Workplaces that are deemed essential and will stay open amongst COV 19 can be found at covid-19.ontario.ca/zones-and-restrictions#what-is-open-and-closed

​Dear College Ward Residents,

In light of the recent recommendations from City Management and Ottawa Public Health, my office will continue to be working from home to increase social distancing and reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19. My team will still be answering calls and emails. You can reach us at 613-580-2478 and Rick.Chiarelli@Ottawa.ca.

During the 30 years I've been working for you as your City Councillor, we have met community challenges by taking care of our most vulnerable. For example, during the tornado of 2018, we helped stranded seniors who needed their groceries or prescriptions picked up. We must remember those people now. Ottawa Public Health has said they are not seeking volunteers right at this moment. However, if you want to help in some way, or you need help, please contact our office and my team, and I will do my best to find a solution.

There is currently a COVID-19 testing center at Brewer Arena for those experiencing symptoms such as a sore throat, new or worsening cough, fever, or shortness of breath. You should speak to Ottawa Public Health first to make sure that leaving your home for testing is necessary.

For more information about COVID-19 please visit the Ottawa Public Health website.

During this time, we ask that individuals take the following precautions:

• Social distancing: stay 6 feet (or one meter) away from other individuals
• No groups over 5, unless they live in your household. Funerals no larger than 10
• If you have been traveling outside of the country, you must self-isolate for 14 days when you return
• Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for a minimum of 20 seconds
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands

We understand that there is currently a lot of information coming out, but here are some details of what is happening in the community.

Financial Support:

1. The income tax deadline has extended to June 1st.
2. The City of Ottawa property tax payments are deferred until April 15th.
3. Banks are allowing mortgage deferrals up to 6 months. For more information, call your bank.
4. Child Tax benefits and employment insurance qualifications have changed to include more people, including those self-employed. Financial aid options are available to support businesses. To see how you qualify, click here
5. Deferrals of water bills for low-income seniors and low-income people with disabilities are available. Find information for how to apply on Ottawa.ca.
6. The Federal Government has paused student loan repayments until September 2020 with no accrual of interest.
7. Required minimum withdrawals from Registered Retirement Income Funds are being reduced by 25 percent for 2020.
8. The Federal Government is providing $305 million for a new distinctions-based Indigenous community support fund for First Nations, Inuit, and Metis Nation communities.

Community Support:

The Queensway Carleton Hospital has suspended non-urgent surgeries and programs. Still, if you have a confirmed scheduled appointment, they ask that you arrive at least 30-45 mins early to allow for screening. For more information about visiting QCH, see their website here.

Transportation
OC Transpo requires all passengers to board at the back of the bus, except for those with accessibility issues. There will be additional sanitization of handrails, and stairwells as part of a regular cleaning schedule. The tape will separate the driver from passengers. Cash payment will not be accepted.

Grocery Stores, Pharmacies, and Delivery:
Farm Boy, Food Basics, FreshCo Bells Corners, Loblaws, and McDaniel's Your Independent Grocer are open from 7-8 am for anyone over 65 to shop for supplies before the store opens to the public at 8 am.

If you would like to order your food online, the PC Express website has removed the cost for pickup and lowered the price of home-delivered groceries. Walmart also offers grocery pickup.

PC Optimum has released a statement that their suppliers are meeting the demands for their customers, and there will be no increase in price or shortages in food and essential supplies.

Both Rexall and Shoppers Drug Mart have dedicated the first opening hour each day to seniors. Shoppers Drug Mart offers 20% off to seniors on regularly priced items.

Other Businesses:
IKEA closed for entry. However, IKEA.com is offering home delivery services and Click & Collect pickup.

Bell Canada, Rogers, Telus, and TekSavvy are waiving all home internet extra usage fees until April 30th to accommodate those working from home.

To help the vulnerable people in our community, I encourage residents to check up on their neighbors, and if possible to donate to the Shepherds of Good Hope and other such agencies, like the Mission, in this time of need. The latest communication from these valuable community organizations has asked for monetary donations rather than goods at this time.

In addition to donations, volunteers are also welcome to reach out. For example, Meals on Wheels is currently looking for help in delivering meals. Each act of kindness can make another person's day.

I want to thank everyone for doing their part in keeping the community safe, and please do not hesitate to contact my office if you have any questions or concerns.

Warm Regards,
Rick Chiarelli