBack has developed a series of videos that contain practical tips on managing your mood, sleeping better, building confidence, increasing activity, problem solving and healthy living. Videos are available in English, French, Arabic, Farsi, Cantonese, Mandarin, and Punjabi.

Local COVID-19 Resources and Supports for Children and Families

Community organizations and groups across Waterloo Region are working together to help children, youth and families during the COVID-19 pandemic. We know this is a challenging time! Visit the Family Compass Website to find resources, services, programs and supports in multiples languages. It is updated regularly and it can be accessed by going to www.familycompasswr.ca and clicking on the COVID-19 Response Pop-Up Link. Resources and supports are organized under these topics:

Basic Needs
Mental & Emotional Health
Safety
Respite & Relief
Financial Supports
People You Can Talk To
Resources for Adults
Stuff for Kids & Teens
Fun
Learning
Governmental Resources
Community Connectedness
Get Moving

This message is available in Français (French), العربية (Arabic), Español (Spanish), ትግርኛ (Tigrinya), فارسی (Farsi), Soomaali (Somali), አማርኛ (Amharic), српски (Serbian), 中文 (简体) (Simplified Chinese) and Português (Portuguese).

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Other Resources for Children and Parents

Hope, Where Are You? A Children's Book in Over 30 Languages. It is the story of six children from different parts of the world who share their feelings and frustrations for being locked up at home. They find different ways to cope with this situation and spread a message of hope to others. It can be downloaded in French (French),ا لعربية (Arabic),中文 (Chinese),русский (Russian),Español (Spanish) and other languages. The book is part of #hopeWhereAreYou, a global movement created by numerous volunteer educators around the world to develop a global resource to support children and their families impacted by the pandemic.

Newcomer Parent Resource Series. This material, developed by CMAS, will help newcomer parents who stay home with their children get through this time of lockdown. The series contains 14 parent resources on helping children cope with stress, learning through play, creating routines for children,listening to and talking with kids,sharing stories with children and other interesting topics. They are available in Français (French), العربية (Arabic), زبان دری (Dari), русский (Russian), 中文 (简体) (Simplified Chinese), Español (Spanish), தமிழ் மொழி (Tamil), ትግርኛ (Tigrinya) and 8 other languages.

“My Hero is You, How kids can fight COVID-19!” It is a storybook mainly for children aged 6-11 years old. It explains how kids can protect themselves, their families and friends from coronavirus and how to manage difficult emotions when confronted with a new and rapidly changing reality. Made by the Inter-Agency Standing Committee Reference Group on Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in Emergency Setting , the World Health Organization and 50 other organizations, it is available in العربية (Arabic), 中文 (简体) (Chinese), Español (Spanish), Français (French),Italiano (Italian),Português (Portuguese) , русский (Russian) and other 12 languages.

“My Hero is You, How kids can fight COVID-19!” Adapted with music and voices performed and recorded in French and English. Words and illustration by Helen Patuck. Voices, music and adaptation by Daniel James.

Explaining Coronavirus to Kids. If you're a parent wondering how to talk to your kids about the coronavirus, here's a video that'll help start the conversation.

Children and Youth Planning Table - COVID-19 resources page for children, youth and families on basic needs, mental and emotional health, safety, fun, learning and more. Family Compass Waterloo Region is a helpful resource for parents and caregivers.

COVID-19: 24/7 Parenting has parenting tips sheets in multiple languages including Français (French), العربية (Arabic), Español (Spanish), فارسی (Farsi), አማርኛ (Amharic),中文 (简体) (Simplified Chinese) and 24 other languages.

COVID-19 Health Literacy Project - Get fact sheets in over 30 languages on COVID-19 for immigrants, refugees and newcomers developed by a huge team of medicine students and physicians. It contains infographics about the virus geared toward kids of all ages.

For more information

Region of Waterloo Public Health (519-575-4400) - interpretation services are available in multiple languages, or email regionalinquiries@regionofwaterloo.ca. Coordinated COVID-19 Response Newsletter - The Region, area municipalities and local community partners have been working together to stop the spread of the virus. This work is being done through a Regional Pandemic Control Group which coordinates the efforts and actions of five other sector control groups.

Telehealth Ontario (1-866-797-0000) - interpretation services are available in multiple languages.

Government of Canada's coronavirus information line (1-833-784-4397) - interpretation services are available in multiple languages, or email phac.covid19.aspc@canada.ca.

**Subscribe to this page below to receive updates as they are made. If you have any suggestions or questions about the resources on this page or implications of recent changes for immigrants and those supporting them, contact us at the Immigration Partnership or email ImmigrationPartnership@regionofwaterloo.ca.

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