We’re here to help constituents

Despite the disruptions of COVID, my office continues to serve people during this uncertain time. In the past weeks I have sent hundreds of letters and emails to help area residents apply for government services.

Here are some of the programs many local families and businesses are accessing during COVID:

• Free online mental health resources to help people struggling with isolation, anxiety and depression;

• $200 to every senior who filed a 2018 tax return;

• $7/hour wage subsidy via the Manitoba Summer Student Jobs Program, up to $5,000 per student, to a maximum of five students per business between May 1 and Sept. 4.

• MPI rebate cheques of $140 to $160 per policy;

• $500 million of shovel-ready projects fast-tracked to keep people working;
Manitoba’s government has also opened the Manitoba Economic Support Centre (www.manitoba.ca/supportsforbusiness; 1-888-805-7554) as a one-stop source to help businesses, charities and non-profits apply for federal and provincial programs;

• Either the 10 per cent or 75 per cent wage subsidy (CEWS);

• The $40,000 interest free line of credit (CEBA);

• Manitoba Gap Protection Program: forgivable $6,000 loan.

As well, Manitoba’s Green Team grants have nearly doubled, providing 100 per cent funding for summer student jobs for non-profit organizations. Call my office to find out how to apply.

You can find out what is open and closed at www.manitoba.ca/restoringsafeservices and read daily news releases about these and other new programs and initiatives at https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html

Many things are shut down, but my office is working full time to help you face personal, business or work-related challenges related to COVID-19.

Reach us by calling 204-289-4545 or by emailing andrew@andrewmicklefield.com