COVID-19 Updates: Rural Internet Service; Housing Vulnerable Populations; ICBC; Tree Planting

Funding to Improve Rural Connectivity

The $50-million Connecting British Columbia program now includes a funding stream to help internet service providers with immediate network equipment upgrades to rapidly improve capacity and internet speeds in underserved communities throughout the province. Connecting British Columbia's COVID-19 response funding will help internet service providers (ISPs) to make immediate upgrades to their networks. Read more

Additional Supports for Vulnerable People During COVID-19

The Province has announced decampment plans to transition people living in major homeless camps in Vancouver and Victoria into temporary accommodations during the COVID-19 crisis. This builds on additional measures undertaken by BC Housing, non-profits, health authorities, local governments and others to secure shelter for those experiencing or at risk of homelessness in communities across the Province. Read more

Timber King Supports BC FireSmart Campaign

Like many British Columbians, Timber Kings' Bryan Reid Sr. experienced the province's 2017 and 2018 wildfire seasons up close and personal. Now he is helping get the FireSmart message out in a new social media campaign, featuring videos and helpful web-based resources. You can help promote Bryan's Top 3 FireSmart Tips through Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Tree Planting to Proceed Under Strict Guidelines

On April 23, 2020, the Provincial Health Officer released guidelines to reduce and mitigate the risks of COVID-19 for all tree planters in response to forestry and silviculture being defined as essential services. Read more

ICBC Changes During COVID-19 Pandemic

ICBC has implemented some changes to help customers manage the financial impacts of COVID-19. Read more

April 27, 2020