Isolation at home during COVID-19 has led to increases in rates of intimate partner violence and domestic violence against children. If you are experiencing abuse, know that you are not alone and that there is help available. If you are in immediate danger, or if you fear for your safety, call 9-1-1. Here are some resources for people experiencing violence and abuse. These services are free of charge: Battered ...read more 

Yesterday, we learned about an outbreak of COVID-19 cases at United Poultry Ltd. in Vancouver. The health authority was alerted to the possibility of COVID-19 cases at United after a worker tested positive over the weekend, and reported that there may be other workers at the plant who are sick. On Monday, Vancouver Coastal Health tested workers at United and closed the plant immediately. More than two dozen workers ...read more 

With the support of their union, budtenders at Clarity Cannabis have achieved hazard pay in recognition of their important work on the front lines of the COVID-19 crisis. UFCW 1518 became the first union to unionize private cannabis dispensary workers in Canada last February, when Clarity Cannabis workers joined the union. The recognition comes as a result of internal worker activism. Clarity Cannabis budtenders were quick to mobilize around ...read more 

Applications for BC’s newly released temporary rental supplement are NOW OPEN! Renters who are experiencing a loss of income during the COVID-19 pandemic can apply to receive $300 per month for eligible households with no dependents and $500 per month for eligible households with dependents. Do I qualify?The rental supplement is available on a per-household basis to those who meet ALL of the following criteria: receiving or eligible for ...read more 

The government of British Columbia has announced new guidelines for retailers to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Here is what the government is asking stores to do: enhance the premise’s sanitation plan and schedule, and ensure staff are practising proper hygiene. This includes frequent hand washing, only coughing or sneezing into an elbow, and avoiding touching one’s face; place hand sanitizer with a minimum of 60% ethyl alcohol ...read more