More funding for the most vulnerable Canadians was announced Sunday by the federal government. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says $7.5 million will go towards Kids Help Phone to provide more counselors and volunteers for mental health support young people need during this difficult time. The federal government says as a result of school closures and reduced access to community resources, Kids Help Phone is experiencing increased demand for its 24/7 confidential online, telephone, and text counseling services across Canada.

The federal government will provide immediate essential services to Canadian seniors impacted by COVID-19 by contributing $9 million through United Way Canada for local organizations to support practical services to Canadian seniors. These services could include the delivery of groceries, medications, or other needed items, or personal outreach to assess individuals’ needs and connect them to community supports. Trudeau says the government is working on measures when it comes to pensions but didn’t provide more details at this time.

The funding for vulnerable people announced today adds to a $200 million dollar commitment earlier in the month towards shelters for the homeless and those needing a safe place to stay.

Prime Minister Will Continue to Self-Isolate

The Prime Minister also said Health Canada has recommended that he continues to self-isolate and work from home, even after Sophie Gregoire Trudeau has been cleared by medical professionals of COVID-19, and has been symptom free for a few days.  Trudeau says that after sharing the home with his wife who had tested positive for COVID-19 earlier this month, it would be best that he work from Rideau Cottage.  He added that many businesses and organizations across the country have found out that a lot of work can be done on the phone and through video conferencing.