UPDATED APRIL 7th, 2020

Dear Chai Lifeline Community

I hope you are all doing well – as well as can be under the circumstances. These are certainly unprecedented and difficult times. In the midst of a fluid situation, it is heartening for us all to know that our federal government has taken action to help out workers, families and businesses.

First and foremost I want you to know that while the way that we work has changed, we are operating at full capacity. It might even be fair to say that the entire Chai Lifeline Canada team is perhaps more emboldened, more passionate, more dedicated and more innovative than ever. We know that your lives and needs have changed as a result of social-distancing and home-isolation, and we are adapting our programs, systems and offerings to meet them.

One of the things that we have done is the primary reason for this outreach. We have put together a chart outlining the current ways that Canada is supporting individuals during this time. Offerings, guidelines and procedures are being updated almost daily and we will continue to update this resource as it happens. 

I wanted to outline a few key things that are among the most recent updates from the government that are addressed in the chart greater depth:

1. You may be eligible to receive support even if you are self employed and even if you have not accumulated enough hours to receive standard employment insurance benefits
2. If you find yourself unable to work because your child’s daycare or school is closed – you will most likely be able to receive support
3. If you currently receive child support you will be receiving additional support in May

If you need assistance in navigating the current measures to support you please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. 

As things continue to evolve, I will do my best to keep you up to date as you and your family are top of mind for me and the entire team here at Chai Lifeline Canada. 

We at Chai Lifeline continue to be here for you and we are in this together.

Mordechai Rothman
Executive Director
Donald Berman – Chai Lifeline Canada