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Empowering youth in and from government care in BC

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COVID-19

COVID-19

What is COVID-19?

On March 11th 2020 the World Health Organization declared a pandemic for the Corona Virus (COVID-19) and on March 17th 2020 the Province of BC declared a state of emergency.  

You can find the most current COVID-19 stats here.

The following resources continue to be updated to support you. Also, stay connected to our Facebook page as we continue to share community resources on a regular basis.

Public health orders

As of March 11th 2022 masks are no longer mandatory in most indoor setting. 

By order of the Provincial Health Officer (PHO), proof of vaccination is required until April 8th 2022 (2 doses) to access some events, services and businesses.
 

Public Health Order Updates:

  • There are currently no restrictions on indoor or outdoor personal gatherings.
  • Indoor or outdoor gatherings and events can happen at full capacity. Dancing is allowed.

  • Full capacity is allowed for exercise and fitness activities. Swimming pools can operate at full capacity.
     

Click here for more information. 

Think you have symptoms or need medical support?

COVID-19 self assessment tool.  

Well Health virtual clinic  – you will need a BC Health Card.

TELUS Health MyCare. Allows you to see a doctor, mental health counsellor or dietitian virtually. (formerly Babylon by Telus Health) 

First Nations virtual doctor of the day. – Members of BC First Nations with limited access to their doctors can make virtual appointments by calling 1-855-344-3800. 

Vaccinations

Vaccines do more than protect the people getting vaccinated, they also help to protect everyone around them. The more people in a community who are immunized and protected from COVID-19, the harder it is for COVID-19 to spread.

The best source of COVID-19 vaccine information is the BCCDC.

Click here to register. Once you register you will receive a text, email or phone call when you are eligible to book your appointment.

The easiest way to show proof is using the BC Vaccine Card. Find out what services, events and businesses require proof of vaccination here

Concerns about aging out during COVID-19?

*NEW* As of April 1, 2022, the temporary measures MCFD put in place to support young adults during the COVID-19 pandemic have been extended indefinitely.

If you are on AYA, you can:

  • Take life-skills or mental health/rehabilitation programs for five hours per week (reduced)

  • Take programs online or take a combination of life-skills programs that focuses on the areas that are important to you – including cultural connections. 

    You may also be interested in the Temporary Housing Agreements (THA) or Temporary Support Agreements (TSA), which allow you to stay in your living arrangement past your 19th birthday. These options are available to those who will turn 19 through any care status. Additionally, if you are on a THA you may be on AYA at the same time.

Connect with your social worker or local MCFD/Indigenous Child and Family Service Agency (ICFSA) office for more information.

*Additional upcoming improvements have recently been announced. Click here to learn more.

*NEW* Changes to the AYA program

*NEW* As of April 1, 2022, flexibility for AYA life-skills, rehabilitative and mental health programs is extended indefinitely.

– Requirements for program participation will remain at 5 hours per week for life-skills OR 5 hours per week of mental health/rehabilitative programs OR a combination of both equal to 5 hours).

– Cultural programs will continue to be accessible as a program option.

Ways to stay connected

The Federation of BC Youth in Care Networks – Fed Connects!
Events will take place via Facebook on the Fed Connects group. *search ''Fed Connects' on Facebook and request to join*
 

Where can I find mental health support?

Kids Help Phone

Fraser Health crisis line – 604-951-8855 or 1-877-820-7444.

Psychological support service – Free mental health support via phone call

Foundry BC – Offers virtual drop in counselling sessions through chat, phone calls, or video calls. To access this service, call 1-833-F0UNDRY (yes, that's F0undry with a zero! or 1-833-308-6379) to book an appointment. Click here for up to date hours of operation and services offered.

BC COVID-19 Mental Health Network: A group of mental health professionals are offering free, short term, one on one counselling to those struggling with COVID-19 related impacts. To inquire about an appointment please email bccovidtherapists@gmail.com with your name, contact info and general availability.

Metis BC crisis line.  – 1-833-638-4722. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days per week.

KUU-US crisis line. Available 24/7 to provide support to Indigenous people in BC.

Fact sheet on anxiety and COVID-19. 

Here to talk. Available to post secondary students 24/7.

Online stress management program by Shoppers Drug Mart and SilverClould Health

What financial support is available to me?

Federal Government Employment Insurance (EI) *Self-employed people can now apply for these benefits as well*

Laid off due to work closure? Apply for regular EI.
 

*NEW* Paid sick leave
Employees are now eligible for 5 paid sick days per year. (You must have worked for your employer for at least 90 days to be eligible). Click here for eligibility details.
 

COVID-19 support for income and disability assistance.
If you are on income assistance or disability assistance, as of April, 2021, you will receive $175 more on your check each month.

Representative for Children and Youth (RCY) update

RCY staff have transitioned to work remotely and their advocates are available and ready to help despite the current unique challenges. If you need support from the RCY call 1-800-476-3933.
They also invite community agencies and service providers to apprise us of any issues and concerns with service delivery and the impact on children, youth, families and young adults who are vulnerable. This will assist them in doing their work with government ministries and public bodies to raise systemic issues. Please send your comments/concerns via email to COVID19@rcybc.ca.

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